How to become a software developer or programmer
Official title: Software developers and programmers
Also called: Cloud developer, Software developer, Graphics programmer, Software programmer, Animation programmer, Multimedia developer, Multimedia programmer, Application programmer, Computer game developer, Computer game programmer, Special effects programmer, Interactive media developer
Software developers and programmers design, write, and test code for new systems and software to ensure efficiency. They create the foundations for operative systems and run diagnostic programs to certify effectiveness. They are employed in computer software, computer and video game development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the public and private sectors.
Main tasks
- Design, write, read, test, and correct code for new software
- Analyze information to recommend and plan the installation of new systems or modifications of an existing system
- Evaluate simple interrelationships between programs such as whether a contemplated change in one part of a program would cause unwanted results in a related part
- Program animation software to predefined specifications for interactive video games, Internet and mobile applications
- Write, modify, integrate and test software code for e-commerce, Internet and mobile applications
- Develop, implement, modify and maintain gameplay features that integrate effectively into existing software
- Write documentation for new and updated software
How to become one
A bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering or in another discipline with a significant programming component or completion of a college program in computer science or related field is usually required. Experience as a computer programmer is usually required.
Ways in
- University: Computing & IT degrees, Offered by 15 universities in Canada
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $93,756 a year The middle half earn $74,997 to $118,307.
- About 155,700 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 203,300 are projected by 2033. (+30.6%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: balance.
Related jobs
- Computer systems developers and programmers
- Software engineers and designers
- Web designers
- Web developers and programmers
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Questions people ask
How do I become a software developer or programmer?
A bachelor's degree in computer science or software engineering or in another discipline with a significant programming component or completion of a college program in computer science or related field is usually required. Experience as a computer programmer is usually required.
How much does a software developer or programmer earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $93,756 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $74,997 to $118,307.
Is a software developer or programmer a growing career in Canada?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 31% by 2033, from about 155,700 to about 203,300 people (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become a software developer or programmer?
Usually. 77% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03