AR/VR programmer

There are a number of ways to get qualified for this job through college, university or work-based qualifications, such as apprenticeships.

AR/VR Programmers will often have HNDs and degrees in subjects such as: 

• Computer programming/animation

• Games development

• Computer science

• 3D animation/design

As you'd be involved in the development of AR and VR software, experience or a qualification in the use of 3D modelling would also be useful.

It's helpful to have a portfolio detailing your skills and experience through any work, games or projects you have done in order to show off your skills and creativity – include your best work and keep it up to date.

Employers might consider applicants without formal qualifications if they can demonstrate knowledge and experience of the industry, such as a strong interest in technology, knowledge of virtual gameplay, platforms and programming languages and an awareness of 3D computer graphics and modelling/animation software.

As technology is ever changing, it's necessary to keep up with these advances throughout your career.

Apprenticeships

You can gain skills and qualifications in the workplace through options such as:

Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are chosen as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 but include hands-on learning at a local employer or college. They are the same level as a Higher.

You might want to consider an FA in areas such as:

• Creative and digital media

• Software development

Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.

You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:

• Creative and digital media

• Digital applications

Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.

You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:

• IT: Software development

Not all employers list specific qualification requirements but they might ask for relevant experience, usually work based, that show a range of transferable skills.

Gaining relevant work experience would be beneficial as it would help you gain experience and network - ensure quality work that you do is included in your portfolio/showreel and this can then be sent to employers.

Many AR/VR programmers are employed by companies, but some are self employed/freelance, working project to project at different companies. As this is a developing area, it's important to be aware of market demand and legalities around AR/VR use – PwC have a really useful guide to the market, business models and legalities.

You would need to demonstrate an up to date knowledge of software and programming developments and as this is a quickly evolving and expanding area of work, on-going training will be needed to stay current.