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)
Related jobs
Discover related degrees
Postgraduate ECU-CSC-MAS
Undergraduate UNE-INF-DIP
Discover related subjects
Undergraduate UNE-SCI210
Related degrees
Undergraduate USA-COMP1043
Undergraduate TAS-ZAT113
Related degrees
- Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Technologies
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (Sustainable Business)
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (Fermentation)
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (ICT)
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (Extractive Industries)
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (Cyber Security)
- Diploma of Applied Technologies (Advanced Manufacturing)
- Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Psychological Science
- Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Economics
- Bachelor of Business (Business Analytics)
Undergraduate LTU-CSE1OOF
Step up your career with these resources
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.
Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.
Together, we've got this
Your dedicated advisor will help you enrol, plan your studies and find confidence in the knowledge that you belong at university. They’ve helped thousands before you. Now it’s your turn.