Software & data
Software developer
Design, build and improve software that solves problems for people and organizations.
BLS · May 2025
EDUCATION & ENTRY
Often bachelor’s study + practical projects
Computer science is one degree route. Related associate study can build skills, but transfer and hiring requirements vary. Projects, internships and problem-solving evidence matter alongside a credential.
The state’s typical entry education classification is “Bachelor's degree.” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.
CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN
Oregon training options
These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.
Portland State University
Computer Science
Study programming, systems and computing theory.
Ask: Which upper-division eligibility requirements and transfer-credit decisions apply to me?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Portland Community College
Computer Information Systems
Explore programming, databases and information systems.
Ask: Which electives, work samples and entry roles fit the kind of technology work I want?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
George Fox University
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: Which concentration and project sequence best fits the software work I want to demonstrate?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Pacific University
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: What does the three-year option include or omit, and how would it affect internships and my full cost?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
University of Portland
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: Which capstone products and software-development practices would become part of my portfolio?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Willamette University
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: What distinguishes the BA and BS for my goals, and what substantial project would demonstrate my skills?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Lewis & Clark College
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: Would the standalone major, joint major or cybersecurity concentration best support my intended work?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Reed College
Computer Science
Build computing, programming and problem-solving skills for software work and further study.
Ask: Which thesis approach would best demonstrate my computing skills for employment or graduate study?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Mt. Hood Community College
Computer Game Development
Combines programming with 2-D/3-D assets, animation, game engines and interactive-media projects. A portfolio is important when comparing entry opportunities.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Computer Game Development plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Western Oregon University
Computer Science
Study programming, architecture and software development with an applied emphasis. The department offers BS/BAS routes; prior applied credits can affect which plan fits.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Computer Science plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Oregon Tech
Software Engineering Technology
Study the full software lifecycle: designing systems, implementing code and testing requirements. Ask about project sequences and the technology specialties available at your campus.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Software Engineering Technology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Eastern Oregon University
Computer Science
Offered in La Grande and online, the program develops programming, systems design and database skills. Compare transfer-credit placement with the required computing sequence.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Computer Science plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Southern Oregon University
Computer Science
A software-oriented degree covering software engineering, networks and data structures. Advanced electives build on the core and lead to the capstone sequence.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Computer Science plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Take this question to a counselor.
What could I build that would solve a real problem for someone?
Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.
Build a working cost estimate →Understand the numbers.
The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $68.62. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.
Oregon projects employment moving from 21,353 jobs in 2024 to 24,364 in 2034. The projected 14,070 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.
How to read wage information →