When there was no computer, communication was through letters, but as time went on, the computer was introduced. People only used it for typing letters and writing, and the few homes that had a computer restricted their children from touching them.
But as the world becomes modernized digitally, the introduction of computers has brought about very new niches, creating job opportunities for individuals worldwide.
Chances are you've heard about computer programming, and probably you are interested in being one, or at least writing computer programs for fun? But then, you're so confused by the vast majority of fields in computer programming.
We understand the feeling, and that's why we've done our research and compiled it into a single article for your consumption. Before we dive into the different careers as computer programmers, let's talk about the term computer programming. Then we will talk about the different career paths and how you can get started. See the salary expectations for coders in Canada.
What is Computer Programming?
Computer programming is simply communicating with your computer and giving it instructions in a language that computers understand. Computer programs are the outcome of precisely written code, and every function a computer does is the result of these instructions.
Computer programmers are skilled professionals who use languages and follow syntax, which the computers compile/process these languages to a language they (computers) can understand. How is this done?
This is done by firstly knowing and understanding different programming languages. Imagine yourself in a new country where they speak a different language from what you know. You'll need to learn the new language to communicate better with people around there. The process might not be easy, but the continuous effort in learning will help you get acquainted with the language.
It is the same thing about learning programming languages. It might be hard at first, but a continuous effort in learning and practice will help you understand the language properly, and it becomes part of you. As we proceed, we will see different careers and the language required for you to learn.
What Are the Different Careers for Computer Programmers?
Computer programming is becoming a very lucrative field with the boom in technology. One key thing to note is that being good at one programming language will make it easier to transition to a new programming language for the majority of the career fields.
This will also create a foundation that will enable you to earn a good computer programmer salary when beginning coding.
Web Developer
They are in charge of a website's appearance and functionality. Before a site is released, they will test and review it to ensure that it meets quality standards. They continue to monitor the site's performance after it is launched and troubleshoot any technical issues that may develop.
They ensure that their websites and programs are up-to-date regarding security, design, and functionality. A web developer will meet with a customer to discuss their project concept. Then they'll write the site's code and collaborate with a team of other creators to create content for it. Learn more programming about jobs.
There are usually in charge of technical concerns, such as site performance and the amount of traffic it can handle.
Below is a table explaining the different career branches of a web developer. Please note salary might differ depending on your province, level, and company.
| Stacks | Frameworks/Languages | Description |
| Front end developer | Programming languages/tools used for front-end development are: Html, Css, JavaScript | Front-end developers specialize in the website's design, ensuring that the website is responsive no matter the device and adaptable to different screen sizes. The Average Annual Salary is between $67,994(source: ca.indeed.com). |
| Backend developer | There are varieties of technology used in backend development, and this aspect is based on preference or job description. They are Java, Php, Python, Ruby, SQL databases. Cloud technologies like Amazon AWS, Google Cloud, etc. This field also needs a problem-solving ability. | Backend developers focus on the server-side of the website, and they take care of the website's database. Most importantly, they work hand in hand with the front-end developers to create a seamless web application. The Average Annual Salary is $86,137(source: ca.indeed.com). |
| Full-stack developer | A full-stack developer uses all of the above developer tools and languages. | A full-stack developer can work on both aspects of a website Average Annual Salary is $89,846(source: ca.indeed.com). |
Mobile Developer
As the name implies, mobile developers are focused on building applications we use on our mobile phones. They are responsible for updating the mobile apps, fixing bugs, and ensuring top-notched users' experiences.
This field works mainly with most engineering teams, ranging from the backend developers to design teams and product managers. There are three main categories of mobile applications: Android, IOS, and Cross-platform applications.
| Stacks | Tools/Computer Languages | Description |
| Android developer | The programming languages used for native android development are Java, Kotlin, and XML. Tools: Android Studio, Firebase services for backend, SQL lite. | A native android developer develops applications for devices (mobile, watch, televisions) running the Android operating system. The Average Annual Salary is $112,751(source: ca.indeed.com). |
| IOS developer | The programming languages used for IOS development are Objective-C and Swift. | A native IOS developer develops applications for devices (mobile, watch, televisions) running IOS (Apple) operating system. The Average Annual Salary is $103,985(source: ca.indeed.com) |
| Cross-platform developer | Cross-platform developer uses these tools/frameworks: Flutter and dart, React-native and javascript, Xamarin, and C#. | A cross-platform developer is a developer who uses tools/frameworks to develop applications targeted at different mobile platforms (Android, IOS). A cross-platform developer has various options, primarily on preferences and job requirements. The Annual Average Salary Flutter: $110,000(source: Glassdoor) React-native: $125,000 (source: ca.talent.com) Xamarin: $90,000 (source: ca.talent.com) |
Technical Product Managers
A Product Manager's responsibility is to ensure the success of a product by building and seeing ways on how the product can be durable and satisfiable to the consumers. They work with the engineering team, product owners, and development team.
A Technical Product Manager is simply a Product Manager with a technical background and is more involved in the technical details of software development.
Product managers access and analyze the weak points and see ways to improve them. They also explain to customers and product owners how the products are and incredible ways to advance and build the products to sell-off in the market; how did they do this?
Product managers do this by researching the product (how many people demand the products they build, the sales structures in the graph, etc.). They assess risk by detecting the roadblocks and see ways to solve the problem. They conduct surveys and contact existing customers to understand and satisfy their customers. Their primary focus is on the technical aspect of a product.
They are known as the backbone of a company because they make products sell, so if you have a business, you can think of hiring a product manager, and you won't regret making that decision.
| Technical Product Managers | Skills needed | Requirements |
| Communication skills, Interpersonal skills, Attention to detail, Audience affinity, Project Management, Programming concepts, Time Management | They need to be skilled in creating PRD (Product Requirement Document) This document describes why a product should be built, what the project should do, and how to measure the product's success. Product roadmap. A document that describes when specific products and features will be built is a high-level representation that visually shows the product strategy over time. Agile methodology This is a way to manage a product into several different phases, and it involves continuous improvement at every stage. Product Research and Prototyping are also involved. |
Where Can You Learn Computer Programming?
Do you want to open up the door for these career paths mentioned above? There are platforms you can learn computer online courses and any other coding courses with ease from the comfort of your home. Platforms like Superprof.
Superprof started in Biarritz, France, in August 2013 and has become one of the most significant communities of hundreds of thousands of teachers. In 2014, it was expanded and introduced to many countries, including Canada, Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, the USA, UK, Germany, etc.
Superprof brings you the best current and up-to-date teachers in their research and teaching skills. Superprof encourages transparency by carefully reviewing each resume and teaching experience and personal information submitted by the teacher.
In conclusion, we discussed what computer programming is, who a computer programmer is, and we've also touched on some career paths in computer programming. We've explained what each course includes and the programming languages required to kick start your career. It's noteworthy to point out there are other careers not mentioned here.
Notable mentions are Artificial Intelligence, Cloud computing, etc. Starting a career in computer programming might be daunting for you; the process can be intimidating. At Superprof, we make this knowledge very accessible, we understand how hectic the path is, and as such, we have qualified teachers ready to take you down the path of your career.
Is getting started in a career in computer programming worth it? I'll leave that answer to you, but apart from the good pay, imagine the feeling you solved a problem that people around you are facing, using the power of technology. What are you waiting for? Head over to Superprof to start your journey.
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