How to Become a Software Engineer
by Danielle Antosz | Published on April 15, 2026
Start now by exploring the top computer programming training from CBT Nuggets. All engineers are problem-solvers, applying technical knowledge to come up with clever solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Software engineers are digital problem solvers.
Some software engineers create apps that simplify daily tasks. Other software engineers develop back-end systems that power global networks. Software engineers don't just write code—they craft the systems themselves.
Do you want to become a software engineer? This guide will help you navigate the education, skills, and steps to follow in order to succeed as a software engineer.
What is a Software Engineer?
A software engineer designs, builds, and maintains large-scale software systems by applying engineering principles to complex, interconnected technologies. Depending on their role and industry, they bridge the gap between concept and functionality—often wearing many hats to get there.
What Does a Software Engineer Do?
A software engineer's daily work is a mix of technical expertise and problem-solving. On a day-to-day basis, software engineers might review their team's progress, dive into coding a new feature or debugging an issue, participate in design discussions, write documentation, or test and refine a prototype.
Software engineers analyze user requirements, design software architecture, write and review code, test for performance and security, and deploy updates or new systems. They debug and optimize existing software, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and align technical solutions with business objectives.
What Education Do You Need to Become a Software Engineer?
You can become a software engineer without a college degree, but the journey is much easier if you have one. Many software engineering job descriptions require a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
The bare minimum training pipeline for someone learning to become a software engineer would have to look like this:
One or two commonly used programming languages, such as Python, Java or C++
Algorithms, data structures, and software design principles
Git for version control
You can learn to become a software engineer independently through online courses, coding challenges, and books or videos.
It's possible to learn to become a software engineer on your own, but it's challenging. If you don't already, you should learn the basics of programming with free online courses or videos.
Learning a programming language is just like learning a spoken language: it takes time to memorize the vocabulary, and you need to practice it.
After that, you'll need a structured online course that teaches programming as a professional skill. Coding bootcamps and virtual labs will put those skills to practical use, plus they'll teach you skills related to system design and debugging.
Soft skills are also a must because a software engineer must collaborate with developers, product managers, and others to keep projects on track and successful.
Over time, work on small projects, such as simple to-do list apps or a calendar app. As you progress, keep a portfolio that showcases those projects, then start looking for entry-level software development roles. The hands-on experience you get in your first job will be helpful in becoming a software engineer, even without a degree.
What are the Top Software Engineer Certifications?
A certification is proof that you've mastered a certain skill to a certain level. Different organizations offer certifications based on whether you have taken a course with them, passed a test from them, or somehow proven your knowledge.
Here's a list of certifications (though far from exhaustive or complete) to think about as you work to become a software engineer:
Certified Entry-level Python Programmer: The PCEP is the best way to prove a foundational comfort with the Python programming language.
Certified Associate in Python Programming: The PCAP is one step more advanced than the PCEP and offers greater control over the basics of Python.
Certified Professional in Python Programming: The PCPP1 is even more advanced, designed for professional developers who need to demonstrate mastery of advanced, specialized aspects of computer programming.
Security+: The Security+ proves you understand the fundamentals of cryptography, threat avoidance, and good cybersecurity hygiene—essential fundamentals for a software engineer.
AWS Certified Developer - Associate: The AWS Developer certification proves you can develop, test, deploy, and debug AWS Cloud-based applications—not necessary for every software engineer, but essential for many.
Certified Kubernetes Application Developer: Earning the CKAD proves you can design, build, and deploy cloud-native applications for Kubernetes, which is a specialized but valuable skill for a software engineer.
Azure AI Cloud Developer Associate (Exam AI-200): This upcoming cert replaces the retiring AZ-204 and reflects the growing importance of AI in cloud development. It validates skills in building and integrating AI solutions on Azure, including serverless functions, event-driven pipelines, and vector-enabled databases. The beta exam is expected in April 2026, with a full launch in July 2026.
Becoming a software engineer is not a "one-size-fits-all" journey. Sometimes, you have to specialize your skills and knowledge for a job. Other times, it's broadening your expertise that makes you more attractive for a new job at a different company.
Even if you don't end up taking the test itself, certification training can help you become familiar with programming languages, technologies, and skills.
Not sure which certification is right for you? Explore the CBT Nuggets Certification Matrix to find out.
What Does a Software Engineer Career Path Look Like?
The journey to becoming a software engineer can take several years and usually starts with entry-level roles. Common starting positions include Junior Developer, Software Developer, or QA Tester.
In those entry-level roles, a future software engineer writes basic code, fixes bugs, and tests software for quality and reliability. It's also where you learn the development process in action. Those jobs can also give a lot of insight into management practices, version control systems, and coding frameworks.
Software engineers can remain in mid-level and advanced software engineering roles as they take on larger projects, design more complex features, and mentor junior team members. Senior software engineers tend to lead project design, oversee teams, and handle high-level architectural decisions.
Software engineering is a flexible field, and can lead to different careers altogether. Some software engineers transition to Product Management, overseeing product development. Sometimes, software engineers find themselves in DevOps, or Data Science. They also have skills that lead them to Cybersecurity.
Software engineers eventually become deep technical experts in a wide range of technologies and solutions. One of the strengths of becoming a software engineer is the flexibility the job offers for shaping your career in a way that aligns with your passions and goals.
Software Engineer vs. Software Developer: What's the Difference?
A software engineer and a software developer both create software, but their roles differ in scope and focus. Software engineers take a broader approach and apply engineering principles to designing, building and maintaining large-scale, complex software systems.
A software developer is more focused on writing and implementing code that applies to specific features or applications. There can be overlap between the two, but engineers tend to operate at a slightly higher level, dealing with system design and structure. Developers are usually focused on practical coding and implementation.
How Much Does a Software Engineer Make?
A software engineer can make between $65,000 and more than $205,000 per year, with an average salary of $147,000, according to Glassdoor. The amount of experience you have is a major factor in how much a software engineer makes, but so are job level, location, and the industry they work in.
If you're just getting started and can barely write in Python, don't expect $150,000/year. But if you learn the right skills and apply for the right jobs, you can probably make six digits as a software engineer.
Experience Level | Average Salary |
Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $100,000 - $150,000 |
Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $150,000 - $175,000 |
Senior-Level (5+ years) | $175,000 - $205,000+ |
(Source: Glassdoor, [4/7/2026])
CBT Nuggets researched how much different IT jobs pay based on location and experience. Software engineers weren't part of the original research, but the findings for different engineer-level roles could help you figure out how much you might make as a software engineer.
Take a look at how much a network engineer makes, DevOps engineer salaries, and cloud engineer salaries. Those aren't the same jobs as software engineers, but they can at least give you some insight into the market and where salaries are most competitive for advanced IT positions.
FAQs About a Career as a Software Engineer
How Long Does It Take to Become a Software Engineer?
The timeline varies depending on your path. A traditional computer science degree takes 4 years, while a coding bootcamp can take 3 to 6 months. Self-taught engineers typically spend a year or two building skills before landing their first role. Most people enter junior-level positions within 1 to 3 years of starting their learning journey.
Can You Become a Software Engineer Without a Degree?
Yes, many software engineers are self-taught or bootcamp graduates. Employers increasingly pay attention to portfolios, certifications, and hands-on experience. That said, a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field can make the job search easier, especially at larger companies that might have stricter hiring requirements.
What Programming Languages Should a Software Engineer Learn First?
Python is widely recommended for beginners due to its readability and versatility. JavaScript is another strong choice, especially for those interested in web development. Java and C++ are common in enterprise environments. Most software engineers eventually work across multiple languages throughout their careers.
Take the Next Steps to Becoming a Software Engineer
If you want to become a software engineer, there are many paths to that goal. Build your programming skills, gain hands-on experience, earn certifications—these are all part of the journey. Whether you're starting out or transitioning from a different career, the time to start is now.