RResidents in Japan

Is it realistic to become a software developer by 2028 through self-learning? (Japan, N1 passed)

  • January 8, 2026

Hi everyone,

I live in Kobe, Japan, and I'm currently a student at a private university. My original dream was to work at a FAANG-level or similar top tech company, but after starting university I realized my major may not be very practical for that goal.

During COVID (Class 12), I taught myself graphic design and have been freelancing for several years. Because of that, I'm confident in self-learning. Recently, though, I've started to feel that graphic design is being heavily impacted by Al, so I'm seriously considering switching to software development.

Some context:

●Strong self-learning background (freelancing)

●Finishing 2nd year now, graduation in 2028

●Want to enter an IT/software job before or around graduation

●JLPT N1 passed

My questions:

  1. Is it realistic to become job-ready as a developer within ~2-2.5 years?

  2. What learning path would you recommend for someone like me?

  3. Which skills/tech stacks matter most for high-paying developer roles?

  4. Which developer roles are currently in high demand?

  5. Step-by-step: what should I learn first, then next, then after that to become a developer?

I'd really appreciate advice from experienced developers, especially those working at larger companies or in Japan.

Thanks in advance!

by Many-Blueberry8169