Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming: It Might Be Perfect For You
Computer programming is an important aspect of computer and information technology. These programmers write code to build software and applications. It is a booming field in which the demand rate for professionals is high.
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Graduates of computer programming can build careers as web developers, information security analysts, and software developers. To be able to succeed in these job sectors, a background in computer programming is required. A way to achieve this is by earning a bachelor’s degree in computer programming.
Getting this degree online is practical for professionals who are taking classes by the side. It offers flexibility and convenience to students. The internet classes follow the same formula used in traditional classrooms. That is, taking the courses on campus or taking them online means very little as both will lead to the same opportunities and advances in career.
Online Computer Programming Degree
Duration and Cost of an Online Computer Programming Degree
Earning a bachelor’s degree online in computer programming usually takes four years for full-time students. These online degree programs require students to earn between 120 and 124 credits. It could take less for students transferring with credits.
The tuition paid for studying an online computer programming course depends on different factors. Some schools charge a flat rate for online students while others charge based on residency. Tuition is higher for out-of-state students. Another factor is the technology fee.
The cost per credit for this online degree ranges from $350 to $480. Summing it all up, students may have to pay a tuition fee between $42,000 and $60,000.
Accreditation of Online Computer Programming Degree Programs
Accreditation is one of the most important things to consider while choosing a college or university to enroll. The process involves an objective and extensive review of the school’s educational activities and the services rendered to the students.
Accreditation is given to institutions by agencies registered and recognized by the Department of Education. Accreditation affects a lot in the student’s academic journey in terms of the validity of the student’s degree and certificate, eligibility for financial aid, and course credit transferability. It is important to enroll in a school or program nationally or regionally accredited.
Online Computer Programming Coursework
Taking online computer programming courses can be an avenue to learn, taking students through the introduction to computer programming, and exploring specialized areas in the course to develop professional skills.
The learning curve begins at basic fundamental topics and tasks like coding, testing, and debugging simple programs. It then goes on to more complex projects that require more experience and specialization.
The specialized courses may include front-end programming languages like HTML and CSS, back-end programming, designing, program web, and mobile applications. All these are branches of a broad area known as internet programming.
Capstone Project
In some institutions, online students are given a capstone project towards the end of their computer programming bachelor’s degree program. They carry out a practical project using knowledge from their coursework.
Online computer programming students can develop their programming skills by participating in course projects. Taking on courses like project management can help newbie programmers build their organizational and business communication skills.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Computer Programming?
By earning a in computer programming, graduates can develop programming and analytical skills and then take on jobs of web developers, computer programmers, etc.
A bachelor’s in computer programming prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the fast-growing field of computer and information technology. By developing programming and analytical skills, graduates are positioned to take on roles as computer programmers, web developers, and information security analysts.
Web Developers
Web developers’ work involves going through a series of actions of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining websites. They also create content for websites sometimes. Educational requirements vary for this job, depending on the employer’s preferences. In some cases, employers prefer developers with a bachelor’s degree.
Software Developers
Software developers either work with programmers or write codes themselves while they design software programs from start to finish. Their qualification is usually a bachelor’s degree and then they proceed to specialize in computer programming.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts protect computer networks belonging to organizations or individuals and their information systems. They make plans and implement security measures to ensure that the systems are protected. A bachelor’s degree is usually the least requirement needed to be an analyst as work experience is also important.
Computer Programmers
Computer programmers engage in programming by writing and testing codes used in applications and software programs. To be a certified computer programmer, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science is needed while they go on to specialize in a particular programming language.
Professional Associations in Computer Programming
Professional associations for computer programmers offer a lot of resources and benefits to students. Benefits like job listings, networking opportunities, publications, journals, and so on. A few professional associations are below.
Association for Computing Machinery
The Association for Computing Machinery is the world’s largest computing society having members consisting of over 100,000 people. The association assists its members with networking, sharing of ideas and helps to develop information technology experts. Alongside all these benefits is the availability of educational resources for members. It is made of 37 interest groups and over 860 local chapters.
IEEE Computer Society
Over 60,000 members belong to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society, with the members working in the computer science field or technology field. The IEEE Computer Society offers its members professional certifications in disciplines related to computing, organizes annual events, and publishes about seventeen journals and thirteen magazines.
CompTIA Association of Information Technology Professionals
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) supports and mentors university students in the study of information technology in many ways like administering a student mentorship program. CompTIA AITP promotes the IT field and encourages its network of students, educators, and professionals in their pursuit of specialization, by giving awards to outstanding. They also publish journals and organize events for members.
Job Outlook for Graduates
Computer programming is a fast-growing and in-demand field and as such the job prospects are strong. Computer and information technology professionals can make headway in their division of choice as this field keeps expanding and more advanced technology is being used. The great demand for computer programmers is a result of the increase in the use of cloud computing and an urgent need for data collection and storage.
Conclusion
The world is on the internet now and daily activities are done through it. This makes computer programming fertile soil for graduates. As a result of this shift in the use of technology, there is a need to protect one’s systems and data.
This paradigm shift has created a realization and a need for professional information security analysts to keep their information safe. Candidates in this field are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in the field.
