With the speed of change in technology, people often wonder if foundational roles (like computer programming) are still good career options. Would it be better to study cloud computing? Artificial intelligence? Will those newer roles be out of date by the time you graduate anyway?
Those questions make sense—the rate of change in this field looks dizzying from the outside. But if you know anything about computer systems, you probably already understand how much of the technology we have is built on a shared foundation.
Working in that foundation is and will remain very valuable. Many computer programmers find their skills applicable to careers throughout the tech industry, as well as in the role of a computer programmer itself.
Proficiency in computer languages is highly useful
The computer programming field is still a valuable and good career option.
Aspiring computer programmers must learn to be proficient in multiple languages such as Java®, Swift®, Python®, or C++. Computer programmers write code to build, enhance or repair software systems.
If you have technical or computer skills and enjoy using coding language to build or update programs, a career in computer programming could be right for you.
With that being said, the environment of computer programming has certainly changed. The role is still very valuable, but it isn't the same role that existed, say, ten years ago.
Computer programmers focus more on problem-solving now
One positive about computer programming today is that the main problem-solving skillset that programmers offer has not been replaced by AI and automation. Today’s programming is less about coding and more about conceptualizing, designing and collaborating with the technology the company has in place.
You can use problem-solving and critical thinking abilities to solve any complex technical challenges, which may make the job feel rewarding and fulfilling.
Programming skills are versatile across the industry
A major factor that keeps programming a good career option is its adaptability.
Software systems have become instrumental in almost every industry, such as healthcare, finance, education, logistics and entertainment. With such a wide variety of industries, programmers can choose from a variety of computer programming jobs, such as:
- Software development
- Data analysis
- Web developer
- Data science
- Computer software
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud engineering
- Full stack developers
- Working with data structures
- Technical support automation
- AI-assisted development
You could work on many different kinds of operating systems and device types in a software engineer role. You need to be a strong computer programmer, be proficient with programming languages, and understand the software development process as well. The pay is quite good across the board, and programmers can work remotely or in a hybrid mode if their employers allow.
We have been hearing about artificial intelligence (AI) taking over or eliminating jobs. However, artificial intelligence adoption in a programming environment does not imply fewer computer programming jobs. AI tools speed up the repetitive or redundant tasks that come with writing code; therefore, developers and programmers can concentrate more on the design, architecture, debugging, optimization, and business-to-technical translation specific to the industry they are working in.
As for AI and the future, companies will want employees who can embrace and work with AI rather than against it.
Computer programmers do need more than technical expertise
There may have been a time when computer programmers earned their bachelor's degree and walked into the job market as highly-sought experts, even before they gained experience—or even if they lacked soft skills like communication or professionalism.
That is not the case now. In today’s programming world, successful programmers combine their technical skills and coding skills, with good oral and written communication skills and problem-solving skills. The computer programming career path has evolved over time, and there are fewer entry-level coding positions asking only for applicants who can write code.
Don't expect employers to be bewildered and delighted at your ability to use Python. You will need to bring more than coding to the table.
Expect to keep learning
This is why (in part) anyone would bother earning a degree in computer science. Success in the field requires a great deal more than the ability to code something.
Having a degree in computer programming will help define your logical skills, coding skills, critical thinking skills, and introduce you to emerging programming languages and new programming languages for the future.
Due to the constant changes in technology, programming professionals must continually learn throughout their careers.
Computer programming and computer science remain great opportunities for people who like to continuously learn, think logically, learn new coding languages and work with various technologies.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034.1 It is a career that will likely continue to gain importance in a technology-driven world.
If that sounds appealing, check out What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree? Exploring Your Options.
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Handbook, Software Developers, Testers and QA Analysts, (accessed March, 2026): Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov).
