There are five items to consider when choosing a computer programming school: programming language, equipment, accreditation, faculty, and reputation. Computer programming school is widely available at community, career and online colleges. This program is typically one to two years in length, and provides the training necessary to become a computer programmer.
Computer programmer is a broad term used to describe information technology staff who have learned the code for at least two major programming languages. The field of information technology has expanded so much that there are different genres of computer programming languages. Web-based, functional, operational, and graphical are just the main types of computer languages.
When looking for the best programming school, think about the type of programming that you enjoy, and the type of industry you want to work in. For example, people who want to create website applications need to learn Java® and JavaScript®, at the very least. People who are interested in working with enterprise resource planning systems, such as SAP® need to learn Advanced Business Application Programming (ABAP), the programming language of SAP®.
The best computer programming school will have the latest computer hardware and software available for student use. Check the availability of the equipment to ensure there are enough opportunities for every student to practice. Almost all classes should be held in computer labs, allowing students to gain hands-on experience writing code, fixing bugs, and using testing protocols.
When looking for a computer programming school, check the accreditation status. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions. Only accredited schools are able to offer students access to government student aid programs.
Review the qualifications of the faculty or course instructors with care. Most schools post a short biography of their course instructors on the school's website. Review this information and look for both academic credentials and working experience.
It is important to note that this is a growing field and requires dedication to continuing education in order to keep your skills relevant. Look for schools that offer short courses or certificates in the latest technology to students after graduation. These programs are typically available on weekends, in the evenings, or online.
The reputation of the school is very important when choosing the best computer programming school. Ask the admissions counselor about alumni events, where you can speak with graduates. Talk with area employers about the school to get a sense of its reputation.