Enrollment in computer programming schools has dropped in recent years, partly in fear of labor outsourcing and partly in response to waning student interest in math and science. While the computer programming profession continues to hold its ground, competition for available jobs with average starting salaries of $52,500 to $83,250 is high. However, technical, detail-oriented students who are able to communicate simply with others may be in a prime position to compete for desirable positions within the field.
What is a Computer Programmer?
As implied by the title, professionals who have attended a computer programming college work with computer programs. Computer programmers create, test, and maintain the programs that tell computers what to do. Professionals attend computer programming schools to learn how to create instructions for everything from financial records programs to flight simulator training programs. Computer programmers usually work alongside computer engineers and analysts. After the computer engineers or analysts complete the design process, the computer programmer translates the design into logical steps that the computer can comprehend.
Available Jobs for Computer Programmers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of professionals who have attended a computer programming college work in computer design industries. Of the 455,000 jobs held in 2004, many were also in industries such as telecommunications, software publishing, insurance, education, and government. Computer programmers typically work in comfortable office settings, but may work long hours to meet deadlines or fix problems that occur outside of normal business hours. Some professionals who have attended computer programming schools are also taking advantage of telecommuting opportunities in computer programming.
Required Education for Computer Programmers
In 2004, more than two-thirds of computer programmers held a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related discipline. As the number of qualified computer programmers rises, employers are increasingly requiring formal education. Online computer programming schools, such as Westwood College, are now offering an entire online computer programming degree at the undergraduate level. A computer programming course online can be completed from the comfort of students’ homes while maintaining work and possibly family responsibilities. Students interested in signing up for an online computer programming class may contact Westwood College for more information or visit College-Pages.com for an extensive list of available programs.
Job Outlook for Computer Programmers
The official prediction from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for job growth in the computer programming industry is 0-8% through the year 2014. The highest number of new positions is expected to be in data–processing service firms, software houses, and computer consulting businesses. Applicants with the best prospects will be those who obtain formal bachelor’s degrees from computer programming schools combined with practical work experience. Students may also complete an online programming class to become certified in a particular programming language. One of the growing areas of emphasis in the field will be cyber–security, which will increase the demand for computer programmers who are knowledgeable in digital security issues and technology.
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Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. With our career-focused education, students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months.
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At Lincoln College Online, our goal is to combine the best features of online learning with the quality experience of a traditional college education. So you'll get the convenience, flexibility and value of an online college and the academic excellence and personalized attention of a bricks-and-mortar college.
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Potomac College Online degree classes and programs are designed and taught in collaboration with academic and industry professionals. It is important to us that we provide the quality, relevance and discipline it takes to hone your talents for a better future.
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Bellevue University, a leader in adult learning, is your best choice. We accept ALL of the credit in your associate's degree - that's EVERY credit in your A.A.S, A.S., A.G.S., and A.A. degree! And, Bellevue University gives you accelerated bachelor's degree completion 100% ONLINE. So, you enroll with your associate's degree, and complete your bachelor's degree in as little as 12 months.
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Saint Leo University Online is a leading provider of accredited online education to working adults and is a major global provider of education to the military. The online programs are designed to meet the growing needs of adult students and offer the best attributes of traditional classroom education in conjunction with today's most innovative computer technology.
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Lincoln Technical Institute is proud to offer over 60 years of experience supporting students through hands-on, focused career education. We are committed to our mission of helping students achieve personal and professional success and realize their potential, and we're here to partner with you in your goals.
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Lincoln College of Technology is proud to offer over 60 years of experience supporting students through hands-on, focused career education. We are committed to our mission of helping students achieve personal and professional success and realize their potential, and we’re here to partner with you in your goals.
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Lincoln College of New England takes a unique approach to education. The college prides itself on helping students achieve more than just a degree... We provide an education that focuses on big results - results that help build a successful and fulfilling future while emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning.
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At ITT Tech we are committed to helping men and women develop the skills and knowledge to pursue many opportunities in fields involving technology, criminal justice, and business.
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Potomac College was founded in 1991 and has continued to offer programs leading to the Associate of Science and the Bachelor of Science degrees that are in high demand fields. Potomac College is unique in its devotion to one goal-the needs of the working adult.
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Southwestern College is part of The Lincoln Group of Schools, a large and growing educational group with an established reputation as a quality resource for the industries we serve. Southwestern College can give you the training needed to start you on your path to success.
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At Redstone College we know that you're looking for the rewards that come with being successful - and a key to success is a college degree!
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Florida Career College has been specializing in career training since 1982. All our programs are specially designed with employers' requirements in mind. We train individuals who want to succeed in the fields of Allied Health, Cosmetology, Information Technology, and Business and Wellness.
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You can start now to make your dream career a reality at Sullivan College of Technology and Design, the region's respected academy for training technical and creative professionals. For half a century, we've shaped the people who've shaped the design and technology industries, with career-focused programs designed to prepare students for success much sooner than traditional colleges.
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Tags: bureau of labor statistics, computer, computer science, computers, programming, software, Westwood College
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