Jumpstarting a Career in Programming: Learning to Code Online

The timeline for learning how to code online hinges on many aspects. Your level of prior knowledge in programming, what specialization you are considering, and what your specific talents and learning goals are can all be significant factors when mapping out your timeline. There are also several pathways for learning to code; You can learn to code while earning your traditional bachelor’s degree, by enrolling in a coding bootcamp, or by just investing the time to learn on your own.  

It is important to consider that learning to code online relies heavily on your schedule and individualized pace of learning. However, there is a rough outline you can follow as to when to expect to finish certain training. If you are considering a career in programming or learning to code online, here is a tentative plan of what to expect: 

STARTING A CAREER IN PROGRAMMING

Step 1: Beginner Level

Being new to programming means mastering the fundamentals. Learning to write simple code allows you to build more complex code in the future. Expect the timeline for familiarizing yourself with basic software and simple languages to be about two to six months. During this level of training, you may work with languages such as Python, HTML, or JavaScript. However, the time it takes to learn to program may vary depending on the language you choose to focus on. For example, HTML is typically easier to learn than Java. If you are learning to code through a bootcamp, the program will likely articulate goals and timelines making beginner’s steps easy to process and visualize.   

Step 2: Intermediate and Advanced Level

Complete proficiency of software takes time and consistent practice in overcoming programming challenges. Programming is often done independently, so working alone while managing and mitigating potential conflicts is critical to success. Doing so requires a deep understanding of the software and how it functions. This familiarity is gained from experience, and continuous practice with learning to code online may take up to a year. However, some people choose to take a university route, earning a bachelor’s in computer science (four years) or participating in a master’s program (two years). 

Step 3: Continuous Learning

Technically, you never quite finish learning how to program. Programming, along with any other tech career, relies on staying up to date with the newest technologies and tools. It is a field that is constantly evolving. So, even if you finish with your bootcamp in 4 months, expect to continue to learn new methods, languages, and software throughout your career. Staying up to date is critical in tech for career growth, knowing relevant industry skills and trends, and standing out as an excellent candidate and employee.

REMEMBER: LEARNING IS SUBJECTIVE

The process of learning to program online is going to be unique to everyone. Some people may like computers and technology, making learning to program easier and faster. It also all depends on what specialization of languages and software platforms a programmer might want to learn. It’s also important to consider what path of education to take as they all have vastly different timelines, as going to university typically takes more time than taking an online programming course. The goals, skills, and time management of the student shape the timeline of learning to program. 

LOOKING AHEAD

If you are considering a career in programming, it is important to know what options are available and what those expectations are. Learning to code online can be a quick, accessible, and affordable way to jumpstart your programming career.  

If you’re ready to get started with your career in programming, join BCTG’s network of expert tech consultants today. 

Contributions from Leah Harding