Two computer programmers working in different industries will inevitably have vastly different job responsibilities. A computer programmer at a startup might write code from scratch to build a new online tool or app, while a veteran at Microsoft with a similar job title might not write any code at all, and instead be tasked with troubleshooting existing problems on various interfaces. Regardless of the exact job description, a computer programmer's core responsibility is to ensure that software can function properly.Computer programmers are among the most highly sought-after professionals in the private and public sectors today. Seemingly every business has a digital dimension, and the demand for computer programmers has skyrocketed as a result. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the median annual income for programmers is just under $80,000, and salaries only rise with experience. Looking forward, all organizations will continue to need skilled programmers on their staff, and the field offers excellent job security.If you are detail-oriented, have a passion for computers and software, and excel in math, programming might be the right academic field for you. Read on to learn more about the discipline, and how a degree in computer programming could help you take the next step in your career.
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LinkedInOnline Computer Programming Degree Overview
Like many other professions today, the higher the degree you have, the better your job prospects are; if you have an associate degree, you will be facing a tougher job market than if you hold a master's. A bachelor's in computer programming online will qualify you for most positions in the field though, and the degree offers a solid financial return on investment.
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $11,659 | 17.12% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | 8.3% |
| Bachelor's | $19,180 | 16.07% | 4 years | $53,000 | $93,000 | 4.3% |
| Master's | $19,158 | 8.57% | 1.5+ years | $83,000 | $107,000 | 2.9% |
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| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programmer | $79,530 | -8% | 328600 |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $131,600 | 15% | 348500 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $85,800 | 21% | 118600 |
| Web Developer | $64,970 | 27% | 148500 |
| Software Developer | $100,690 | 7% | 1114000 |
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Meet Our Expert: Jeff Tindall
Managing Director of Tindall Media, LLC.Jeff Tindall is a technology executive with 20 years of experience in the healthcare software industry. His primary focus has been on Microsoft technologies, distributed networked applications, and parallel data processing. He started his technical career in healthcare documentation management software with Healthcare Technologies, Inc. while attending the Georgia Institute of Technology where he graduated with a bachelor of science in computer science.
LinkedInOnline Computer Programming Professional Requirements
Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer
There are five different certifications under the MCSD certification, including Windows Store Apps, Web Applications, SharePoint Applications, Azure Solutions Architect, Application Lifecycle Management, and Universal Windows Platform, each coming with different requirements. All of these certifications can significantly improve your job prospects. Those who have the certificate will thoroughly know all of Microsoft's core programs, which are widely used among organizations. There are no prerequisites to take the exam. Depending on which certification program you take, the exam time will generally fall within two to six hours.
Adobe Certified Expert
Adobe products are widely used for a range of information technology needs, making the ACE a great addition to an online computer programming degree. There are three categories of certification: Print, Web, and Video Specialist, and each comes with varying requirements. You will need to take between two and three core exams, and one elective. Depending on your interests, you can master a variety of Adobe products, including InDesign, GoLive, Acrobat, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, and After Effects. Each exam should take only a couple of hours, depending on which certification you are looking to complete.
(ISC)2
Graduates from a computer programming program are well-positioned to pass the (ISC)2 test. You will also need to have at least five years of full-time work experience in several domains under the (ISC)2 standards. The exam is demanding and long, and essentially works toward a final CISSP certification, which can take as many as six years to acquire.
Google Apps Certification
Google's apps are very common today, and those certified in the various tools will be in high demand going forward. While not required, you'll do better on this test if you already have a programming degree, as the language will be foreign without some foundation in computer science. Google also recommends that you have some experience managing Google Apps before taking the exam as well.