Explore a career in Programming & Software.
These fields draw from techniques and theories rooted in math, science, and technology to develop, design, and implement various sets of instructions that allow systems and computers to talk to one another.
Technology professionals use software, hardware and information technology (IT) as tools to identify solutions in every industry, such as healthcare, government, education, and e-commerce. The job areas below can be found in all types of agencies, from corporate giants to small start-ups, government agencies, and non-profits.
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Sample Job Areas
- Information security: Planning and implementation of security measures to protect computer systems, networks, and data
- Research and development: Design and development of new products, algorithms or approaches to machine learning or statistics.
- Software engineering and development: Design, creation, testing, and maintenance of computer applications software and systems
- Systems engineering: Development, testing, and evaluation of software, circuits, and computers using knowledge of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis
- User experience and user interface design: Application of end-user research, knowledge, and psychology to build or change how a product “feels” (user experience) or how a product is laid out (user interface)
- Web and application development: Creation and maintenance of a website’s look, layout, and features using skills in graphic design and programming
- Quantum Computing: this area of study is focused on developing computer technology based on the principles of quantum theory, which explains the nature and behavior of energy and matter on the atomic and subatomic level.
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Recruiting Timelines
Employers recruit and hire according to specific cycles that vary by employer and opportunity type. By understanding and adapting your job or internship search strategy to the industry’s recruiting timeline, you are putting yourself in the best position to secure a full-time or summer position.
The graphic below details when employers of differing types and sizes hire throughout the year. The darker areas indicate a higher level of recruiting activity, which is when you can expect most applications to open and close.
Key:
- Large companies: 1000+ employees, public or private
- Small companies and start-ups: Fewer than 250 employees, public or private
- Mid-size companies: May hire on either timeline, depending on the employer
- REUs: Research Experiences for Undergraduates, competitive opportunities for summer research, mainly in academia, funded by the National Science Foundation
- Government agencies: Federal, state and local
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Candidate Profile
Check out the career competencies to understand the skills that will make you career ready!
Technical Skills
- Abilities and knowledge acquired through class work, research, internships, and independent projects
- Relevant coding and software skills
- Hands-on skills such as laboratory techniques, equipment, machine shop, etc.
Communication Skills
- Proficiency in written, oral, and electronic communication
- Skills in addressing multiple audiences, including peers, management, and clients
- Ability to communicate technical concepts in an accessible way to non-technical audiences
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
- Skills in identifying, assessing, and analyzing complex problems
- Ability to organize one’s thoughts and present a well-reasoned argument
Teamwork, Leadership and Interpersonal Skills
- Demonstrated experience as an effective member of a team or group leader
- Conflict resolution skills
Academic Achievement
- 3.0 minimum GPA is typical for competitive opportunities
