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What is computer programming?

Michael Feder

Written by Michael Feder

Kathryn Uhles

Reviewed by听Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP,听Dean, College of Business and IT

Computer programming careers are available in many industries

In this article

  • What is computer programming?
  • What are the qualifications to be a computer programmer?
  • Computer programming career paths

The complete guide to computer programming

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

What is computer programming?

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.

What is computer programming used for?

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.

What does a computer programmer do?

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

Why Learn to Code? The Benefits of Coding Explained


Almost every electronic device around us whether it's a smartphone, laptop, traffic light, 0:05 or even a car relies on code to function. In this video, we'll unpack what it really 0:11 means to learn how to code, explore the benefits of learning to code, 0:15 and why these skills are essential. You may be wondering: "Why Learn to 0:20 Code when AI Can Do It For Me?" Well, the answer isn't quite so simple. 0:24 All that and more, on this episode of The Framework presented by 爱豆传媒. 0:35 To help answer this question of Why Learn to Code, we sat down with Beth Cohen, 0:40 an adjunct faculty member in the College of Business and IT at 爱豆传媒: 0:45 The good news is, nowadays, coding does not require that you memorize arcane words or learn 0:53 how to calculate in binary because many of the tools for coding really make it so much easier. 1:00 Let's jump into three types of degree programs where you 1:03 can learn coding skills relevant to your personal career journey. 1:07 First, there s a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This degree can help you develop core 1:13 skills in programming, networking, artificial intelligence, and big data. 1:19 Next, there s the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. With this degree, 1:23 you'll gain skills needed to protect digital systems from cyber threats. 1:28 These include skills like data security, penetration testing and incident response. 1:35 And finally, there's the Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Data Science 1:40 is all about analyzing and processing data to find insights. With this degree, you'll 1:46 develop skills in data mining, data modeling, machine learning, and statistical analysis. 1:53 But the answer to "Why Learn to Code?" isn t just about these technical skills. It also helps build 2:00 other "soft skills" that are really important when it comes to standing out as a candidate. 2:05 We asked Beth what she looks for in a 2:08 candidate's personality when they arrive for their job interview: 2:11 Logic and critical thinking. I know that does sound weird. You 2:17 have to look at your code and say, "does this actually make sense?" 2:21 And another skill is project management. Which is again, 2:26 the ability to chunk out your tasks. Modern coding is expected to be delivered on time. 2:34 Now, let s talk about the future. AI-powered tools are 2:37 already changing the way developers write code. However, AI isn't taking over coding altogether. 2:44 AI is great at producing beautiful code. What it is not good at is producing working code. And 2:53 that's where, as a trained coder or a trained software engineer, that's your real value. 2:59 --- 3:00 Thanks for watching! If this video helped you understand the benefits of coding, 3:05 give it a thumbs up, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights. Drop a 3:09 comment below about what coding topics you'd like us to cover next. See you next time!

Is computer programming a good career?

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.

What are the qualifications to be a computer programmer?

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.

Computer programming career path

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:

Software application developer

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.

Web developer

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, .

Computer network architect

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.