Software Development vs. Web Development: Which Concentration Should I Pick? | ECPI University

Software Development vs. Web Development: Which Concentration Should I Pick?

If you love working with computers, a logical choice for your future is working with technology. Yet there are two different paths that seem perfect for you! Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Software Development or Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Science with a concentration in Web Development, which one would be best? Here’s some information to help you make an informed decision. 

Software vs. Website Development

A software developer is the professional who programs and designs computer system software, development programs such as embedded systems, database systems, and operating systems. These are the trained professionals who create programs that allow the rest of us to use the computer.

A website developer uses creativity and training to create websites, using different programming languages and codes. They often apply project principles to website development: concept, creation, development, and go-live.

One of the biggest differences between these two fields is that while software developers need to understand the dynamics and technical abilities of the end-users who will be executing the program on-the-job, website developers need to understand the business principles of their clients’ companies.

Some of the personal characteristics and qualities of software developers and website developers are similar: The professionals in both of these roles are creative, confident in their knowledge, and methodical. They are eager to face challenges but patient; they can wait for a program to work and if it doesn’t, they work the program.

Does this sound like you?

Software or web development could be the perfect choice for you; you’ll get paid to do something you naturally enjoy! Both of these competitive professions usually require a bachelor’s degree for an entry-level position.

Types of Work 

A. Software Development

A Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems with a concentration in Software Development could lead to entry-level positions with companies whose business is:

  • Defense
  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Social media

Job titles may include:

  • Cloud Application Developer – Designs, maintains desktop and web applications; the “cloud” is the delivery model for hosted internet services.
  • Mobile Application Developer – Chooses mobile platform (Android or iOS, for example), and develops programming and software.
  • Software Developer – Designs applications for end-users and/or develops systems that run mobile devices and power networks.
  • Video Game Developer – May be involved in the concept, story plots, and creation of games as well as developing the coding/programming.

B. Web Developer

After you’ve earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems with a concentration in Web Development, you could find entry-level positions in:

  • Computer graphics and animation
  • Digital media
  • Graphic design
  • Web development
  • Web design

Job descriptions and titles may include:

  • App Developer (Mobile)/Front-End Designer or Developer – Application Developers create apps for mobile devices from websites. Front-End Developers build interactive sites and manage user data.
  • Content Manager or Strategist – Creates, edits, manages website content using writing/editing, email marketing, AB and/or traction testing, WordPress.
  • Digital Marketing Manager – Uses a wider range of SEO skills to develop/manage digital marketing (content, email, social media...).
  • SEO (search engine optimization) Consultant – Increases inbound links/“hits” by optimizing copy content using Google Analytics, A/B testing, and data analysis.
  • Social Media Manager – Analyzes, tests, develops strategies for specific audiences; expert knowledge of social media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube...).

ECPI University Offers Degrees in Both Software Development and Web Development

ECPI University offers educational degree choices that could lead to an exciting, challenging future. With ECPI University’s year-round schedule of classes, you could complete your education in as little as 2.5 years! To learn more about earning your bachelor’s degree in software or web development, call 844.334.4466 or contact a Career Development Specialist today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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