> Personally, I think all of my CS background from university is what distinguishes me as a software developer instead of just a "programmer".
I consider myself a software developer because I work on the software from top to bottom. From business requirements, to user interface and usability design, to architecture and algorithms. Someone who is responsible for all aspects of code, but not other areas of the application's development, is a programmer to me.
It's funny how all these labels we throw around in the industry have no generally accepted definition.
I think 'Software Engineer' is thrown around too often.
That title should be reserved for those who pass (a currently nonexistent) certification like other professional engineers, and indicates that they are capable of working on life-critical systems like car software, medical systems, space shuttles, etc.
Unfortunately startups and web/mobile app companies may abuse this and require engineering certification for job openings when it's just unnecessary.
I consider myself a software developer because I work on the software from top to bottom. From business requirements, to user interface and usability design, to architecture and algorithms. Someone who is responsible for all aspects of code, but not other areas of the application's development, is a programmer to me.
It's funny how all these labels we throw around in the industry have no generally accepted definition.