Anyone fascinated by building interactive structures and solving math might be curious what a computer program does. Computer programmers occupy one profession in the broader field of computer science. They design, develop and test computer software for enterprise and consumer markets, working with other programmers in person or over the Internet.
Computer programmers usually need at least a four-year Bachelor of Science degree to find employment. A computer science degree covers mathematics, algorithms, data structures, logic, formal languages, software engineering and programming.
Many computer science programs only cover the basics of programming languages, focusing more on math, logic and theory to foster an understanding of efficient design practices. While C++ and Java are part of most curricula, learning how to code in languages such as Python, PHP, Ruby, C#, Objective-C and other popular languages is usually left to the student.
What is a Computer Programmer’s Job Description?
According to the Houston Chronicle, most computer programmers find work in Web programming, mobile application development and enterprise systems development. Relatively few programmers work for software makers such as Microsoft, Apple, Google, Facebook or Adobe. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, competition for programming jobs is high because employers often hire programmers in parts of the world where wages are lower than in the United States.
Web programmers work with Web designers and graphic artists to implement HTML, CSS, JavaScript, MySQL and many other types of computer code for websites. They may also build browser-based mobile applications that work across a variety of platforms, such as iOS, Android and Windows Phone. As with all programming jobs, Web and mobile programming focuses on efficiency to ensure fast page loads and conserve battery power.
Programmers who work for businesses often develop internal databases and information systems. They set up internal servers and handle certificates of authentication for encrypted communication with partners and clients. These programmers usually take business electives in college and specialize in management information systems as opposed to software engineering or general science.
Related Resource: Interface Designer
How Do Computer Programmers Gain Experience?
Experience, good grades and a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures and problem solving make programmers attractive to employers. Many top-paying jobs test candidates with programming questions similar to the ones covered in data structures and algorithms courses. Programmers applying for these jobs should be able to quickly convert between number systems, design efficient algorithms and solve big-O and big-Theta problems during a job interview.
To gain experience for a resume, programmers can apply for internships and work on open-source applications over the Internet. There is no shortage of open-source projects looking for programmers to work on small portions of an application. Most Linux software is open-source, and many of these projects need developers for Windows and Mac versions of their software.
In 2012, programmers earned a median salary of $74,280, with the top ten percent earning $117,890 or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the next ten years, programming jobs are expected to increase by 8 percent, which is the average rate of increase for all occupations.
Being a computer programmer is an exciting way to be creative and design software for people all over the world. Developing applications, researching new technology and improving existing application frameworks are just a few the many jobs that a computer programmer does.
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