[goodcanadian]

I've never been homeless, but I do have a degree in physics/astronomy, and I've recently (less than two years ago) made the move to "software engineer." The reality is that although I had a great deal of experience programming as well as highly relevant problem solving skills, it was very difficult to get interviews for software engineer positions. As soon as I had one position, however, and could put the title on my CV, suddenly, senior level positions opened up for me (afterall, I did have the experience, just not formally as a "software engineer.").

I think the key is to use your cover letter to highlight the programming you have done and the problems you have solved as well as highlighting any other relevant skills. With a degree in science, you will have skills and a way of looking at problems that is different to a typical software developer.

It is probably also useful to be targeted in your search. I started by applying to software positions in research contexts, the sort of places I had previously worked in other roles. In other words, doing software in a physics context (with knowledge that a typical CS grad may not have). Or, if you can find a small company doing something that is very interesting to you, you may be able to talk your way into an interview. That sort of place needs talent, but doesn't have the cachet (and perhaps, the budget) to draw more traditional candidates, so, depending on who is doing the hiring, they may be more willing to take the risk on a non-traditional candidate.