How to Get Into Software Development (Coursera)

In this course, you will learn about the dynamic field of software development and uncover the crucial roles, from requirements engineers to backend developers, and the skills essential for success.

You'll learn to navigate the development process, including gaining insights from an inspiring career changer who has thrived in the software development field.

Whether you're a coding novice or an enthusiast, this course empowers you with the knowledge and confidence to pursue an exciting and rewarding career in software development.

Click Start, a nationwide training programme designed to help young people develop digital skills, offers this course. Click Start offers scholarships giving free access to young people in the UK. Follow the link in the Click Start icon on the top, to check if you are eligible for free access!

What you'll learn

- Explain the software development process, identify key team roles, discuss ethical issues.

- Explain the broad applications of software development and the associated challenges, including social, legal, and ethical concerns.

- Demonstrate awareness of diverse roles and skill profiles in software development.

- Detail the steps in the job application process, providing examples for interview preparation.

Syllabus

Week 1: The software development team

Software development is a team-based process and this week, you'll find out what the different members of a development team do. You'll also explore the different types of jobs in development, and learn about the important skills and knowledge that developers need. We'll also focus on some of the legal, social, and ethical concerns that are important for a developer to understand.

Week 2: Starting your career

In this lesson, you'll discover some of the diverse industries that hire developers and you'll have an opportunity to reflect on which sector suits your interests. We'll also cover the hiring process and look at how you can secure your initial development job.