| What is Computer Programming? |
Computer programming is a process that leads from a problem specification to executable computer programs also known as software. Programming involves activities such as analysis, developing understanding, generating algorithms, verification of requirements of algorithms including their accuracy, resource consumption, and the coding/implementation of the algorithms using a programming language such as Java, C++, C#, .NET, or many others. Programmers or Software Developers may develop software in various industries.
The computer programming diploma is designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts principles, and techniques required in computer information processing.
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| Degree and Certificates |
- Computer Programming, AAS
- Computer Programming, Diploma
- Java Programming, Certificate
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| Semester Program Begins |
Fall, spring, or summer semesters; Full time; Day, evening and online classes. |
| Application Process |
Applicants to the Computer Programming program must meet all admission requirements; complete an application and pay the application fee. Individuals apply to Gwinnett Technical College at GwinnettTech.edu and submit all transcripts from high school and previous college work, and take the ACCUPLACER test, if required. |
| Prerequisite Courses |
Degree level proficiency required to take degree level General Education courses.
Diploma level proficency required to take diploma level General Education courses.
Diploma level proficiency in English, reading, and math required to take CIST technical courses. Please refer to course descriptions in the online catalog for specific prerequisites.
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| Program Deadlines |
You may enter in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. |
| Program Costs and Requirements |
Tuition and Books |
| For more information, contact: |
Dr. Sahng Min Han program director, SHan@GwinnettTech.edu, 678-226-6919. |
| For admission and enrollment, contact: |
Enrollment Support Center in Building 100 at the Lawrenceville campus, or Building A at the Alpharetta-North Fulton campus, or email CISTeam@GwinnettTech.edu. |
Quick Facts
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| (This data was compiled from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.) |
| 2020 Median pay |
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$89,190 per year / $42.88 per hour
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| Work experience in a related occupation |
Depends on company |
| On-the-job training |
Depends on company |
| Number of jobs, 2020 |
185,700 |
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Nature of the Work
Computer programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software programs to function properly. They turn the program designs created by software developers and engineers into instructions that a computer can follow. In addition, programmers test newly created applications and programs to ensure that they produce the expected results. If they do not work correctly, computer programmers check the code for mistakes and fix them.
Related Developers
- Software Developers: The creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or another device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or that control networks.
- Computer Systems Analysts: Study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and design information systems solutions to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively. They bring business and information technology (IT) together by understanding the needs and limitations of both.
Many programmers/software developers work for firms that deal in computer systems design and related service firms or for software publishers. Some system developers work in computer-and electronic product-manufacturing industries. Applications developers work in office environments, such as offices of insurance carriers or corporate headquarters.
In general, software development is a collaborative process, and developers work on teams with others who also contribute to designing, developing, and programming successful software. However, some developers telecommute (work away from the office).
Work Environment
Most programmers work full time. Computer programmers sometimes have to be on call outside of normal business hours in case of an emergency at their organization. While there are some work from home jobs, most are on-site in an office, working with offshore and onshore teams, or in business analysts teams. About 1 in 4 worked more than 40 hours per week.
Employment
9,700 openings for computer programmers are projected each year, on average, from 2020 to 2030. The need for new applications on mobile devices and tablets will help increase the demand for application software developers.
The health and medical insurance and reinsurance carrier’s industry will need innovative software to manage new healthcare policy enrollments and administer existing policies digitally. As the number of people who use this digital platform increases over time, demand for software developers will grow.
Earnings
Median annual wage nationally of programmer professionals was $89,000 in May 2020.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm
Gwinnett Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Lisa Richardson, Title IX, and Section 504 Coordinator, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Building 100, Room 407, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, 678-226-6691, LRichardson@GwinnettTech.edu.
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