Guide to Online Computer Programming Degrees
Individuals who want to learn how to write code, develop applications, and test software may be interested in earning an online computer programming degree. These programs focus on developing hands-on skills in building and implementing software solutions. Although it is possible to earn a two-year associate degree in computer programming, many occupations in the computer technology field require four-year bachelor's degrees.
A four-year degree in computer programming is usually a Bachelor of Science degree. To graduate, students generally need to earn a total of 120 credit hours of major-related courses and electives. While many programming students complete all of the requirements to earn this degree in four years of full-time study, some students may need more time.
Students can earn computer programming degrees on campus or online, and the admissions requirements for either learning path are typically the same. Along with an application form and possibly a fee, colleges may ask applicants to provide transcripts, official scores on standardized tests, an essay, letters of recommendation, and a list of extracurricular activities and work experience. Many schools also look for candidates who have earned a minimum GPA of 2.5.
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Common Courses Accreditation Careers Worth It? FAQsWhat Is the Difference Between Computer Science and Computer Programming?
Computer science and computer programming are closely linked, so it's easy for the distinction between the two to become slightly blurred. There is a fair amount of overlap in the online courses required to earn a bachelor's degree in either subject. However, the focus of these two degree programs is different, and they're designed to prepare graduates for particular types of jobs in technology.
Computer science degree programs typically concentrate on the theory of computer processes and the practice of designing software systems. Math and logic play a prominent role in the computer science curriculum, although most programs include some practical skill-building courses in programming languages and coding. Entry-level positions for computer science graduates include systems analyst, data scientist, and network administrator. Some computer science students choose to specialize in a particular subject, such as artificial intelligence, data science, or machine learning.
Computer programming degree programs, by contrast, focus on the application of those theories. Students learn to use programming languages and tools to write instructions that enable computers to perform tasks. Graduates often become software developers, web developers, and computer programmers (see Careers below for more information). Computer programming students sometimes specialize in the development of particular products, such as websites or mobile applications, or in using a specific programming language.
Interested in learning about degrees similar to computer programming? Explore online bachelor's programs in software engineering, web development, computer engineering, or systems engineering.
Common Computer Programming Courses
The curriculum for an online computer programming degree provides students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge, and course projects enable students to develop collaborative work and project management abilities. An overarching objective in most programs is to develop a professional portfolio that graduates can use to demonstrate their skills when applying for jobs. Additionally, most programs culminate in a senior capstone project, which is another significant contribution to each student's portfolio of work. Students who've had relatively little professional programming experience may want to build up their resumes by selecting a program that requires an internship.
An overarching objective in most programs is to develop a professional portfolio that graduates can use to demonstrate their skills when applying for jobs.
The following core courses are often included in an online computer programming bachelor's program.
Concentrations
Many schools offer areas of specialization or emphasis for students pursuing online computer programming degrees. Choosing a program with a concentration gives students a chance to study a subject that personally interests them. It could also allow them space to develop specialized problem-solving skills that may set them apart as well-qualified candidates for particular technology jobs. A concentration generally requires taking three or four related courses, which count toward fulfilling a major's core or elective requirements. The following are some common concentrations available for computer programmers.
Accreditation for Online Computer Programming Degrees
Accreditation is an important factor to consider when evaluating which schools to attend for an online bachelor's degree in computer programming. Enrollment in an accredited college or university is required to qualify for federal financial aid, and it may also be necessary to transfer credits to another school or enter a master's program. To obtain accreditation and meet rigorous standards of excellence, colleges and universities must undergo an extensive, multi-year analysis of their academic programs, faculty members, and other services.
In addition to earning recognition for the institution as a whole, schools can also seek accreditation for individual degree programs. The programmatic accrediting agency for all computer science and computer programming degree programs is the Computing Accreditation Commission, which is one of four commissions operated by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation each offer a database of recognized schools and CAC-accredited programs.
Funding an Online Computer Programming Degree
Distance learners enrolled in accredited online programs in computer programming have the same access to financial aid as on-campus students. Enrollees may qualify for low-interest federal or private loans, but they should also apply for gift aid that doesn't require repayment, including government- and school-sponsored grants and scholarships. Depending on their prior experience, some students may also be eligible for military tuition discounts. Prospective students can apply for financial assistance by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Some private organizations fund scholarships in order to support computer programming students. Applicants typically have to submit separate applications for these scholarships, which may include writing an essay or personal statement. The following list includes some examples of potential scholarships aimed at students in this field.
All students studying computer science or a closely related field are eligible for this $10,000 annual scholarship, especially those who identify with groups historically excluded from the technology industry (women, Black, Latinx, etc.).
This $10,000 award is available to female undergraduate and graduate students majoring in computer science and related subjects.
Up to 20 scholarships in amounts ranging from $1,000-$5,000 are awarded each year to high school seniors and undergraduate college students enrolled in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar program.
Potential Careers for a Computer Programming Graduate
While computer science degrees often lead to careers focused on design and initial development, computer programming degrees generally lead to jobs involving the hands-on work of creation and implementation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has identified a number of promising career paths for computer programming graduates in software engineering and coding, including the following options:
Licensure and Certifications
No occupations in this field require state licensure to practice, but computer programmers may decide to pursue one of many optional certifications by taking an additional course and/or exam. Certification enhances professional credentials and may qualify individuals for advanced or specialized roles. A few of the numerous types of programming language certifications available — often sponsored by their developers and publishers — are listed below.
Becoming an Oracle-Certified Associate, Java SE 8 programmer requires two steps: taking the beginner and intermediate training courses and passing the comprehensive 1Z0-808 exam. Obtaining this certification may help prepare candidates for the higher-level Professional Java Programmer certification.
Candidates must pass a 40-question exam on Python 3 to earn Python Institute's PCAP certification. Questions revolve around object-oriented programming, general coding techniques, and Python.
Available through CancanIT, this certification exam documents a web developer's mastery of HTML5. The two-part exam consists of a 20-question test on theory and a practice task that requires candidates to demonstrate their skills.
Database administrators and analysts may be interested in earning Microsoft certification by taking the DP-900 exam. Questions may address cloud computing, relational and non-relational data, and transactional and analytical data workloads.
Associations for Programming Professionals
In addition to formal certifications, online students can enhance their programming credentials by joining an industry association or organization. Not only does membership to a relevant organization show a person's commitment to professional growth, it also allows students and graduates to stay up to date on industry issues and connect with peers. The following are a few examples of associations focused on groups who handle various aspects of computer operations.
The ACM is the largest organization for all computing professionals and provides a wide range of publications, conferences, and other resources to keep members informed of industry trends.
Through publications, conferences, and educational activities, the IEEE promotes innovation and helps set industry standards.
The CompTIA organization, formerly known as AITP, is designed to help IT students advance in their careers through networking events, certifications, and more.
Is an Online Computer Programming Degree Worth It?
When deciding whether an online computer programming degree is the right educational path, prospective students should consider their personal circumstances, such as financial needs and other obligations. Individuals must determine for themselves whether the potential benefits of having a programming degree are worth the effort, time, and money they'll invest in earning one. Before choosing this particular online bachelor's degree, prospective students should carefully examine some of the possible advantages and disadvantages:
Potential Benefits
Computer programming degree holders are likely to face a bright job outlook. As cited by the BLS above, a bachelor's degree in computer programming prepares graduates for many occupations in high-growth fields, especially in software development. Many of these jobs feature healthy annual salaries around $100,000, and most do not require a master's degree or further education.
A computer programming career may offer a more independent lifestyle. Many programming professionals work from home with flexible schedules. Only in relatively few cases are these professionals required to be on call for emergencies.
Online education allows students to select the best programs for their needs. Prospective computer programming students can choose from a wider selection of program offerings with different concentrations related to their interests. Online learners can earn the degree that best fits their career goals and budget without having to move to a different location.
Potential Drawbacks
A computer programming degree may be somewhat limiting. Because this degree's curriculum is more focused on programming skills than that of a computer science degree, graduates may not have gained the theoretical knowledge required for some advanced occupations in the tech industry. Prospective students should determine their career goals before choosing one over the other.
Earning a four-year degree is a bigger investment than gaining skills through a bootcamp. Students who simply want to develop skills in a particular area, such as a programming language, may be better off attending a short-term bootcamp. According to Switchup, finishing a coding bootcamp may generate more competitive employment results than traditional degrees from top-tier universities at approximately 10% of the cost.
Online programs require students to create their own structure. Because of the flexibility of online programs, some students may find it difficult to manage their schedules effectively and allow enough time to complete their programming projects each week.
Frequently Asked Questions
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