Do You Need a Degree to Be a Software Engineer?

Software is a critical element that helps run much of what today’s world revolves around. Software engineers build and develop software that individuals and organizations can use to meet their specific objectives. They play an essential role in society by helping problem-solve, analyze data, and create new ways to use computers and other technical devices. For anyone considering entering the field and playing a role in driving innovation, the question becomes how to prepare best. 

Explore what it takes to become a software engineer, whether or not you need a degree to start your career as one, the pros of earning a degree, and the steps to starting your career without one.

What does a software engineer do?

As a software engineer, your responsibilities include coding using different programming languages, designing, building, and testing new software, and working with individuals and businesses to fix any problems that may arise when using software. A significant part of your job will ensure that projects ultimately work as intended and contribute to a positive user experience. 

Salary and job outlook

According to Glassdoor data, software engineers in the United States make an average annual base salary of $118,164 [1]. Additionally, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates that software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers will experience a growth rate of 17 percent in the decade spanning 2023 to 2033, a rate much faster than the average across all occupations [2].

Do you need a degree to be a software engineer?

Although a degree can be valuable, you don’t need one to enter this career. You may become a software engineer without an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree and instead use your coding and programming skills to gain experience and qualify for a job.

Pursuing a degree in software engineering may give you more career opportunities. Some employers require software engineers to have a degree as an entry-level requirement, while others may prioritize skills, knowledge, and experience over a college degree. It depends on the role you apply to and the requirements in place for that specific employer.

Read more: Popular Software Engineer Certifications

Pros of becoming a software engineer without a degree

A degree is only one option available to you to become a software engineer. Discover the opportunities and benefits of starting your career as a software engineer without getting your degree first. 

Earlier workforce entry

If you choose to become a software engineer without earning a degree, you may enter the workforce sooner than if you got a formal education. Entering the workforce sooner allows you to make money sooner.  Degree programs may take up to four years to complete before getting a job in your field, and graduating does not guarantee the job you want. Starting your career sooner allows you to learn at your own pace outside of college while gaining more experience in your field of interest.

Cost-effective

If you want to save money, becoming a software engineer without a degree may be the right choice. Entering the workforce quicker allows you to maximize your earning potential and save money on college tuition, room and board, or commuting costs. You can save this money for attending college later on if you choose to or allocate it to other areas of your life, such as purchasing a home, starting a family, or exploring different career opportunities.

Ability to learn through experience

When you choose to start your career early instead of going to college, you gain the opportunity to learn through experience. Different jobs and roles can teach you various things, allowing you to gain experience as a software engineer from your job itself rather than through a formal education. 

This experience will also be included on your resume, allowing future employers to see that you already have work experience in the field. This will improve your chances of getting hired and finding new roles.

Pros of completing a software engineering degree

A software engineering degree may give you more career opportunities, including access to higher-level positions. Explore the benefits of earning your degree, including its effect on your ability to make a higher salary. 

Easier entry into the field

Some employers require a degree in software engineering to qualify for the role. Due to this requirement, those with a degree in software engineering may have an easier time getting interviews and eventually securing a job in your field.

Access to higher-level positions

Some employers may require you to return to school and complete formal education to receive a promotion. If you already have a degree in software engineering, you may be eligible for a promotion faster because you already meet the requirements.

Higher salary

Having a college degree may help you make more money. According to a report from the BLS, those with a degree from a college or university command wages significantly higher than those without one. In 2023, people with a high school diploma made median weekly earnings of $708. In contrast, those with bachelor’s degrees earned $1,493 [3].

Experience and knowledge

The college experience allows learners to build knowledge and gain many skills needed to succeed in their chosen work line. Since programs intend to teach you everything you need to know about software engineering and computer science, you’ll have the advantage of gaining experience, knowledge, and skills in college before applying them to the workplace.

Networking opportunities 

Attending college alongside other software engineering students lets you network with others in your field. In turn, it helps you make connections that could aid you in finding a suitable job after graduation. 

Possible software engineer degree options

Just as entering software engineering offers more than one path, deciding on a degree program also presents multiple options. If you choose to pursue the path of getting your degree, your options may include:

• Associate degree: An associate degree in software engineering can typically be completed with 60 credit hours and focuses on developing your skills to become a software engineer. If you continue your education, you’ll learn to build and test software and earn credits that may transfer to a bachelor’s degree.

• Bachelor’s degree: A four-year degree typically requires you to complete 120 credit hours. This option helps you understand how to build and develop software. It may also expand your knowledge of computer science and enhance your future workplace skills. 

• Master’s degree: If you’re pursuing a research career, a master’s degree in software engineering may be well-suited for you. To complete your master’s degree in software engineering, you must complete approximately 30 credit hours, depending on your college.

Essential skills for a software engineer

Education and experience are only two of the elements that employers look for. Whether you have a degree or not, some essential workplace skills for software engineers include: 

• Knowledge of programming languages: Software engineers must know various programming languages to solve problems, develop software, and successfully code. Popular programming languages include Python, C++, JavaScript, and SQL. 

• Problem-solving: As a software engineer, assisting with any issues they’re having with software may be a key component of your job. The ability to solve problems well and quickly and think critically can help you succeed and show others that you’re trustworthy and know what you’re doing.

• Strong communication: As a software engineer, you may work with a team of others to get the job done. You’ll need robust communication skills and strong collaborative abilities to do so. These skills help find the root of problems and turn them into solutions by asking questions, working alongside each other, and finding ways to improve your work.

Getting started with Coursera.

You don’t need a degree to be a software engineer. It can be helpful and could be the optimal route for you. But you have many options open to you, including taking online courses and earning non-degree credentials. Consider Introduction to Software Engineering, offered by IBM, and Python for Everybody, provided by the University of Michigan on Coursera, to explore software engineering and build your skill set.