How to Become a Java Programmer

Java is one of the most used programming languages on the Internet. Because of its ubiquity, it should be at the top of your list if you're considering becoming a software coder. You can approach your goals in multiple ways, depending on how much time you have and how proficient you become. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer programmers make an average of $74,280 a year. The field is expected to grow by 8 percent between 2012 and 2022.

Definition of Java

The Java programming language was first released in 1995 by Sun Microsystems. Many applications and websites use Java. For example, Java is the foundation for most online games and viewing images in 3-D. It's also used in the business world for e-commerce. According to an East Tennessee State graduate's account of his work as a Java programmer, a Java programmer spends his days writing code, accessing databases, debugging previously written code. The Java programmer might start the day the local updating code to what other team members worked on the day before, then log in to local servers and look at runtime logs to locate problems. Java programmers may troubleshoot code before moving on to writing new code.

Education for Becoming a Programmer

Some programmers may get bachelor's degrees in computer science or computer information systems. However, not all college programs provide extensive Java training, so your education may not stop here or you may choose another route entirely. You can take Java-focused college classes, either in person or online. Or you can even take Java Homework tutorials online if you think you can build an impressive enough portfolio for job applications without having a degree next to your name.

Getting Java Certification

Your next step in successfully getting a job as a Java programmer is obtaining professional certification in Java. This certification provides proof of your expertise to potential employers. You can choose to get certification from Oracle, the company that currently develops Java; most employers value this certificate. According to Tech Republic, Oracle has three categories for Java certification: Standard SE, Mobile ME and Enterprise EE. Each category has its own subset of levels ranging from professional, which covers the fundamentals, to master and expert. An associate or professional SE certification shows you have the necessary skills to program. If you already have a solid Java background and want to be trained in business-level applications, then EE is the path to choose.

Getting the Programmer Job

Even with the right certification, it can be tough to get hired by a software company without experience. Try starting your own business on the side and do programming projects and mobile applications for clients, suggests John Sonmez, a software app developer and author of numerous developer courses, on the DZone website. You can start building a portfolio for future jobs this way. Sonmez says that some people start out in a quality assurance role and work their way up.

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Tags: Java, courses, degree, education, java, learning, programming, study, training

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Permalink Reply by Amy on March 21, 2018 at 3:27am

Great article!
I have been looking for the same information, and I have found it here well. Java is rather popular programming language and hence most of the candidates want to make a career as java developer, i think this is great tips and guide to become java developer. Thanks a lot.

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Permalink Reply by Mary C on May 3, 2018 at 4:26pm

Thank you for the information and useful data! I have always wanted to be a java programmer. I like how easy it is to use. In c++, we have to make sure that we don't have memory leak and stuff. Java on the other hand is more convenient and fun.