Computer Programmer

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A computer programmer creates the code for software applications and operating systems. After a software developer designs a computer program, the programmer writes code that converts that design into a set of instructions a computer can follow. He or she tests the program to look for errors and then rewrites it until it is or error-free. The programmer continues to evaluate programs that are in use, making updates and adjustments as needed.

Quick Facts

• Computer programmers earned a median annual salary of $77,550 in 2014
• Nearly 329,000 people worked in this occupation (2014).
• Companies that write and test software employed most of them. Software publishers and finance and insurance companies employed other
• Jobs are typically full time.
• This is a good job for people who like to work alone.
• The job outlook for this occupation is poor. Employers will outsource many jobs to countries where wages are lower than they are in the U.S. This will cause employment to decline through 2024.

How to Become a Computer Programmer

Your chances of getting a job as a computer programmer will be better if you earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, or information systems. Some employers will hire you if you have a degree in another subject such as accounting, finance and business, as long as you have taken computer science classes.

You may even be able to find work with an associate degree in computer science.

Since experience is as important as a degree is in this field, you should do internships while you are in school. Once you are working in the field, you will have to keep your skills up-to-date by learning new programming languages.

Certifications in various programming languages may also be beneficial.