App developer
Create apps for computers, smartphones, tablets or games – people all over the world will interact with your software!
Also known as: mobile applications developer, software engineer, software developer
About the job
What it's like
According to studies, the average person uses nine mobile phone apps every day! We rely on apps to log in to social media, shop, bank, stream music and watch TV shows.
As an app developer, it's your job to create them! You'll discuss with clients how the app should work and come up with ideas to design and develop it. Along the way, you’ll work with designers, software developers and testers to write the code that makes everything function the way you expect it to.
You may focus on apps for phones, tablets, computers or gaming devices. It's likely you'll specialise in a particular field. For example, some app developers are known for creating fun and exciting mobile games. Others focus primarily on finance apps – helping people access their money quickly and easily.
Apps need regular updates. This keeps them secure and in line with the latest trends and styles. After all, you want your app to appeal to as many users as possible!
You might also work with specific systems to create different types of apps. For example, Windows, iOS or Android.
Your tasks might include:
designing and developing apps based on the needs of your client
working as part of a team that delivers development projects
checking the success of your app and making changes if needed
using programming languages and code to create the elements of your app
writing and updating documents or briefs to record how the software operates
keeping up to date with best practice and app trends – you'll update your product when necessary
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Brightec – discover how to start a career as an app developer
The Chartered Institute for IT – learn about computing-based roles you could do
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'App developer'
Select qualification level(s)
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Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- attention to detail
- researching
- problem solving
- creative
- working with technology
- persevering
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Computing Science
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Graphic Communication
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Skills for Work: Creative Digital Media
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Software Development
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are a few different ways you can become an app developer. Most people get qualified through university, college or an apprenticeship.
Let's explore the routes you can take.
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Computer Science
Software Engineering or Software Development
Computing or Information Technology
Data Science
Artificial Intelligence
Mobile Systems or Embedded Systems
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
College
Not got the grades you need to go to university? Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Computing
Computing: Software Development
Software Engineering with Emerging Technologies
Web Development
Apprenticeships
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but will also go to uni or college. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider a GA in IT: Software Development.
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Digital Applications.
Not all employers list specific qualifications they're looking for. Some will ask for relevant experience, usually work-based, that shows you have a range of transferable skills.
It's useful to understand agile project management as this is often used by companies that deliver IT development projects.
A portfolio is just as important as formal qualifications. You should gather evidence of the apps you’ve developed – along with the code behind them. Even if you’re just starting out, anyone can create and publish simple apps on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'App developer'
