How to become a programmer
Create and edit programs by converting the requirements of a project into code.
Pathways to this career
- Develop your curiosity, experiment and play with different techniques. Once you're ready, enrol in a programming degree and take your skills to the next level.
- Talk to established agencies and companies, and secure an internship while you're still studying. Learning from experienced web developers will whet your passion for the industry.
- Gain as much experience as you can by building a portfolio outside study. Use what you learn in the classroom to create and showcase projects potential employers may be interested in.
Not sure if programming is right for you? Study a single subject in programming and see if it's the right match before committing to a full degree.
What does a programmer do?
Tasks and duties
- Research, design and analyse system programs and clients' needs.
- Write and maintain program code to ensure it meets system requirements and meets industry standards and best practice.
- Write and develop computer programs in order to locate, retrieve, and store specific data, information, or documents.
- Test code and identify bugs to be fixed to ensure programs and applications perform to specification.
- Leverage expertise to provide advice and guidance to implement new software and update existing software.
- Write and maintain technical and end-user documentation and operational procedures.
Industry bodies
- The Australian Computer Society
- Information Technology Professionals Association (ITPA)
- Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA)
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