How to Become a Computer Programmer
Write, modify, and test the code that makes applications run, turning specifications into working software. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $100,390 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$100,390/yr
Job growth
-1%
Openings / yr
5,500
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Programming
- Debugging
- Testing
- Reading Comprehension
- Problem Solving
Helpful certifications
- Language/platform certifications (e.g., Oracle Java, Microsoft)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
null/100
Stress level
null/100
Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Computer and Information Research Scientist$140,300 median
- Database Architect$139,500 median
- Computer Network Architect$134,050 median
- Computer Systems Analyst$105,850 median
- Video Game Designer$104,000 median
- Network Support Specialist$76,220 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Computer Programmer make?
The median pay for a Computer Programmer is $100,390 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Computer Programmer?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Information Technology.
Is Computer Programmer a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about -1% over the decade, with roughly 5,500 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Computer Programmer use most?
Common skills for this role are Programming, Debugging, Testing, Reading Comprehension, and Problem Solving.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.