Study software development abroad

Software development degrees prepare students with the theoretical and practical skills needed to forge a successful career in IT. It’s a subject that blends elements of computer science, engineering, and mathematics.

You’ll study the concepts and principles behind software development and put them into practice as you design, build, test, and maintain software programs. You’ll produce high-quality software that meets the needs of users, improves efficiency, and solves problems.

Software development is one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors. Studying overseas will put you at the forefront of new developments and technological advances. Not only will you gain a global understanding of the field and connect with international experts, but you’ll also make new friends, travel the world, and create lifelong memories.

You can study software development at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A BSc is studied over a minimum of three years, although most universities will encourage you to complete an additional year in industry between your second and final year of study. As such, bachelor’s degrees lasting up to four years are common.

If you choose to study in the US, you’ll major or minor in software development. This means that you’ll invest time and credits in software-specific modules, alongside working on your general education. Once you’ve gained your bachelor’s, you can go on to pursue postgraduate qualifications. A master’s degree can be studied over one or two years, followed by a PhD which typically takes around five years to complete.

Teaching and assessment methods will differ depending on the modules you’re studying. As a general rule, you’ll be expected to attend lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical workshops in computer labs. Assessment largely focuses on individual development projects, but you’ll also complete written exams, essays, and presentations.

The content of software development programs varies from university to university, depending on the specialist elective modules on offer. However, you can expect to find these core topic areas:

• Software development theory and practice
• Application programming and development
• Algorithms and programming fundamentals
• Usability
• Software security
• Operating systems
• Software quality and testing
• Managing software quality and process

Thanks to the booming global ICT industry, software development graduates have excellent employment prospects. Your skills in creativity, design, and problem-solving will make you an in-demand candidate across a range of employers and sectors. Some of the most popular careers pursued by graduates include:

• Software developer
• Software engineer
• Software tester
• Applications analyst
• Database administrator
• Web developer
• Game developer
• IT consultant

Keeping up-to-date with sector developments and gaining hands-on industry experience will give you the edge over other candidates when you apply for graduate positions. Speak with your university’s career service about the benefits of securing some work experience or an internship.