Answer first
Software engineer
Software engineers design, build and maintain applications and services. Typical routes run from GCSE maths and computing through A-level maths or computer science, a computer science degree or degree apprenticeship, then internships and graduate schemes into a junior developer role. Use Prospects for requirements and Navigait for live UK intern and grad posts.
Stages
- 1
GCSE choices
Maths and English at grade 4+. Computer science helps.
- 2
A-level or equivalent
Maths and computer science, or maths with physics or further maths.
- 3
University or degree apprenticeship
Computer science, software engineering or games programming. Degree apprenticeships with tech and finance employers.
- 4
Work experience
Personal projects, GitHub, or a week with a local IT team.
- 5
Internships and insight
Technology internships and spring weeks. Filter the intern board by employer.
- 6
Graduate schemes
Graduate developer schemes in tech, finance, retail and public sector digital teams.
- 7
First role
Junior software engineer, graduate developer or associate engineer.
Entry requirements
Degree, degree apprenticeship or strong portfolio routes depending on employer.
ProspectsCustom Path
Build a personalised checklist for this path with reminders and sync. Pricing is in GBP until confirmed with product. Marked as assumption until confirmed.
No Stripe price configured yet? Join the student waitlist via checkout desk or email through schools.
Questions
Can I join without a CS degree?
Some employers accept STEM degrees plus a strong portfolio. Check each scheme's published requirements.
Where do entry requirements come from?
Prospects publishes the baseline for this role. Always confirm on the live page before you apply.
Does Navigait list every vacancy for this path?
No. We surface live posts from public employer boards. If a scheme is closed, the board stays empty rather than showing invented roles.