Computer Programming Associate Degree Online
Guide to Schools offering a Computer Programming Associate Degree
Take a look at the code below, and see if you can figure out what it means:
sub radixSort{ my @A = @_; my $d = length($A[0]); for (my $pos = $d - 1; $pos >= 0; $pos--) { @A = sort sortFunction($pos) @A; displayArray($pos, @A); }}
Give up? This code is written in Perl, and its function is to sort things like integers. Believe it or not but to people with a computer programming associate degree, all those lines of letters and symbols actually mean something. They can take one look at it and know what it's for, and know if there is something out of place that's preventing the program from running correctly.
When most people see code it's like trying to read Latin; it doesn't make any sense. But skilled programmers know how to read code, and in turn use that code to create computer programs that make our world an easier, more pleasant place to live and work. Computer programmers are responsible for writing all the instructions that a machine must follow in order to do something. It's a detail-oriented, demanding career, but one that's fun and interesting for people who love computers.
If you're at all interested in computers then getting an associate degree in computer programming would be a great step for you. It's a well-paid field because just about everyone uses computer programs, so once you're in job security is pretty high.
So, we'll hit you with the bad news first. The field of computer programming is slowing a bit right now. Competition is fierce due to limited openings, so you need to know what you're doing if you want to make a career in this. Most employers prefer candidates to have at least a Bachelor's in this field, so while getting a computer programming associate degree is a smart first step, you will probably want to continue onward with your education if you want to do well.
The good news is just what we mentioned earlier: computer programmers make great money. The average income, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, is around $64,000. Programmers work for a variety of companies including Microsoft, Google, and Sun Microsystems, but also in places you might not expect, like smaller start-ups. They get to work solo as well as on teams, and much of the time their work is fun and challenging.
If you decide to pursue a computer programming associate degree you'll get to learn all about different programming languages, algorithms, networking, SQL concepts, operating systems, database management, and much, much more. It's a field that offers a fascinating inside look on how the programs we use everyday really work.
People that excel in this field are very detail-oriented. One comma out of place in your code and the whole program won't work right! You definitely need patience, and a strong love of the field.
If this sounds like you, however, then you might want to look at getting your associate degree in computer programming. Yes, it's challenging and competitive, but once you're in you're well rewarded for all your hard work!
