Computer Programming Bachelors Degree Online
Is a Computer Programming Degree Right for You?
Do you have a strong mathematical background? Are you detail oriented? Are you diligent in your work? Will you be able to keep up with new program languages throughout your studies and your career? A computer programming degree may be a perfect fit for you. If you would enjoy working in a competitive industry, where analytical and logical thinking are crucial, a career in computer programming is likely to interest you. Since you will consistently be working with different issues, such as the efficiency and reliability of a programming language, you need to enjoy problem-solving. Not all schools offer students a computer programming major. Most of them offer it as a concentration within a major. For example, you could pursue a computer science degree and specialize in computer programming. However, there are specific programs available, which offer computer programming associate/bachelor's degrees. For higher paying jobs, most companies require at least a bachelor's degree.
Advice for Earning your Computer Programming Degree Online
When you begin your computer programming degree online, you will be required to take basic courses regarding program theories and concepts. You will later learn about more complex topics, like types of computer software and programming languages. It is important to make sure your online program offers a strong support system. Are instructors willing to help students when they are confused? Are they certified to be teaching the course material? The good thing about an online program is you can study course material at your own convenience. To ensure a virtual learning program is right for you, you need to check some general statistics. For example, if you know where you would like to work upon completing your bachelor's degree, it is probably a good idea to find out if your future employer accepts online degrees. Because of the nature of computer programming, as a more independent and self-sufficient field of study, they are likely to accept virtual learning programs. However, due to the large number of "degree mills" in the market, employers can be skeptical of online degrees. You should see which types of accreditation employers in your area prefer (local or national accreditation). You can also look at human resources websites of large companies, such as IBM. At some point, it is a good idea to get internship while pursuing your education. During your studies, you will get a more theoretical background of algorithms and programming languages. However, an internship in the field (for a company or an organization) will help you apply theories in practice.
Required Courses
You will need to have a solid understanding of how to write algorithms and source code. Furthermore, you will be required to test, analyze, and design different types of software. During the course of the degree program, you will probably learn a variety of computer languages, both old and new ones programmers use. If your chosen online or traditional program does not offer a computer programming major, you may have to major in computer science and pursue it as a concentration. Required courses include (but are not limited to): introduction to information systems, object-oriented programming, visual basic programming, HTML and Javascript, UNIX and LINUX, databases and SQL, user-centered design and testing, and systems analysis and design. As in any other program, you will still have to take some core courses outside the major, like English and humanities courses.
Common Career Paths
Common careers for computer programming majors include: computer programmer, software engineer, web developer, software consultant, and a software engineer.
Starting Salary: $35,198 to $52,076
Mid-Career Salary: $50,735 to $78,866
Learn More About a Career in Computer Programming
