Where to Study to Become a Software Developer

So, you decided to become a software developer. But have you already decided where you are going to study? There are several options to choose from; all of them are different, but equally valid. Which one is the one for you?

University

At university, you acquire sound knowledge and numerous tools; the problem is that it isn’t always so clear where you will use them. For example, you want to become a software developer, and decide to go to university to study Computer Science or Systems Engineering. You will learn a lot of things that are not aligned with software development. Does that mean that what you learn is useless? Of course not; you will acquire knowledge that will make you a more complete professional: You will learn about networks, infrastructure, business, and systems architecture, for instance. So, at university, you will learn a lot of things that are not directly related to software development, but that will make you a well-rounded professional.

So… Do you need to go to university to work as a software developer?

The answer is no. One can learn software development in other ways. But keep this in mind: you are going to have to study.

When is it convenient to go to university to study for a degree?

When you want what a university degree can give you:

• The university experience
• The possibility to learn new things that may be of interest to you
• A more complete vision and knowledge than just software development
• The feeling of security that comes from having a degree (although in reality,? it does not make a difference)
• The possibility to grow your network of contacts, because you meet professors and other students

This is why, from my point of view, university is worth it if you know why you chose it.

Bootcamps

A bootcamp is an intensive training program that teaches you theory and practice at the same time. It generates a work ecosystem (group of students) that mimics the work a software developer does in a company when hired as an employee, working on a project that creates a software application.

Here are some bootcamps to check out:

Enspiral Dev Academy

Henry

Mission Ready

Le Wagon

Pros:?

• You learn a lot in a short time.
• There is a strong focus on communication; they teach you how to communicate when you already have a job.
• You learn specifically what you are going to use on day one of work.
• They teach you the technologies with the greatest demand at that time.
• They teach you how to look for work and how to generate a network of contacts.

Cons:?

• It can be very intense.
• Even though you learn a lot, it is not enough, and you have to continue studying once you finish the course.?
• If you start from scratch, the learning path is very long and intense.

Studying solo

You can learn software development by yourself. Everything is on the internet, so anyone can learn. On platforms such as Udemy , W3schools , Pluralsight, and Coursera , you can find lots of coding courses. On social networks like LinkedIn, you can get mentors to help you. On platforms like Stackoverflow, you can find answers to problems you are trying to solve.?

The challenge? Not having classmates nor a study structure. Both university and bootcamps offer two things that are invaluable when it comes to learning:

• A study structure: a roadmap that tells you what to study and in what order. You don’t have to worry about putting together a study plan.??
• Classmates: study partners who can support you in your learning process or when you doubt what you are doing.

Whether you study at university, attend a bootcamp, or learn by yourself, one thing is clear: becoming a software developer involves a tremendous amount of work. So, what do you think? Which option seems more attractive to you?