Profession - Programmer / Software Developer

Overview

A programmer is a specialist who writes and tests code for software. A more general term is a computer scientist, but the term "programmer" can be used to refer to a software developer, software engineer, computer specialist, software analyst, etc.

Responsibilities

• Develop software and applications using various computer languages (such as C++, Java, Python, etc.).
• Create and improve operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows, Linux).
• Develop websites, update and expand existing software, check programs for bugs and fix corrupted lines of computer code, create and test code in an integrated development environment (IDE), maintenance, network architecture.

When looking for a job, vacancies can be found by languages that programmers work with (C++ programmer, Java programmer, PHP programmer), by type of task (web-programmer, front-end / back-end developer), and by level of experience / position (intern, junior, mid, senior).

Salary data by country shown in the original page is presented as a rough approximation.

IT Specializations

There are a lot of specializations in IT. Popular areas include Computer Science and Software Engineering. Computer science is a general and diverse field with various branches (artificial intelligence, computer systems and networks, security). Also, Data Science is gaining momentum and implies work with statistics and mathematics. Among the promising areas for the future are computer security and artificial intelligence.

Education paths

It is not necessary to have a university degree to become a programmer, but many experienced specialists still insist on higher or at least secondary vocational education. It will take more time and effort to master IT on your own than in a university with a developed curriculum, mentors, and a structured program. If you choose self-study, be patient and persistent, read professional literature, attend courses, and practice a lot. However, note that high engineering and research positions usually require higher education. After school or college, it is possible to start as a simple developer, keep learning, and become a good specialist.

Secondary vocational education in programming

Studying in colleges has advantages : you can enter after the 9th grade; the term of study is usually shorter (3-4 years) and cheaper than at universities. Specialties include computer networks, network and system administration, information systems, and programming. Admission happens on a competitive basis. Students are trained during studies and can find a job after graduation. Continuous self-education will provide a professional with good job offers and high earnings.

University studies for a programmer

Universities provide a broader knowledge base, with applied mathematics, computer science, software engineering, and related programs. The subjects taught typically include basics of programming, computer networks, programming languages, information theory and machine learning, mathematical analysis, algebra and geometry, software engineering, intelligent systems, and modern information systems. Practical training is usually included.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements vary by country, university, and program. Usually, the following are required :

Programming education programs at top universities

All data must be verified at universities.

Programming is suitable for people who enjoy finding solutions to problems. This is probably the key element of IT. This requires creativity, an analytical mindset, and a desire to learn. Patience and perseverance help when debugging or solving a tricky problem. It is also important to have soft skills like quick reading and understanding of written instructions, problem identification, independence, curiosity, critical thinking, listening skills for teamwork, and attention to detail.

There is a possibility that in the future quantum computers will change computing, but such computers are still in early stages and have no well-established programming languages.

In many developing countries, programmers tend to go to work abroad. This is largely due to low salaries, a stagnant corporate culture, and limited free space, namely, the unwillingness to create something new and adherence to familiar techniques. Programming is a promising and growing industry in which the field for discovery and innovation is endless. However, not all companies create favorable and comfortable conditions for employees, as a result of which they not only lose talented personnel and stop improving their product but also impede the development of the industry in the country as a whole.

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