How to become a programmer

Create and edit programs by converting the requirements of a project into code.

Pathways to this career

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

Related jobs

Discover online computer science courses

Undergraduate GRF-CSC-DEG

Bachelor of Computer Science

Undergraduate USQ-HSC-DEG

Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Computing)

Postgraduate ECU-CSC-MAS

Master of Computer Science

Undergraduate USA-INT-DEG

Bachelor of Information Technology

Discover online computer science subjects

Step up your career with these resources

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. 

Are microcredentials worth it?

You can study a microcredential in just about any industry, from healthcare and education to business and marketing. Here’s why these skills-based short courses are worth your time.

5 qualities that make you a leader vs a manager

While managers dole out tasks, leaders take things a step further by inspiring everyone around them. Discover how you can become this kind of leader, no matter where you work.  

We're here to guide you there

Our student advisors can assist you with enrolment, help you plan your studies, and answer questions about how studying through Open Universities Australia can get you from where you are today, to where you want to be tomorrow.

13 OPEN (13 67 36)

Message, chat or SMS

Talk to a student advisor

We'll be in touch to answer your questions.

Student advisor Jason Student advisor Maria Student advisor Peter

Usually replies in 30 mins