How To Become a Computer Programmer: Career Guide

Q: What is the difference between a computer programmer and a software developer?

A computer programmer primarily writes, tests and improves code, while a software developer often has a broader role that includes planning, designing and guiding software projects. Software developers may define software needs and user requirements, while programmers help turn those plans into functional code.

Q: What industries hire computer programmers?

Computer programmers can be hired by technology and non-technology employers. Common industries include computer systems design, software publishing, finance, insurance and manufacturing, according to the BLS.

Q: What programming languages do computer programmers use?

Computer programmers may use different programming languages based on the project, employer or software system. Common examples include JavaScript, Python and C++, though language needs can change as technologies and platforms evolve.

Job Description

What Is a Computer Programmer?

A computer programmer is a technology professional who writes, tests and updates code that helps software programs and applications run correctly. Programmers may use languages such as Python, Java and C++ to build functionality, identify errors, debug code and improve performance. They often work with software developers, quality assurance testers and other technology professionals.

While requirements can vary by employer, computer programmers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software development or a related field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).^{(See disclaimer 1)} Hands-on experience and knowledge of multiple programming languages may also support career preparation.

Computer Programmer Career Snapshot

Computer programmers turn software designs into working instructions that computers can follow. Their work may involve reviewing program requirements, writing new code, updating existing systems and checking that applications perform as intended. In many organizations, programmers support the software development process by helping translate technical plans into functional programs. Because programming tools, languages and development practices continue to change, this career path requires ongoing learning in areas such as coding frameworks, software testing, version control and secure programming practices.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Career Area

What To Know

Responsibilities

Programmers create, update, test and troubleshoot code for software applications and computer systems.

Education Requirements

Many employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field. Internship or project experience may also help.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Key Skills

Programmers need coding knowledge, analytical thinking, attention to detail, troubleshooting skills and communication skills.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Work Environment

Programmers may work in offices, home offices or technology-focused settings across industries such as software, finance, manufacturing and systems design.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Career Outlook

The BLS projects about 5,500 computer programmer openings each year, on average, from 2024 to 2034.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Job Types

Related roles may include programmer analyst, application developer, web developer, software developer and database programmer.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Role

What Does a Computer Programmer Do?

Computer programmers turn software requirements into working code. They review technical specifications, write instructions in programming languages and make sure programs perform the tasks they were designed to complete. Their work often centers on three core responsibilities: coding new or revised program functions, debugging errors that affect performance and maintaining code so software remains secure, compatible and useful over time.

Coding

Write program instructions based on technical specifications, user needs or software design plans

Debugging

Test code, locate errors and correct issues that may affect how a program runs

Maintaining

Update existing code to improve security, add functionality or support compatibility with other systems

Outlook

Computer Programmer Salary and Career Outlook

Computer programmers continue to support organizations that rely on software systems, applications and digital infrastructure. According to the BLS, about 5,500 openings for computer programmers are projected each year, on average, from 2024 to 2034.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

This ongoing need may create opportunities for professionals who can update code, troubleshoot systems and support existing software. The BLS reported a median annual wage of $98,670 for computer programmers in May 2024, with salary potential varying by industry, experience and technical skill set.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Jobs

113,900

Projected total employment of programmers in 2034^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Salary

$98,670

Median annual wage for programmers as of May 2024^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Openings

5,500

Projected job openings for programmers each year, on average, from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Workplace

Where Do Computer Programmers Work?

Computer programmers work in offices, home offices and industry-specific business environments where software systems need to be built, updated or supported. They may be employed by technology companies, software publishers, financial organizations, manufacturers or other businesses that depend on digital tools.^{(See disclaimer 3)} Some programmers are self-employed and provide programming services for clients across different industries.

Common industries where computer programmers work include:^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Software publishers

Build or support software products, applications and platforms used by businesses or consumers

Finance and insurance

Support secure digital tools, customer platforms, internal systems and financial technology applications

Manufacturing

Work on software that supports production systems, operational tools, automation or equipment-related processes

Self-employed

Provide programming services for clients, projects or businesses as an independent professional

Career Path

How To Become a Computer Programmer

To become a computer programmer, you typically need a technology-related education, practical coding experience and continued training in current programming tools.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Many programmers build this foundation through a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software development, software engineering or a related area.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Employer requirements can vary, but you can strengthen your preparation by learning multiple programming languages, completing project-based work and pursuing certifications or continuing education as technologies change.^{(See disclaimer 1,2)}

Follow these steps to become a computer programmer:

Earn a bachelor’s degree

Study computer science, software development, software engineering or another computer and information technology field

Gain hands-on experience

Build coding experience through internships, entry-level technology roles, labs, portfolio projects or applied coursework^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Pursue continuing education

Continue learning through short courses or training in specific programming languages, frameworks or software tools^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Education

What Are the Computer Programmer Education Requirements?

Computer programmer education requirements vary by employer, but many roles call for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, software development or a related field.^{(See disclaimer 1)} A degree program can help students build technical foundations while exploring areas such as programming, databases, systems design and software development.

If you wish to work in a specific industry, you may also benefit from electives or projects connected to that field. Graduate education is less common for entry-level roles, but the BLS reported that about 20% of programmers held a graduate degree in 2023.^{(See disclaimer 7)}

More Than 2.9 Million

Number of workers with a degree in computer and information technology in 2023^{(See disclaimer 7)}

What Degrees Can Help You Become a Computer Programmer?

420 Matching Degrees

Skills

Which Computer Programmer Skills Are Essential?

Computer programmers use a combination of technical and workplace skills. In addition to proficiency in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java and C++, programmers use analytical thinking, attention to detail and communication skills to write code, troubleshoot issues and collaborate with other professionals throughout the software development process.^{(See disclaimer 1,2)}

Common skills for computer programmers include:^{(See disclaimer 1,2)}

Programming languages

Programmers use programming languages to create, maintain and update software applications

Attention to detail

Attention to detail helps programmers identify errors and write accurate, reliable code

Problem-solving skills

Programmers use problem-solving skills to debug code, troubleshoot issues and develop technical solutions

Communication skills

Programmers use communication skills to collaborate with team members and explain technical information to different audiences

FAQ

Computer Programmer FAQs

Explore the following frequently asked questions and answers about computer programmers to decide if this career path is right for you.

Is computer programming a good career?

Computer programming can be a rewarding career for people who enjoy solving problems, building technology and learning new skills. It offers opportunities across industries such as software, healthcare, finance and cybersecurity.

As AI changes how coding is done, programmers who can use new tools, understand business needs and solve complex problems may be especially valuable. A beginner course or small project can help you see whether the work is a good fit.

What is the difference between a computer programmer and a software developer?

What industries hire computer programmers?

What programming languages do computer programmers use?

How has AI changed the role of computer programmers?

AI has made programmers more productive by helping them generate, test, document and troubleshoot code.^{(See disclaimer 8)} In one controlled study, developers using GitHub Copilot completed a coding task substantially faster than those working without it, although results can vary by task, tool and developer experience.^{(See disclaimer 9)} The role has therefore shifted from writing every line manually toward directing, reviewing and improving AI-assisted work.

Programmers may use AI to create an initial draft, suggest test cases, explain unfamiliar code or identify possible errors. However, they are still responsible for deciding whether the output fits the project, integrating it with existing systems and checking its accuracy, security and performance.

AI has not removed the need for programming knowledge. Instead, it has increased the importance of technical judgment, code review, debugging and understanding how an entire system works. Research also suggests that faster code generation does not automatically produce better software, making human oversight an essential part of AI-assisted development.^{(See disclaimer 10)}

How can a computer science degree help support a programming career?

A computer science degree can help support a programming career by teaching algorithms, software development, data structures, computer systems and programming concepts.^{(See disclaimer 1)} It can also help you build problem-solving skills and understand how software works beyond individual lines of code.

Employer expectations vary, and some programming roles may also accept degrees in information technology, software engineering or related fields, especially when candidates can demonstrate relevant technical skills and project experience.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Career Fit

Is Computer Programming Right for You?

Computer programming may be a good fit if you enjoy structured problem-solving, technical learning and detail-focused work. This career often appeals to people who like using logic to understand how systems function and how digital tools can be improved. To evaluate your fit, consider your interest in technology, your comfort with computer-based work and your willingness to keep learning as tools and programming practices change.

Computer programming may align with your strengths if you:^{(See disclaimer 1)}
- Enjoy solving problems
- Think analytically
- Notice small details
- Like computer-based work
You may want to explore other technology paths if you:
- Prefer hands-on fieldwork
- Want a highly social role
- Dislike extended troubleshooting
- Prefer less screen time

Explore additional GCU articles to learn more about computer programming, related technology roles and the skills used in software-focused careers. These blogs can help you compare pathways, understand common responsibilities and decide which direction may align with your interests.

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