When it comes to computer programming, hiring managers look for candidates who can adequately and intuitively write in Python, Java, Ruby, or other modern coding languages. What’s less important, in many cases, is whether the candidate possesses a formalized education in the form of a degree. Online computer programing certificates remain a popular option in this field, and for good reason: students can complete a shorter course of study but still gain the skills needed to competently write code and program apps, websites, and software.
Looking at job postings, an individual might soon notice that in the absence of degree requirements, hiring managers often ask candidates to possess a certain number of years working with a particular type of code. Learners can complete an online computer programming certificate to gain this skill and find work. Still, individuals hoping to work in managerial or leadership positions in the future will likely need to go back to school for a bachelor’s degree to attain these goals.
For those looking to break into the field, an online computer programming certificate can offer a great first step. Keep reading to learn about median salaries, accreditation, timelines, common courses, and professional associations.
Certificate in Computer Programming Online Ranking Guidelines
We selected these accredited online computer programming certificate programs based on the quality of the program, types of courses provided, faculty strength, school awards, rankings and reputation, including the reputation for providing online degree programs.
The Best Online Certificate in Computer Programming Degree Programs
School List
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mt San Antonio College |
Walnut, CA | ||
| 2 |
Georgia Piedmont Technical College |
Clarkston, GA | ||
| 3 |
Central Georgia Technical College |
Warner Robins, GA | ||
| 4 |
William T McFatter Technical College |
Davie, FL | ||
| 5 |
Champlain College |
Burlington, VT | ||
| 6 |
St Petersburg College |
Clearwater, FL | ||
| 7 |
Minnesota West Community and Technical College |
Granite Falls, MN | ||
| 8 |
Seminole State College of Florida |
Sanford, FL | ||
| 9 |
Bristol Community College |
Fall River, MA | ||
| 10 |
Lansing Community College |
Lansing, MI | ||
| 11 |
Washtenaw Community College |
Ann Arbor, MI | ||
| 12 |
Schoolcraft College |
Livonia, MI | ||
| 13 |
Westmoreland County Community College |
Youngwood, PA | ||
| 14 |
Clark State Community College |
Springfield, OH | ||
| 15 |
Wake Technical Community College |
Raleigh, NC | ||
| 16 |
Guilford Technical Community College |
Jamestown, NC | ||
| 17 |
Stark State College |
North Canton, OH | ||
| 18 |
Rio Salado College |
Tempe, AZ | ||
| 19 |
Pitt Community College |
Winterville, NC | ||
| 20 |
Macomb Community College |
Warren, MI |
End of list, bravo!
The Advantages of a Computer Programming Education
Online computer programming certificate holders qualify for several entry-level coding jobs. Like professionals in creative disciplines, many self-taught computer programmers can secure work through sheer knowledge and passion. However, the discipline has also started formalizing requirements in recent years, meaning those with associate or bachelor’s degrees often edge out individuals with only a certificate. That being said, students who gain entry-level positions and work their way up can earn top salaries without completing further formal education, but they may struggle to land managerial positions.
Completing one of many computer science certificate programs online can act as a great first step into the industry. Check out the common jobs and average salaries in the next section.
Computer Programming Salary Information
Companies in many industries and fields rely on computer programmers to help translate their visions into products, websites, databases, and applications. Computer programmers can work in house for a single client or freelance for several customers at a time. Regardless of location, all computer programmers must possess acute attention to detail, interest in problem-solving, and a knack for design. They frequently work in standard office settings, but freelancers may also set up shop in coffee houses and other public places with internet access.
- Computer Programmer
- Computer programmers work for a variety of clients to write programs using computer coding language, test their code to ensure no errors exist, and continually update the code as the product sees upgrades to its capabilities.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $51,000
- Mid-Career: $56,600
- Experienced: $69,000
- Late Career: $77,600
- Computer Support Specialist
- Working in a role similar to customer service but for tech questions, computer support specialists interact with users to help them sort out any network or system errors. They walk callers through troubleshooting processes, make recommendations for how to fix any errors, and, if necessary, arrange for a local specialist to fix the issue.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $31,760
- Mid-Career: $35,700
- Experienced: $40,060
- Late Career: $44,000
- Web Developer
- These professionals conceptualize, design, and create websites for clients from a wide spectrum of industries. They meet with customers to understand their needs, write and test code, upload content, and communicate consistently to sort any bugs or issues when the site launches. Some companies require a web developer to possess a bachelor’s degree.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $50,000
- Mid-Career: $56,000
- Experienced: $65,000
- Late Career: $70,000
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Individuals in these roles direct all activities related to computers within their organization. They determine company needs, install and replace new hardware and software, manage budgets, and plan training on new programs. Most of these managers possess bachelor’s degrees, but a certificate can put students on the path to holding this position.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $57,000
- Mid-Career: $67,000
- Experienced: $78,000
- Late Career: $91,000
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Typically, working at tech companies like Apple or Dell, these individuals build the systems and hardware that power technology. They design new types of hardware, test prototypes for shortcomings, and modify their designs based on feedback. A certificate can help a student to qualify for this role, but they’ll need a bachelor’s degree to compete against other applicants.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $70,000
- Mid-Career: $76,000
- Experienced: $90,000
- Late Career: $112,000
Source: PayScale
Choosing an Online Computer Programming Program
Before diving headlong into an online computer programming certificate, prospective students need to carefully assess their options. Cost-conscious learners can attend an in-state public school that offers these programs. With so many online certificate options available, students can afford to be picky and hold out for a program that fits their exact needs. If you feel uncertain about what to look for in a potential program, review the factors highlighted in this section.
- Program Cost
- A student who completes an online computer programming certificate at a local community college may be able to finish it for free, while those who select a private four-year institution could end up paying more than $10,000 for the program. If cost matters, try to find an affordable yet reputable option.
- Transfer Policies
- If you decide later to pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree, credits gained in the certificate may transfer to your new program. Ensure that you attend an accredited school for the certificate.
- School Size and Type
- Some students enjoy the anonymity of larger classes, while others seek intimate learning environments to get to know classmates and professors. Ask about average class size when applying to the program.
- Program Length
- Programs can take as few as six months or if two years, depending on the number of credits required and whether the student enrolls on a full- or part-time basis. Accelerated options Typically, exist for those who want to graduate quickly.
- On-Campus Requirements
- Most online computer science certificate programs allow learners to meet all certificate requirements from the comfort of their homes. Especially if you’re attending a school far away, speak to an admissions counselor to ensure you do not need to travel to campus to gain the certificate.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certificate in Computer Programming?
Before committing to an online computer programming certificate, many students want to know how long they should plan to be enrolled. The simple answer is that it can vary significantly based on the program you choose. Some programs require just 12 credits, while others mandate up to 33 credits. If studying on a full-time basis, this means you could spend anywhere from 4-18 months completing all requirements.
Many individuals who pursue certificates online do so to balance professional and personal responsibilities alongside their academic aspirations. When studying on a part-time basis, expect to spend 9-24 months working toward your goal. If trying to finish quickly, seek out an accelerated program. These tracks offer shorter class sessions, making it possible to complete more credits in less time.
Courses in an Online Certificate in Computer Programming Program
- Intro to Computer Programming
- Typically, taken during the first semester, this foundational course introduces students to the coding landscape and teaches them how to solve programming issues, create coding decision structures, and work with binary and hexadecimal numbers.
- Java Programming
- This course familiarizes students with the Java coding language and covers topics such as design, code, execution, and how to debug within Java programs. Learners also cover topics such as ArrayList, String, data types, data classes, and handling exceptions.
- App Development
- Students interested in working with smartphone and tablet apps can take this course, which helps them build skills in both Android programming and iOS app development. Students can create apps and test other students’ betas for bugs.
- SQL Database Design
- Individuals interested in designing and programming databases with SQL can use this class to learn about optimization, architecture, modeling, and application. Learners can gain a working knowledge of SQL and the skills needed to begin building their own databases.
- Web Foundations
- A great fit for students who aspire to write code for web design, this course helps build the necessary skills for designing, developing, and maintaining sophisticated web presences. A few topics covered include cascading-style sheets, client-server dynamics, web production vocabulary, and HTML.
Accreditation for Online Computer Programming Programs
Accreditation is an important component in the college decision-making process, as failing to attend an accredited college can cause lasting issues for students as they seek to transfer credits, earn licensure, and compete for jobs. When considering accreditation, know that there are two overarching types: institutional and programmatic.
Institutional accreditation breaks down further into regional and national accreditation. Most four-year universities maintain regional accreditation, which is Typically, seen as the more rigorous and respected of the two. Trade colleges and vocational schools tend to maintain national accreditation.
Programmatic accreditation exists for individual degrees and departments. These accrediting agencies look at the curriculum, faculty, and other programmatic components to ensure it adequately prepares students for their field upon graduation. The Computing Accreditation Commission, a part of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Typically, accredits programs in this realm, but it does not accredit certificates. When looking at accreditation as part of your search for a certificate program, ensure the school maintains institutional accreditation.
To search for accreditation agencies and accredited schools, visit either the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation database. Both organizations conduct oversight for accrediting agencies.
Computer Programming Membership Associations
No matter whether you’re still a student or a seasoned industry veteran, joining a computer programming professional organization provides myriad benefits. In addition to providing networking opportunities through local chapters and national conferences, these groups also often feature mentoring, job boards, and career development support.
- Association for Women in Computing
- In existence since 1978, AWC promotes and advances females in computing professions. The group provides local chapters, professional networking opportunities, continuing education, mentoring, and awards and hosts an annual conference.
- IEEE Computer Society
- This professional group supports members by offering a series of conferences, in-house publications, a comprehensive digital library, opportunities for continuing education, a jobs board, resource center, and professional community groups.
- National Association of Programmers
- NAP helps members thrive by providing several member benefits, including opportunities for certification, regional and national events, professional networking groups, student support groups, positions within the association, and opportunities to publish findings within the group’s newsletter or journal.
- Association for Computing Machinery
- With a focus on advancing computing as a science and a profession, ACM manages the annual Turing Awards, provides prizes to outstanding members, publishes materials, hosts special interest groups, supports local chapters, and offers continuing education credits.
- Association of Software Professionals
- A great fit for students and graduates looking to get their foot in the door of software development, the ASP offers a member directory, newsletter, tips on growing your business, resources, networking, and access to hundreds of other members who are willing to share their knowledge and expertise.
