Online Programming Certifications and Certificates

Programmers write computer code, that is, the detailed instructions computers follow when performing functions. A multitude of computer courses are offered online, some of which lead to certificates. These courses are available from colleges, technical schools and directly from software companies. Online programming certificates include undergraduate certificates in computer programming and graduate certificates in Java programming.

Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Programming: Program Overview

A computer programming certificate provides individuals with a basic understanding of programming, along with a general introduction to computer science. Students typically learn to write code in one or more languages, such as Java, Visual Basic, or C++. Course content ranges from simple code writing exercises to advanced problem solving. Some certificate programs require potential students to successfully complete an introductory computer or math course before formally enrolling.

Online Computer Programming: Information and Technical Requirements

Most online undergraduate certificate programs are completed in six months to one year and consist of 21-36 credit hours. A third-party learning management service (LMS), such as Blackboard or ANGEL, is often used to deliver course content. Many such programs are offered fully online with no on-campus requirements. Some schools give online students the option of attending a few classes on campus if they choose.
Students need access to the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP). They also need a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox. Course participants should have an e-mail account for communicating with the school, and they may need to download free software such as Adobe Acrobat, Flash or QuickTime to complete course requirements.

List of Common Computer Programming Courses

Computer programming certificate programs typically don't have any general education requirements, although a few may include math classes such as calculus. Most programs concentrate solely on computer science courses.

Introduction to Computer Programming Course

Introductory courses typically expose students to some of the languages of computer programming and the techniques used in writing programs. Subjects covered include data structures, object-oriented programming and Web programming.

Database Management Course

Students learn about relational databases and relational database management systems (RDBMS). Topics may include database design, data storage, indexing, writing queries, RDBMS implementation and file structure.

Introduction to C++ Course

Online students explore the C++ programming language and learn the basic syntax used in developing C++ programs. They also learn how to create, debug and run C++ applications.

Career Information for Computer Programmers

Individuals with a certificate in computer programming may find entry-level positions in software publishing, computer manufacturing or finance. Some employers won't consider hiring a programmer who doesn't possess a bachelor's degree. A programmer's salary depends heavily on education level achieved and previous experience. However, as a general guideline, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists the annual mean wage for a programmer working for a software publisher as $85,510 in 2009 (www.bls.gov). Employment opportunities for programmers are expected to decrease by 3% through 2018, mainly due to offshore outsourcing.

Continuing Education for Computer Programmers

Those with a certificate in computer programming may choose to pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree in the field. Many on-campus programs are available at all levels, and online programs exist as well, though they are fewer in number.

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Graduate Certificate in Java Programming: Program Overview

Java is a programming language that is platform-independent. It can be used to write code such as applets and servlets for the Web. Students enrolled in a graduate Java programming certificate course learn the syntax and structure of the Java language. Using object-oriented programming, they learn to create applications in Java. They are also taught how to use standard Java packages.

Online Java Programming: Information and Technical Requirements

Most Java programming certificates are designed for information technology professionals who have already attained a bachelor's degree. The certificate course can typically be completed in 6-9 months. Online programs are usually delivered to the student via an LMS such as Blackboard or ANGEL.
Online students must have access to a computer and a connection to the Internet. Individual courses may have specific software requirements such as JavaScript, Flash or Adobe Acrobat.

List of Common Java Programming Courses

Courses in Java programming teach students how to use the Java language to create software applications that are platform independent.

Java II Course

Intermediate courses in Java move beyond the basics to cover more advanced topics such as Java security. Students also learn how to integrate Java with other applications and how to increase performance.

Java III Course

This is an advanced course where students explore such topics as writing regular expressions, sorting, data logging, using assertions, multithreading and networking. They also look at search functions and graphical user interfaces.

Java Web-Applications-Building Course

Students in the course learn to build dynamic Web applications using Java. Students are taught such topics as setting up a build environment, debugging code, ensuring version control with multiple users and setting up a test environment. Many instructors expect students to complete a working, Java-based Web application by the end of the course.

Career Information for Java Programmers

Java programmers may find positions in business, government or educational institutions. Possible jobs include software engineer, applications developer, database programmer or Web programmer. According to the BLS, computer software applications engineers are going to be in demand into the near future (www.bls.gov). The number of employment opportunities for applications engineers is expected to rise by 34% through 2018. In 2009, software applications engineers working for software publishers earned an average median yearly salary of $91,910.

Continuing Education for Java Programmers

There are currently no master's degrees in Java programming that are both accredited and offered online. Individuals with a graduate certificate in Java programming can pursue a master's or doctoral degree in computer science or software engineering. Many such programs are available online and some allow students to specialize in Java programming.