Top Online Technology Programs
Our advanced Technology Degrees can equip you with the most sophisticated technologies and business knowledge, and help you become a valuable professional.
Programming Degrees
What is programming?
Programming is a subject that exposes you to the capabilities of computers and how to use them to develop powerful applications. Programming is executed through many different kinds of languages. Some programs such as Microsoft Excel and Matlab are designed to reduce the amount of programming needed to generate results. In other contexts, such as when a company is developing a system to track employee performance, programming skills are needed to integrate and modify existing pieces of software.
Some of the most intriguing programming tasks involve developing entirely new applications and products in cases where programming allows you to directly use the hardware and software interfaces of the computer.
Programming at its heart is based on mathematics and logic. People who enjoy solving problems and are sensitive towards the efficient use of resources make great programmers. Programming in industry also requires people who understand how to write clean and elegant code that can easily be read by others. Programming is essentially an engineering task and those who pursue programming are expected to know how to work in teams to manage complex programs within tight schedules.
Programming also has a strong debugging component. It is great to be able to write code but it is equally important to be able to debug it when needed.
Programming languages change rapidly and students of this field are expected to be quick learners who can adapt to new platforms as needed.
Top Schools Offering Programming Degrees
Top Programming Programs
Everest University Online
Colorado Technical University Online
Penn Foster Career School
Stevens-Henager College Online
The University of Liverpool
Most commonly offered degrees in programming
The most commonly offered degree in computer programming is computer science. This degree gives equal significance to the theory and applications side of computers. Other degrees in programming include computer engineering, software engineering and information systems. These degrees tend to emphasize the practical applications over the theory.
There is an element of programming in pretty much every technical field including the social sciences. All students of economics, psychology, engineering and science are given some exposure to computer programming to execute data analysis.
strong>Specializations available in programming
Programming involves core courses in object oriented design, databases, algorithms, compilers and operating systems. You will also develop expertise in programming in the most common languages in industry such as C, C++ and Java. Several programs will expose you to Python, LISP and other powerful languages with very specific applications.
You may also specialize in specific applications of programming such as web design, mobile application design or the design of scalable networks. Popular specializations also include managing online transactions and online security.
Career opportunities and salaries for students of programming
Students of programming generally start their careers as full-time programmers. As they gain experience and advance up the ranks, gradually their jobs involve less programming and more management. Architects may be more involved in defining the look and feel of products rather than just coding them. Some people eventually enter sales, marketing and management positions where they combine their technical backgrounds with business and finance skills.
Starting salaries in the field depend on your specialization and the nature of the company you join. You should expect to pull in anywhere between $40,000 to $70,000 a year.