How long it will take you to become a software developer can depend on your existing skills and education as well as your specific career goals. For example, if you want to perform the same duties as a software engineer, you may need a four-year degree, while focusing on front-end design and “big picture” implementation of software may only require that you sign up for shorter training classes or boot camps. Students new to the industry should look for classes that teach the fundamentals of the platforms and languages with which they want to develop software.