Software developers and software engineers both work with software, but they differ in that developers build applications and create software features, whereas engineers specialize in system-level design.

Here, you can explore the differences between a software developer vs. software engineer and the potential benefits of pursuing a tech career. Getting to know these options may help you decide whether either career could be a good fit for you.

The main difference between a software developer and a software engineer is that the former focuses on creating new programs, whereas the latter focuses on architecture design. Developers specialize in features, whereas engineers specialize in systems and problem-solving.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

The roles of a software developer vs. software engineer often overlap. Both professionals work on computer programs and applications, and both may write and debug computer code. Indeed, software engineers often collaborate closely with software developers.

Software engineers are "big picture" thinkers who are responsible for conceiving and designing the entire architecture that allows programs and applications to be developed.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

In contrast, software developers are the professionals who then use that architecture to handle the work of building the new programs. Whereas software engineers specialize in applying engineering principles, software developers specialize in applying technical skills.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

According to ComputerScience.org, one helpful metaphor for understanding the relationship and differences between these two careers is to think of software design in terms of a restaurant. If software engineers create the menu for the restaurant, then software developers cook the meals.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Software developers are responsible for creating software programs and applications. They create, test and improve computer applications and programs using various programming languages, as well as software tools such as Visual Studio Code, GitHub, Azure and AWS.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

What is a software developer’s job like? Some of the daily responsibilities of a software developer may include:^{(See disclaimer 3)} 

• Identifying user needs and project specifications
• Researching and building computer programs and applications
• Using programming languages to write code
• Testing software for functionality
• Improving programs by fixing bugs to ensure proper function
• Maintaining computer programs and applications

Software engineers push the boundaries of the profession by designing new computer programs and applications. Using engineering principles, software engineers create logic-based and process-based architecture that allows for computer system and application development. They focus on designing systems and the architecture for those systems using engineering principles.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

These professionals may apply the following engineering principles in their work:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

• Assessing the maintainability and testability of the functions of computer programs
• Ensuring integrity in the designing, verification and quality assurance processes
• Setting clear standards that allow for smooth integration

A software engineer may do any of the following:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

• Identify user preferences and needs, and determine whether new computer systems are needed to meet those needs
• Develop concepts for new computer programs and applications
• Collaborate with other professionals, including software developers, executives and cybersecurity specialists

Within the fields of software development and software engineering, there are opportunities to further specialize. You may decide to choose a specialty in order to narrowly focus your career and work on refining skills in a particular area.

If you decide to become a software developer, you might decide to choose from the following specializations:^{(See disclaimer 3)}

• Application developer: These professionals write the code for both desktop and mobile applications.
• Game software developers: This specialization focuses on the design of computer and video games.
• Systems software developers: These professionals work on operating systems.
• Web developers: These software developers focus on web-based applications and programs.
• Database developers: In this specialization, you’ll work primarily with databases.
• Mobile developers: In this specialization, you’ll work primarily with mobile devices.

Like software developers, software engineers can also choose from numerous areas of specialization. Some of your options can include:^{(See disclaimer 4)}

• Data science: Includes statistics and programming for decision making.
• Embedded systems: Creating computers that are built into hardware.
• Cloud computing: Developing software for cloud environments.
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning: Focusing on AI software that can make predictions, analyze patterns and automate decision-making.
• Networking: Designing systems to communicate with other devices.
• Cybersecurity: Protecting devices/networks from cyber attacks.

There are also career growth opportunities within each area. A front-end or back-end developer, for example, might later become a full-stack developer. Meanwhile, a data or platform engineer might later transition into becoming a systems or infrastructure engineer.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Your future is full of choices. No matter which choice you make for your future career path, you can build a firm academic foundation at Grand Canyon University. GCU’s College of Engineering and Technology offers multiple degree options at the baccalaureate and graduate levels for students who are interested in working with software.

BS and MS in Software Development

The Bachelor of Science in Software Development degree program focuses on crucial competencies for future software developers, including:

• The design and development of applications
• The use of various programming languages and web development languages
• The development of cloud computing platforms and web frameworks
• How to assess security vulnerabilities and build robust programs to withstand cyberattacks

After earning your BS in Software Development, you might decide to further your career qualifications with a Master of Science in Software Development. This master’s program at GCU takes an in-depth look at industry best practices in areas like cybersecurity and mobile development. You’ll also explore competencies such as:

• Software design principles and system architecture
• Secure coding practices, with a look at common vulnerabilities and how to resolve them
• Processes, tools and best practices for maintaining and testing existing software
• Advanced database design and administration

BS and MS in Software Engineering

If you decide that software engineering is the right fit for you, you can apply for enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering degree program. Like the software development degree, this program encourages collaboration through experiential work in a team environment. You’ll work through a curriculum that explores key concepts, including the following:

• Software development lifecycle processes
• Risk management assessments
• Design and architecture
• Software analysis, development and deployment

After earning your BS, you might decide to explore advanced competencies in the field by earning a Master of Science in Software Engineering at GCU. This master’s degree examines software engineering topics such as:

• The theoretical fundamentals of computing, including advanced techniques in formal algorithm analysis
• Advanced software engineering fundamentals, including the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) processes and architecture synthesis
• Best practices in software engineering security, with a look at current industry initiatives like defensive programming
• Embedded systems and the development of the Internet of Things (IoT)

Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering

If you’re interested in taking a look at advanced competencies in software engineering without the commitment required of a full degree program, consider earning GCU’s Graduate Certificate in Software Engineering. This certificate program teaches technical competencies and soft skills for building, evaluating and maintaining software.

Some of the topics covered in this certificate program for software engineers include:

• Probability, distributions, statistical methods and data analysis
• The Software Development Life Cycle processes, along with planning considerations for defining, developing, testing, implementing and maintaining products
• The concepts, principles and scope of software system architecture
• Managing software projects, including budgeting, planning, scheduling estimation and leadership
• Conceptual, logical and physical database design

It isn’t always easy to choose the right career path for you. Take a deeper dive into both career options and compare them to your own interests and strengths. If you’re a detail-oriented person, for example, you might do well as a software developer. If you prefer to think about the bigger picture, then software engineering might be better suited to your strengths.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Consider talking to your high school counselor or your college advisor about your career options. You might also pursue some job shadowing and internship opportunities to get a first-hand look at career paths within the tech field.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities for hands-on experiential learning at Grand Canyon University. The College of Engineering and Technology offers numerous software-related degree programs designed to encourage innovation and industry-focused preparation.