NOC 21230 is the Canadian National Occupational Classification code for Computer systems developers and programmers. It is classified TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree, which meets the skill requirement for Express Entry. An officer decides whether you can claim this code by comparing the duties written in your reference letter against the official main duties below — not by your job title.
Classification
Natural & applied sciences
2 › 21 › 212 › 2123
Definition
Computer systems developers and programmers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software and communications software. They are employed in computer software development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the public and private sectors.
Main duties
Example job titles
Overview
Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, NOC 21230 identifies Computer Systems Developers and Programmers. This TEER 1 occupation includes skilled professionals who write, modify, integrate, and test computer code for software applications, data processing systems, operating-level software, and communications networks. These professionals are key drivers in Canada's tech sector, widely employed by software development firms, IT consulting businesses, and internal technology departments across both private and public sectors.
To qualify under NOC 21230, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline with a significant programming component, or the completion of a college program in computer science. Because this is classified as a TEER 1 occupation, eligible candidates can leverage their experience to apply for Canadian permanent residency through key Express Entry streams—including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class—as well as various tech-focused Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Commonly confused codes
Yes — Computer systems developers and programmers is TEER 1, and TEER 0–3 occupations meet the skill-level requirement for Express Entry programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Full eligibility also depends on your work experience, language results and other program criteria.
Computer systems developers and programmers is classified as TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree. Always confirm the exact employment requirements on the official NOC profile before relying on them.
Applicants most often mix up 21230 with 21232 (Software developers and programmers). If your real day-to-day duties fit one of those codes better, that mismatch is exactly what an officer flags — double-check before you submit.
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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.