How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could do a degree or postgraduate course in:
- computer science
- business information technology
- software development
- software engineering
- maths
You may have an advantage when you look for work if your degree includes a work placement, internship or a year in industry.
Your university careers service can help you find opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Software Tester Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, or a Digital and Technology Solutions Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, with a commercial company.
These take between 2 and 4 years to complete and combine on-the-job training with academic study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could join an organisation's quality assurance team as an assistant software tester, for example on a graduate training scheme.
As your experience grows, you could become a test lead through on-the-job training and promotion.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs if you have 3 to 5 years' experience in software testing and quality assurance.
You may also find it helpful to have:
- experience in software development or user research and design
- IT project management skills
- certification through a professional body like The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS)
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Career tips
You'll find it useful to have an understanding of project management methods, such as agile delivery.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in computing from: