How to Become a Software Engineer without a Degree

Software engineers are in high demand as they play an important role in developing the software applications and systems that allow today's technology to function. Even industries that once depended less on technology are now evolving, and the growing prevalence of mobile applications, digital infrastructure, and artificial intelligence results in a greater need for software engineers.

Some employers may require a degree for software engineers, while others may not. However, most importantly, you'll need specific skills to succeed in this role. Coding boot camps are great for obtaining programming and technical skills in a shorter time than a four-year degree.

To pursue this path without a degree, take the necessary steps to develop the technical skills and knowledge you'll use on the job, such as computer programming and engineering principles. 

Read more: What Does a Software Engineer Do?

What does a software engineer do?

Software engineers combine their programming abilities and knowledge of engineering principles to design and build software applications and systems. Your work may impact network management, mobile and computer applications, business computer systems, and more. 

Your responsibilities as a software engineer can vary depending on whether you specialize in front-end, back-end, or full-stack development; here is a breakdown of each:

• Front-end engineers focus on building the user-facing, interactive components of software programs.

• Back-end engineers use programming skills to build software that will maintain its functionality.

• Full-stack engineers combine back-end and front-end roles into one.

Software engineering positions can also be classified as system or application engineering. System engineers create the interactive interface between the user and the device and operating systems for specific use cases. Application engineers typically build computer and mobile applications, which can be used within businesses or consumer products.

Read more: Software Developer vs. Software Engineer: Differences + More

Software engineer responsibilities

Here’s a look at some common software engineering responsibilities throughout these roles:

• Contribute to the software development life cycle from the design and development phases to the maintenance, testing, and future updates.

• Document the development process, allowing other engineers to maintain the system in the future.

• Work with team members, such as data scientists, other engineers, and clients, to build systems that meet their needs.

How to become a software engineer without a degree

Although most software engineers hold a bachelor’s degree, you don’t necessarily have to have one to qualify for this position. Instead, if you direct your efforts toward developing relevant skills, gaining experience, and developing a quality portfolio, you may be able to reach your goals without a degree. Follow along to learn about the different paths available to you to gain desirable software engineering skills for your career.

1. Consider a boot camp.

Boot camps allow you to develop software engineering skills in three to six months without prior experience. Boot camps offer structured intensive training focusing on practical development skills used on the job. You can choose between online and in-person options. Although boot camps are expensive up-front, it’s usually a more affordable and more efficient option than a degree.

Keep in mind some programs may require applicants to take a test to prove their math, English, and technical proficiency. Requirements will typically be on the boot camp provider's website.

Read more: Explore the Benefits of Coding Bootcamps

2. Earn certifications.

Another way to show employers you have what it takes to work as a software engineer is by earning certifications. Certifications, such as the IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certification, show hiring managers that you’re committed to growing and learning as a software engineer. This certificate covers topics like DevOps, Agile, GitHub, and more.

3. Teach yourself.

You can find various resources online, many of which are free, to learn software engineering skills. Although this option won’t come with the added resource of an instructor, it allows you to move at your own pace. For example, Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals from Duke University is one option where you can learn key software engineering concepts. 

Read more: A Beginner’s Guide for Learning How to Code

4. Build a portfolio.

Building a portfolio will allow you to showcase your abilities to employers through software engineering projects—going into more depth than your resume and highlighting specific examples of your work. In addition to displaying past projects and relevant experience, you can provide more information about yourself as a professional. When you apply for a job, presenting a portfolio is also a great way to differentiate yourself from other candidates who may not take the same initiative.

5. Get experience.

You can start gaining valuable experience prior to becoming a full-time software engineer. Seek out software engineering internship opportunities, as well as work experiences where you have a chance to continue honing your programming skills. You can also find relevant entry-level positions, such as quality assurance tester or software test engineer. Volunteering with nonprofits or organizations that would benefit from your services is another great way to gain practical experience in the field. 

Read more: Top 5 Entry-Level Computer Science Jobs + How to Get One

Required skills for a software engineer

Succeeding in software engineer jobs requires developing several technical and workplace skills. With responsibilities ranging from designing, testing, developing, and maintaining various forms of software, it’s helpful to develop a diverse skill set so you're prepared for each task. Here are some key software engineering skills to focus on: 

• Programming languages, namely Python, Java, JavaScript, Scala, C++, and C

• Operating systems

• Collaboration and communication

• Knowledge of engineering principles

• Database architecture

• Knowledge of algorithms and data structures

• Problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail

Salary and job outlook

The average annual software engineer salary in the United States is $124,200 [1]. Factors including the state or industry you work in can influence this figure. The states offering the highest pay for software engineers include:

• Washington

• Rhode Island

• New York

• California

• Alaska

Some of the highest-paying industries are finance, media, and retail. This field also offers an excellent outlook, with job growth projections from 2022 to 2032 coming in much higher than the national average for other positions at 25 percent [1].

Software engineer career path

When beginning your software engineering career, you may work as a junior software engineer or junior developer. However, as you grow in your career, you may find opportunities to become a senior software engineer. You can also use the skills you’ve developed to transition into other specialized software engineer jobs, such as quality assurance engineer, data engineer, security engineer, and more.

Get started in software engineering with Coursera

Although software engineers are highly skilled, you don’t have to earn a degree to develop those skills. Boot camps, certifications, and online courses are all valuable ways to grow your abilities as a software engineer so you can assemble a portfolio demonstrating your experience.

Courses about software engineering on Coursera can help you prepare for a potential career. Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals from IBM can help you develop fundamental software engineering skills and practice programming with Python. Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose from Princeton University is another course where you can examine important Java programming concepts.