What Does a Computer Programmer Do?
Computer programmers create instructions for a computer to execute by writing and testing code that enables applications and software programs to operate successfully. Computer programmers use specialized languages to communicate with computers, applications and other systems to get computers and computer networks to perform a set of specific tasks. Languages like C++, Java, Python and more allow programmers – often working closely with software developers and engineers to build programs that allow “search, surfing and selfies,” according to ComputerScience.org.
There are many programming languages but some have emerged as the most popular. Industry blog The Crazy Programmer recently listed the top 10 programming languages being used in 2018 based on a survey of 100,000 programmers. They include:
- JavaScript
- SQL
- Java
- Python
- C#
- PHP
- C++
- C
- TypeScript
- Ruby
Some of the common tasks a computer programmer is required to master were compiled by O*Net online and include:
- Testing software performance.
- Resolving computer software problems.
- Modifying software programs to improve performance.
- Writing computer programming code.
- Collaborating with others to resolve information technology issues.
How to Become a Computer Programmer
Many computer programmers begin as self-taught enthusiasts. Dr. Ed Lavieri, began as a self-taught gamer, and served 25 years in the Navy before becoming a full-time teacher. As technical program facilitator of game programming and development, he said, “Computer programming becomes fun when you have the core knowledge.”
“But, you can’t rest on information you’ve learned,” Lavieri said. “A degree is an indication of past knowledge. Skills, certifications, degrees, an e-portfolio – all of those will help you get your foot in the door – but if you want to be the one to create Windows 11, you have to get a broad range of experience and take advantage of opportunities as they come.”
Frederick agreed. She held jobs with the Department of Defense and in the financial and telecommunications sectors before turning to education. “It takes a lot of grit and it’s not enough to earn a degree; you need workplace experience,” she said. “We give students a foundation – based on data structures, algorithms, math and logical engineering – but you have to be able to plan, write, design, test and manage software. You have to know at least two or three programming languages, including proficiency in JAVA and C++.”
Beyond classroom and experiential learning, however, computer programmers must understand that when writing a program, it never works the first time. “This field requires patience, and the ability to troubleshoot and get at errors. You need to be a learning worker, be self-disciplined, have the motivation to learn on your own, be able to brainstorm with others, and have a lot of hands-on practice,” Frederick said. “You must be a practitioner and adapt to what’s trending.”
“Game programming – a multi-billion dollar industry which requires much more than graphics and sound –is among the hardest programming there is,” said Lavieri. “But every industry, without exception, needs programmers, from healthcare and real estate to banking, travel and every other sector.”
While working to complete a computer science degree, students are encouraged to create a portfolio of their software work. “Though this portfolio isn’t graded, students can share it with potential employers as proof of coding capabilities,” Frederick said. “The entire degree program gives students broad exposure and proficiencies in traditional and trending technologies, including such specialties as computation graphics, software testing and writing code for commonly used programs, as well as deeper, more specific skills.”
Computer Programming Certifications Beyond a Degree
Most computer programming positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and many advanced degree programs are also available. In addition to those academic avenues, there are dozens of professional and nonprofit professional certifications available. BLS notes that certifications exist for specific programming languages and that some employers may require programmers to become certified in the products the company uses.
Some of the professional certifications available include:
- CISCO – Certified Network Associate, Certified Network Profession Routing and Switching, Certified Network Associate Security Credential
- Microsoft – Certified Solution Developer for Web Applications, Certified Solutions Associate Windows Server
- Professional Associations – Software Development Associate Certification, Comptia’s Security+, Comptia’s A+ Certification, Comptia’s Linux+
- Nonprofit – Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional Credential
