Computer programmers
SOC Code: 15-1251Also known as:
.NET Programmer, Analyst Programmer, Application Programmer, Application Programmer Analyst, Applications Programmer
Median Annual Salary
$98,670
-6.0% growth (2024-2034)
6K
Openings/Year
121K
Current Jobs
What Computer programmers Do
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
💰 Salary
$98,670
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-6.0%
Decline
🎓 Education
Bachelor's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
6K
Projected average per year
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
121,200
Projected Employment (2034)
113,900
Related Careers
Computer systems analysts
$103,790 •
+8.7% growth
Database administrators
$104,620 •
-0.7% growth
Software developers
$133,080 •
+15.8% growth
Web and digital interface designers
$98,090 •
+7.0% growth
Computer occupations, all other
$108,970 •
+8.2% growth
Top Skills Required
Programming
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Complex Problem Solving
Quality Control Analysis
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
- Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
- Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
- Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.
- Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
- Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
- Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.
- Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.
- Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.
- Perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Bachelor's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Bachelor's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Computer programmers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a computer programmers:
Computer Science
79,857 degrees awarded •
1,001 colleges offer this program
Computer Programming/Programmer, General
11,341 degrees awarded •
390 colleges offer this program
Management Information Systems, General
10,310 degrees awarded •
319 colleges offer this program
Computer Graphics
3,312 degrees awarded •
113 colleges offer this program
Computer Programming, Specific Applications
2,813 degrees awarded •
133 colleges offer this program
Computational Science
2,395 degrees awarded •
78 colleges offer this program
Data Analytics, General
1,675 degrees awarded •
106 colleges offer this program
Cloud Computing
1,229 degrees awarded •
50 colleges offer this program
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation
1,028 degrees awarded •
39 colleges offer this program
Computer Game Programming
492 degrees awarded •
28 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Computer programmers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become computer programmers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do computer programmers make?
The median annual salary for computer programmers is $98,670.
What education do computer programmers need?
Most computer programmers positions require a bachelor's degree.
Common degree programs include Computer Science, Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Management Information Systems, General.
Is becoming computer programmers a good career choice?
Computer programmers is projected to see -6.0% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 5,500 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for computer programmers?
Top colleges for aspiring computer programmers include
University of California-Los Angeles, University of Southern California, University of California-Irvine, University of California-Berkeley, Columbia University in the City of New York.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to computer programmers?
Computer programmers may also be known as: .NET Programmer, Analyst Programmer, Application Programmer, Application Programmer Analyst, Applications Programmer, Beta Tester, Bug Bounty Hunter, Business Programmer, Certified Ethical Hacker, Client Server Programmer, Cloud Engineer, COBOL Programmer (Common Business Oriented Language Programmer), Computer Game Programmer, Computer Language Coder, Computer Programmer, Computer Programmer Analyst, Database Programmer, E-Commerce Programmer (Electronic Commerce Programmer), Engineer, Engineering and Scientific Programmer.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.