How to become an App Designer
App designers create programs for smartphones, tablets and computers. They work in a range of industries and across a number of platforms, including Apple iOS and macOS, Google Android, and Windows. An app designer may create games, weather apps, social networking tools, maps and navigation programs, and much more.
Personal requirements for an App Designer
- Interest in coding
- A passion for computers
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Patience
- Ability to work to deadlines
- Ingenuity and creativity
Education & Training for an App Designer
To become an app designer, you generally have to study computer systems at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry and physics are normally required. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.
Additional information
Membership of the Australian Computer Society is available to those who hold, or are working towards, suitable qualifications. There is a range of membership types available, allowing progression through the various levels as a member's career develops. Visit their website for more details.
Duties & Tasks of an App Designer
App designers:
- Work with clients to devise app specifications
- Code apps using specialist software
- Test apps to ensure they work as intended
- Write documentation to accompany apps
- Update, repair and modify existing apps as required.
Working conditions for an App Designer
Requires spending many hours sitting while using a computer, either in a commercial office or a home office. Makes extensive use of email and other forms of electronic communication.
Employment Opportunities for an App Designer
App designers work in a range of sectors and industries. They may make programs for a single company as an in-house developer, or on a range of programs for an agency. Application developers are highly sought-after and often work on a contractual basis. Some app designers are self-taught and have learnt via instructional books and online videos. As there are no industry standard certifications for mobile app development, this path relies on building a strong portfolio of work. Many people use the creation of an app to launch an entire business, such as Snapchat and Instagram, while other people work on a project-by-project basis.
Specializations
App Designer
App designers create programs for smartphones, tablets and computers. They work in a range of industries and across a number of platforms, including Apple iOS and macOS, Google Android, and Windows. An app designer may create games, weather apps, social networking tools, maps and navigation programs, and much more.
