Do you enjoy creating new systems, developing and building, and complex problem-solving? Then a career in web, app, or software development may be for you!
Developers are the creative minds behind all of the computer programs we use every day. They design and build computer programs and mobile/desktop apps or build underlying operating systems. Depending on the role and the work involved, a developer may be classified as a software developer, web developer, mobile app developer, front end developer, back end developer, full stack developer, etc.
Job Areas and Roles
- Software Development focuses on programs used in computer systems. Developers in this area are responsible for the entire software development life cycle for programs and applications. These developers create, design, and support software.
Common Languages: Java, Python, C++, Scala, Ruby (For support in gaining skills in these languages, check out the technical skills development pdf in our Technology Handshake Resource Card)
Sample Roles: Software Developer, Software Engineer
- Front End Development focuses on user experience and “client” side of a website or application. Developers must be proficient in coding, debugging, and design in order to successfully manage the look and feel of the application or website.
Common Languages: HTML, CSS, and Javascript
Sample Roles: Front End Developer, Web Designer/Web Developer, UX/UI Designer/Developer
- Back End Development focuses on how a website works in terms of functionality. This included managing a server, application, and database. Anything you can’t easily see on a website or application is typically the work of back end developers as they work with databases and servers.
Common Languages: Java, PHP, Ruby on Rails, Python, and .Net
Sample Roles: Back End Developer, Web Developer, Software Development Engineer, Programmer
- Full Stack Development focuses on both front end AND back end development, thus the “full stack” that makes up a website. Developers in full stack roles are typically either in a developing role or engineering role in this line of work. They must be familiar with one or more back end languages in addition to front end languages. They often work directly with clients to build sites.
Common Languages: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Git and GitHub, Python, Java, PHP, Ruby
Sample Roles: Full Stack Developer, Full Stack Web Developer, Full Stack Engineer
Recruiting Timeline & Details
If you are thinking of applying to internships or full-time opportunities in development, keep in mind these industry nuances:
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Recruiting Timelines |
Resumes and Interviewing |
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Many larger & big-name companies begin hiring in the early-mid fall semester. Smaller & mid-size companies often begin hiring in the early-mid spring semester and continue through summer. In general, there are always openings for development positions, but you can expect the most popular companies to fill positions faster. |
Technical recruiters rely heavily on projects, coursework, and skills when evaluating position fit. It is essential to highlight your skills and strengths in your resume. You should also expect to go through a technical interview as part of the recruiting process. You can find tons of resources here to help you prep for a technical interview |
Skills & Training
Coursera and LinkedIn Learning host a wide variety of free courses in languages like Python, Java, C++, HTML, and more.
Find a PDF with a curated list of courses in the in the Science & Technology Resource Card
Science & Technology Resource Card
Learn more
Want to learn more about what careers in this field could look like? Use these resources to get started.
Alumni Spotlight
Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder, Axle Payments
Shawn is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Axle Payments, the "only integrated payments, collections, and financing solution for small freight brokers." As a chief officer in a startup, Shawn's role can change by the minute, from budgeting and hiring to developing the actual software platform.
Major: Commerce and Economics (Bachelor)
College: University of Virginia
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