Video transcript available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FT15GxJQrE. Quick Facts: Computer Programmers 2021 Median Pay $93,000 per year $44.71 per hour Typical Entry-Level Education Bachelor’s degree Work Experience in a Related Occupation None On-the-job Training None Number of Jobs, 2020 185,700 Job Outlook, 2020-30 -10% (Decline) Employment Change, 2020-30 -18,300
What Computer Programmers Do
Computer programmers write, modify, and test code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly.
Work Environment
Programmers usually work in office settings, most commonly in the computer systems design and related services industry. Most computer programmers work full time.
How to Become a Computer Programmer
Computer programmers typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. Most programmers specialize in several programming languages.
Pay
The median annual wage for computer programmers was $93,000 in May 2021.
Job Outlook
Employment of computer programmers is projected to decline 10 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Despite declining employment, about 9,700 openings for computer programmers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for computer programmers.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of computer programmers with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about computer programmers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.