Back to Career Guides

How to become a Programmer

2,977

Programmer jobs

644

Programmer courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Programmer

Programmer

| Up to £30,000

Senior Programmer

| Up to £45,000

IT Architect

| Up to £55,000

The role of a Programmer

What does a Programmer do?

Looking for a ‘beta’ career? You should become a Programmer…Programmers develop computer systems, websites, software, and games by writing and modifying code.The code they create is used to help business systems and consumer products run more efficiently. Depending on the specific needs of the client, Programmers may be involved in many stages of the development process, from analysis and application, to testing and technical support.To ensure the development is viable and will work within set guidelines, their job may also involve a fair amount of analysis.Typical duties for a Programmer generally include:

Inspecting current systems
Writing code
Documenting each stage of development
Testing and debugging programmes
Working closely with analysts and designers to ensure the product fits specifications
Building and using specialist software and code libraries to automate code
Keeping up-to-date with new programming languages and technologies

Is a career as a Programmer right for me?

Excellent knowledge of computer systems, as well as the ability to understand complex programming languages, are essential skills for anyone looking to become a Programmer.You’ll also need to be a great problem solver, with an analytical mind and a methodical work ethic.And, because even a minor mistake could cause code to break or malfunction, a keen eye for detail is absolutely essential. If complex maths isn’t your thing, this career probably isn’t for you…Programmers will also need to be:

Logical
Able to follow technical procedures
Good at concentrating
Meticulous
Resourceful
Understanding of clients’ needs
An excellent communicator

What's it like to be a Programmer?

"I’ve been a Programmer for 5 years now, and I can happily say there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing. In a nutshell, it’s like solving complex puzzles for a living – and every puzzle needs a different programming language to solve. It’s no doubt a challenge at times, and you have to be really motivated to stay sane throughout the various bug fixes, but the outcome is definitely worth it. Whether it’s from designing a new algorithm that improves the functionality of a system, learning something new, or realising the code you’d spent days writing has successfully fixed a technical issue – the rewards are pretty great."

Get qualified as a Programmer

You will normally need a degree in a computer based field to become a Programmer. However, candidates with degrees in other subjects, who can demonstrate a strong understanding of programming languages and operating systems may also be considered. Experience and/or qualifications in project management could additionally improve your chances.

Recommended Programmer courses

Python Certification - IT Job Ready Program with Money Back Guarantee

Academy for Health & Fitness

Job Ready Program, Personalised Job Searching Support, Professionally Build CV, Expert Consultation & more...
- Compare
- Online
- 3 months · Self-paced
- Certificate(s) included
- 100 CPD points
- Tutor support
- Job guarantee programme
Great service

See more See less

"Start your career as a Certified Python Programmer and earn up to £70,000 per Year." Are you looking to make your mark in the ever-evolving world of Data Analyst? The demand for Python programmershas never been higher. Just in the UK, job postings for Analysts / Python prog …
Save 31%

£649 £949
Computer Programming Diploma - CPD Certified

Academy for Health & Fitness

Level 5 QLS Endorsed Diploma! 150 CPD Points| 09 Video Lessons| Free ID Card & Assessment| 100% Pass Rate| 24/7 Support
- Compare
- 25 students
- Online
- 370 hours · Self-paced
- 150 CPD points
- Tutor support
Great service

See more See less

The technology industry is thriving, and computer science is currently one of the most in-demand industries in the UK. It is also one of the top ten most lucrative expertise in the UK. So if you want to be a part of this rising business and prepare for the appropriate job market, …
£12