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High School

To begin in high school, one should try to take a lot of maths, sciences (University chemistry and physics), computer programming courses, and academic English (you do not need to take enriched English). They should also take advanced math to try and learn more in-depth math skills. All the courses should also be university level. For grade 12, you do not need to take data-management, but you should take Advanced Functions and Calculus. In addition, a high school diploma is required, and so is higher education.

 

 

Education Path

Higher Education

As for pursuing higher education, one may go into college or university, depending on where they decide to work. If one decided to work for the government or large corporations such as Microsoft, then they will need at least a 4-year bachelor’s degree. If they decide to work in smaller companies which will have a lot less programming needs, one could still be accepted with a two or three year diploma. However, due to the programming industry becoming much more competitive, many people have gone to their Master’s or even Doctor’s degree in computer programming in order to find a stable job with good benefits and pay. For all the programs one may choose to take, they will be taking mathematics, computer science, computer programming, and maybe business administration if their program offers it. Having strong math skills and business skills will also make someone a better programmer, and much more favourable in the job market. 

Additional Certifications

In addition to higher education, computer programmers are usually certified in some programming languages, such as C++, Java, or C#. In order to become certified in a computer language, one will have to undergo certification programs, including ones that are provided by software companies or professional associations. Though the certification of a language is not necessary, it does usually make someone a lot more competitive in the job market, and allows them to show in a more professional way, which languages they are proficient in.

In Conclusion

Lastly, even once computer programmers complete University and are certified in a language, one should take the initiative to renew their skills. Such as recertification of a language to keep it up to date, and continuous practising of a language at home, will allow them to stay sharp in their skills. Also, other certificates, such as a program manager will also help in the aspect of a promotion or higher pay. There are also computer language training courses, such as in HTML 5, which one could take to extend their range of knowledge. In general, as a computer program, one should always strive to broaden their range of knowledge, and to never stop learning. This is primarily due to the competitiveness of the industry.

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