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Computer programming certificates attract students looking for quick access to entry-level careers as well as experienced professionals seeking career advancement. Without the general education courses of a full degree, certificate programs may provide a shorter and more affordable study option.
Skillsoft's 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report found that over 75% of IT leaders reported tech skills gaps in their teams, and many IT workers identified a lack of professional development opportunities in the industry. Computer programming certificates can help address both issues.
On this page, we examine computer programming certificates, highlighting what to expect and how to choose the right program for you. We also provide a ranking of the best certificate programs available this year.
Why Get a Computer Programming Certificate?
In 1962, Purdue University became the first school in the United States to open a computer science department. Purdue developed one of the earliest undergraduate programming courses and offered graduate degrees. As computer technologies advanced, schools introduced computer programming certificates to educate students in specialized fields.
Today, certificates help schools keep their offerings up to date in the face of a constantly evolving industry. These programs allow IT professionals to learn new languages and technologies without investing in full degrees or disrupting their careers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a decline in computer programming jobs between 2021 and 2031. However, the BLS also projects a need for over 680,000 new computer and IT workers during that same period.
Many of these professionals will need programming skills. IT roles in development and engineering, analysis, and management all demand the evolving programming knowledge that computer programming certificates can develop.
Pursue Career Advancement: Certificates help professionals expand their qualifications. Job-seekers can use these credentials to seek new positions and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.
Save Time and Money: Compared to full degrees, computer programming certificates may offer a shorter, more affordable training path.
Expand Knowledge and Skills: Certificates help professionals learn new programming languages, techniques, and tools. With these new skills, programmers can help organizations improve their systems and technological operations.
Careers in Computer Programming
Training and credentials in programming can lead to many careers in the computer and information technology industry. Programming skills can benefit workers in high-paying, fast-growing fields like computer and information research science, computer systems analysis, and cybersecurity.
The list below highlights some top careers for professionals with computer programming backgrounds.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write the code that brings software and applications to life. These professionals test, debug, and improve code to ensure that developers, managers, and end users get the functionality they want. Programmers work in computer systems design services and software publishing, along with specialized industries like manufacturing, finance, and insurance.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): -10%
Median Annual Salary:$93,000
Software Developer
Software developers create and upgrade software based on the needs of their organization and users. With tests and planning, they ensure that the software works with the appropriate systems and programs. Top-employing industries for this role include computer systems design services, finance and insurance, and manufacturing.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +25%
Median Annual Salary:$109,020
Systems Manager
Systems managers oversee IT staff, system operations, and other IT activities. These professionals provide management and stakeholders with systems insight and ensure that performance matches or exceeds expectations. Along with computer systems design services, systems managers work in information, finance and insurance, and manufacturing.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +16%
Median Annual Salary:$159,010
Top Five Computer Programming Certificates
The following ranked list highlights our selections for the top five computer programming certificates of 2023. To learn more about the standards used in scoring and ranking schools and programs, follow this link:
What to Expect From a Computer Programming Certificate Program
Computer programming certificate programs provide condensed, specialized education to current and aspiring professionals. However, program content varies by level and focus.
These programs usually entail about 12-30 credits and last 4-18 months. Certificate curricula may cover entry-level or advanced material. Tuition costs can range from about $3,000 to over $12,000, depending on program length, scope, and per-credit price.
Since computer programming certificates include college and university courses, they may provide transfer credits that can count toward future degrees. The computer-related material covered and the limited scope of these programs lend well to online learning.
Admissions Process
Admission requirements for computer programming certificates vary by school and program. In general, undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate, and graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree. Some programs call for specific prior coursework or a minimum GPA.
Other requirements may include SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores, plus recommendation letters and personal essays. Though not usually required, relevant experience or a high-quality portfolio may give candidates an advantage.
Different Certificate Types
Despite the confusion between computer science certifications and certificates, there is a simple difference. Colleges and universities award certificates at the end of short academic programs, while industry organizations issue certifications when a professional demonstrates expertise in a particular field.
Computer programming certificates cater to a diverse marketplace. These programs may focus on entry-level or graduate materials, and on general or specialized subjects.
Along with on-campus programs, many schools offer online and hybrid certificate programs. Distance learning programs may feature synchronous or asynchronous delivery, accommodating students who need flexible delivery and learners who prefer a real-time classroom environment.
Popular Certificate Courses
The type of courses included in a computer programming certificate can vary. Some programs include only required courses, whereas others offer electives. Some emphasize general classes, while others feature specialized options.
The courses below are some of the most common options in general computer programming certificates.
Python Web Applications: In this course, students learn to use Python to create web-based applications, templates, and modules. Coursework covers typical problem-solving tactics and formatting best practices.
Data Structures: This course teaches enrollees to use Python's built-in data structures for data analysis and problem solving. Study topics may include lists, tuples, arrays, and dictionaries.
Object-Oriented Software Engineering: Students in this course learn to use classes and create methods and attributes in object-oriented programming. Enrollees also explore best practices and learn how to integrate objects with Python.
How Much Do Certificates in Computer Programming Cost?
Computer programming certificates typically follow the per-credit costs of their institutions, so programs with more credits tend to cost more. Out-of-state learners at public schools, as well as students at private schools, in graduate programs, or attending prestigious institutions may pay higher-than-average prices.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), average annual tuition in 2020-21 was $3,900 at two-year public schools and $18,000 at two-year private schools. Other costs that could increase certificate expenses include books and materials, technology fees, and exam fees. Students in on-campus programs may also need to pay for transportation.
Despite the range of costs, computer programming certificates may cost less than associate degrees, and many are cheaper than bootcamps. Like other students at accredited schools, certificate candidates often qualify for traditional financial aid.
Choosing the Right Computer Programming Certificate
To pick the right computer programming certificate, students should consider their needs, interests, and priorities. The following list includes some key factors to bear in mind.
Institutional accreditation
Program cost
Financial aid accessibility
Admission requirements
Faculty credentials
School facilities for on-campus students
Student support services
Online or hybrid program options
Program length and schedule
School location and residency requirements
Class size and student-to-teacher ratio
Course and specialization options
Student groups and extracurricular activities
Transfer credit policy
Professional and alumni network
Should You Get Your Certificate in Computer Programming Online?
Online computer programming certificates typically cover the same material and provide the same credentials as on-campus programs. However, there are some differences. For example, online programs usually demand more independent learning, but offer more schedule flexibility.
According to NCES, more than three million learners studied exclusively online in 2019-20. As of 2022, after the enormous jump in online studies resulting from COVID-19 policies, the number remains considerably higher. NCES reports more than 5.5 million fully online students during the 2021-2022 school year.
Clearly, online learning has great appeal, but students should consider how their learning styles and needs align with online instruction before jumping in.
Should You Go to a Certificate, Associate, or Bootcamp Program?
Aspiring programmers have several educational options, but choosing the right path can be difficult. Computer programming certificates, associate degrees, and coding bootcamps each offer something unique, but these program types also overlap in many ways.
Learners should consider how each option serves their needs before deciding. The table below highlights how these programs compare in several major areas.
| Comparison Point | Computer Programming Certificates | Computer Programming Associate Degrees | Bootcamp Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
Credit Requirements | 12-30 credits | 60 | Varies |
Average Program Length | 4-18 months | 2 years | Four months |
Program Focus | Entry level, graduate level, or specialized field | General studies and entry-level foundation | Entry level or specialized field |
Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED certificate for undergraduate programs; bachelor's degree for graduate programs | High school diploma or GED certificate | Varies |
Average/Median Cost | $3,000-$12,000 | $3,900/year at public schools; $18,000/year at private schools | $11,900 |
Discover more paths to learning computer programming
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Programming Certificate
How long does it take to get a computer programming certificate?
Computer programming certificates typically take 4-18 months to complete with a full-time course load. Schools may offer part-time studies, resulting in longer completion times.
Can I get financial aid for a certificate in computer programming?
Yes. Students pursuing computer programming certificates may qualify for federal financial aid, private funding, and scholarships.
What can I do with a computer programming certificate?
Depending on the certificate level, graduates may qualify for entry-level positions, jobs in specialized fields, or leadership roles.
Is a certificate in computer programming worth it?
Many graduates would say yes. A computer programming certificate can help professionals land entry-level jobs or advance within their current industries. These programs typically offer condensed timeframes and relatively low costs.
