AR/VR programmer
Create digital experiences that make it possible for users to explore virtual worlds. Can you create the next big immersive game, like Pokémon GO?
Also known as: VR engineer, VR developer, mixed reality (MR) programmer, extended reality (XR) programmer, AR and VR developer
About the job
What it's like
Augmented reality (AR) software adds digital elements to real-world views. An example of AR in action is Pokémon GO. On a device, users search for animated characters around their real-life neighbourhood.
Virtual reality (VR) is a fully immersive experience. VR software helps isolate players from the real world, usually via a headset and headphones.
VR and AR are exciting for entertainment and leisure markets, but the opportunities don’t stop there. You may also programme immersive training experiences that are used to prepare astronauts before they leave for space. Or you might create the code that introduces arachnophobes to tarantulas as part of a virtual reality therapy programme. For AR and VR programmers, virtually anything is possible.
This new area of tech is developing all the time. You’ll need to diligently problem-solve – constantly testing and refining your code to make the experiences you’re creating as immersive as possible.
Your tasks might include:
working with AR and VR designers to balance their creative vision with what you can achieve in code
writing neat, efficient code in a specialist game engine like Unity or Unreal
testing your creations using Oculus or other AR devices, then troubleshooting bugs in the code
using post-processing tools to improve your final visuals
designing in-house tools in programmes like Unreal to help your team work faster
attending industry conferences and showcases to keep up with the latest developments in the tech
Many AR/VR programmers are employed by companies. Although, some are self-employed or freelance, working project to project at different companies.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
ScreenSkills – discover a range of careers in the gaming industry
The Academy of International Extended Reality – join the fastest growing community of tech innovators
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'AR/VR programmer'
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- developing a plan
- researching
- problem solving
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Art and Design
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Computing Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Skills for Work: Creative Digital Media
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Creative and Digital Media
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Software Development
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Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are a number of ways to become a qualified AR/VR programmer.
Let's explore the routes you can take to get into this career.
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Computer Science or Computing Science
Software Engineering
Games Technology
Computer Games Programming
Computer Graphics
Interactive Media
Robotics
Artificial Intelligence
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Computing
Computer Science
Software Development
Computer Games Development or Computer Games Design
Interactive Media
Apprenticeships
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:
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in IT: Software development.
Work
Employers might consider applicants without formal qualifications if they show they have knowledge and considerable experience of the industry. For example, you'll need a strong interest in technology as well as a knowledge of virtual gameplay, platforms and programming languages. You should also be aware of 3D computer graphics and modelling/animation software.
It's helpful to have a portfolio that details your skills and experience through any work, games or projects you've done. This allows you to display your skills and creativity – include your best work and keep it up to date.
As you'll be involved in the development of AR and VR software, experience or a qualification in the use of 3D modelling would also be useful.
Some employers will ask for relevant experience, usually work-based, that shows a range of transferable skills. Gaining work experience is beneficial as it'll help you network and build skills. Make sure to include your best work in your portfolio or showreel – you can use this to show off your skills to employers.
You'll need to demonstrate an up-to-date knowledge of software and programming developments.
As this is a quickly evolving and expanding area of work, ongoing training will be needed to stay current.
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