Careers in computer programming are highly focused and require plenty of specialized technical knowledge and skills. Depending on the specific career path you choose, you may find yourself writing computer programs or software, creating and implementing computer and information systems for clients and businesses, or maintaining databases for companies or chains of stores.

Jobs such as these require not only technical know-how, but also more basic skills such as the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines, analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to explain complex computer-related concepts to people who do not have specialized technical knowledge.

A Bachelor’s degree is required for most careers in computer programming. Depending on the specific career path, the degree may be in Computer Science, Information Science, or Management Information Systems.

Business-oriented degrees such as Business Administration are often useful for those interested in a career in Systems Analysis. In some cases, a two-year Associate’s degree may be enough to qualify for an entry-level position, however most computer programming careers will typically require at least a three or four year degree.

The outlook for computer programming careers is excellent, simply due to the fact that the world is increasingly reliant on computers and on technology in general. According to the US Department of Labor, career opportunities in computer programming are expected to grow much faster than average through to 2014.

Salaries for careers in Computer Science are dependent mostly on the amount of experience you have. Entry-level positions pay $30,000-$35,000, and senior-level positions pay anywhere between $71,000 and $100,000 or more.

A Computer Systems Analyst works with computer information systems, either in creating new systems, or modifying and expanding existing ones. They’re responsible for designing and implementing information systems that meet the requirements of the clients and employers they work for, making sure those systems are error free, and often for training staff to use the systems they create.

Computer Systems Analysts typically start a project by discussing the company’s needs with their client as well as members of staff who will use the new system, to determine what kind of system is needed. After the information-gathering process is complete, they’ll work with the client to confirm the system structure, and then prepare a detailed list of requirements and specifications for computer programmers to follow in creating the system. During this process they’ll work with programmers to ensure the system works correctly and is free from errors, and once the system is completed may be responsible for training staff to use it.

This type of work requires a high degree of technical knowledge, including knowledge of a variety of computer languages; a thorough knowledge of computer programming is not always required. Good communication skills are a must, as well as the ability to think analytically and logically, to multi-task, and to work with a high degree of accuracy.

The role of a Database Administrator lies in planning, installing, and maintaining information systems that are stored on computers, more simply known as databases. A Database Administrator working to create a new database is responsible for establishing the purpose and requirements of the database, planning its structure, and determining how information will be stored, retrieved, and displayed. This will involve working with the employer to establish their information storage needs, planning and building a database to meet those needs, and testing and refining the database to ensure it works according to the employer’s specifications.

Once the database is working correctly, the Administrator is responsible for populating it with the information it was built to store, and then for maintaining it by backing up information, trouble-shooting errors, and ensuring the database remains secure. They may also be required to oversee a team of technical support staff and train employees to use the database.

Working as a Database Administrator requires highly specialized technical knowledge, including familiarity with computer programming languages and database management systems. It’s also important to be able to work well in a team and to stay current with new technological developments.

A Systems Analyst typically works on a consultancy basis for a variety of different clients to assess their information systems, identify problems, and offer solutions for the client’s company. They use a variety of software tools and programming techniques to determine the best way of developing systems that meet client’s requirements.

This involves working with programmers to create the system and ensuring the system works properly before training the client’s staff to use it. One of the most important aspects of this type of work is called “future proofing”. This means that new systems must be flexible and have room to grow as the company develops and as new technology is introduced.

This type of work requires good working knowledge of a variety of programming tools and techniques, as well as analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to explain complex topics to people who do not have specialized knowledge.

Programmers are involved in writing and testing computer software programs. They can be found in a wide variety of industries, and are not limited solely to working for companies that produce new computer software. For example, a Programmer might work with a Systems Analyst to assist in writing the computer programs they use to implement new information system solutions for an employer. This requires first determining the purpose of the program, and then writing “instructions” that tell computers how to achieve that purpose. Once the basic program has been written it must be checked for errors and refined until it works as intended.

Programmers must have excellent knowledge of programming techniques and computer languages, and should also be prepared to attend conferences and other industry events to keep their knowledge up-to-date and as extensive as possible. They should have excellent problem solving skills, be able to think analytically and logically, and to work with a very high degree of accuracy.