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How to become a software developer

Designs, builds and tests apps, websites and systems.

See all routes in WayWhat

After GCSEs

Digital Production, Design & Development T-level T-level: leads straight into this work
IT (level 3 diploma) College course: leads straight into this work
A-levels at sixth form Sixth form: a step towards the routes below

After sixth form or college

Mathematics Degree

With A-levels: Needs A-level Maths. Helpful: Further Maths. Typical: A*A*A–ABB.

Computer Science Degree

With A-levels: Needs A-level Maths. Helpful: Further Maths, Computer Science, Physics. Typical: A*A*A–BBB.

Digital & Technology Solutions Degree apprenticeship

With A-levels: No specific subjects required. Helpful: Maths, Computer Science. Typical: Often ABB–BBC; employers set their own requirements.
With a T-level: Needs Digital Production, Design & Development T-level. Typical: Merit or above.
With a BTEC or college diploma: Needs BTEC Information Technology. Typical: Usually DMM.

Software Developer Higher apprenticeship

With A-levels: No specific subjects required. Helpful: Computer Science, Maths. Typical: Varies by employer.
With a T-level: Needs Digital Production, Design & Development T-level. Typical: Pass or above.
With a BTEC or college diploma: Needs BTEC Information Technology. Typical: Varies by employer.

Software Engineering Degree

With A-levels: No specific subjects required. Helpful: Maths, Computer Science. Typical: AAA–BBC.
With a BTEC or college diploma: Needs BTEC Information Technology. Typical: DDM–DMM.

Revision guides for the subjects you'll need

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