App developer
Create apps for computers, smartphones, tablets, or games. Design and develop innovative software for people all over the world to interact with.
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 into 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 satisfying 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 projectsÂ
checking the success of your app and make changes if needed
using programming language and code to create the elements of your appÂ
writing and updating documents or briefs to record how the software operatesÂ
keeping up to date with best practice and app trends – you'll update your apps when necessary
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'App developer'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
-
Games developer -
Software developer -
Machine learning engineer -
Software engineer -
Game designer -
AR/VR programmer -
DevSecOps developer -
Blockchain developer -
DevOps engineer -
Audio programmer -
Lead game engineer -
Project analyst -
Robot programmer -
Artificial intelligence engineer
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
-
Financial and professional services -
Construction and built environment -
Digital technologies -
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:
-
Computing Science
-
Graphic Communication
-
Skills for Work: Creative Digital Media
-
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 many ways to get qualified for this job. It might be through college, university or through work-based qualifications, such as apprenticeships.
App developers are familiar with basic programming language like Java script and PHP. You'll need strong technical knowledge, this could from experience in a computing environment. This role could also involve the development of augmented and virtual reality software. Experience or a qualification in the use of 3D modelling would be useful.
Some employers ask for a degree but many focus more on technical skills and experience. You can build skills and experience through an apprenticeships or by studying subjects such as:
information technology/systems
computing science
mobile development
software engineering
computer science/software development
graphic communication
applied computing
Skills for Work: creative digital media
Foundation Apprenticeship: software development
Employers will consider graduates from other subjects if you can show the knowledge needed. There are postgraduate IT conversion courses to help strengthen technical skills.
Not all employers list specific qualifications they need. They will ask for relevant experience, usually work based, that show a range of transferable skills.
You'd need to show an up-to-date knowledge on a range of software and programming development. This could include a portfolio showing previous mobile app development work.
Once in a job, you'd need to continue to expand and strengthen this knowledge.
Free online courses for improving app development skills are at Digital Skills Scotland.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'App developer'
