COMP 2903A10 – Software Engineers and

Computer ProgrammersDanny Silver

JSOCS, Acadia University

Quiz

• What is the difference between a software engineer and a computer programmer?

US Dept of LabourOccupational Outlook Handbook, 2010/11

• Computer Software Engineers and Computer Programmers - 2010/11 edition

• http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos303.htm

Overview

• Software engineer jobs projected to grow 32% over next decade

• Computer programming jobs projected to decline by 3% through 2018

• Jobs prospects best for university grads

• SMILE .. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meojjJXcdNI&feature=related

Software Engineers

• Apply the principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to the design, development, evaluation of various software and systems

• Tasks evolve quickly, reflecting new areas of specialization - changes in tech and practices of employers

• Emphasis on analysis and design, theory of computing systems, structure of software, nature and limitations of hardware and OS

• Must have strong problem-solving and analytical skills versus strictly program coding

Software Engineers

• Two categories:– Computer Applications SE:• Analysis and design specialists• Construct, deploy and maintain systems

– Computer System SE:• Construction, maintenance and expansion of an

organization’s computing needs• Set up intranets and associated computers• Concerned about security and data integrity• May be contracted to do the above for other orgs

Software Engineers

• Undergraduate degree commonly required• Masters degree preferred in some positions• Employers favour experience as well as

degrees• Human communications and business skills

valued -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Df57F1CKK6k&feature=related

• Certification is becoming more important– CIPS ISP - http://www.cips.ca/isp

Programmers

• Write, test, and maintain computer programs• Usually according to the specifications given by

software engineers/analysts• Update, repair, modify, and expand existing

programs• Advances in programming tools and languages have

redefined the role of a programmer– Advanced IDEs allow them to perform SE functions

Programmers

• University degree, but a two-year degree or certificate may be adequate for some jobs

• Certification is becoming more important– .NET certification– CISCO certification

Work Environment

• Offices, often on the road• Telecommuting is common• 40-50 hours / week in 2008• Major work related complaints are:– Eyestrain, back problems, hand/wrist complaints

(carpal tunnel syndrome)

Software Engineers

• 394,800 SE in US in 2008• Projected to increase by 32% 2008-18 in US• Much faster than average for all occupations• Will generate about 295,000 new jobs in US• Internet, web, mobile, security main drivers• 2008 median annual earnings– Computer Applications SE - $85,000– Computer Systems SE - $92,000

Programmers

• 426,700 programmers in US in 200• Projected to decrease by 3% 2008-18 in US• Why? .. See next slide• Variety of programming language skills and

business knowledge will be important for survival

• 2008 median annual earnings - $69,600

Programmers

• Why the reduction in programming jobs?– Consolidation/centralization of systems and apps– Advances in packaged software– Advances in programming languages and tools– Ability of users to design, write, and implement

more of their own programs– Offshore outsourcing of programming jobs– Requires little localized or specialized knowledge –

it can be done from anywhere

Think, Pair, Share

• What do you feel will be most important ICT knowledge skills for your future?

• List three and describe why?

Key Skills• Core CS skills (fundamental programming concepts – syntax/semantics,

logic, math)• Learning how to learn new computer languages quickly• Computer architecture and hardware • Databases• Human communications – communicating complex concepts/designs to

less technical people• Project management, team work skills, • Personal entrepreneurism, self motivation• Mobile computing and data comm• Human computer interaction • AI

What does this say about CS Education?

• An appropriate ending http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsM9GaKXdP0