High School

Take as many computer science classes as possible, including those in computer programming, software development, computer-aided design, and, if available, game design and computer security. You should also take math courses (algebra, trigonometry, calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics). Art and design classes will help you to prepare for the creative aspects of this career. Other useful courses include speech, writing, social studies, and psychology.

Postsecondary Training

You’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software development, software or hardware engineering, multimedia art and design, or a related field to work as an augmented reality developer. A master’s degree in one of the previously mentioned fields, in business management, or in science or engineering management is often required for management positions.

A few colleges and universities offer degree programs in AR, VR, and MR. For example, the Savannah College of Art and Design offers a bachelor’s degree in immersive reality. Some of the classes in this program include:

• Immersive Revolution: Augmented to Virtual Reality
• Core Principles: Game Art
• Core Principles: Programming
• Core Principles: Game Tech
• Motion Media Design Techniques
• Immersive Sound Design
• Game Engine Applications for Immersive Computing
• Advanced Programming for Visual Effects
• Augmented Reality Lab

As part of their training, most students complete an internship at an AR design firm or other employer of AR developers. Internships last from a few weeks to a year or more.   

Certification

A growing number of colleges and universities—as well as online learning platforms such as Coursera—offer certificates in augmented, virtual, and mixed reality. For example, Columbia College Chicago offers a certificate in augmented and virtual reality to those who complete the following courses: Producing Augmented and Virtual Reality Experience, Developing Augmented and Virtual Reality Apps, and Sound Design and Music for Immersive Media. The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City offers an AR/VR Content Design Certificate Program. Contact schools in your area to learn what types of certificates are available.

Other Education or Training

The International Game Developers Association, Association for Computing Machinery, VR/AR Association, and other organizations provide webinars, in-person classes, and other continuing education opportunities that help them keep their skills up to date and improve their chances of promotion or landing a better-paying job.     

Certification or Licensing

No certification or licensing is available for AR developers.

Augmented reality developers typically enter the field after obtaining experience in lower-level positions such as game or application tester, although others enter the field directly after earning a college degree.  

Augmented reality developers need a variety of technical skills and knowledge, including:

• Familiarity with head-mounted display devices (smart glasses, helmets, etc.), handheld devices, and other technology that people use to view AR content
• Knowledge of mobile development and deployment (Android, IOS, Web)
• Knowledge of  programming languages such as C, C++, Swift, Python, Java, and JavaScript
• Skill at using game engines such Unreal Engine and Unity
• Familiarity with programming tools such as Git
• The ability to use animation and design tools such as 3DS Max, Blender, and Maya

Other important traits for AR developers include the ability to work well both independently and as a member of a team, strong communication skills, creativity in finding solutions to abstract design problems, excellent time management and organizational skills, patience and determination, and a willingness to continue to learn throughout their careers.