Is a person with the training and skill needed to design create and test computer programs?

Software development refers to a set of computer science activities dedicated to the process of creating, designing, deploying and supporting software.

Software itself is the set of instructions or programs that tell a computer what to do. It is independent of hardware and makes computers programmable. There are three basic types:

System software to provide core functions such as operating systems, disk management, utilities, hardware management and other operational necessities.

Programming software to give programmers tools such as text editors, compilers, linkers, debuggers and other tools to create code.

Application software (applications or apps) to help users perform tasks. Office productivity suites, data management software, media players and security programs are examples. Applications also refers to web and mobile applications like those used to shop on Amazon.com, socialize with Facebook or post pictures to Instagram.1

A possible fourth type is embedded software. Embedded systems software is used to control machines and devices not typically considered computers — telecommunications networks, cars, industrial robots and more. These devices, and their software, can be connected as part of the Internet of Things (IoT).2

Software development is primarily conducted by programmers, software engineers and software developers. These roles interact and overlap, and the dynamics between them vary greatly across development departments and communities.  

Programmers, or coders, write source code to program computers for specific tasks like merging databases, processing online orders, routing communications, conducting searches or displaying text and graphics. Programmers typically interpret instructions from software developers and engineers and use programming languages like C++ or Java to carry them out.

Software engineers apply engineering principles to build software and systems to solve problems. They use modeling language and other tools to devise solutions that can often be applied to problems in a general way, as opposed to merely solving for a specific instance or client. Software engineering solutions adhere to the scientific method and must work in the real world, as with bridges or elevators. Their responsibility has grown as products have become increasingly more intelligent with the addition of microprocessors, sensors and software. Not only are more products relying on software for market differentiation, but their software development must be coordinated with the product’s mechanical and electrical development work.

Software developers have a less formal role than engineers and can be closely involved with specific project areas — including writing code. At the same time, they drive the overall software development lifecycle — including working across functional teams to transform requirements into features, managing development teams and processes, and conducting software testing and maintenance.3

The work of software development isn’t confined to coders or development teams. Professionals such as scientists, device fabricators and hardware makers also create software code even though they are not primarily software developers. Nor is it confined to traditional information technology industries such as software or semiconductor businesses. In fact, according to the Brookings Institute (link resides outside of ibm.com), those businesses “account for less than half of the companies performing software development.”

An important distinction is custom software development as opposed to commercial software development. Custom software development is the process of designing, creating, deploying and maintaining software for a specific set of users, functions or organizations. In contrast, commercial off-the-shelf software (COTS) is designed for a broad set of requirements, allowing it to be packaged and commercially marketed and distributed.

Coding jobs are in demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that computer and information technology employment will grow 13% between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the average projected growth rate across all occupations (8%). Some specific coding areas have an even higher projected growth rate, such as software development, which the BLS projects will grow 22% in that same period.

Programmers need an arsenal of skills to find success in their computer coding jobs, including mastery of front-end and back-end languages, tools, and frameworks. Entry-level coding jobs also include positions that focus on just the front-end or back-end of a website, or on mobile application development. Regardless of their technical specialization, all coders need strong problem-solving skills, analytical ability, patience, and the ability to work well on a team and communicate clearly.

Coding isn't just used for programming mobile apps and websites. A variety of other professionals also code, including data analysts and data scientists, software engineers, and database and systems administrators. Read on to learn about some of the most common computer coding jobs, including entry-level coding jobs and remote coding jobs.


How Much Do Coding Jobs Pay?

The 2020 Worldwide Developer Population and Demographic Study, a report published twice a year, stated that the worldwide software developer population had reached over 24.5 million. Despite the pandemic slowing trends down, researchers predict the pre-pandemic rate to return soon.

Coding jobs have consistently high salaries, though salaries do vary based on the specific position. According to the BLS, computer programmers earned a median salary of $89,190 in 2020. Web developers earned a median of $77,200 per year, and software developers earned $110,140 per year.

While a bachelor's degree in computer science may be required for some computer coding jobs, a certification, associate degree, bootcamp experience, and/or work experience can sometimes take the place of a bachelor's degree.

10 Jobs Coders Can Get

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers create new software, websites, and other applications, and they ensure that applications and software run smoothly. In addition to writing new code, programmers also test code for errors and spend time updating and enhancing already developed programs. Computer programming is a common entry-level coding job, and is also often a remote coding job.

While the BLS projects a decline in demand for this occupation between 2020 and 2030, computer programming job descriptions often overlap with those of web developers and software developers, both of which are projected to grow much faster than average in that time period.


  • Median Annual Salary: $89,190 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Computer Programmers: Java, Python, C, C++, C#

Web Developer

Web developers use computer programming to create and maintain websites. Professionals with this coding job typically spend their time testing new applications and components of websites, writing code, and working with a client or team to identify the scope and requirements for the website. Web developers may specialize in front-end or back-end development, or they may work on both as a full-stack developer.

According to the BLS, coding jobs for web developers are projected to grow 13% between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the 8% projected growth rate across all occupations. Those entering the tech field may be able to find an entry-level coding job as a web developer. This role is also very remote-friendly.


  • Median Annual Salary: $77,200 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Associate degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Web Developers: JavaScript, Python, Java, PHP

Front-End Developer

Front-end web developers focus on building the part of a website that a user sees and interacts with. These professionals integrate web design principles to make sure the website functions smoothly and looks good on different devices. They also track website performance, monitor sites for usability issues, and address errors in the code. Front-end developers commonly work with back-end developers, web designers, and user experience designers.


  • Average Annual Salary: $76,090 (as of December 2021, according to Payscale)

  • Common Education Requirements: Associate degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Front-End Developers: JavaScript, CSS, HTML

Back-End Developer

Back-end web developers work on the part of a website that operates behind the scenes. Professionals with this coding job are in charge of site performance and server-side functioning. In addition to writing code for new websites, back-end developers also ensure existing sites are able to manage, store, and retrieve data; grow to scale; and operate at high speeds.


  • Average Annual Salary: $86,240 (as of December 2021, according to Payscale)

  • Common Education Requirements: Associate degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Back-End Developers: Java, C, C++, Python

Full-Stack Developer

A full-stack web developer works on both the front end and back end of a website. Very often, full-stack developers work alongside user experience and user interface designers who help design the look, feel, and functionality of the site.


  • Median Annual Salary: $77,200 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Associate degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Full-Stack Developers: Python, JavaScript, Java, PHP, SQL

Software Application Developer

Software developers lead software application creation, often from start to finish. Software may include programs built for a specific task, or those used in operating systems. Software application developers design, test, and troubleshoot software to meet the needs of various users. Jobs for software developers are projected to grow much faster than average, with a projected increase of 22% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.


  • Median Annual Salary: $110,140 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree, coding bootcamp, or certification

  • Common Programming Languages for Software Application Developers: Python, Java, Ruby C

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts examine computer and information technology systems operating at an organization and provide recommendations to make them run more smoothly. They often design solutions for systems issues and inefficiencies, evaluate new hardware or software for potential introduction into a business, and set up systems operations. These tech professionals need a foundation in both business and information technology.

The BLS projects that positions for computer systems analysts will grow about as fast as average (7%) between 2020 and 2030.


  • Median Annual Salary: $93,730 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree

  • Common Programming Languages for Computer Systems Analysts: Python, C, Java, SQL

Computer Systems Engineer

Computer systems engineers work with software developers and other engineers to manage, update, and improve upon business computer systems. Professionals with this coding job provide technical support for maintaining an organization's computer systems and take part in system development.


  • Average Annual Salary: $80,800 (as of December 2021, according to Payscale)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree

  • Common Programming Languages for Computer Systems Engineers: Java, C, C++

Network Systems Administrator

A network systems administrator manages a company's servers, computer equipment, local networks, and intranet. These professionals maintain both the hardware and software used in an organization's computer network so that the company operates effectively.

According to the BLS, jobs for network and computer systems administrators are projected to grow 5% between 2020 and 2030, slightly below the average growth across all occupations.


  • Median Annual Salary: $84,810 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree

  • Common Programming Languages for Network Systems Administrators: Python, Bash, Powershell

Database Administrator

Database administrators determine an organization's information storage and management needs, and then build a database to house that information. Additionally, they merge new and old databases and ensure current databases run smoothly and securely. Database administration is projected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.


  • Median Annual Salary: $98,860 (as of May 2020, according to the BLS)

  • Common Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree

  • Common Programming Languages for Database Administrators: SQL, Python, R, PHP

Are Bootcamps a Good Alternative to Traditional College?

Our 2021 Bootcamps Trends Report found that "Almost half (48%) of all business leaders surveyed, and 56% of those from tech companies and organizations that hire for tech roles, said that bootcamps will play a pivotal role in meeting future workforce training needs".

Frequently Asked Questions About Coding Jobs

Is coding a good career?

Yes! Coding can be a good career for many professionals. Those with coding jobs often enjoy a high salary, work flexibility (such as the ability to find a remote coding job), and plentiful job opportunities. Additionally, according to U.S. News & World Report, computer programmers possess above-average upward mobility, with increased opportunities for advancement and higher salaries.

What are the best coding jobs?

The best coding jobs vary depending on your interests, specialization, and expertise. If you like to analyze complex problems, computer systems engineering could be a good fit, as these professionals identify and correct systems and network issues. Alternatively, software quality assurance engineers check for any flaws and inconsistencies in software; this position might be a good fit if you're detail-oriented.

What coding jobs pay the most?

The BLS lists computer and information research scientists, computer network architects, and software developers as top earners in its computer and information technology job category.

In a study of the highest-salaried programming jobs, staffing firm Robert Half found that mobile applications developers, applications architects, lead applications developers, and enterprise resource development technical developers earned the highest salaries.

Is the part of the computer that actually runs programs and is the most important component in a computer?

The central processing unit, or CPU, is the part of a computer that actually runs programs. The CPU is the most important component in a computer because without it, the computer could not run software.

What are programs commonly referred to as?

As a noun, a program, also called an application or software, is a set of instructions that process input, manipulate data, and output a result.

Where does a computer store a program and the data that the program is working with while the program is running?

Main memory or RAM is used to store the program while it is executing and to store the data that the program is working with.

Is a program that both translates and executes the instructions in a program?

An interpreter is a program that both translates and executes the instructions in a high- level language program.