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How to Become a Computer Programmer

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People Studying to Become Computer Programmers

Recently, we discussed what computer science is, what computer scientists really do and what you can do with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and here we’ll take a look at a specific role within the field of computer science, explaining how to become a computer programmer.

As part of our discussion, we’ll explore what computer programmers actually do and whether or not you need a degree to start a career in the field. 

We’ll also look at what degree you should get and whether or not you should consider getting your degree in computer science online.

If you’re interested in working with computers and more specifically, in creating the code that actually brings computer programs to life, then you may want to consider a career as a computer programmer.

After you’ve learned about starting a career as a programmer, fill out our information request form to get more information about our 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. If you’re ready to get started, you can submit your application today.

Is Computer Programming a Good Career?

Yes, working as a computer programmer is a good career choice for anyone interested in computer code and the language of computers.

Computer programmers are well-compensated for their efforts, making this a relatively lucrative industry to get into, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for computer programmers in 2021 was $93,000.

However, one thing to keep in mind about this industry is that the job outlook for computer programmers is projected to decline over the next decade as BLS expects companies to hire programmers from outside the United States, which will make finding jobs in the field more competitive. 

That added competitiveness means you’ll need to do more to stand out from the crowd when trying to launch a career as a programmer, making it more important that you consider earning the academic credentials which prove you can provide value to any programming team.

Accordingly, earning your degree in computer science is an excellent idea for helping make it easier to break into the field, as getting your degree will give you the academic grounding in computer technologies and problem-solving skills needed to convince hiring managers to give you a chance.

If you want to launch a career in this increasingly competitive field, earning your degree is one of the best ways to increase your odds of achieving that goal.

What do Computer Programmers Actually Do?

Computer programmers work in the language of computers to bring computer programs to life. 

Unlike software developers, who spend their time designing computer program concepts, computer programmers are the people who actually write the code that drives a computer program.

Computer programming is a hands-on, skill-centered profession where knowledge of computer code languages is of the utmost importance. 

Not only do computer programmers write totally new code to create new programs, but they also have to be comfortable reading old code to write patches, make updates, and edit out problems or issues. 

Without a deep understanding of the different languages that computers use to run programs, you will have a hard time finding success in this industry.

If you’re detail-oriented, organized, capable of working both independently and on teams, and above all else, if you love to write computer code, then you’re likely to enjoy a career as a programmer.

Do I Need a Degree to Get a Job as a Computer Programmer?

While you may not need a degree to get a job as a computer programmer, earning your degree can help increase the chances of landing a good role since it tells prospective employers that you have the skills and educational backgrounds required to hit the ground running on day one.

Completing a degree program will also help prepare you to face the challenges that computer programmers face during their job. 

A Computer Science Degree program like the one offered by CSU Global will teach you how to solve complex problems with technical solutions, how to design and evaluate computer-based systems, and how to construct software systems of varying complexity – all skills which will make you a more competitive job candidate when it comes time to hunt for your first job.

In short, earning your Computer Science Degree gives you a firm understanding of the key strategies computer programmers use to achieve success in their work, and getting your degree can help you stand out as a candidate in a crowded job market.

Which Degree Should I Get?

Generally speaking, you should get the degree that is most appropriate for your career goals.

There are two types of Computer Science Degrees, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree. 

Each degree type can be beneficial, depending on what you want to study and what you seek to accomplish in the real world with the, knowledge and skills that you develop as part of your studies.

According to U.S. News and World Report, B.A. programs generally focus more on soft skills such as interpersonal communication or humanities courses like English and History, while B.S. programs are more likely to emphasize technical skills like computing languages.

While both degree programs can help you on your career journey, if you’re interested in a career as a computer programmer, you will probably find more benefit from completing a B.S. in Computer Science Program, like the program offered by CSU Global.

What Can I Do With A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science?

There are many different jobs you can pursue after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. 

This academic field is broad, and while you’re unlikely to find roles with the title of “Computer Scientist” there are many well-known and lucrative roles that require the skills taught by Bachelor’s in Computer Science programs.

Some of the most common job titles for graduates of Computer Science Degree programs include:

But getting your degree in Computer Science will make you eligible for many different types of positions other than the role of programmer, including jobs like:

  • Web developer
  • Software tester
  • Business analyst
  • Product manager
  • Network architect
  • Software engineer
  • Full-stack developer
  • Engineering manager
  • User interface designer
  • Database administrator
  • Cloud computing engineer
  • Information security analyst

Clearly, the skills, knowledge, and technical expertise that you can develop in a Bachelor’s of Computer Science program can lead to many different exciting career paths. 

A degree program like CSU Global’s B.S. in Computer Science can be a stepping stone to help you achieve your biggest goals, including finding a role in programming, or in a different industry altogether.

Is a Degree in Computer Science Really Worth It?

Yes, earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science is a great way to invest in yourself and your future career aspirations. 

These degree programs help you develop the skills you need to enter the job market with confidence and find success in your career from day one.

While it may feel like a large investment in terms of both time and cost, earning your degree is likely to be a great investment, as according to the Social Security Administration, earning your bachelor’s degree can increase your earning potential significantly throughout your career.

If you’re thinking about a career as a computer programmer, then you should definitely consider earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science because it will give you the skills, abilities, and confidence needed to break into this competitive industry.

Can I Get My Degree in Computer Science Online?

Yes, you can earn a B.S. in Computer Science 100% online from a regionally accredited and widely respected school like CSU Global.

When considering online degree programs, it is vital that you look at their accreditation. Accreditation is the result of an external evaluation that signifies an institution’s validity and academic integrity. 

Accreditation is also vital to ensuring that your degree will be respected by potential employers. CSU Global’s online B.S. in Computer Science is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, so you can rest assured that your degree will be looked on favorably by hiring managers.

Our Computer Science Degree is also offered completely online and the program has been designed to fit your busy life, with flexible features, including:

  • No set class times or locations
  • Monthly class starts
  • Accelerated 8-week courses

CSU Global’s online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a great option if you want to earn your degree and pursue a new career without having to uproot your current responsibilities.

Why Should I Study Computer Science at CSU Global?

CSU Global’s online B.S. in Computer Science Degree is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and all of our courses are taught by faculty that have recent and real-world experience in the field.

We also developed and designed the program specifically to be completed online, offering you maximum flexibility so that you can continue delivering on existing family and career responsibilities while working on completing your degree.

Importantly, our program curriculum aligns with the certification criteria for the Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer, and the C++ Certified Associate Programmer from the C++ Institute. This curriculum alignment ensures that you’ll develop the skills you need to achieve success as a computer programmer, while also providing you with academic credentials that will earn the respect of potential hiring managers when it comes time to pursue a position in the field.

Finally, we also offer competitive tuition rates and a Tuition Guarantee to ensure your rate won’t increase as long as you remain enrolled in good academic standing.

To get additional details about our fully accredited, 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science please give us a call at (800) 462-7845, or fill out our Information Request Form.

Ready to get started today? Apply now!