Related job titles are: Programmer Analyst, Programmer, Analyst Programmer, Computer Programmer, Software Developer, Applications Developer, Computer Programmer Analyst, Internet Programmer, Java Developer, Web Designer, Web Developer, or Web Programmer.
How Much Does a Computer Programmer Make? | Computer Programmer Salary
The median yearly salary for computer programmers was $71,380 in May 2010 (the most recent data available). This median salary is simply the salary where half the employees earned more and half earned a lesser amount. Employees in the lower 10 percent had an annual salary less than $40,820, and those employees in the top 10 percent earned greater then $114,180.
What Does a Computer Programmer Do? | Job Description
Computer Programmer is one of U.S. News and World Report "100 Best Jobs of 2013." Computer Programmers write code to create software programs. They turn the program designs created by software developers and engineers into instructions that a computer can follow. Programmers must debug the programs—that is, test them to ensure that they produce the expected results. If a program does not work correctly, they check the code for mistakes and fix them.
Programmers work closely with software developers and, in some businesses, their work overlaps. When this happens, programmers can do the work typical of developers, such as designing the program. This entails initially planning the software, creating models and flowcharts detailing how the code is to be written, and designing an application or system interface.
Programmer Analyst, Software Architect, and
Software Developer are three of CNNMoney.com "100 Best Jobs in America."
How to Become a Computer Programmer?
Most computer programmers have a bachelor's degree; however, some employers hire workers with an associate's degree. Most programmers specialize in a few programming languages.
Computer Programmer Classes and Courses | Degree Programs
Most programmers get a degree in computer science or a related subject. Programmers who work in specific fields, such as healthcare or accounting, may take classes in that field in addition to their degree in computer programming. In addition, employers value experience, which many students get through internships.
Most programmers learn only a few computer languages while in school. However, a computer science degree also gives students the skills needed to learn new computer languages easily. During their classes, students receive hands-on experience writing code, debugging programs, and many other tasks that they will do on the job.
Computer Programmer Jobs | Who is Hiring?
Most computer programmers work in computer system design and related services, an industry which is expected to grow as a result of an increasing demand for new computer software. This includes software offered over the Internet, which should lower costs for firms and allow for more customization for users. In addition, new applications will have to be developed for mobile technology and the healthcare industry. An increase in computer systems that are built into electronics and into other non-computer products should result in some job growth for computer programmers and software developers.
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