Online Computer Programming Certificate Program Information

Widely available, undergraduate online computer programming certificate programs enhance general and specific programming skills through a short-term course highlighting Java and other programming languages. Graduates apply certificates to changing or advancing careers in software development.

Online Computer Programming Certificate Overview

Students enrolled in online undergraduate computer programming certificate programs learn programming languages, algorithms and control structures. Prerequisites to enrolling in an online computer programming certificate program are generally limited to having a high school diploma or GED. Online associate's, bachelor's and graduate degree programs in computer programming are also widely available.

Online Computer Programming Certificate Requirements

Online certificate programs in computer programming may typically be completed in one year or less. Courses may be completed entirely online or hybrid, allowing students to do coursework online but requesting campus visits for test taking, seminar attendance or additional instruction while instructors observe the step-by-step process a student takes to reach procedural or functional programming goals.
Prior to enrolling in an online computer programming certificate program, applicants should have access to up-to-date computer equipment. A broadband Internet connection is recommended. Some courses may also require the student to purchase or to have the ability to use particular software packages and computer hardware, such as microphones and webcams.

List of Common Online Computer Programming Certificate Courses

General education courses are usually not part of a computer programming curriculum at this level. Certificate courses may require college-level math and reading proficiency.

Computer Programming Course

Students enrolled in an online computer programming course learn to write and test instructions to computers. Computers then use the instructions to properly execute a program.

Java Basic Course

Distance learning Java basic courses teach students object-oriented computer programming. Students also become familiar with Java's patterns, styles and syntax.

Data Structures Course

Students enrolled in an online data structures course learn how data is stored within a computer. Topics of study include queues, linear lists and linked data structures.

Career Information for Computer Programming Certificate Graduates

Students who have completed an online certificate program in computer programming may use this knowledge to supplement existing career training or may venture into a new career with an entry-level computer programmer position. The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) expected the employment rate for computer programmers to increase by 21% between 2008 and 2018. Securing a particular computer certification, such as Java programming may increase the student's chances for a position with higher pay or more responsibilities. In May 2009, the BLS reported the median annual wage for computer programmers at $70,940.