Computer Programmers
Overview
Introduction
Computer programmers write instructions that tell computers what to do in a computer language, or code, that the computer understands—including applications that are provided through the Internet (known as software-as-a-service). Software applications are used to perform many tasks, such as searching for information, editing photographs, writing text, playing games, or making purchases. There are approximately 250,300 computer programmers employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
The average starting salary for college graduates with bachelor's degrees in computer science was $67,539 in 2019, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
The U.S. Department of Labor reports the median annual salary for computer programmers was $84,280 in May 2018. The lowest paid 10 percent of programmers earned less than $48,790 annually, and at the other end...
Work Environment
Most programmers work in pleasant office conditions, since computers require an air-conditioned, dust-free environment. Programmers perform most of their duties in one primary location but may be asked to travel to other computing sites on occasion. Because of advances in technology, telecommuting is an increasingly common option for computer professionals, allowing them to work remotely.
...Outlook
Employment of computer programmers is projected to decline by 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Factors that are fueling the employment decline include new technologies that eliminate the need for some routine programming work of the past, the outsourcing of programming jobs overseas, and the increased sophistication of computer users who are able to ...
