How to become a software engineer in the UK

Unlock your potential and find a way into the tech industry with our guide on how to become a software engineer.

A software engineer is the mastermind behind every computer program or application that we use. They are the invisible caretakers of all existing and emerging software, taking it from inception through to development, testing and ongoing maintenance.

Without software engineers, the modern world as we know it would grind to a halt. So, if you’re a tech lover or have an interest in Computing and IT courses, why not consider training to become part of this exciting and fast-moving field? 

Whether you’re scratching your head and asking ‘What is a software engineer?’ or you want to know more about the average software engineer salary, we’ve got it covered with our detailed guide.

What is a software engineer?

A software engineer, often also known as a software developer or programmer, is a digital architect who builds code for various types of software. They tend to specialise in a particular area and can cover anything from designing business-specific software to creating video games. 

The role of a software engineer involves responding to a problem or brief. They work to develop a solution that can be carried out using computer code and might include software programs, web or mobile apps, games, and robots. Software engineers are also called upon to test and problem-solve issues relating to digital products.

What does a software engineer do? 

Many things make a great software engineer. First and foremost you’ll need some maths knowledge, a good understanding of computer systems and the ability to write programs. In terms of personal attributes, it’s also useful to have:

• Strong analytical skills
• Good attention to detail
• The ability to think creatively
• Complex problem-solving skills
• The ability to communicate your ideas
• Persistence and determination

A software engineer’s day-to-day tasks can vary widely depending on their specialisation and the company or clients they work with. There are some common core responsibilities:

• Collaborating with team members: Software development is rarely a solo act, and engineers need strong communication and teamwork skills. After finding out what the client and development team need, they take part in technical design meetings and work with designers, project managers, and other developers
• Writing code: This is the fundamental skill, of translating ideas into functional code using programming languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript
• Designing software architecture: This involves structuring the overall system to ensure it’s efficient, scalable, and user-friendly
• Troubleshooting errors: Software is rarely perfect, and software engineers need to be adept at identifying and fixing bugs. All software needs to be checked before it’s released and this can involve multiple rounds of testing and amending. Software engineers need to be able to keep accurate records of the changes they’ve made and maintain and support the systems they’ve built once they’re active
• Staying up-to-date with new technologies: The software industry evolves rapidly, and engineers need to constantly learn and adapt to stay relevant. Software engineers also play an active role in the development and discovery of emerging software technologies

Beyond these core skills, software engineers often need specific technical expertise depending on their area of focus. For example, Web Developers might need expertise in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks, while data scientists might be proficient in statistical analysis tools and machine learning algorithms.

What qualifications are needed to become a software engineer? 

You may be wondering how to become a software engineer. Well, there’s no singular answer to that question as there are multiple routes into this exciting and rewarding field, all of which centre around gaining knowledge of writing code and strong computing skills. 

Vocational Technical courses

If a career in software engineering appeals to you but you don’t know where to start, you can begin with a Level 2 course. Capital City College Group (CCCG) runs free short courses in both  Software Engineering (Level 2 Introduction) and Software Development. 

Once you’ve scoped out the field with an introductory course, you can choose from a wide range of college courses at all levels. Here’s a selection of relevant courses which are run by CCCG:

• Software Engineering – Level 2 Introduction (CONEL)
• Software Development (CONEL)
• IT – Level 2 Diploma (CONEL)
• Computing – Level 2 Diploma (CONEL)
• IT: Software Development – Level 3 Extended Diploma (CANDI)
• IT – Level 3 National Extended Diploma (CANDI)
• IT – Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (CONEL)
• IT – Level 3 Certificate and Diploma (CANDI)

A Levels

Studying A Level courses such as IT or Computer Science can be a good route to Higher Education or further training. We currently offer Computer Science as an A Level at both our CANDI and WestKing colleges.

• Computer Science A Level (WestKing)
• Computer Science A Level (CANDI)

T Levels

T Level courses are an alternative to A Levels and offer an educational pathway that consists of 80% classroom-based study and 20% industry placement. Each T Level includes a 45-day placement within a related industry organisation or company. The T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development at WestKing and the T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development at CANDI both provide great opportunities for learners at this level.

Apprenticeships

When it comes to getting practical experience and theoretical knowledge, apprenticeships offer the best of both worlds. You’ll also earn a wage while doing an apprenticeship, which is a definite bonus. Apprenticeship courses like CCCG’s Software Developer – Level 4 Apprenticeship help you develop your skills while furthering your expertise.

Programming Boot Camps

These intensive courses are designed to train software engineers in around 12 weeks. Led by programmers, the courses give participants the skills and knowledge needed to work in the field.

Boot camps are typically aimed at people looking to develop specialist knowledge in a particular area of software engineering so they are much less in-depth than other forms of training. 

Boot camps work well as a supplementary qualification rather than a main one – as employers may require more formal training. It may be a better idea to save your money and invest your time in a free short course such as the Software Engineering Level 2 Introduction or Software Development.

Higher Education

Many undergraduate degrees lead to a career in software engineering. Degrees in IT and computer science like the Computer Science Bsc With a Foundation Year at Staffordshire University will give you the theoretical knowledge and experience to start working in this field after graduation. There are also specific degrees in software development and software engineering that will put you in a good position to hit the ground running.

A degree in a relevant subject could also lead to a graduate training programme. This employer-led route takes you straight from university into paid employment. These programmes incorporate training and development, usually over 2 years, and lead to a specific company role.

How much do software engineers get paid in the UK?

The average software engineer salary is around £50,000, making it a highly rewarding career path. The starting salary for a junior software engineer is around £24,000, but this can go up to £70,000+ for more senior professionals or consultants. 

That’s all very enticing, but you may be asking yourself ‘Is there a lot of demand for software engineers? Absolutely. Software engineers continue to be in high demand, with tech growth continuing to push the need for qualified professionals. As such, software engineer roles often come with attractive company perks like annual bonuses and higher-than-average pension contributions.

How hard is it to become a software engineer?

The answer to this question depends on your chosen pathway:

• University degree: A bachelor’s degree requires dedication and academic commitment. A relevant degree such as a Computer Science BSc places you in a good position to get your first role as a software engineer
• College courses: College courses in Computing and IT take time to complete, especially if you’re studying while working. However, there are flexible options to take you from one level to another and being part of a college community can help with motivation and networking
• Bootcamps and online courses: These programmes are intensive and require a focused effort but can be completed in a shorter timeframe. However, employers may be looking for more formal and in-depth training
• Apprenticeships: Balancing work and learning can be challenging, but a Software Developer Apprenticeship offers practical experience as well as academic guidance

Career progression

As you progress in this field, you’ll be able to take on more challenging and exciting projects. After gaining some experience, you could:

• Take on a senior role and manage a team
• Head up larger projects and work more closely with clients
• Go on to work in similar fields such as systems design or IT architecture
• Offer your skills as a consultant
• Start your own business

Software engineers are in demand the world over, with larger companies having offices across the globe. If you’re interested in travelling, you could find work overseas and further your career in another country.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to become a software engineer, you can consider which pathway might best suit you and your skills. CCCG’s wide range of Computing and IT courses is a great place to start.

The field of Software Engineering continues to thrive around the globe, with new discoveries fuelling exciting developments as we speak. If you’re looking for a career that is vibrant, current and highly rewarding – jump right in!

Apply for our Computing and IT courses now!

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