AR/VR programmer
Create digital experiences that make it possible for users to explore virtual worlds. Can you create the next big immersive game, like Pokémon GO?
Also known as: VR engineer, VR developer, mixed reality (MR) programmer, extended reality (XR) programmer, AR and VR developer
About the job
What it's like
Augmented reality (AR) software adds digital elements to real-world views. An example of AR in action is Pokémon GO. On a device, users search for animated characters around their real-life neighbourhood.
Virtual reality (VR) is a fully-immersive experience. VR software helps isolate players from the real world, usually via a headset and headphones.
VR and AR are proving exciting for entertainment and leisure markets, but the opportunities don’t stop there. You might also programme immersive training experiences that are used to prepare astronauts before they leave for space. Or you might create the code that introduces arachnophobes to tarantulas as part of a virtual reality therapy programme. For AR and VR programmers, virtually anything is possible.
This tech is still new and is developing all the time. You’ll need to diligently problem-solve, constantly testing and refining your code to make the experiences you’re creating as immersive as possible.
What you’ll do
Take briefs from clients and colleagues
Work with AR and VR designers to balance their creative vision with what you can achieve in code
Write neat, efficient code in a specialist game engine like Unity or Unreal Engine
Test your creations using Oculus or other AR devices
Troubleshoot bugs in your code
Use post-processing tools to improve your final visuals
Design in-house tools in programmes like Unreal to help your team work faster
Attend industry conferences and showcases to keep up with the latest developments in the tech
Pitch ideas to your team and potential clients
Explore more information about this job
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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.
- developing a plan
- researching
- problem solving
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- 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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Art and Design
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Computing Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Skills for Work: Creative Digital Media
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Creative and Digital Media
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Software Development
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Applications of Mathematics
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 number of ways to get qualified for this job through college, university or work-based qualifications, such as apprenticeships.
AR/VR Programmers will often have HNDs and degrees in subjects such as:
Computer programming/animation
Games development
Computer science
3D animation/design
As you'd be involved in the development of AR and VR software, experience or a qualification in the use of 3D modelling would also be useful.
It's helpful to have a portfolio detailing your skills and experience through any work, games or projects you have done in order to show off your skills and creativity – include your best work and keep it up to date.
Employers might consider applicants without formal qualifications if they can demonstrate knowledge and experience of the industry, such as a strong interest in technology, knowledge of virtual gameplay, platforms and programming languages and an awareness of 3D computer graphics and modelling/animation software.
As technology is ever changing, it's necessary to keep up with these advances throughout your career.
Apprenticeships
You can gain skills and qualifications in the workplace through options such as:
Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are chosen as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 but include hands-on learning at a local employer or college. They are the same level as a Higher.
You might want to consider an FA in areas such as:
Creative and digital media
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 areas such as:
Creative and digital media
Digital applications
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
IT: Software development
Not all employers list specific qualification requirements but they might ask for relevant experience, usually work based, that show a range of transferable skills.
Gaining relevant work experience would be beneficial as it would help you gain experience and network - ensure quality work that you do is included in your portfolio/showreel and this can then be sent to employers.
Many AR/VR programmers are employed by companies, but some are self employed/freelance, working project to project at different companies. As this is a developing area, it's important to be aware of market demand and legalities around AR/VR use – PwC have a really useful guide to the market, business models and legalities.
You would need to demonstrate an up to date knowledge of software and programming developments and as this is a quickly evolving and expanding area of work, on-going training will be needed to stay current.
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