How to become a Computer Programmer

Computer programming is an exciting and thriving engineering job that refers to the entire process of creating and constructing an executable computer programme in order to achieve a given computing outcome using scientific, mathematical, and computational methods. This branch of engineering overlaps with computer science engineering, systems engineering and management science. A computer programmer takes designs created by software developers and engineers and turns them into sets of instructions that computers can comprehend and follow. Basically, a computer programmer is responsible for writing computer software.

Computer programmers work in a constantly evolving environment due to technological advances and must periodically update their technical skills and abilities to keep abreast with the trends. As a large and diversified subject, computer engineering allows applicants to concentrate on areas such as database administration, web development, system design, system testing, machine learning software development, and so on.

Another point to consider is that computer programming is a diverse topic with applications in specialist IT organisations, the manufacturing industry, financial services, and public utilities, which means that computer programmers have plenty of job options. Computer programmer skills required for relevant job positions and the corresponding computer programming salary vary, but professionals can increase their earning potential and career options with advanced education and credentials.

The role of a computer programmer typically depends on the educational background, experience, skill sets and area of specialization. Generally,  it comprises of the following tasks: 

• Assess and analyze user requirements to create technical specifications
• Write the software program code using complex programming languages such as JAVA, C, Python and so on. 
• Investigate new technologies
• Perform testing and debugging processes to identify bugs, errors and areas for modification in existing software systems. 
• Consult clients, project managers, graphic artists, systems analysts and sales and marketing professionals concerning the performance of software systems and the potential to better its performance. 

A computer programmer must have specific requisite skills and inclinations and relevant educational background to excel in the field. Aspirants must be exceptional problem solvers with good communication skills and a quick, analytic mind. A computer programmer also tends to work in highly challenging work environments with individual project work and team interaction which is why aspirants must have leadership skills,  team working skills and the ability to work well under pressure. Aspirants must have a keen passion for building systems and having an intense interest in coding. Computer programmer jobs require a fair contribution of Mathematics, creative, innovative and logical concepts. In addition, aspirants must have a genuine interest in technology and electronics.

In order to enroll into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests.  

Depending on one’s educational background, experience, and skillsets, aspirants may apply for the following computer engineering jobs:

• Computer System Analyst
• Web developer
• Database Administrator
• Computer Network Architect
• Robotics Engineer
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Information Security Analyst