In today’s technology-driven society, starting a career in computer programming has become essential. Anyone with programming skills has a wide range of job opportunities because they are required for anything from video games to mobile apps to web design.

Computer programming focuses on the use of programming languages, such as C++, Java, or HTML, to create, maintain and update various types of software. Computer programmers are the builders of the computing world. They are code writers for computer software programs and they derive codes that a computer can follow.

I will be discussing everything you need to know to start a career in this vital field in the tech industry.

Steps to starting a career in Computer Programming

1. Get a degree:

   You can get the fundamental knowledge you need by obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a similar subject.

2. Attend bootcamps/online trainings:

   It is vital to know that becoming a computer programmer without a degree is possible in Nigeria. While a degree in computer science or a similar course can provide a solid foundation and may be useful in some job applications, it is not the only way to become a programmer. You can learn the necessary skills needed to thrive in this career by attending coding bootcamps and following related online tutorials.

3. Develop Your Coding Skills:

   Coding practice is crucial to developing your programming abilities. Your ability to solve problems will improve as a result, and the concepts you learn will be reinforced.

4. Create Projects:

   Put your knowledge to use by creating projects. Start with simple, manageable projects and work your way up to more difficult ones. Building projects enables you to obtain practical experience, practice putting various concepts into effect, and display your work to potential clients or employers.

5. Investigate Specializations:

   As you advance, investigate various programming specialties that catch your interest. This could involve creating websites, mobile applications, data science, artificial intelligence, or video games. Become more familiar with the particular frameworks and technologies related to your chosen speciality.

6. Participate in open-source projects:

   Participate in open-source initiatives on websites like GitHub. This enables you to work with others, acquire practical experience, and advance your coding abilities. Additionally, it gives you a chance to highlight your accomplishments to potential employers.

7. Continuous Learning:

   The world of programming is always changing. By reading programming blogs, following industry leaders on social media, and going to conferences or webinars, you can keep up with the latest frameworks, technologies, and best practices. To stay current and develop in your work, you must constantly learn new things.

8. Networking and Job Search:

   Develop a business network by going to conferences, meetups, and tech events. Talk to other programmers, hiring managers, and potential mentors. To get employment or contract work, use social networking sites like LinkedIn, internet job boards, and personal relationships.

Common Types of Computer Programming

1. Mobile App Development: Mobile app developers use programming languages such as Java or Kotlin for Android development and Swift or Objective-C for iOS development. They develop applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
2. Web Development: Web developers design websites and web applications using programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They develop user interfaces on the client side (frontend development) and handle data processing and server communications on the server side (backend development).
3. Software Engineering: Software engineers create large-scale software systems and applications utilising programming languages such as Java, C++, or Python. They are responsible for creating, coding, testing, and maintaining software that satisfies particular specifications.
4. Game Development: To build video games, game developers use programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python. They work on a variety of game development components such as visuals, physics, user interfaces, and game mechanics.
5. Data Science: Data scientists and analysts utilise computer languages such as Python, R, or SQL to collect, clean, analyse, and visualise big datasets. They use statistical and machine learning approaches to uncover insights and make data-driven decisions.

Starting a Career in Computer Programming requires the following abilities.

1. Programming abilities: The fundamental knowledge required to become a programmer is a programming language, which is the cornerstone of coding. A programming language is also required in order to write and rewrite code. So, if you want to succeed as a developer, you must seriously consider programming languages. Among them are Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, C#, SQL, PHP, and more languages.
2. Mathematical abilities: You must have a fundamental understanding of arithmetic in order to be a programmer. You should have a strong math skill in algebra, probability, statistics, calculus, and geometry. You will benefit from all of these as you learn to code.
3. Problem-solving abilities: You need to be able to come up with solutions to issues and find ways to complete tasks. Additionally, you must be able to deal with and decode technical documentation created by other programmers.
4. Organisational abilities: Programming requires strong organisational abilities. You must be able to organise your programmes, data, and information efficiently. Your code should be neatly organised and not disorganised. This greatly simplifies your life.
5. Patience and attention to detail – To ensure that a computer programme is error-free, testing or debugging requires a high level of patience.

List of Universities in Nigeria to acquire a degree as a Computer Programmer

1. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos
3. Covenant University, Ota
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
6. Federal University of Technology, Minna
7. Federal University of Technology, Akure
8. Federal University of Technology, Owerri
9. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Ilorin
10. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Port Harcourt
11. University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan

Additionally, there are numerous bootcamps and technical institutes that can provide you with the knowledge and abilities needed to succeed as a computer programmer. While a traditional four-year degree is one of the most popular routes into computer programming, it is not the only one. Without a computer science degree, there are several academic programmes available today that can help you become a programmer.

Computer Programmer Salary in Nigeria

Depending on expertise level, a computer programmer can earn anywhere from 200,000 to 600,000 naira per month. In Nigeria, the average pay for programmers is relatively high when compared to other professions.

A career pivot into computer programming could first appear time-consuming and difficult, but with discipline and persistence, you can succeed and have a rewarding career.

Good luck.

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