The tsunamic ubiquity of computers in today’s technology-driven world has created a multitude of job opportunities for computer programmers. Anything that we do with a computer, software application or computer system hinges on what programmers have done with writing source code, their ability to change or reconfigure code, and their expertise in finding and debugging any problems with software.

Education
Most employers require programmers to possess at least an associate's degree, although a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in computer science, mathematics, information systems or a related computer technology field is more common. Plus, qualified candidates also need to possess knowledge of the major programming languages such as C++, Java, and XML, and have experience working with database systems such as Oracle and Sybase.

One of the keys in computer programming education is the ability to obtain national certifications in a variety of programming languages and software applications. In addition to a formal education, these certifications, many of them offered in an online format, enhance an employee’s marketability and job prospects. In essence, computer programmers must possess the ability to be lifelong learners who continuously upgrade their skill sets in order to function in today’s ever-changing world.

Potential Career Paths:

• Basic Programmers: Computer programmers write programs for computers. They take the designs from computer software engineers and systems analysts and convert their designs into a series of instructions that a computer can logically follow. These instructions are written in a variety of programming languages, depending on the application. These languages include C++, Java and Python. Once a program is written, computer programmers consistently update, debug, assess and make changes to it.
• Computer Software Engineers: Computer software engineers design and develop software. Utilizing the theories and principles of computer science and mathematical analysis, computer software engineers create and assess various software applications and how they work with the systems in their work environment.  Because of the ever-changing nature of software and computing systems, computer software engineers must possess expertise in both the practical and theoretical aspects of computer systems, software and hardware.
• Web Designers and Developers: Web designers and developers are partially to blame for the tsunami of information cascading all around us. Web developers are programmers who develop web pages that are attractive, detailed and allow us to move quickly from page to page. They organize information in an appropriate format and update web pages so that we can have the newest information at our fingertips.
• Computer Systems Analyst: Computer systems analysts look at systems in terms of: how they work, how they are engineered, how they will be used, what procedures need to be followed, the specific user requirements for a project and the computer system’s capabilities.  They also decide which software to recommend to their employers, how to mediate the challenges that may occur in programs and how to help their employer analyze any other computer programming issues. Computer system analysts typically supervise computer programmers.
• Freelancing Consultant: The ability to work from home or another location has offered programmers an innovative, yet different way to compete in the programming world. While some companies have opted for developing in-house teams, other companies have decided that hiring contracted freelance programmers or consultants for specific projects has allowed them to be more flexible in the workplace. For the freelancer or consultant, being able to live anywhere and telecommute creates a more conducive work environment for them. Thus, with a combination of programming skill sets, programmers can opt for a career in freelance consulting work.

Future Potential
No one really knows the future of computer programming jobs or which new software applications will emerge from minds of programmers and developers. This much we do know: If the last two decades are any indication of what is to come, then strap yourself in because we have not seen anything yet. The key to your job future in this field is being able to keep up with the changes in programming and the emergence of new software and hardware.