Computer Programmers
Computer programmers write, modify, and test code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly.
Is computer programmers a good career?
It scores 19/100 and ranks #357 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($100,390 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Employment is projected to decline (-6.0% through 2034)
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What computer programmers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. computer programmers earn between $75,850 and $130,680 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live computer programmers jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow decline through 2034.
Education
Computer programmers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as mathematics. However, some employers hire workers who have other degrees or experience in specific programming languages. Programmers who work in specific fields, such as healthcare or accounting, may take classes in that field to supplement their computer-related degree. In addition, employers may prefer to hire candidates who have experience gained through internships.
Most programmers learn computer languages while in school. However, a computer science degree gives students the skills they need to learn new computer languages easily. Students get experience writing code, testing programs, fixing errors, and doing many other tasks that they will perform on the job.
To keep up with changing technology, computer programmers may take continuing education classes and attend professional development seminars to learn new programming languages or about upgrades to programming languages they already know.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Programmers may become certified in specific programming languages or for vendor-specific programming products. Some companies require their computer programmers to be certified in the products they use.
Advancement
Programmers who have general business experience may become computer systems analysts. With experience, some programmers may become software developers. They may also be promoted to managerial positions.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Computer programmers must understand complex instructions in order to create computer code.
Communication skills. Although computer programmers work alone to write code, they must have effective communication skills to coordinate work on large projects with team members and managers.
Detail oriented. Computer programmers must closely examine the code that they write, modify, or test, because a small mistake may affect the entire computer program.
Problem-solving skills. Programmers check the code for errors and fix any they find.
Related occupations
How much do computer programmers make?
The national median wage is $100,390 a year, with the middle half earning between $75,850 and $130,680 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is computer programmers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 19 of 100 and ranks #357 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change -6.0% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a computer programmer?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do computer programmers earn the most?
Among states, Connecticut pays the highest median ($133,820). Local pay for every state and metro is below.