Software Developers are professionals who design and develop software applications or programs using their domain knowledge. Due to rapid technological advancements, the demand for Software Developers has increased massively in every industry. These developers possess certain skills that help them to perform their job responsibilities efficiently at their workplaces. So, let’s discuss the technical and other skills required for Software Developer and other interesting information.

Key Highlights

• Technical skills required for a Software Developer
• Coding language
• Database knowledge
• Software testing
• Operating systems
• Source control
• Soft skills required for a Software Developer
• Course requirements for a Software Developer job
• Eligibility requirements of a Software Developer

Technical skills required for a Software Developer
The following technical skills of Software Developers are in high demand:

• Coding language: Coding languages are different kinds of source code used for writing a software program. JavaScript, Cascading Styles Sheets (CSS), Python, C++, and Java are some of the most popular coding languages and sought-after software skills. You need to have a strong command of at least one coding language that is easy to learn as per your area of interest. For instance, Java helps in creating applications and programs across different computer systems. Similarly, Python enables tasks like writing codes and tracking errors and so on. You can learn the ones that fascinate you.
• Database knowledge: Possessing proficient knowledge of databases is yet another essential skill for Software Developers. The Developers should know how to store, create, update, or delete records and maintain the integrity and security of the database from unauthorised access. For operating a database successfully, having a thorough understanding of Structured Query Language (SQL) is a must for developers.
• Software testing: Every software program goes through an intricate testing process to ensure its performance is up to the mark. Although software programs are thoroughly checked by professional testers, companies expect a Software Developer to possess the fundamental knowledge of software testing to ensure bug prevention and smooth functioning.
• Operating systems: A Developer needs to deal with several issues involved with the operating system, such as memory usage, code-related issues, slow programs, blocking issues, etc. Sound knowledge of the fundamentals and mechanisms of different operating systems allows Software Developers to work efficiently. Microsoft Windows, Linux and MacOS are the main operating systems for computers, whereas iOS and Android are popular operating systems for mobiles.
• Source Control: Software Developers easily manage and store their codes using source control systems and tools like Git and Mercurial. These source control management systems allow developers to store different versions of one program code in a single folder and enable teams to manage changes to the source code.

Soft skills required for a Software Developer
Besides hard (technical) skills, soft skills are equally important as these skills give Software Developers a competitive edge at the workplace and even increase their employability potential.
Some of the soft skills are:

• Communication skills
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving skills
• Time Management
• Listening skills

Course requirements for a Software Developer job
Getting a relevant degree is one of the primary steps to unlock a lucrative Software Developer job. As per your interests, you can pursue a full-time 2-year post-graduate degree in Computer Science or in a related field. The other options are studying a short-term certification, diploma or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses.
Some of the popular courses students can pursue are as follows:

• Master of Computer Science (MCA)
• MTech in Computer Science
• Master’s in Data Science
• Object Oriented Programming in Java
• Advance Diploma in Software Development

Some of the universities offering the mentioned courses are as follows:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the USA
• University of Manchester, the UK
• University of Melbourne, Australia
• Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, India
• Christ University, India

Eligibility requirements of a Software Developer
To study post-graduate degrees like MCA and MTech, you need to complete graduation with a minimum of 50% in Computer Science or a related field from a recognised institute. Regardless of your educational background, you can enrol in certification and diploma courses if you have a basic knowledge of Computer Science. For a master’s degree in STEM, you must complete your graduation in a similar field. It is advised to check the course-specific eligibility criteria before applying.
So, if you are planning to study a post-graduate or STEM degree to build a flourishing career as a Software Developer but facing financial hiccups, opt for a student loan for education. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer customised education loans with benefits like 100% finance, flexible repayment options, and quick sanctions. Get in touch with us today to know more about student loans.