Computer programming certificates attract students looking for quick access to entry-level careers as well as experienced professionals seeking career advancement. Without the general education courses of a full degree, certificate programs may provide a shorter and more affordable study option.
Skillsoft’s 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report found that over 75% of IT leaders reported tech skills gaps in their teams, and many IT workers identified a lack of professional development opportunities in the industry. Computer programming certificates can help address both issues.
On this page, we examine computer programming certificates, highlighting what to expect and how to choose the right program for you. We also provide a ranking of the best certificate programs available this year.
Why Get a Computer Programming Certificate?
In 1962, Purdue University became the first school in the United States to open a computer science department. Purdue developed one of the earliest undergraduate programming courses and offered graduate degrees. As computer technologies advanced, schools introduced computer programming certificates to educate students in specialized fields.
Today, certificates help schools keep their offerings up to date in the face of a constantly evolving industry. These programs allow IT professionals to learn new languages and technologies without investing in full degrees or disrupting their careers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a decline in computer programming jobs between 2021 and 2031. However, the BLS also projects a need for over 680,000 new computer and IT workers during that same period.
Many of these professionals will need programming skills. IT roles in development and engineering, analysis, and management all demand the evolving programming knowledge that computer programming certificates can develop.
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Pursue Career Advancement: Certificates help professionals expand their qualifications. Job-seekers can use these credentials to seek new positions and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.
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Save Time and Money: Compared to full degrees, computer programming certificates may offer a shorter, more affordable training path.
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Expand Knowledge and Skills: Certificates help professionals learn new programming languages, techniques, and tools. With these new skills, programmers can help organizations improve their systems and technological operations.
Careers in Computer Programming
Training and credentials in programming can lead to many careers in the computer and information technology industry. Programming skills can benefit workers in high-paying, fast-growing fields like computer and information research science, computer systems analysis, and cybersecurity.
The list below highlights some top careers for professionals with computer programming backgrounds.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write the code that brings software and applications to life. These professionals test, debug, and improve code to ensure that developers, managers, and end users get the functionality they want. Programmers work in computer systems design services and software publishing, along with specialized industries like manufacturing, finance, and insurance.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): -10%
Median Annual Salary: $93,000
Software Developer
Software developers create and upgrade software based on the needs of their organization and users. With tests and planning, they ensure that the software works with the appropriate systems and programs. Top-employing industries for this role include computer systems design services, finance and insurance, and manufacturing.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +25%
Median Annual Salary: $109,020
Systems Manager
Systems managers oversee IT staff, system operations, and other IT activities. These professionals provide management and stakeholders with systems insight and ensure that performance matches or exceeds expectations. Along with computer systems design services, systems managers work in information, finance and insurance, and manufacturing.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +16%
Median Annual Salary: $159,010
Top Five Computer Programming Certificates
The following ranked list highlights our selections for the top five computer programming certificates of 2023. To learn more about the standards used in scoring and ranking schools and programs, follow this link:
#1 Best Computer Programming Certificate Programs
Southern Crescent Technical College
- Griffin, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southern Crescent operates within the Technical College System of Georgia. Established in 2010 through a merger of Griffin and Flint River Technical Colleges, the school now focuses exclusively on career training and workforce development with its certificate, diploma, and two-year degree programs.
Computer Information Systems Certificates
Southern Crescent Technical College offers six unique computer programming certificates. Students seeking a well-rounded general introduction can build a strong knowledge base through the college's foundations of computer programming pathway.
Additional program options include specialized certificates in C++, Java, and PHP. High school students ages 16 and up can also opt for dual-enrollment programs in C++ and C# programming. These study opportunities allow secondary students to earn transferable college credits.
Each program covers two terms and uses compact curricula focused on specialized, job-ready skills.
Applying to Southern Crescent
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Required materials include all academic transcripts and an institutional application. All six computer programming certificates include a skills assessment, which a candidate must pass to earn an offer of admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $100/credit (resident), $200/credit (non-resident)
- Required Credits: 15-22
- Delivery Format: On campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
75%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Computer Programming Certificate Programs
Rend Lake College
RLC brands itself as a place "where learning never ends." Founded as Mount Vernon Community College in 1955, the school adopted its current name in 1966. In 2022, RLC had an active student body of more than 2,300 learners.
Computer Programming with Visual Basic Certificate
Rend Lake College features a computer programming certificate that builds Visual Basic programming language expertise. Many programmers use Visual Basic in PC environments powered by Microsoft's Windows operating system.
Students take required courses in .NET platform fundamentals and programming, along with an elective in a chosen area of interest. The program also includes a required orientation module for students new to higher education. Learners returning to higher education must take a course in work ethic.
RLC's program can lead to employment opportunities in computer programming and software development. The school also offers an exceptional affordability profile — as of February 2023, 0% of the RLC student body reported receiving loans.
Applying to RLC
RLC maintains an open enrollment policy. Each candidate must submit an institutional application, official academic transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores. An applicant may also use alternate tests as determined by a consultation with RLC's Academic Advisement Center.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $110/credit (in district), $175/credit (out of district, in state), $200/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 9
- Delivery Format: On campus, hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Computer Programming Certificate Programs
Albany Technical College
- Albany, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Albany, Georgia, Albany Tech began operations in 1961 as the Monroe Area Vocational-Technical School. In 1988, the institution came under the authority of the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education. It has since maintained a core focus on practical and technical career training.
Computer Programming Diploma
The computer programming diploma program at Albany Technical College trains students for entry-level careers in information technology. Its curriculum includes courses in four general categories: basic skills, occupational courses, programming courses, and technical electives.
Basic skills courses lay the foundations for academic success at the postsecondary level. Occupational classes cover computing essentials, while programming coursework focuses on C#, C++, Java, and PHP. Electives allow enrollees to build specializations or pursue areas of interest.
Albany Tech also offers shorter certificate programs in computing and information technology, including Java, PHP, C++, iOS, and mobile application development.
Applying to Albany Tech
Each applicant must have a high school diploma or GED certificate. Albany Tech considers Accuplacer Next Generation/Accuplacer scores, with the following minimum scores required for the computer programming diploma:
- Accuplacer Next Generation: Reading 224; writing 236; arithmetic 229
- Accuplacer: Sentence skills 60; reading comprehension 55; arithmetic 34
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $100/credit (resident), $200/credit (non-resident)
- Required Credits: 18-52
- Delivery Format: On campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Computer Programming Certificate Programs
Palm Beach State College
- Lake Worth, FL
- 4 years
- Campus
PBSC's founding dates back to 1933 as Florida's first public junior college. It has since grown into a thriving academic institution with a student community of more than 40,000 learners.
Computer Programming Specialist CCC
The Palm Beach State College computer programming specialist college credit certificate (CCC) program emphasizes practical skills in multiple areas. Students learn to write custom software solutions for businesses while building advanced data management, analysis, and retrieval skills.
Graduates of this two-term, 18-credit program can pursue opportunities in the workforce, as the curriculum supports successful transitions into entry-level programming roles. Learners can also apply their credits toward programming CCCs or associate degrees in programming or other related computer science areas.
Applying to PBSC
PBSC maintains inclusive admission policies. Each applicant must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate and must complete a general institutional application for admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $101/credit (resident), $363/credit (non-resident)
- Required Credits: 18
- Program Length: One year
- Delivery Format: On campus, hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Computer Programming Certificate Programs
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College
- Valdosta, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Wiregrass has developed a strong reputation among employers for its technical training programs since its 1963 founding. The college's guiding mission covers workforce development that stimulates economic growth and innovation.
Computer Programming Diploma
The computer programming diploma program at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College's Valdosta campus covers C#, C++, PHP, and Python. Students also develop professional skills in database management, JavaScript, HTML, and SQL.
Occupational courses introduce enrollees to computer science basics, including program design, web development, and IT fundamentals. Programming classes divide into two levels, starting with foundations and advancing into intermediate studies. Electives and general core courses supplement the primary curriculum to develop well-rounded knowledge and skill sets.
Applying to Wiregrass
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. A candidate without a high school diploma or GED certificate must have at least 60 semester credits or 72 quarter credits. GED certificate-holders must possess scores of at least 145. Applicants must also submit Accuplacer, ACT, Asset, Compass, PSAT, or SAT scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $100/credit (resident), $200/credit (non-resident), $400/credit (international)
- Required Credits: 52
- Delivery Format: On campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
What to Expect From a Computer Programming Certificate Program
Computer programming certificate programs provide condensed, specialized education to current and aspiring professionals. However, program content varies by level and focus.
These programs usually entail about 12-30 credits and last 4-18 months. Certificate curricula may cover entry-level or advanced material. Tuition costs can range from about $3,000 to over $12,000, depending on program length, scope, and per-credit price.
Since computer programming certificates include college and university courses, they may provide transfer credits that can count toward future degrees. The computer-related material covered and the limited scope of these programs lend well to online learning.
Admissions Process
Admission requirements for computer programming certificates vary by school and program. In general, undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate, and graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree. Some programs call for specific prior coursework or a minimum GPA.
Other requirements may include SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores, plus recommendation letters and personal essays. Though not usually required, relevant experience or a high-quality portfolio may give candidates an advantage.
Different Certificate Types
Despite the confusion between computer science certifications and certificates, there is a simple difference. Colleges and universities award certificates at the end of short academic programs, while industry organizations issue certifications when a professional demonstrates expertise in a particular field.
Computer programming certificates cater to a diverse marketplace. These programs may focus on entry-level or graduate materials, and on general or specialized subjects.
Along with on-campus programs, many schools offer online and hybrid certificate programs. Distance learning programs may feature synchronous or asynchronous delivery, accommodating students who need flexible delivery and learners who prefer a real-time classroom environment.
Popular Certificate Courses
The type of courses included in a computer programming certificate can vary. Some programs include only required courses, whereas others offer electives. Some emphasize general classes, while others feature specialized options.
The courses below are some of the most common options in general computer programming certificates.
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Python Web Applications: In this course, students learn to use Python to create web-based applications, templates, and modules. Coursework covers typical problem-solving tactics and formatting best practices.
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Data Structures: This course teaches enrollees to use Python's built-in data structures for data analysis and problem solving. Study topics may include lists, tuples, arrays, and dictionaries.
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Object-Oriented Software Engineering: Students in this course learn to use classes and create methods and attributes in object-oriented programming. Enrollees also explore best practices and learn how to integrate objects with Python.
How Much Do Certificates in Computer Programming Cost?
Computer programming certificates typically follow the per-credit costs of their institutions, so programs with more credits tend to cost more. Out-of-state learners at public schools, as well as students at private schools, in graduate programs, or attending prestigious institutions may pay higher-than-average prices.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), average annual tuition in 2020-21 was $3,900 at two-year public schools and $18,000 at two-year private schools. Other costs that could increase certificate expenses include books and materials, technology fees, and exam fees. Students in on-campus programs may also need to pay for transportation.
Despite the range of costs, computer programming certificates may cost less than associate degrees, and many are cheaper than bootcamps. Like other students at accredited schools, certificate candidates often qualify for traditional financial aid.
Choosing the Right Computer Programming Certificate
To pick the right computer programming certificate, students should consider their needs, interests, and priorities. The following list includes some key factors to bear in mind.
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Institutional accreditation
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Financial aid accessibility
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School facilities for on-campus students
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Online or hybrid program options
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Program length and schedule
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School location and residency requirements
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Class size and student-to-teacher ratio
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Course and specialization options
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Student groups and extracurricular activities
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Professional and alumni network
Should You Get Your Certificate in Computer Programming Online?
Online computer programming certificates typically cover the same material and provide the same credentials as on-campus programs. However, there are some differences. For example, online programs usually demand more independent learning, but offer more schedule flexibility.
According to NCES, more than three million learners studied exclusively online in 2019-20. As of 2022, after the enormous jump in online studies resulting from COVID-19 policies, the number remains considerably higher. NCES reports more than 5.5 million fully online students during the 2021-2022 school year.
Clearly, online learning has great appeal, but students should consider how their learning styles and needs align with online instruction before jumping in.
Should You Go to a Certificate, Associate, or Bootcamp Program?
Aspiring programmers have several educational options, but choosing the right path can be difficult. Computer programming certificates, associate degrees, and coding bootcamps each offer something unique, but these program types also overlap in many ways.
Learners should consider how each option serves their needs before deciding. The table below highlights how these programs compare in several major areas.
Comparing Certificate, Associate, and Bootcamp Programs
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Comparison Point
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Computer Programming Certificates
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Computer Programming Associate Degrees
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Bootcamp Programs
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Credit Requirements
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12-30 credits
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60
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Varies
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Average Program Length
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4-18 months
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2 years
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Four months
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Program Focus
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Entry level, graduate level, or specialized field
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General studies and entry-level foundation
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Entry level or specialized field
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Admission Requirements
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High school diploma or GED certificate for undergraduate programs; bachelor's degree for graduate programs
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High school diploma or GED certificate
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Varies
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Average/Median Cost
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$3,000-$12,000
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$3,900/year at public schools; $18,000/year at private schools
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$11,900
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Discover more paths to learning computer programming
Associate Degrees in Computer Programming
Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Programming
Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming
Master's Degrees in Computer Programming
Online Master's in Computer Programming
Computer Programming Languages
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Programming Certificate
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How long does it take to get a computer programming certificate?
Computer programming certificates typically take 4-18 months to complete with a full-time course load. Schools may offer part-time studies, resulting in longer completion times.
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Can I get financial aid for a certificate in computer programming?
Yes. Students pursuing computer programming certificates may qualify for federal financial aid, private funding, and scholarships.
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What can I do with a computer programming certificate?
Depending on the certificate level, graduates may qualify for entry-level positions, jobs in specialized fields, or leadership roles.
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Is a certificate in computer programming worth it?
Many graduates would say yes. A computer programming certificate can help professionals land entry-level jobs or advance within their current industries. These programs typically offer condensed timeframes and relatively low costs.
