When it comes to technology, there’s nothing more important than coding. From data science to web development, cybersecurity to machine learning—you name it, coding is behind it. In the most essential way, coding is what makes our technologies work.

You’ll need coding skills for a career in any of the following roles:

A comprehensive list of positions that demand coding skills in today’s job market could be virtually endless. And while you may have learned some coding in school, the question is how can you best learn practical coding for a successful career?

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Different Skills for Different Roles

Coding is a skill required now for so many positions, there isn’t one ideal learning method that applies to every situation. Consider the following options.

  1. Do-it-yourself - The DIY method of learning can offer many benefits: no requirements, low to no cost, and you can choose what you want and don’t want to learn. YouTube videos, webinars, and blog posts are popular first choices for self-study. 

The advantages of this approach are obvious, but its limitations are even more glaring. When it comes to free options, you won’t likely get more than what you pay for. You may also wind up on an educational detour that later proves costly.

  1. Internships or part-time work - If you picked up coding skills from high school or a temporary gig, consider seeking out part-time, contract or internship roles. Depending on what you already know, it’s possible to grow your knowledge and skill set on the job. Unfortunately, there are usually limits as to how far you can take such training.
  2. College or university - Studying at the post-secondary level often appears the most logical choice for coding, especially for recent graduates. There are advantages, as positions in some companies still require a four-year degree as a qualification. However, more and more companies have waived the college requirement if applicants have sufficient coding skills.
  3. Individual classes - Want to learn Python or JavaScript? Seminars or workshops can offer you coding fundamentals in a short timeframe. There are limits on the amount of skills or knowledge delivered by a single class, but it might be the best way for you to begin.
  4. Bootcamps or certificate programs - If you’re serious about coding, a comprehensive online or in-person bootcamp can be the ideal way to learn. Many programs include a Certificate of Completion, 1-on-1 mentoring, and perks like free retakes for up to a year after graduation.

The following are top bootcamps from Noble Desktop that help students prepare for careers that require coding:

  • Full Stack Web Development Certificate - This in-depth bootcamp covers advanced HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), as well as front end and back end JavaScript. Full Stack Developers can code every part of websites and apps, so it’s an excellent option if you’re looking to get job offers in full stack web development.
  • Data Science Certificate - Data Analysts and Data Scientists need a completely different skill set than Web Developers. But there’s still some overlap with development pros, especially in coding. Python, SQL, and NoSQL rank among the most in-demand languages, crucial for data science and data analysis positions. You’ll learn them in this program.
  • Python for Data Science Bootcamp - If you plan to focus on Python data science, this program is for you. Many students learn Python as their first programming language, as it’s an easy entry point for those new to data science. You can save by taking this bootcamp as part of Noble’s Data Science Certificate.
  • Software Engineering Certificate - The Software Engineering Certificate also features some of the most common programming languages: namely, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Many graduates of this program go on to web development roles, while others go on to become Application Engineers or Systems Engineers.

Another Way of Viewing Top Languages

Today’s high tech positions require coding skills, and coding is part of programming. You must have knowledge of programming languages and syntax to code. But you need much more expertise to develop software or applications, in areas like algorithms, modeling, and project management.

Consider a completely different way of looking at the most popular tools for coding. Popular languages like JavaScript and Python cut across every sector, private and public. Here are the top programming languages and examples of positions that require coding with them.

  • JavaScript - Used for web development, game development, mobile apps, and building servers. Required for positions like JavaScript Developer, Front End Developer, Full Stack Developer, WordPress Developer, and UX/UI Designer.
  • HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) - For website development and maintenance, in combination with CSS. If you want to be a Front End Developer, Full Stack Developer, Web Designer, Java Developer, or Software Engineer, you’ll need HTML skills.
  • CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) - Combined with HTML for website design, development, and documents. Required for positions like Web Developer, CSS/HTML Developer, Front End Developer, and Full Stack Developer.
  • C / C# / C++ - You’ll learn C languages if you’re a Game Developer, Web Developer, Mobile App Developer, Data Scientist, or C Programmer. C is the first coding language many Gen Zers learn, and is now a requirement for many positions.
  • Python - Another of the most popular languages, you’ll need Python if you’re a Back End Developer, App Developer, or Data Scientist. Other titles for Python programmers include Software Engineer, Product Manager, and Data Engineer. About 50% of hiring managers worldwide look for Python skills when hiring developers.

There are virtually hundreds of languages, and different industries require different tools. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top positions for computer and information technology are as follows:

  1. Computer and Information Research Scientist
  2. Computer Network Architect
  3. Computer Programmer
  4. Computer Support Specialist
  5. Computer Systems Analyst

Employers value bootcamp graduates for a number of reasons. These programs provide strong practical experience, and most graduates can learn new technologies quickly on the job. For this reason alone, it’s well worth comparing your options and adding a bootcamp or certificate program to your list of best ways to learn coding.