Careers · Technology & IT

How to become a software developer in South Africa

Software developers build the apps, websites, and systems we use every day. You can get in with a degree, a bootcamp, or by teaching yourself.

From R 25 000/mo · median ~R 55 000In demand
Starting payR 25 000/mo
Study time3 years
QualificationDegree, NQF 7
DemandIn demand

Coding bootcamps (some are free)

You do not need a degree to become a developer. A coding bootcamp teaches you to code in a few months to about a year, and some are free. You get a job on your skills and the projects you build. Here are well-known South African bootcamps. Always check the latest fees, and read reviews, before you sign up.

National (free)

WeThinkCode_

Free. A 16-month programme that trains young South Africans as backend developers.

National (free)

Umuzi

Free digital skills training, often with a stipend.

National (free)

GirlCode

Free coding programmes, focused on women and girls.

Online

HyperionDev

Paid online bootcamps in web and software development.

There are more bootcamps (like School of IT, CodeSpace, and ExploreAI). Some are free or give a stipend; others are paid. Check what you get, and read reviews, before you pay.

Questions people ask

Related careers

Not sure yet? These jobs use some of the same school subjects and ways to study.

An engineer working on a projectEngineering & technology

Engineer

Engineers use maths and science to design and build things that solve problems, from roads and power to machines and computers.

From R 35 000/mo · In demand

How to become a engineer
An accountant working with financial documentsBusiness & finance

Accountant

Accountants work with money and numbers for people and businesses. The top level is the Chartered Accountant, CA(SA).

From R 25 000/mo · In demand

How to become a accountant