Do you have your sights set on a career as a software developer after college? If so, you’ll definitely want to give special thought to your major to ensure you can land that job. You actually have quite a few different options depending on your goals and interests, too. Here are five majors you may want to explore.
Software Engineering
A top major if you’re thinking about a career in software development is software engineering. The courses focus on software development skills, how computers function, how code works, and how to improve application performance. Certain college programs may also help you explore careers in software development that focus on artificial intelligence, smartphones, and more.
Software Development
This one is a given – software development is one of the most obvious majors if you are absolutely positive you want to be a software developer. You’ll want to do your research though before signing up as you may not want to pigeonhole yourself. Plenty of other majors will give you the education you need for this career and may open up other doors in case you can’t get into software development right away.
However, it’s important to note that only some colleges and universities actually offer this specific major.
Computer Science
For a more rounded education that can set you up for success in software development, computer science is definitely worth a look. It’s also one of the most popular majors when it comes to information technology. Students here will learn coding, computer operations, computational logic, math, and other skills that will definitely be needed in software development. Computer science may even open more doors for you if you decide software development isn’t for you after graduation.
Information Technology
Many schools also offer information technology as a major. Similar to computer science, IT also gives students must-know information about equipment, network infrastructures, software, device maintenance, help desk support, and more. This route for software development provides education about end-use and support for the applications.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a fairly new major and it could be a valuable one for a career as a software developer. The major provides a focus on computer science and IT while also teaching students about the best practices when it comes to online security protocols. If you’re interested in developing software that helps individuals and companies with cybersecurity, this could be a good choice for you.
Undergraduate Majors to Consider if You Want to Be a Software Developer
Although computer science is definitely the most popular major when it comes to software development and IT in general, it’s important to weigh your options and select your courses carefully. Compare majors, programs, and classes offered across different colleges to ensure you’re choosing the best school and major for your individual career goals and interests when it comes to IT.
