How to become a test lead
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
Courses that include work placements, internships or a year in industry may give you an advantage when you look for work after completing your studies.
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
More Information
Apprenticeship
You could start by doing a software tester higher apprenticeship or degree apprenticeship in digital technology solutions.
With experience and further training, you could go on to become a test lead.
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
More Information
Work
You could join a company as a software tester, for example through a graduate training scheme. Once you have built up enough experience, you could apply for jobs as a test lead.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs if you have 3 to 5 years’ experience in software testing and quality assurance. Experience in software development, systems engineering and project management could be helpful.
You’ll also find it useful to have professional certification from an industry organisation like The Chartered Institute for IT.
More Information
Career tips
You'll find it useful to understand Agile IT project development methods.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and Tech Future Careers.