becoming a computer programmer

Are you considering becoming a computer programmer?

Significant points about becoming a computer programmer:

• Employment growth will be considerably slower than that of other computer specialists, due to the spread of pre-packaged software solutions. Three out of 5 computer programmers held at least a bachelor's degree in 2000.
• Prospects should be best for college graduates with knowledge of a variety of programming languages and tools; those with less formal education or its equivalent in work experience should face strong competition for programming jobs.

(From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Information for those considering becoming a computer programmer from the U.S. Bureau of Labor:

Computer programmers write, test, and maintain the detailed instructions, called programs, that computers must follow to perform their functions.

They also conceive, design, and test logical structures for solving problems by computer. Many technical innovations in programming—advanced computing technologies and sophisticated new languages and programming tools—have redefined the role of a programmer and elevated much of the programming work done today.

Job titles and descriptions may vary, depending on the organization. In this occupational statement, computer programmer refers to individuals whose main job function is programming; this group has a wide range of responsibilities and educational backgrounds.

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Working Conditions

Many programmers may work long hours or weekends, to meet deadlines or fix critical problems that occur during off hours.

Given the technology available, telecommuting is becoming common for a wide range of computer professionals—including computer programmers.

As computer networks expand, more programmers are able to connect to a customer's computer system remotely to make corrections or fix problems, using modems, e-mail, and the Internet.

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Job Outlook

Jobs for both systems and applications programmers should be most plentiful in data processing service firms, software houses, and computer consulting businesses. These types of establishments are part of computer and data processing services, which is projected to be the fastest growing industry in the economy over the 2000-10 period.

As organizations attempt to control costs and keep up with changing technology, they will need programmers to assist in conversions to new computer languages and systems.

In addition, numerous job openings will result from the need to replace programmers who leave the labor force or transfer to other occupations such as manager or systems analyst.

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Earnings

Median annual earnings of computer programmers were $57,590 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $44,850 and $74,500 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,020; the highest 10 percent earned more than $93,210.

Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of computer programmers in 2000 were:
 

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