The tech boom in India isn’t a stranger to anyone.
In the last 10 years, the Indian tech industry has grown from approximately $ 100 billion to $ 283 billion. That’s a 2.83x increase. All thanks to the great minds in the Indian Software development market.
So, are you also looking to become a Software Engineer? Let’s explore how the profile turns out!
What does a Software Engineer Do?
A Software Engineer is the backbone of today’s world. From serious banking apps and government portals to your not-so-free-time games, everything is developed by a software engineer.
To be a successful software engineer, you have to be extremely good at problem-solving and creative thinking. Creating good software is nothing short of art!
How to become a Software Engineer?
There are multiple career paths to becoming a software engineer. But there are numerous questions in your mind regarding software engineering.
“How to become a software engineer without a degree?”
“How to become a software engineer in India?”
“How to become a software engineer after 12th?”
These questions aren’t new. There are certain misconceptions around the whole software engineering market. Let’s go through them one by one.
How to become a Software Engineer?
The most straightforward and conventional approach to becoming a software engineer in India is to secure admission to a B.Tech/BE program in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE).
There are multiple disciplines within CSE, including AI-ML, Design, Cybersecurity, and Data Science, among others.
To get admission through this route, you either have to give engineering entrance exams after 12th Grade or PUC.
How to become a Software Engineer After 10th – The Diploma Path
If you want early hands-on experience in Software Engineering, you can opt for a 3 Year Diploma straight after 10th grade.
By completing the Diploma, you can secure admission directly in the second year of B.Tech/BE. If you are 100% sure about your goals, this is a more practical approach as it provides you with a more focused path early in your education.
Software Engineering in India – The real picture
Though B.Tech/BE sounds the same to hear regardless of the college, that’s not the ground reality. Your institute plays a massive role in the level of exposure you receive in your early career.
Students from premier institutes like IITs, NITs, and BITS receive a significant boost to their career start due to their institution’s reputation.
How to become a software engineer without a degree
Now, after you know the ground reality of the Indian software engineering market, you must be thinking; Is it even possible to become a software engineer without a degree?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible, and many people have successfully become software engineers without a traditional degree in computer science.
We are currently in the era of online education, which has made self-learning significantly easier. You can teach yourself software engineering with the help of books, online courses, YouTube, flexible online degrees, and much more.
In fact, many learners today are choosing the Master's in Software Engineering program offered by Futurense to gain industry-relevant skills without following the traditional 4-year college route.
This kind of program bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world applications, giving you a competitive edge in the tech industry.
Moreover, you don’t even need to go through the traditional way of obtaining a degree by going to college anymore.
How to get your first job as a Software Engineer?
With the current market scenario, being just a basic Software Engineer wouldn’t land you a job. You have to be extremely skilled and should know precisely what you’re doing.
Build a Portfolio
To increase your visibility to recruiters, start building simple yet functional projects and continually expand your portfolio.
You can add all your projects to GitHub for increased visibility and publicity.
Contribute to Open Source Projects
Contributing to open-source projects is one of the most effective ways to gain recognition in the industry. The more you contribute, the larger your network will become.
Highest Paying Software Engineering Jobs
Not all software engineering jobs are the same. Each field/expertise has its own demand and pay. Let us have a look at them.
How Can Upskilling Affect Software Engineering Salary in India?
As you go on adding relevant certifications and new educational qualifications in your profile, you open doors for new opportunities. For example, pursuing an MBA in project management or a similar field can easily get your resume shortlisted for senior developer cum management positions.
Conclusion
Software Engineering isn’t rocket science, though it's nothing less than rocket science either. However, if you’re passionate about Software Engineering, I would recommend you have multiple pathways open for you.
So, whether you have a degree or studied from a premier institute, it actually doesn’t matter. Everything boils down to your skillset once you cross the minimum of a five-year mark in the industry.
The best you can do is never to let the passion die and keep on improving!
FAQs
What is the starting salary for Software Engineers in India?
The starting salary for software engineers in India can range between ₹6 LPA and ₹15 LPA if you're from a non-premier institute. If you’re from a top-tier institution like IIT, NIT, or BITS, the starting salary can range from ₹25 LPA to ₹60 LPA.
How can I become a software engineer without a degree?
Yes, it’s possible to become a software engineer without a traditional degree. You can learn through online resources, courses, certifications, and bootcamps. Additionally, many programs like Futurense’s Master’s in Software Engineering bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements.
How can I get my first job as a Software Engineer?
To land your first job, you need to build a strong portfolio by working on projects and contributing to open-source initiatives. Platforms like GitHub can help you showcase your work and increase visibility among recruiters.
What are the highest paying software engineering jobs in India?
Roles in Cybersecurity and AI/ML Development typically offer the highest salaries, ranging from ₹20 LPA to ₹30 LPA. Data Analysts and Web Developers have slightly lower ranges, from ₹7 LPA to ₹20 LPA, depending on experience and expertise.
How does upskilling affect a Software Engineer's salary?
Upskilling through certifications or higher qualifications, such as an MBA in Project Management, can lead to salary boosts. Recognized certifications can increase your salary by ₹1 to ₹5 LPA, while an MBA could add ₹5 to ₹10 LPA to your income.
What is the role of institutes in shaping a Software Engineer’s career in India?
Institutes play a significant role in shaping a software engineer's early career. Graduating from top-tier institutions like IITs, NITs, or BITS can lead to higher starting salaries and better job opportunities, thanks to their reputation and industry connections. On the other hand, graduates from lesser-known institutes may start with lower salaries but can still succeed with the right skills and experience.
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