Everything in our digital world runs on code. From the simplest mobile apps to the most complex software systems, lines of code are the fundamental building blocks. Perhaps you’ve always been intrigued by this, fascinated by how seemingly simple instructions can create intricate and powerful technologies. Maybe this curiosity has even led you to explore programming yourself, dabbling in languages and teaching yourself the fundamentals of coding.
If you recognize yourself in this description, you might be considering taking your self-taught coding skills to the next level and pursuing a formal career in programming. The good news is that the tech industry is brimming with opportunities for individuals with programming expertise. Whether you envision yourself deeply immersed in writing code all day or leveraging your programming knowledge to influence broader business strategies, a career in programming offers a wide spectrum of paths.
This article will delve into the diverse landscape of programming careers, helping you understand the various roles available in software development, engineering, data science, and related fields. We’ll explore different programming job types, typical responsibilities, and what you can expect in terms of career outlook and opportunities.
9 Programming Careers to Consider
What specific programming jobs are out there? What kind of tasks do they involve? And what can you anticipate in terms of salary in a programming career? We’ve compiled answers to these questions and more, using data-driven insights.
By analyzing over 1.8 million job postings that emphasized programming skills, we’ve identified nine common and promising programming careers for you to consider. Dive into the details of each role to discover which coding job might align with your interests and aspirations.
1. Software Application Developer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 25 percent (Much faster than average)
Software application developers are the creative minds behind the applications we use daily on our smartphones, tablets, and computers. They are responsible for the entire lifecycle of an application, from initial design and development to testing, implementation, and updates. These professionals work to create new applications or enhance existing ones, focusing on user needs and functionality.
This career path is well-suited for individuals who possess a holistic perspective and enjoy collaborative projects, working with teams to transform ideas into tangible digital solutions. Strong foundational coding skills and a knack for mathematical concepts are crucial for success in this role. Software application developers need to be proficient in various programming languages and development methodologies to bring innovative and user-friendly applications to life.
Most Common Programming Languages for Software Application Developers:
- Java®
- JavaScript®
- Python®
A software developer deeply focused on writing code, illustrating the concentration and skill required in this programming career.
2. Web Developer
- Required Education: Associate’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 23 percent (Much faster than average)
Web developers are the architects of the internet. They are responsible for crafting the look, feel, and functionality of websites. Their work directly translates into the user experience of any website, making it a highly impactful programming career. While all programming roles require patience, web development often offers a more immediate sense of accomplishment as you can see your creations come to life relatively quickly.
Web developers collaborate closely with clients to understand their needs and objectives, then leverage their technical expertise to build websites that effectively serve their business goals. This involves selecting the appropriate programming languages, designing user interfaces, and ensuring the website is accessible, responsive, and performs optimally. A strong portfolio showcasing their work and a comprehensive understanding of various coding languages are essential for web developers.
Most Common Programming Languages for Web Developers:
- JavaScript
- Java
- HTML5
A web developer strategically plans the layout and design of a website, demonstrating the visual and functional aspects of this programming career.
3. Computer Network Architect
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 4 percent (About average)
Computer network architects are the master planners behind a company’s communication and data networks. They design and implement network systems, ranging from small local area networks (LANs) connecting offices to large-scale wide area networks (WANs) and cloud infrastructures. They are responsible for creating a robust and efficient network plan, presenting it to company leadership, and then overseeing its implementation and ongoing optimization of both hardware and software components.
These professionals ensure seamless data communication within and outside the organization. They need a deep understanding of networking technologies, security protocols, and hardware infrastructure. The role demands a strategic mindset and the ability to manage complex systems to ensure reliable and secure network performance.
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Network Architects:
- PERL®
- Tcl
- Python
4. Database Administrator
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 9 percent (Faster than average)
Database administrators (DBAs) are the guardians of an organization’s digital information. They are tasked with the critical responsibility of securing, organizing, and maintaining databases that store vast amounts of data. Their work is essential for ensuring data integrity, accessibility, and performance. DBAs are also responsible for troubleshooting database issues, implementing security measures, and ensuring data recovery in case of system failures.
For individuals who enjoy analyzing and recovering information and possess strong problem-solving skills, a career as a database administrator can be highly rewarding. They play a vital role in managing and protecting valuable data assets, ensuring smooth operations and data-driven decision-making within organizations.
Most Common Programming Languages for Database Administrators:
- Python
- Java
- Oracle® PL/SQL
A database administrator working within a server room, highlighting the infrastructure management aspect of this programming-related career.
5. Computer Systems Analyst
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 9 percent (Faster than average)
Computer systems analysts act as strategic bridges between business needs and technology solutions. They are responsible for understanding a company’s business objectives and then recommending and implementing IT systems to achieve those goals. This involves evaluating existing computer systems and network infrastructure, identifying areas for improvement, and proposing upgrades and new technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Success in this programming career requires a blend of technical expertise and business acumen. Computer systems analysts need a solid understanding of computer coding principles as well as business processes to effectively align IT initiatives with overall business strategies. They play a crucial role in optimizing technology investments and driving business growth through strategic IT solutions.
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Systems Analysts:
- JavaScript
- Python
6. Software Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 25 percent (Much faster than average)
Software QA engineers are the critical gatekeepers of software quality. They play a vital role in the software development lifecycle by ensuring that software products meet the required standards and function flawlessly. Their responsibilities begin early in the development process, involving documenting defects, designing comprehensive test plans and scenarios, and creating user manuals for new software.
QA engineers meticulously review software designs, analyze functionality, and identify potential problems before software is released. Their attention to detail and rigorous testing procedures are crucial for delivering reliable and high-quality software products. This role is essential for maintaining user satisfaction and preventing costly errors in software applications.
Most Common Programming Languages for Software QA Engineers:
- Java
- Python
A software QA engineer rigorously testing software across different devices, emphasizing the importance of quality control in programming careers.
7. Business Intelligence Analyst
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 11 percent (Faster than average)
Business intelligence (BI) analysts are data detectives who uncover insights from data to inform business decisions. While not strictly a pure programming role, programming skills are a significant advantage for BI analysts. They gather and analyze data related to software products, market trends, and business performance to identify opportunities for improvement and strategic decision-making.
BI analysts utilize software and analytical tools to process data, create reports, and present findings to stakeholders. They help businesses understand market dynamics, customer behavior, and product performance, enabling data-driven strategies. For those interested in the application of data and technology to solve business challenges, a career as a BI analyst offers a compelling path.
Most Common Programming Languages for Business Intelligence Analysts:
- R
- Java
8. Computer Programmer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): -10 percent (Slower than average)
Computer programmers are the core coders who write and refine the programs that power our digital world. They translate software designs and specifications into actual code, using programming languages to create functional software applications. Programmers write, test, and debug code, ensuring it is error-free and performs as intended. They often work with workflow charts and coding formulas to achieve desired outcomes.
Attention to detail and patience are paramount in this programming career. While the overall employment growth for this specific role is projected to be slower than average, skilled computer programmers remain in demand across various industries. Their expertise in writing clean, efficient, and reliable code is fundamental to software development.
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Programmers:
- Java
- JavaScript
- Microsoft C#®
A computer programmer intensely focused on writing code across multiple monitors, illustrating the focused and detail-oriented nature of this programming role.
9. Network System Administrator
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 3 percent (Slower than average)
Network system administrators are the IT professionals who maintain and manage an organization’s computer network infrastructure. They ensure the smooth operation of network systems, prevent disruptions, and safeguard data integrity. Their responsibilities include network security, virus protection, data backup and recovery, and ensuring the overall health and performance of the organization’s network and computer systems.
Network administrators need a broad understanding of networking hardware, software, and security protocols. They troubleshoot network issues, implement security measures, and perform routine maintenance to keep systems running efficiently and securely. This role is crucial for maintaining the backbone of an organization’s IT operations.
Most Common Programming Languages for Network Administrators:
- Python
- PERL®
- Java
Finding Your Path in Programming
Now that you have a clearer picture of the diverse careers available in programming, it’s time to consider how to advance your skills and embark on your chosen path. Building upon your foundational coding knowledge is key, and formal education can be a significant asset.
While many of these programming careers typically require a Bachelor’s degree, an Associate’s degree coupled with a strong portfolio can also open doors to entry-level positions in computer systems design and coding. Continuously learning and building a portfolio of projects showcasing your skills are essential steps towards a successful career in programming.
Related Articles:
1Burning-Glass.com (analysis of 1,800,750 jobs that require programming skills, June 01, 2019 – May 31, 2020).
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [career information accessed May 2023]. Salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries, and employment conditions in your area may vary.
Java and JavaScript are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. Python is a registered trademark of the Python Software Foundation. PERL is a registered trademark of The PERL Foundation
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published in December 2016. It has since been updated to include information relevant to 2023.
