HOW TO BECOME A COMPUTER PROGRAMMER: COMPUTER PROGRAMMING DEGREES & CAREERS
RSComputer programmers are the builders of the computing world. They translate software design into code that computers can read, crafting the operating systems and software applications consumers use every day. People’s interaction with computers is at an all-time high—familiar desktop models provide a constant stream information and entertainment, while complex systems perform countless behind-the-scenes tasks. The demand for computing power is only growing, opening more career possibilities for people interested in computer programming. Read more to learn about how to enter this profession – including degree and college options – as well as career trends and salary information
Computer programmers are the builders of the computing world. They translate software design into code that computers can read, crafting the operating systems and software applications consumers use every day. People’s interaction with computers is at an all-time high—familiar desktop models provide a constant stream information and entertainment, while complex systems perform countless behind-the-scenes tasks. The demand for computing power is only growing, opening more career possibilities for people interested in computer programming. Read more to learn about how to enter this profession – including degree and college options – as well as career trends and salary information
WHAT DOES A COMPUTER PROGRAMMER DO?
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER CAREER BASICS
Computer programmers turn concepts into reality. After a developer creates a basic software program, a programmer creates the instructions, or code, to make that program function. Programmers may create software to be run on personal computers, tablets, smartphones or automated systems used in manufacturing. With the explosion of smartphone technology, mobile applications are increasingly important, as are software-as-a-service (SaaS) packages, which drive Internet commerce. Once a program is functional, programmers may also be responsible for testing for bugs, removing errors and installing updates. Programmers also design the user interface, which is the part of the program that consumers see and interact with.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER CAREER IN-DEPTH
Programmers fall into two camps: applications programmers and systems programmers. Applications programmers create and upgrade software applications and customize programs to fit a certain context, whether it be patient management software at a dentist’s office or translation software for a mobile phone. Systems programmers create operating systems. They take a holistic approach to how different applications work with the computer. Applications programmers sometimes bring in systems programmers to make sure their programs will be compatible on an operating system.
Computer programmers’ primary responsibility is to write code, so they must know at least one programming language. Since different languages are suited to different applications, most programmers learn multiple languages or more versatile languages. Programmers also update code for programs to make them more secure and/or functional. They routinely test code by looking for errors — sections of code that the computer does not understand — and debugging programs.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER SALARIES AND JOB OUTLOOK
Salary Details
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for computer programmers in 2014 was $77,550, up more than $3,200 from 2012, a rate that significantly outpaced inflation. Those in the top 10 percent earned over $127,000 a year. Even those in the bottom 10 percent earned more than $44,000, a wage that still put them well above the national average for all occupations. Of course, average salary varies by state—as does the cost of living. Programmers in Washington, New Mexico, Colorado, Washington, D.C. and California can expect to earn more than their peers on average.
Computer programmers’ primary responsibility is to write code, so they must know at least one programming language. Since different languages are suited to different applications, most programmers learn multiple languages or more versatile languages. Programmers also update code for programs to make them more secure and/or functional. They routinely test code by looking for errors — sections of code that the computer does not understand — and debugging programs.
Job Prospects For ProgrammersAlthough jobs for computer programmers are only expected to increase at a modest rate of 8% by 2022, it is also predicted that 1 million computer programming jobs will go unfilled by 2020, meaning that demand is significantly outstripping supply. Since practically all industries require software services, jobs for computer programmers should increase at a decent clip. Specifically, many firms look to Internet-based applications as a way to lower costs while simultaneously reaching customers in their homes. The boom in the healthcare sector also bodes well for computer programmers, specifically those who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher and can work in several programming languages.The states expected to experience the greatest percentage change in job growth between 2012 and 2022 are: 1 33% Louisiana 2 30% Wyoming 3 24% Washington 4 21% Colorado 5 21% Utah 6 16% Indiana 7 16% New Hampshire 8 15% Georgia 9 15% Montana 10 14% Iowa Of those states, Washington is projected to add the most actual jobs, with 3,990 more positions existing in 2022 than in 2012. Select a state below for more information about employment and job growth for computer programmers.
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EARN A DEGREE
While some employers only require an associate degree, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most company recruiters prefer applicants who have graduated from a four-year college. However, a two-year computer programming degree is useful for students who need to attend a community college for financial reasons. It’s also a good way for students to determine their level of interest in the field while completing prerequisites for the major. Some students take jobs in the technology field after earning their associate degree; others use it as a springboard for a four-year program. A bachelor’s degree enables students to diversify their skill set by learning several programming languages. In addition, students planning to work in a specific industry, such as health care or accounting, can take courses in that field.


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