21232

Software developers and programmers

TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Natural & applied sciences

2 › 21 › 212 › 2123

Definition

Software developers and programmers design, write, and test code for new systems and software to ensure efficiency. They create the foundations for operative systems and run diagnostic programs to certify effectiveness. They are employed in computer software, computer and video game development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the public and private sectors.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Design, write, read, test, and correct code for new software
Analyze information to recommend and plan the installation of new systems or modifications of an existing system
Evaluate simple interrelationships between programs such as whether a contemplated change in one part of a program would cause unwanted results in a related part
Program animation software to predefined specifications for interactive video games, Internet and mobile applications
Write, modify, integrate and test software code for e-commerce, Internet and mobile applications
Develop, implement, modify and maintain gameplay features that integrate effectively into existing software
Write documentation for new and updated software.

Example job titles

•application programmer
•computer game developer
•electronic business (e-business) software developer
•interactive media developer
•multimedia developer
•software developer
•software programmer

Overview

Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, NOC 21232 classifies "Software developers and programmers." This TEER 1 occupation includes professionals who write, modify, integrate, and test computer code for software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software, and communications software. Key duties under this classification include identifying technical requirements, preparing logical and physical specifications, and designing, writing, and testing code.

Candidates seeking Canadian permanent residency under NOC 21232 can leverage several economic immigration pathways. As a TEER 1 occupation, it is eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. Furthermore, because of its alignment with technology sectors, candidates under this code frequently qualify for targeted Category-Based Selection draws focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) professions, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) like the BC PNP Tech or Ontario Tech Draws.

To qualify for immigration under this code, applicants must meet the educational and experience requirements outlined by the ESDC, which typically includes a bachelor's degree in computer science or another discipline with a significant programming component, or completion of a college program in computer science. Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. Please consult a regulated Canadian immigration professional or IRCC for official guidance.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

Commonly confused codes

21230Computer systems developers and programmers

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.