Written by Michael Feder
Reviewed by听Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP,听Dean, College of Business and IT
Here is what you need to know about a career in computer programming, including career information, salary data, coding languages and why a computer science degree may be a good first step.听
In the simplest terms, computer programmers are responsible for writing computer programs that allow people to perform specific tasks through a computer. Computer programmers can also write code and programs to make computers more efficient and effective.
Computer programming is an essential part of technology today because it allows everyone from coders to CEOs to have the software they need to be more productive in their jobs. From emailing co-workers to using spreadsheets, computers affect our daily lives in many ways 鈥 and this is where computer programmers enter the picture.
Computer programming is used for practically everything that has to do with technology today. Computer programmers design apps, create websites, write computer programs for businesses and even manage the programming of your favorite TV shows.
Website development is one of the most common applications of computer programming. This includes the coding language behind many popular websites and social media platforms. With the transition to the cloud, infrastructure as code (IAC) has also become an important aspect of computer programming. IAC refers to using code to manage a systems infrastructure. This is required to operate and manage enterprises in most IT environments.
Computer programmers also create websites to manage a business鈥檚 online presence and to provide information, news and entertainment. These are just some of the many ways that computer programmers influence technology.
Computer programs are used in industries around the world. Computer programming affects almost every industry. The medical sector, for example, uses computers to keep track of patient files and other important information, while educators use computer programs to instruct students on how to solve problems and understand certain subjects.
Almost any time a computational function is performed, you can practically guarantee a computer programmer had something to do with it 鈥 and this will continue in the future.
A computer programmer writes codes and programs necessary for computers to execute tasks successfully. Programmers implement code in two ways: either through an application or within a website鈥檚 coding language itself. Computer programming aims to create code that can make software, websites and apps carry out the tasks they are asked to do.
Computer programmers write this code using several coding languages. Some of the most popular ones are C++, Python, HTML5, JavaScript, Ruby and PHP. It鈥檚 also possible for some engineers to use more than one coding language in their work.
These professionals are often required to work in teams with other people who will help them with their projects, including designers and web developers. Communication skills are extremely important for anyone interested in computer programming because teamwork will become more critical as this career grows.
A computer programmer will need to be well versed in the following areas of expertise:
鈼徧 Coding and assembly language
鈼徧 Operating systems
鈼徧 Machine learning
鈼徧 Source code
鈼徧 Data structures
鈼徧 Machine code
鈼徧 Artificial intelligence
鈼徧 Full-stack development
鈼徧 Client-side programming
Computer programming falls under the umbrella of . Successful computer programmers enjoy a wide range of industries in which they can work and refine their skill set. However, because some companies do outsource their computer programming roles overseas where the labor costs are less expensive, competition for these roles can be strong. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 important to understand which qualifications best equip you for a career in this field.
Computer programmers usually earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science or another field of computer-related studies. However, some companies will accept applicants with an associate degree, particularly if they have significant work experience and certifications to back up their application.
Because these employees must be able to solve problems creatively and think strategically about how applications can improve a company鈥檚 workflow processes, many companies require their computer programmers to have a background in math and science. This is especially true for those who want to work as web developers, application developers or mobile app developers.
If you鈥檙e interested in starting a computer programming career, several paths are open to you.
You can pursue a four-year degree in computer science or a related field. Or you can earn an associate degree while also gaining on-the-job experience or certifications. If it鈥檚 not possible (or maybe just not desired) to attend college right away, there are still other ways to break into the computer programming industry. You can apply for internships or entry-level positions at local businesses so you can ease your way in and start learning as much as possible about computer programming.
Whatever your path may be, it鈥檚 important to know there鈥檚 always room for growth in computer programming. If you鈥檙e looking for an industry that will continue to evolve as technology does, then it鈥檚 time to explore what opportunities exist within computer programming, where salaries are usually higher than the .
The following are just a few potential career pathways open to computer programmers:
Overview: are dedicated to creating applications and programs that run on a computer or mobile device. They need to have a strong background in computer programming and knowledge of various programming languages and coding techniques.
Application developers will use their coding skills to work on various projects, including game design and mobile applications. For this career path, applicants must have strong problem-solving skills to resolve any issues during the development process.
National average salary: As of May 2023, software developers earned between听$77,020 and $208,620, with a median wage of听$132,270, according to BLS.
Education requirements: To become a software developer, you will need a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science, information technology or a related field.
Job outlook: Software developer jobs are projected to grow 25% between 2020 and 2030, .听
The salary ranges above are not specific to students or graduates of 爱豆传媒. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. 爱豆传媒 does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.
Overview: Web developers create, modify and maintain the code that runs on websites. They need to have a strong background in computer programming and knowledge of multiple coding languages and technologies.
Web developers often work with designers and content editors to ensure the final product successfully launches after it鈥檚 been coded. Developers usually work on a team but also might have the opportunity to work remotely, depending on their employer and location.
National average salary: As of May 2023, web developers , with a median wage of听$98,540, according to BLS.
Education requirements: A web developer needs anything from a high school diploma to an associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree. Again, your education may affect your salary.
Job outlook: The demand for web developer jobs is projected to grow faster than average at 16% between 2022 and 2032, .
Overview: are responsible for designing and maintaining the computer networks that form the backbone of corporations, small businesses and large institutions.
To do this, they need a firm grasp of various technologies as well as sound knowledge of computer programming, data structures for information storage and assembly language specific to an architecture. In addition, they also oversee the installation and maintenance of different equipment required for networking.