If you want to prepare yourself for a computer-related or technical career, then pursuing a Computer Programming degree would be a fantastic idea. Go through this detailed article to learn about different degrees being offered in this field in the U.S.
What Is Computer Programming?
The process of writing codes to instruct computers to perform a task or a specific action is called Computer Programming. These codes are written in many programming languages such as SQL, JavaScript, Python, Java, and PHP.
What Can You Do with a Computer Programming Degree?
After obtaining a Computer Programming degree, individuals can work as Computer Programmers, Computer Systems Analysts, Software Application Developers, Computer and Information System Managers, Computer Systems Engineers, and Web Application Developers. The income data for some of these positions have been shared below. This data has been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Computer Programmers
These professionals write codes that enable computer applications to run. Apart from writing codes, programmers are also involved in testing newly developed programs and applications to ensure that they are functioning properly and producing the desired results. If the programs are not working properly, these individuals check the codes, identify the mistakes, and fix them.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $86,550 | -7% | $92,610 | California | 24,400 |
| Washington | $164,610 |
Computer Systems Analysts
These professionals are also called Systems Architects at times. They study a company’s current computer system and develop solutions to enable the company to operate more effectively and efficiently. They are responsible for researching emerging technologies, developing and implementing new systems and processes by configuring software and hardware and overseeing the configuration and installation of new systems.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $90,920 | 9% | $96,160 | California | 64,260 |
| California | $110,820 |
Software Developers – Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
These professionals are responsible for creating and testing applications, recommending software upgrades for current systems and programs, and collaborating with other computer experts to develop optimum software.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $107,510 | 26% | $111,620 | California | 249,620 |
| California | $134,370 |
What to Expect from a Computer Programming Degree?
The Associate’s degree in Computer Programming helps students understand the basic data types of different scripting and programming languages, such as XHTML and SQL. The curriculum of this program incorporates a range of modules such as Visual Basic Programming, C++ Programming, Java Programming, Structured Query Language (SQL), Program Design and Development, and Web Development.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Programming degree puts emphasis on database application development which helps train the candidates to adapt to the changing technological trends. The curriculum of the program helps students develop their coding skills. To graduate from this degree, candidates are required to study many courses such as Algorithms and Data Structures, Database Application Programming, Enterprise Application Programming, Cybersecurity Foundations, and Cloud Computing.
While a Master’s degree in Computer Programming is rare, students can pursue a Master of Science (M.S.) program in Computer Science. The curriculum of this program incorporates a number of modules such as Software Architecture and Design, Ethics and Professional Issues in Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Networks, and Mobile Software Development.
How to Choose a Computer Programming Degree?
Before enrolling in a Computer Programming degree, students should consider several factors. They should consider the college rankings, specialization options, the cost of the degree, the length of the program, and the location of the school.
Computer Programming Degree Requirements
To get admitted to a Computer Programming degree, students have to pay a non-refundable application fee and have to submit an admissions application to the college. The college/university also requires students to submit a letter of intent, a professional resume, recommendation letters, Graduate Record Exam scores (required for MS degrees), and TOEFL scores (if the applicant’s native language is not English).
The requirements mentioned above are not program-specific. These are general guidelines; therefore you should conduct your own research to learn about your program’s admission requirements.