Traditionally, this was a prerequisite for hiring professionals in the software field. But increasingly, developers are following different paths — they may have attended a coding bootcamp, for example, or they could even be self-taught.
So, if you’re looking to hire a talented software developer who will play an instrumental role in improving your business, is it critical to look for someone with a degree?
The Case for a Degree
Computer science, software engineering, and job function email list similar degree programs are extraordinarily demanding and rigorous. When you’re considering candidates with a bachelor of science—or a master’s—in one of these disciplines, you’ll rest assured that they are capable, highly proficient, and hard-working. Those are all the ingredients for a well-qualified software developer.
In addition, these programs equip students with theoretical knowledge, as well as experience practicing. This will give them broader context and, arguably, the ability to grapple with ever-changing technologies and the demands associated with them, as noted in our software engineering job report.
And because the majority of degree-granting programs also offer a comprehensive curriculum with requirements in other disciplines like writing and social science, students gain the crucial skills required of a successful developer. They include critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and more.
The Case Against a Degree
More and more, however, businesses classic visual basic as incredible as it feels are hiring software developers who demonstrate qualifications aside from a bachelor’s degree. They might be self-taught or have taken courses, for example.
There are many technology professionals who believe that a degree is simply not necessary to be a software developer. One of the arguments is that the theoretical knowledge computer science students gain in a degree program isn’t enormously relevant to a career in the field. They say that people can learn practical knowledge through other, less expensive, and time-consuming means.
Moreover, some successful software developers earn a degree in other disciplines, even ones that aren’t particularly relevant to the field.
Is Coding Bootcamp Enough?
Coding bootcamps have become an increasingly popular alternative to degree programs in recent years. These courses are significantly resource data shorter and more affordable than higher education programs.
From a developer angle, the evidence suggests that bootcamps are a solid investment, with 74–90% of students landing a programming job within 6 months of completing the program. But what about from a business perspective?
If students successfully complete a coding bootcamp within just a few weeks or months, it means they’re capable of grasping complex concepts quickly. This suggests that they could be strong candidates, as self-starters and fast learners. On the other hand, it also means that they have less experience than other candidates, so it’s more difficult to assess their skills in practice, and there is little evidence as to how they adapt to the changing state of technology.