TSTC introduces new program to meet state need

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Computer Programming Technology is being introduced at Texas State Technical College Fall 2019 and is already accepting new students.

Computer programming is the process of creating instructions that a computer can carry out.

Programmers use coding languages to write and test code that allow a computer to function properly, and they write software such as business and mobile applications and video games that are easy to read and understand.

Computer Programming Instructor Shelby Coffman said computer programmers are in high demand across Texas and the United States and on average make a starting salary of more than $37,000 a year, and in larger cities more than $45,000 a year.

Coffman also said this new computer program is also offered at TSTC’s Waco campus.

Coffman gives an inside look into the program.

What is the length of the program?

The program is five semesters long, or 60 credit hours.

What certificates and/or associate degrees are offered?

The program offers an Associate of Applied Science once the five semesters are completed successfully.

What skills do you learn in Computer Programming Technology?

Students will learn four different programming languages: Visual Basic, C#, C++ and Java. Students will also learn the technical skills they need such as software writing and coding; software design and planning; data storage and retrieval; and database programming, in addition to soft skills such as teamwork and leadership and communication skills. Students will have the opportunity to choose a cooperative education class toward the last semester of the program to gain real-world experience with an internship, while receiving class credit.

What type of technology is used to teach these skills?

The program has two labs that are fitted with work stations that include computers and monitors that will allow a student to write, run, debug and test code, and experience an integrated development environment. Students in the program will also use database systems and Microsoft SQL Servers for training purposes.

How do these skills prepare a student for the workforce?

Students from Computer Programming Technology will be able to assess a company’s needs and custom tailor software solutions.

What kind of positions can a graduate from this program obtain and where can they work?

Graduates from Computer Programming Technology can work as software developers, software engineers, game programmers, IT programmers, application administrators, software technicians and mobile application developers.

They can find jobs in hospitals, school districts or higher education institutions, airline companies and local, county and city governments.