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Key differences between software developers, software engineers and programmers

This article was updated on January 24, 2024.

Michael Feder

Written by Michael Feder

Kathryn Uhles

Reviewed by聽Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP,聽Dean, College of Business and IT

Illustration featuring a top view of laptop next to a cup of coffee

As digital tools evolve and integrate into almost every aspect of modern life, the need for IT professionals continues to grow. The is projected to be 377,500 job openings every year between 2022 and 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).*

BLS also projects the demand for software developers will grow by , while the rate of growth in open positions for computer programmers is expected to decline by due in part to tools that automate coding.

These projections indicate promising growth in the field of IT despite the anticipated decline in computer programming roles. With so much projected growth, it can be tough to decide on a career path in IT. In fact, it may boil down to: software engineer vs. software developer vs. programmer.

While similar, the focus and scope of each role varies. Understanding the responsibilities and skills each job requires may help you decide which is right for you so you can choose your training accordingly. Here, with the help of J.L. Graff, associate dean in 爱污传媒鈥檚 College of Business and IT, we鈥檒l delve into three branches of the IT tree: programming, software development and software engineering, with a particular focus on the first two.

*BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2022-2032 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS鈥 projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to 爱污传媒 students or graduates.

What is a programmer?

write the computer code necessary to build functioning software, applications and systems. Following 鈥渂lueprints鈥 created by software developers, programmers use their technical skills and knowledge of computer languages to build programs or update existing ones. They use computer languages to create the functions and actions of a program. They might work with existing frameworks or tools that automate code rather than write code from scratch.

Other :

  • Testing 鈥 Once initial coding is complete, programmers usually have to test it. If something doesn鈥檛 work correctly, they find the source of the problem in the code and fix it.
  • Updating 鈥 Programmers can also create new versions of previously developed software or applications. They can add new features or functions, add security, or improve efficiency, speed or memory usage by adding to, simplifying or changing existing code.
  • Adapting programs for platforms 鈥 Some programmers re-code existing programs so that they work on different operating systems or platforms. For example, they might alter an iOS mobile application to work on Android devices.
  • Creating script and code libraries 鈥 Programmers create sections of code that perform specific functions. The development team can then plug these into existing or new software to streamline the process of building new products.
  • Documenting 鈥 Programmers keep detailed records of coding and design to help with software modifications or maintenance in the future.
  • Maintaining version control 鈥 Programmers often track changes and updates in code to manage different versions of software.

Programmers work closely with software engineers and developers. Depending on the type of work arrangement and development philosophy, they might also take on additional responsibilities, such as project management or some design tasks.

Graff discusses additional opportunities programmers may have: 鈥淧rogrammers have an opportunity to pursue one or more programming certifications that can help them to pursue entry-level jobs or seek new opportunities within their current industries. Programmers can also pursue careers as support specialists, software engineers and network architects, just to name a few.鈥

Any industry in which software is created or modified needs programmers. While the majority of programmers work in technology (*), other areas that employ a significant number include manufacturing, finance and insurance, and software publishing. Many programmers are self-employed and work on a freelance or contract basis.聽

What is a software engineer?

Software engineers typically focus on the computer engineering aspects of software development. They apply engineering principles to software development and complex system design.

The tasks of software engineers can vary depending on the organization and the type of project but generally include:

  • Concept and design聽鈥 Software engineers work closely with project stakeholders to understand software requirements and goals. They then create designs based on user and system needs, technical requirements and other factors. They might work with software developers and programmers to assess the feasibility of their designs.
  • Planning聽鈥 They often consider software life cycles, timing of updates and development methods with the overall goal of the software project in mind.
  • Updates and maintenance聽鈥 Software engineers might be responsible for maintaining existing software systems, troubleshooting issues, and planning updates, security patches and other day-to-day improvements. They may also work on major software upgrades or expanded features.
  • Analysis聽鈥 They analyze both user needs for new software projects and the performance of existing programs for updates or improvements.

Depending on the needs of an employer or client, a software engineer can act as a kind of project manager responsible for聽ensuring the final product聽is delivered according to the design and specifications. When comparing the responsibilities of a software engineer vs. those of a programmer, you can see that the former takes a more conceptual approach while the latter homes in on the details.

What is a software developer?

Software developers take the lead role in translating the creative vision of a program into a digital reality. They focus on developing an approach to programming that meets the goals of the project and on managing its execution, combining technical and non-technical skills to do so.

Developers consider required features and functionality, as well as technical specifications and constraints (such as budget and other resources), to make sure a program runs smoothly and as planned. This can involve working on system architecture, user interface design and database management.

can include:

  • Analysis and planning 鈥 Software developers incorporate user experience and design as well as technical requirements to plan the development process.
  • Coding and programming 鈥 They may choose the most appropriate programming language for the software project and oversee the development of the application or system. At smaller companies or when working on their own, software developers may handle some or all coding themselves.
  • Collaboration 鈥 A large part of software development involves working closely with software engineers, programmers, project managers, clients and other stakeholders to ensure the look and function of the software meet expectations.

Software developers can specialize in one or more types of software, such as mobile and web apps, desktop software, databases, operating systems and more. They can work in a range of fields and organizations that develop software for the consumer or business-to-business (B2B) market or businesses that need customized solutions for internal use. Bottom of Form

Graff adds: 鈥淪oftware development enables businesses to display their brands through computers and smartphones, create platforms for customer feedback, communicate directly with customers, and make data-driven decisions. In today's competitive market, software developers are essential.鈥

Software developer vs. programmer

When comparing a computer programmer vs. a software developer, the main difference is that the scope of the developer role is much broader. But there is some overlap.

Software developer:

  • Designs each aspect of an application or system and how they will work together
  • Manages software development
  • Collaborates with project team members and stakeholders
  • Involved across the software development life cycle, including updates and improvements

Programmer:

  • Writes code according to specifications
  • Carries out programming tasks related to the software development process
  • Collaborates mainly with other programmers and development team members
  • Involved mainly in programming, testing and debugging

Both software developers and programmers write, debug and test code. However, developers are more involved across the entire software development life cycle. They focus on what the software should do, what it should look like and how users interact with it. Once they envision a design for the software system or application, they decide on the technical specifications, oversee programming and assess the functionality. They also manage maintenance or updates and the addition of new features, functions and versions.

During the software development process, developers may meet regularly with software engineers, user experience experts and clients to understand functionality requirements, get an estimate for timelines and budget, ask for clarification or communicate challenges and provide progress reports.

In comparison, programmers don鈥檛 play a part in deciding what the software will do. They use diagrams and models provided by the software developer and translate them into code that meets those specifications. Like software developers, programmers may test and debug code to find and fix problems, but they typically don鈥檛 change the design.

Programmers may collaborate with other members of the technical team, such as the developer and other programmers. However, they don鈥檛 usually work closely with clients or non-technical team members.

One way to think of a computer programmer vs. a software developer is this: A programmer is a technician who specializes in code, while a developer is a designer who also codes.

Education differences for software developers and programmers

Education requirements for a computer programmer vs. software developer differ significantly. Both programming and software development require a strong foundation in computer science, which is why entry-level roles for both generally require a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science, information technology or a related field, such as mathematics or science.

Beyond teaching computer science principles, a bachelor鈥檚 degree can also provide software developers and programmers with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Programmers and software developers also need an in-depth understanding of programming languages. However, this is where their educational needs begin to differ.

A programmer鈥檚 educational requirements also include:

  • Mastering several programming languages as well as programming techniques and best practices
  • Specializing in certain programming languages
  • Taking continuing education courses to stay up to date with programming languages
  • Taking classes within a given industry (for example, programmers who work in healthcare may benefit from taking classes to better understand industry practices and processes)

As programming becomes more automated, programmers with more advanced expertise, knowledge of several languages, and skills earned through certificates or other continuing education may have an edge over other candidates in the job marketplace

For software developers, their educational requirements include:

A master鈥檚 degree can provide in-depth knowledge and leadership skills that could potentially help software developers enhance their careers.

Graff shares about what UOPX offers: 鈥淪kills that our students learn: agile software development, security requirements analysis, vulnerability assessment, application security, scrum (software development) and software development life cycle (SDLC).

鈥淥ur students get an introduction to software development, learn software engineering and architecture concepts, and learn how databases and cloud programming are used in software development. There is also a focus on project management concepts within software development.鈥

Responsibilities and skills

Since programmers focus more on coding, their responsibilities and skills more narrowly focus on programming languages and problem-solving. Software developers must have design skills and the ability to handle a range of technical and non-technical responsibilities.

Here鈥檚 a general comparison of the primary skills required of software developers and programmers.

Skill Software developers Programmers
Understanding of basic programming languages, such as Java, Python and C++
Understanding of basic programming languages, such as Java, Python and C++
Understanding of basic programming languages, such as Java, Python and C++
X
Understanding of basic programming languages, such as Java, Python and C++
X
Advanced programming and coding expertise in languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, Ruby, Swift and C#
Advanced programming and coding expertise in languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, Ruby, Swift and C#
Advanced programming and coding expertise in languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, Ruby, Swift and C#
Advanced programming and coding expertise in languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, Ruby, Swift and C#
X
In-depth understanding of software architecture
In-depth understanding of software architecture
In-depth understanding of software architecture
X
In-depth understanding of software architecture
Knowledge of databases and data modeling
Knowledge of databases and data modeling
Knowledge of databases and data modeling
X
Knowledge of databases and data modeling
Familiarity with web design fundamentals and development concepts
Familiarity with web design fundamentals and development concepts
Familiarity with web design fundamentals and development concepts
X
Familiarity with web design fundamentals and development concepts
Knowledge of testing methodologies and tools
Knowledge of testing methodologies and tools
Knowledge of testing methodologies and tools
X
Knowledge of testing methodologies and tools
X
Ability to use development tools and environments
Ability to use development tools and environments
Ability to use development tools and environments
X
Ability to use development tools and environments
Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
X
Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
X
Expertise in software testing and troubleshooting
Expertise in software testing and troubleshooting
Expertise in software testing and troubleshooting
X
Expertise in software testing and troubleshooting
X

Beyond these hard skills, software developers should have a knack for finding creative approaches to designing software applications and systems. They also need interpersonal skills to work with other team members and clients and delegate tasks to programmers. Since software developers deal with complex information, the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing is essential.聽

Necessary computer programmer skills extend to being detail-oriented, since programmers have to write clean and efficient code and troubleshoot problems. They should also be able to adapt to the needs of different types of software projects.

Types of jobs

The term software developer can include a wide variety of positions, including application developer. As of 2023, the annual salary for this role ranged , with a median wage of $132,270, according to BLS.

Other potential jobs for software developers can include:

  • Information technology analyst
  • Technical consultant
  • Computer consultant

While employment of computer programmers is projected to decline in the next 10 years, automation can help them be more efficient and focus on more complex tasks and challenges. Programmers typically need a bachelor鈥檚 degree to enter this field.

As of May 2023, programmers , with a median wage of聽$99,700, according to BLS. In addition to focusing on programming for software development, programmers may work as quality assurance analysts and testers, which have the same education requirements and average salary ranges as software development jobs.

Computer science and IT programs at 爱污传媒

If you are interested in learning skills that can help you become a software developer, pursue a job in information technology or learn more about computer science, 爱污传媒 offers a range of options to suit different learning requirements and career goals. From online certificates to undergraduate degrees and beyond, explore our offerings in the following fields of study.聽

  • Advanced Software Developer Certificate 鈥 Learn to design and implement software solutions in relation to project scope and stakeholder needs. Study multiple programming languages and software architecture principles while earning this certificate. While software developers typically require a bachelor鈥檚 degree, this program teaches relevant skills within the field.
  • Associate of Arts with a concentration in Information Technology 鈥 This program introduces you to information technology concepts and principles in programming, data analytics, cybersecurity and networking. Learn the essential foundation of technical skills for the IT field. While software developers typically require a bachelor鈥檚 degree, this program teaches relevant skills within the field.
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science 鈥 This degree program teaches you how to apply information technology theory and principles to real-world business challenges. Advanced concepts in math, programming and computer architecture are covered.
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity 鈥 This program teaches top skills such as security policies, network security, information systems security and cybersecurity.
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Science 鈥 Gain fundamental skills and knowledge to analyze, manipulate and process data sets using statistical software. Learn ETL (extract, transform, load) processes for integrating data sets for business intelligence and more.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 鈥 This program is designed to teach top skills such as business process, cybersecurity, information systems, operations and systems analysis.
  • Master of Information Systems 鈥 Go beyond building computers and managing your queues with an MIS. Learn technical and leadership skills necessary for developing and managing information systems.
Headshot of Michael Feder

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its Writing Seminars program and winner of the Stephen A. Dixon Literary Prize, Michael Feder brings an eye for detail and a passion for research to every article he writes. His academic and professional background includes experience in marketing, content development, script writing and SEO. Today, he works as a multimedia specialist at 爱污传媒 where he covers a variety of topics ranging from healthcare to IT.

Headshot of Kathryn Uhles

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Currently Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology,聽Kathryn Uhles has served 爱污传媒 in a variety of roles since 2006. Prior to joining 爱污传媒, Kathryn taught fifth grade to underprivileged youth in 爱污传媒.

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