How to Become a Software Developer: Education, Salary and Job Growth

The UK job market is actively searching for graduates and individuals with digital skills in computing and software. According to LinkedIn's Jobs on the Rise 2026, roles in the software and technology sectors continue to grow. Both sectors include roles in software development and engineering, data science, machine learning and cybersecurity.

Read on to find out how you can start your career as a software developer. Explore the educational routes and personal skills required, as well as the responsibilities of the role and earning potential. 

Becoming a Software Developer in 2026  

Software development is a thriving sector with plenty of opportunities: 

•  Recent estimates indicate there are at least 1.7 million people working in the technology sector in the UK. 
•  As part of continued funding into their digital strategy, the government has committed £20.4 billion of investment across 2025/2026. 
•  The software development industry revenue has also increased by 3.1% over the last five years. 

 In a sector rife with innovation and investment, technology-based roles remain some of the most sought-after positions. 

What is a software developer?

A software developer is responsible for the development, testing, and maintenance of software applications and systems. 

Day-to-day responsibilities can include requirement analysis, design, coding, debugging and troubleshooting. 

Software developers are skilled at using programming software such as JavaScript or Python to translate project requirements into tangible software solutions. Their versatile skillset means they can work across a wide variety of industries, from healthcare and finance to facilities management. 

Software developer salaries

The average base salary of a software developer in February 2026 is £44,415 (Glassdoor). However, software developer salaries can vary widely depending on the location or industry: for example, top earners in locations such as London have reported earning as much as £79,000. 

Software Developer Education 

Software development offers extensive job prospects, and the good news is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to entering the industry. Here are some ways to qualify to become a software developer: 

Study for a Degree 

The most traditional approach to entering a career in software development is through study pathways, including: 

•  Foundation degree 
•  Higher National Diploma 
•  Degree in computer science, IT, software development or similar 

A master’s degree is not a requirement for becoming a software developer, but for those interested in specialising further down the line, gaining the extra expertise may prove useful. 

Consider alternative qualifications 

A university degree is not the only avenue to securing your first role in software development. There are college courses and diplomas available that will provide you with the skills and industry experience required: 

• Level 3 Certificate in Programming •
• T Level in Digital Production •
• Design and Development •
• Higher National Certificate in Computing 

Gaining work experience

However you decide to enter the industry, getting some hands-on experience is crucial to landing your first job as a software developer. 

Consider searching for an internship, apprenticeship or short-term software developer work experience within the field. 

You could find a position such as an assistant software development technician, a DevOps engineer apprenticeship or experience as a game programmer. 

Personal skills Software Developers need

Employers in the software development industry are looking for applicants with varied and developed personal skills. Those interested in a software development career should have: 

• Strong analytical skills
• An aptitude in mathematics 
• Strong attention to detail
• Knowledge of computer programming languages 
• Problem-solving skills
• Excellent time management skills

Software Development Careers with SFG20 

Software development is a complex and rewarding role, but one that requires plenty of determination and focus to achieve. 

Creating the right foundation to your software development career is just as important as the qualifications you need to start out. 

Launched in 1990 by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), SFG20 is recognised as the industry standard for building maintenance specifications. With a library of over 1,500 maintenance schedules that update dynamically, we help facilities managers stay compliant whilst saving time, effort and money.

With a wide variety of skillsets and varying journeys into their roles, hearing firsthand from our software developers is a great way to find out more about the challenges and rewards of a software development role. 

Explore accounts from software developers at SFG20. Or, if you’re ready to take the first step in your career, explore our SFG20 careers for software development vacancies. 

About SFG20

Launched in 1990 by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), SFG20 is recognised as the industry standard for building maintenance specifications. With access to a library of over 2000 maintenance schedules that update dynamically to reflect changes in legislation and health and safety regulations, you can create customised maintenance schedules that are designed to keep you compliant while also saving you time, effort and money.