The Best Online Computer Programming Certificate Programs

1. Mt. San Antonio College

Walnut, California

A public community college, Mt. San Antonio College offers more than 240 academic programs alongside 25 free student support services, such as tutoring and counseling. Students can pursue associate degrees, certificates, community recreation courses, career education, youth summer programs, and adult education. Students can also explore online learning opportunities, including an online computer programming certificate.

Distance learning at Mt. SAC delivers coursework entirely online with no required meetings on campus other than the potential for certain examination requirements. Students can also explore hybrid formats, combining on-campus features with online coursework. The C++ certificate features classes that help provide students with the skills needed to create business-oriented applications in C++, learn the techniques and tools for working as a systems analyst, and maintain a Microsoft Access database.

The program places an emphasis on object-oriented programming techniques and the creation of forms, tables, reports, queries, and implementing computer systems using the life cycle methodology of system development. Students learn to create business applications, troubleshoot, write effective program documentation, and build computer systems by using steps of the system development life cycle. The curriculum features computer information systems, systems analysis and design, and Windows operating systems.

2. Georgia Piedmont Technical College

Clarkston, Georgia

Georgia Piedmont Technical College belongs to the Technical College System of Georgia and provides education for four counties in the metro Atlanta area: Rockdale, Newton, Dekalb, and Morgan counties. The college awards diplomas, technical certificates, and associate degrees across many disciplines and includes online opportunities, such as an online C# programmer certificate and a Java programming certificate.

The C# programming certificate and the Java programming certificate focus on software design. Throughout the curriculum, students develop skills in systems analysis, web development, C# programming, and oracle databases. Students must complete 22 credit hours for each certificate.

GPTC’s Java programming certificates provide students with an understanding of the techniques, principles, and concepts in computer information processing. Applicants to the program must complete an online admissions application or submit an application in person along with a $25 application fee. Additionally, applicants must provide high school transcripts or GED scores and SAT or ACT test scores.

Applicants that completed part of their education outside the U.S. must meet the foreign educational credentials. All applicants must provide verification of lawful presence in the U.S. in the form of a current ID, driver’s license, birth certificate, military identification card, or an approved FAFSA for the current financial aid year.

3. Central Georgia Technical College

Warner Robins, Georgia

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Central Georgia Technical College provides education for eleven counties in central Georgia, including Bibb, Baldwin, Dooly, Crawford, Jones, Houston, Peach, Monroe, Putnam, Pulaski, and Twiggs counties. Students can explore online opportunities at the university, such as an online computer programming certificate.

The computer information systems program at Central Georgia Technical College holds a membership with Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance and approval by CISCO Systems CNAP program. CGTC features an associate degree in computer programming along with a computer programming diploma.

Applicants must submit an application and pay the application fee, complete a student agreement form, verify their lawful presence, apply for financial aid, complete a placement test, and provide official transcripts.

Students can apply for transient student status if currently enrolled at CGTC and wanting to attend another accredited institution. These students must remain in good academic standing with a 2.0 minimum GPA. Learners must meet any prerequisites and consider courses currently within their area of study and the class cannot be offered at CGTC. These students can take these courses at another institution through online formats or on campus in some circumstances if they desire a face-to-face approach.

4. William T McFatter Technical College

Davie, Florida

William T. McFatter Technical College is an adult technical college that includes a magnet high school in Davie, Florida, as part of the Broward County Public School district. The college promotes excellence in career, academic, and technical studies to prepare students to enter and thrive in a global workforce. MTC’s diverse program offerings include an online Java and development programming certificate.

The online Java development and programming certificate includes the fundamentals of software development and programming, testing, monitoring, documenting, debugging, and the usage of Java programming language. The rigorous curriculum covers computer programming, foundations of programming, and specialized Java database programming. Students can pursue four different certification programs, including computer programmer assistant, information technology assistant, computer programmer, and Java developer.

The information technology assistant program and the computer programmer option comprise 150 hours, the computer programmer assistant program comprises 300 hours, and students in the Java developer program must complete 600 hours. Program applicants must schedule the Tests of Adult Basic Education, attend an appointment with their program advisor, and register for their classes during open enrollment. Graduates can pursue employment as business analysts, Java programmers, and quality assurance analysts.

5. Champlain College

Burlington, Vermont

Founded in 1878, Champlain College offers on-campus and online undergraduate courses along with online master’s and certificate programs in over 80 areas of study. The college highlights its “upside down curriculum” that allows students to take courses related to their major during their first semester as opposed to typical programs that dedicate the first semester to general education requirements only. Students can explore a variety of prestigious opportunities at the college, including one of the top computer programming certificate programs online.

The online Java programming certificate at Champlain College allows students to develop applets and application using Java language programming techniques and concepts, including polymorphism, inheritance, multithreading, abstract classes and interfaces, graphical user interfaces, and linked data structures. The program also incorporates the concepts learned in a practical or simulated environment, exploring the software development life cycle from the beginning phases into the deployment and support phases.

The online Java programming certificate option builds a foundation of the science of computing and programming, including algorithms, object-oriented programming principles, the internet and computer architecture, and computer logic. The program focuses on database theory and how it relates to the development, design, and implementation of database-driven web applications. Students learn how to use structured query language to modify and access data in relational databases and concepts for developing web-enabled Java database applications.

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6. St. Petersburg College

Clearwater, Florida

A state college, St. Petersburg College belongs to the Florida College System. SPC enrolls nearly 65,000 students each year and highlights a variety of attractive online opportunities, such as an online computer programming certificate.

SPC’s online programs offer students the flexibility and convenience of distance education to earn their college degree or expand their job skills. SPC currently functions as Florida’s largest online campus, offering more than 650 online courses with dozens of degrees that students can complete entirely online. The online programs combine the power and convenience of innovative technology with personal interaction between faculty and students and online resources.

The online computer programmer certificate teaches computer languages to help students write applications that run business software, video games, operating systems, and desktop computers. The curriculum allows students to develop specialized skills in C++ for business, Java, JavaScript, and SQL database design and programming. Students can complete Java courses in the computer programmer certificate program to prepare for industry certification.

The certificate can transfer to the computer programming and analysis associate in science degree which in turn transfers to the technology development and management bachelor of applied science degree.

7. Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Granite Falls, Minnesota

At Minnesota West Community and Technical College, students can pursue diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees in over 60 areas of study. Among the various program offerings, students can enroll in an online computer programming certificate.

The online computer programmer specialist certificate develops students experience with multiple computer programming languages, teaches them to creatively and logically design concise code, and reviews how to maintain and execute knowledge. These certificates encourage lifelong learning and recognize student achievement. Schedules vary by semester, so students might not always find a specific course available at certain times during the school year. Coursework covers fund programming in C++, data security awareness, introduction to microcomputers, and Java programming.

The college features post-secondary enrollment options to provide high school students with the chance to earn college credits by completing college courses while still in high school. Students can complete the college courses free of tuition to save both time and money on completing post-secondary credentials. These courses can also fulfill high school requirements. Juniors and seniors can complete their post-secondary courses online, enjoying maximum levels of flexibility.

8. Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, Florida

Offering four campus locations in central Florida, Seminole State College of Florida functions as the eighth largest member institution of the Florida College System. Seminole State began when Florida State Legislature signed a charter creating Seminole Junior college in 1966. Today, the college offers a variety of academic programs across many disciplines, including an online computer programming certificate option.

Seminole State offers a variety of certificate programs online in the following areas: architecture, engineering, and construction; business, legal, and entrepreneurship; and public safety, information technology, education, and health. Students can complete certificate coursework entirely online, although some classes require students to come to campus for exams or orientations. Students can make alternate arrangements if they cannot physically come to campus to complete an orientation or exam.

The computer programming technical certificate provides students with specialized training to enhance and develop occupational proficiency. Graduates can pursue entry-level employment as computer programmers or programmer trainees. The program is compatible with Seminole State’s associate of science degree in computer programming and analysis.

Coursework covers systems analysis and design, web programming, database management, computer applications, and network concepts and operating systems. Students must complete 33 credit hours of coursework with six credits of elective coursework available in Python programming, C++ programming, and web programming.

9. Bristol Community College

Fall River, Massachusetts

A two-year community college, Bristol Community College offers certificates and associate degrees in more than 150 areas of study. In addition to providing associate degree opportunities, BCC also boasts an agreement with Eastern Nazarene College to offer courses that count toward a bachelor’s degree at the Fall River campus. Among its varied program offerings, the college highlights one of the best computer programming certificate programs online.

BCC features an online certificate in computer programming, allowing students to master basic programming concepts. Throughout their coursework, students learn to master at least three programming languages. Transfer credits for any courses in the program must be approved by the department chair or by a full-time faculty member.

Students who do not hold basic computer skills should enroll in the introductory computer information science course before enrolling in the certificate program. Students who lack basic keyboarding skills should plan to enroll in a course to provide them with a basis of knowledge before beginning the certificate program.

Students should plan on dedicating large blocks of time to developing their proficiency in the key areas of computer programming. Coursework covers database programming and management, internet developer, Oracle and SQL, and interactive websites.

10. Lansing Community College

Lansing, Michigan

Lansing Community College functions as a public community college in Lansing, Michigan, that spans seven city blocks. LCC began in 1957 and opened another campus in Delta Township in 2004. LCC remains the third largest community college in the state in terms of enrollment and offers 230 associate certificate and degree programs. Among these include one of the top computer programming certificate programs online.

The online computer programmer certificate at LCC serves as a starting point for students interested in pursuing the computer programmer/analyst associate degree. Learners should hold basic computer skills or plan to complete an introductory course to gain basic knowledge before enrolling in the certificate program.

Students must complete required courses in internet literacy, programming Python, computer information systems, SQL concepts, and business. Additionally, students must complete more specialized courses in programming in Java, C#.NET programming, and VB.NET programming.

The 19-credit hour curriculum can be completed entirely online, and students can speak to an academic advisor for the recommended course sequence. LCC applicants must complete an admissions application, provide transcripts or GED, and apply for financial aid. Additionally, applicants should submit ACT, SAT, or AP test scores.

11. Washtenaw Community College

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Washtenaw Community College educates more than 20,000 students each year from more than 100 countries. Granting both associate degrees and certificates, WCC highlights flexible online learning formats, including an online computer programming certificate.

WCC offers an online advanced certificate in C++ programming to prepare students for jobs as computer programmers. Throughout their coursework, students learn to write C++ code and develop applications using object-oriented programming techniques. Students build their skills to apply them to relevant jobs as programmers, analysts, and software architects. Applicants to the program should hold some previous programming experience, although those who do not can enroll in a course to learn the basics before beginning the program.

Students must complete 12 credits of coursework to earn their certificate, focusing on data structures, object features, and programming with C++. Coursework features an entirely online format delivered asynchronously, allowing students to complete their work at their own pace from any location. Applicants to the college must complete an admissions application, submit transcripts, provide SAT or ACT test scores, and apply for financial aid. Students can work with an academic advisor if they need to satisfy prerequisite coursework before enrolling.

12. Schoolcraft College

Livonia, Michigan

Students at Schoolcraft College can explore a variety of program offerings across disciplines in both associate degrees and certificates, such as an online computer programming certificate opportunity.

The online computer information systems certificate program introduces students to operating systems concepts revolving around programming logic. Students explore programming languages and software applications and can choose one of the computer information systems associate programs any time during or after their first year. Students who complete the program requirements qualify for the certificate or program completion.

Not all courses are offered every semester. Students should work with their academic advisor to develop a schedule that best fits with their availability. Students interested in transferring should review their transfer institution’s requirements and discuss their transfer options with a Schoolcraft academic advisor. The number of credits students take might vary depending on their course selection. During their first semester, students take about 13 credits of coursework in software applications and computer based systems.

In their second semester, students complete 14-15 credits in database management systems and cybersecurity fundamentals. Students must complete 27-28 total credits of coursework and can choose their own electives to fit their personal interests and career goals.

13. Westmoreland County Community College

Youngwood, Pennsylvania

Founded in 1970, Westmoreland County Community College offers a plethora of academic programs, including an online computer programming certificate.

Students interested in computer programming can pursue the online computer programming certificate program at WCCC. Throughout the curriculum, students learn to analyze the needs and product requirements of organizations in order to create a design for technologies that can serve user needs. Learners identify operating areas and derive solutions for them, taking notice of changes in operations, conditions, and the environment.

Students work as teams, enhancing their verbal and written communication skills. Coursework prepares students to function as members of development teams, determining output requirements, program intent, and the input needed to process sequences for new programs and maintain current programs even as external and internal requirements change.

Program graduates can pursue employment as junior systems analysts, computer programmers, technical sales representatives, web developers, and technical support analysts. Graduates can pursue these careers at internet companies, consulting firms, and web development firms.

14. Clark State Community College

Springfield, Ohio

A two-year college, Clark State Community College opened in 1962. In 2018, the college gained approval to grant bachelor’s degrees in manufacturing technology and web design in addition to its various associate degree opportunities. Today, students also enjoy the opportunity to pursue online education at the institution that include an online computer programming certificate.

Students interested in pursuing careers in computer programming can enroll in the online computer programming departmental certificate program at Clark State. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to develop and design computer software applications. Throughout their coursework, students learn to write computer programs, allowing them to implement information systems designs and identify and resolve errors in the implementation and design of software solutions.

The rigorous curriculum in the certificate program explores JavaScript and jQuery, HTML and CSS, programming fundamentals with Python, and C++ programming. Students can follow the planning schedule to find out when program courses are offered within the academic school year. This allows students to effectively plan their course schedule each semester, ensuring they satisfy all the necessary requirements to complete the program. The schedule only exists for planning purposes and does not guarantee availability to students, though the college makes an effort to offer the outlined courses at the identified times.

15. Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, North Carolina

A two-year community college that offers associate degrees, non-credit courses, and technical certification programs, Wake Technical Community College also provides an online computer programming certificate.

Wake Technical Community College boasts a variety of certificate opportunities for students interested in computer programming, including certificates in enterprise Java, programming fundamentals, .NET programming, C# programming, JavaScript programming, visual basic programming, and C++ programming. The enterprise Java certificate provides students with courses dedicated to upgrading their programming skills for Java in mobile areas and the enterprise. Students must first hold a Java programming certificate before they can pursue the enterprise Java certificate.

The programming fundamentals certificate focuses on improving students’ programming literacy, and the .NET programming certificate explores ways for students to learn about .NET technologies. The C# certificate enhances students programming skills, allowing them to implement and design C# programs, while the JavaScript certificate focuses on programming JavaScript using Full Stack implementation.

Students interested in developing the programming skills needed to implement Java programs can pursue the Java programming certificate, or if they want to implement visual BASIC programs, they can enroll in the visual basic programming certificate program. Students can also explore the C++ programming certificate if they want to upgrade their programming skills while learning about object-oriented programming language.

16. Guilford Technical Community College

Jamestown, North Carolina

A public community college located in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, Guilford Technical Community College also features campuses in High Point and Jamestown. The third largest community college in North Carolina, the college currently boasts the longest tenured president in the school’s history with the position being held since 1991. Students can explore a variety of programs at the college including an online computer programming certificate.

GTCC features a variety of information technology certificates allowing students to specialize in areas related to either hardware or software. Certificates allow graduates to demonstrate the skills they possess to employers during the hiring process, enabling them to begin careers in specialized IT fields. Students can pursue certificates in C++ programming, Java programming, web development, and mobile device development.

The C++ programming certificate explores the practices and principles needed to develop, design, and deploy applications using C++ interactive development environments. Graduates can build C++ applications and seek entry-level positions as programmers and C++ developers.

The Java programming certificate explores the practices and principles needed to develop, design, and deploy applications using Java interactive development environments. It focuses on developing web-based and standalone applications that include database connectivity. Students pursuing the mobile device development option learn how to incorporate graphics and media while learning about the principles of user experience design. The web development program teaches students how to use computers to cultivate an online presence.

17. Stark State College

North Canton, Ohio

Offering 230 major options, Stark State College features one-year certificates along with career enhancement certificates. Nearly 4,000 students enroll at the college each year in continuing education courses and contract training activities. The college offers courses across liberal arts, health sciences, and math and sciences. Students can also explore online opportunities, such as an online computer programming certificate.

Students can pursue a variety of certificate programs at SSC relevant to computer programming, including programs in C++ programming, Java programming, and Microsoft SQL server. The C++ certificate program requires students to complete nine credits of coursework reviewing C++ programming at a basic and advanced level and programming logic and problem solving. Students should make an appointment with their advisor to create their study plan upon enrollment.

Students interested in learning about Microsoft’s SQL server can pursue the related certificate, comprising nine credits of coursework focused on data modeling and database design, advanced Microsoft SQL server database, and structured query language.

The certificate opportunities at SSC allow students to take their careers to the next level and expand their future employment opportunities. Students can stack their certificate with a higher-level associate degree to further their education.

18. Rio Salado College

Tempe, Arizona

A public community college, Rio Salado College is part of the Maricopa County Community College District and offers certificate and associate degree programs through on-campus, online, and hybrid formats. RSC features a broad range of program offerings, including an online computer programming certificate option.

Designed to prepare students to work in the programming field, the certificate of completion in programming focuses on Java programming, programming theory, web programming, and visual basic programming. Coursework explores the survey of computer information systems, C# programming, and object-oriented analysis and design.

The computer information systems and computer science courses required in the curriculum are not applicable if completed more than eight years before beginning the program. Students must complete 21-26 credits to successfully earn their certificate and must maintain a 2.0 minimum GPA throughout. Not all classes occur each semester, so learners should work with an academic advisor to plan their schedules accordingly.

Applicants to RSC must complete a college placement test, submit ACT or SAT test scores, complete an admissions application, provide transcripts, and apply for financial aid. Additionally, students must provide a valid photo ID or driver’s license and hold a passing score on the relevant portions of the AZMERIT exam.

19. Pitt Community College

Winterville, North Carolina

Pitt Community College is a public community college and belongs to the North Carolina Community College System. PCC offers a variety of online, hybrid, and on-campus courses. Among the varied program offerings, students can pursue an online computer programming certificate.

PCC’s computer programming department boasts three different computer programming certificate options, including certificates in Python, Java, and C++ programming. The C++ programming option focuses on computing fundamentals and C++ programming at both basic and advanced levels.

The Java programming certificate introduces computers and advanced Java programming. Students pursuing their Python programming certificate complete courses in basic and advanced Python programming along with web and database foundations.

The certificate programs can lead to the computer programming and development associate of applied science degree at the college, leading to even more employment opportunities. Certificates help graduates demonstrate their skills and abilities in the field when applying for positions across the computer programming industry.

Program applicants must complete an admissions application, submit transcripts or GED scores, provide SAT or ACT results, and apply for financial aid to determine their eligibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to develop a personalized plan of study for their program.

20. Macomb Community College

Warren, Michigan

Functioning as a multi-campus community college in Macomb County, Macomb Community College focuses on professional certification, workforce development, continuing education, early college, and university transfer. The school’s University Center offers bachelor’s degree completion along with graduate-level programs. MCC students can also explore a variety of online opportunities, including an online computer programming certificate.

MCC learners can enroll in the information technology programming certificate, leading to careers in computer programming. The 49-credit hour curriculum explores business communications, computer and information processing principles, and database design and implementation with SQL and XML. Students can also pursue an information technology cloud computing certificate to prepare them for a variety of careers in the information technology field.

Students must complete 48 credit hours of coursework exploring computer and information processing principles, principles of networking, and introduction to Linux. For program completion, students must maintain a 2.0 minimum GPA. Students must also complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework with 15 credit hours earned at MCC.

Students can apply approved industry standard courses or certifications completed at an accredited college or university toward the certificate. Students not enrolled for two consecutive years or more must follow the current catalog upon re-enrollment to the college. Students can take a maximum of seven years to complete their program, except for students who take an absence of two years or more.