Computer Programmers are able to design and build their own computer programs. Majoring in this exciting field will allow you to learn how computer programs work, and how you can expand upon them or create one of your own. Students take classes in database design, Java programming, web programming, mathematics, and business communications among others to learn all about what's behind programs and operating systems.
While students may decide to focus on Computer Programming in general, schools offer specializations in areas, such as Computer Programming of Specific Applications and Computer Programming, Vendor/Product Certification.
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Computer Programming Degrees in the United States
#108Most Popular Major
12.9kDegrees Awarded
239Schools Offering Degrees
In 2021-2022, computer programming was the 108th most popular major nationwide with 12,932 degrees awarded.
This year's Best Computer Programming Schools ranking compares 97 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom programming rankings further below.
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What Are The Requirements For a Degree in Computer Programming
Those who are interested in Computer Programming often have a background in computers and mathematics. They also have strong analytical skills and pay close attention to detail. Since you will be creating programs and working to fix any bugs in computer systems, it is important that you have good concentration while working with long lines of code and troubleshooting to detect and fix any errors. Computer programs can take a long time to perfect. You will need the ability to work on the computer and deal with code for extended hours.
Many computer programmers work the typical workweek in an office or out of their home. While they may work as part of a team for large projects, most jobs are independent. Since code can be worked on and written anywhere, many computer programmers live in a different location than where they work. This opens up the possibility of working for any company in the world without having to move locations.
An internship and previous experience are not necessary in this field, but would be beneficial to students. This hands-on experience will teach students about working with code and developing software. Students will learn to work with programs and troubleshoot issues with the assistance of a professional.
ADBLOCK #171
Prior Education for a Programming Program
computer programming degree applicants generally need have finished high school or their GED. Many schools may also have GPA and SAT/ACT score minimums that must be met. In addition to these basic computer programming program qualifications, to serve in some programming careers, special certification may be required outside of your degree.
Computer Programming Degree Types
There are many different programming degree levels. You can spend many years getting as high as a in computer programming to something that takes less time like a . How long it takes to complete some common programming degree levels is shown below.
Degree
Credit Requirements
Typical Program Length
Associate Degree
60-70 credits
2 years
Bachelor’s Degree
120 credits
4 years
Master’s Degree
50-70 credits
1-3 years
Doctorate
Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation
At least 4 years
A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to programming, with approximately 58.1% of workers getting one. People currently working in careers related to programming tend obtained the following education levels.
Level of Education
Percentage of Workers
Bachelor’s Degree
58.0%
Master’s Degree
13.6%
Associate’s Degree (or other 2-year degree)
9.3%
Doctoral Degree
6.6%
Post-Secondary Certificate
4.9%
ADBLOCK #172
79.9% of programming workers have at least a bachelor's. See the chart below for the most common degree level workers in computer programming have received.
This of course varies depending on which programming career you choose.
Programming Careers
Above AverageNumber of Jobs
$60.6kAverage Starting Salary
17% GrowthJob Outlook 2016-26
A large majority of Computer Programming graduates work for either software developers or as part of businesses or corporations. This degree equips graduates with the skills to work in any environment that relies on computers or programs.
Since computer programming can be done from any location, many corporations are hiring from other countries where they are able to pay lower wages.
High Growth Projected for Programming Careers
Want a job when you graduate with your programming degree? Computer Programming careers are expected to grow 16.6% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to computer programming.
Occupation Name
Projected Jobs
Expected Growth
Software Applications Developers
1,086,600
30.7%
Systems Software Developers
472,100
11.1%
Computer Programmers
273,600
-7.2%
Computer Network Support Specialists
215,200
8.2%
Web Developers
187,200
14.9%
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Programming Degree Salary Potential
Computer Programming graduates between <nil> reported earning an average of $60,572 in the <nil> timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $15,968 to as high as $105,265. As you might expect, salaries for programming graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Highest Paid Programming Careers
Salaries for computer programming graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers programming grads often go into.
Occupation Name
Median Average Salary
Systems Software Developers
$114,000
Software Applications Developers
$108,080
Computer Science Professors
$96,200
Computer Programmers
$89,580
Web Developers
$75,580
ADBLOCK #173
Getting Your Computer Programming Degree
With over 1,175 different programming degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased programming school rankings to help you with this.
by our College Data Analytics Team
