Become an iOS Developer

An iOS developer is someone who creates cool (and maybe even addictive) apps for the Apple App Store. Developers can work on their own or for companies. No matter which way you prefer to work, there's a job out there just for you in this fast-growing field! To become an iOS developer, start learning how to code as soon as you decide this is the career for you. You should also get an education in computer science. Then, keep building up your developer skill set to make the awesome app that lands you your first gig!

Steps

Getting an Education in Computers and Coding

1. Start learning to code as early as you can. There are lots of ways to learn coding outside of school or programs that you pay for. The earlier you begin to learn how to code, the better! Go online to look for websites and apps that provide games meant to teach the basics of coding. If you're still a student, you can also join an after-school coding program like Girls Who Code.
   • Check in at your local middle or high school to see if there are clubs offered there, as well.
2. Take computer and design classes in high school. If you know you want to be a developer, it's a good idea to start getting familiar with computers as early as possible. Take any classes on computer science your school offers as electives. You should also enroll in some design or art classes, which will help you with the creative side of app development.
3. Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science. While most developer jobs don't strictly require a bachelor of science (BS) in computer science, having this degree can only help you. No matter which degree you pursue, be sure to take at least a few courses in programming and computer operating systems. If you begin to develop this knowledge in school, you'll have access to teachers who can help you with any problems you encounter as you learn.
   • You'll find that job listings for iOS developers may require either a BS in computer science or at least 3-5 years of work experience that demonstrates you've developed the same skills you would have in school.
   • You should also try to take courses in art and design and communications. Art classes will help you develop your creativity, and courses in communications will be good for your writing and interpersonal skills.
4. Get your MS in computer science for better prospects. Going for your Master's in computer science will allow you to continue developing the skills you learned as an undergraduate. It'll also give the chance to have more in-depth, personalized study on a topic of your choice. Just like a BS, an MS isn't going to be required for most iOS developer jobs. However, having one can set you apart from the competition.
   • When you're deciding which program(s) to apply to, talk to your undergraduate advisor and favorite computer science professors. They may even be able to get you in touch with the director of a graduate program so you can have a better chance of being accepted.
   • It's a good idea to apply to a program that emphasizes the particular area of computer science you want to specialize in for your Master's.

Learning the Necessary Developer Skills

1. Get familiar with Swift programming language. Swift is a language developed by Apple specifically for building apps on their platforms. While you may also learn Objective-C (and most jobs will accept either), Swift is the better choice if you're dedicated to iOS. You can find free tutorials for learning both the basics and more advanced features of this language online.
   • Some tutorials are free trials. Others will require payment up front, and they'll likely last for several weeks. Generally, options you pay for will be the most interactive and in-depth, but you'll need to decide what works for your budget.
2. Practice Programming until you've got it down. If you've got a BS and/or MS in computer science, you've likely spent years developing your programming skills. If not, it's time to put in that work. Programming is a complex subject, and you'll need to be a great programmer to be an effective iOS developer. Go online to find tutorials in basic and advanced programming.
   • You should be able to understand the basic syntax and constructs of Swift and/or Objective-C. It's also important to have grounding in object oriented programming (OOP), which will generally require you to use JavaScript. Finally, you'll need to understand how to use algorithms to make your apps and software run effectively.
3. Become familiar with the iOS system and its requirements. The iOS platform has its own unique technologies and features, all of which require specialized skills to use. The exact topics you'll need to spend the most time mastering will depend on what kind of app(s) you want to develop. For a basic foundation, you should have some familiarity with the following:
   • Xcode and Interface builder, which are tools for making iOS apps.
   • The Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern, which determines how data is stored and displayed in Apple apps.
   • View hierarchy and Auto Layout, which allows you to build user-friendly interfaces.
   • Containers, storyboards, and transitions, which are also crucial for interfacing.
   • Git, which is the version control system most commonly used with iOS.
4. Search job listings to keep up-to-date on what you need to know. Most companies will provide potential employees with a list of skills they'd need to have to get hired. While you're still developing your abilities, browse job listings for positions you'd be interested in online. If you see a new skill you haven't encountered yet, write it down. Later, you can use online tutorials to learn it.
   • You can also get in touch with the career centers at your undergraduate and graduate institutions to see what skills they recommend you have.
   • Reach out to connections you have in the field of software development. They, too, can give you advice about key skills you should learn.

Getting Hired as an iOS Developer

1. Build an iOS app to get your name out there. Go to the App Store and look at trending apps, editors' picks, and the lists of top paid and free apps. Read the Ratings & Reviews section to see what users like and don't like about these popular apps. From there, think about how you can fill a void in the App Store with your own app.
   • Be sure to create an app that can be used on both iPhones and iPads.
   • For example, many popular apps allow users to have fun with emojis on their phones or devices. You might create an app that gives people innovative options for creating and sharing their own emojis.
2. Research open positions for junior developers online. Use Indeed or LinkedIn to search for available positions in your area. Make note of the skills companies are looking for and see if you match any listings. Be aware that some jobs may be temporary (4-6 weeks, for example) with the possibility of a full-time position once you've completed a project for the company.
   • Some jobs may also be “remote,” which means you can work from a home office rather than at a company location.
3. Make a stellar resume and cover letter. Be sure to tailor each resume and cover letter to the particular job you're applying for by reading the job listing closely. If you notice that the listing repeats a word several times, it's likely a core part of the company's “mission.” Look for ways to integrate that word into your documents.
   • You should also go online and do research about the company as you're writing your resume and cover letter.
4. Take the time to prepare for your interviews. When you're called in for an interview, wear clean and pressed clothes. Be prepared for both technical questions about your abilities as an iOS developer and standard questions such as the following:
   • “Can you describe an interesting problem you encountered in the past and how you solved it?”
   • “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
   • “Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your work experience, and your educational background?”
5. Work freelance if you don't mind a little uncertainty. Working freelance can give you more flexibility and may allow you to get paid more for your particular skill set. However, freelancing doesn't provide stable and steady work, and it may be more difficult for you to get access to benefits like health insurance. Decide what's best for your lifestyle and budget.
   • You can always work as freelancer while you look for a full-time gig! Just be sure to dedicate enough time to both the job search and making a livable income.

Tips

• You can develop apps on Apple platforms for free. However, if you'd like to use Apple's more advanced features (like beta-testing and technical support), you'll need to pay an annual enrollment fee of $99 USD.

References

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• Become a Self Taught iOS Developer