How to Become an App Developer
To become an app developer, you must be familiar with programming languages and learn specific coding skills. Understanding what the role entails and the knowledge needed can lead to obtaining lucrative job roles in application development.
Using mobile applications and web apps has become more commonplace, creating a demand for technology professionals with the knowledge and experience to develop them.
Embarking on a career path toward becoming an app developer includes acquiring a skillset in web development and programming languages and learning to work in various industries.
Discover the responsibilities of an application developer and learn how to begin your rewarding career in this exciting field today.
What Is an Application Developer?
An application developer designs apps used across different platforms, such as mobile devices and desktop browsers. They build and test new software applications that allow users to perform certain tasks more efficiently. They also maintain existing applications, troubleshooting and resolving any issues to optimize their functionalities for a better user experience.
A popular path for an application developer career involves specializing in creating apps for specific operating systems, such as Apple iOS, which uses programming languages like Objective-C and Swift, or Android, which primarily utilizes Kotlin and Java.
Where Do App Developers Work?
Given the nature of the work involved, app developers have opportunities for job prospects in various settings. They can find employment in traditional offices, including software development firms or a related field, or opt for remote work by taking on contracts or freelancing with different businesses.
According to research by Zippia, mobile app developers generally seek roles in private companies over public firms or government agencies. Its reporting indicates that they prefer to work in certain types of industries, including:
- technology
- finance
- manufacturing
- education
- healthcare
- media
- retail
- hospitality
- automotive
- telecommunication
This flexibility allows application developers to choose the work environment and sector that best suits their particular preferences and needs, helping them reach their career goals.
Steps To Becoming an App Developer
Aspiring app developers have various paths to pursue a lucrative career in the field. Here are steps they can take to gain the right education and get started today.
Get a College Degree
A college degree is not mandatory for obtaining employment as an app developer, but earning one gives you an advantage over other job candidates. Many bachelor's degrees in software engineering and computer science have concentrations in application development and are available through convenient distance learning.
Examples of schools offering bachelor's degrees in app development include:
Get a Certificate
Many professionals opt for certification in the field and have access to online courses that teach programming languages and essential coding skills. These programs prepare them for industry certification exams, such as CompTIA IT Fundamentals and Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP).
Examples of schools offering certificate programs for app developers include:
- Liberty University
- University of Missouri
- Temple University
- University of California, San Diego
- Phoenix College
Enroll in Bootcamps
A coding bootcamp is a great avenue to explore and obtain skills and knowledge in the industry. In addition to instruction in computer science and software development fundamentals, app development bootcamps teach career-relevant skills and coding languages like HTML and CSS.
Examples of schools offering coding bootcamps include:
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- University of Michigan
- Rutgers University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Central Florida
Get Experience
Students can pursue internships in the field to gain hands-on experience. This teaches them how to operate in real-world scenarios to be a successful application developer and demonstrate proficiency in areas like creating frameworks and mobile application development.
FAQs About Becoming an App Developer
These most-asked questions provide essential information to help you embark on becoming an app developer today.
How Long Does It Take to Become an App Developer?
The time it takes to become an app developer varies, depending on your experience and what route you pursue. For instance, a bachelor's degree typically takes around four years to complete, but there are accelerated programs where you can apply what you already know to gain the proper skills in two to three years.
How Can I Land My First iOS Development Job?
Obtaining a bachelor's degree in mobile app development is highly recommended to secure your first iOS development job and build applications for Apple products. This will provide formal training and foundational knowledge in the field. You should have a strong grasp of Swift and Objective-C and create a portfolio and professional resume to showcase your skills. This leads to researching your desired companies and applying for iOS developer positions that align with your skill set.
How Many Years of Experience Do I Need To Become an App Developer?
The years of experience needed to become an app developer will depend on prior knowledge in areas like programming languages and information technology. Potential employers may desire a few years of relevant experience, but it is certainly possible to get an app developer job without it. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this sector will grow by 25% until 2032, surpassing the median for all occupations, and the average salary can be as high as six figures.
What Skills Are Needed To Become an App Developer?
There are hard and soft skills required for finding success in application development that potential employers look for.
The top skills needed to become an app developer include:
- project management
- problem-solving
- programming languages
- user experience design
- communication
- creativity
- APIs
- back-end computing
- front-end computing
- user interface design
What Programming Languages Should I Learn To Become an App Developer?
Specific programming knowledge is necessary to be successful in application development, which you can get educated in through many online college programs and bootcamps to help you get ahead.
The programming languages you should learn to become an app developer include:
- JavaScript
- Java
- Python
- Kotlin
- Ruby
- PHP
- Objective-C
- C++
- Swift
- SQL
Is It Hard To Become a Mobile App Developer?
Becoming a mobile app developer may be challenging for beginners, but if you have programming experience or are familiar with certain frameworks, you may not find it as hard. It is easy to transition from other technical fields, such as cybersecurity, where you can leverage your information technology knowledge for a successful app developer career.