Discover the Best Coding Classes Near Me
The process of developing instructions or algorithms that a computer can comprehend and execute is known as coding. It involves writing lines of code in a programming language to create software applications, websites, games, and more. Coding is the foundation for developing digital technologies and allows us to interact with computers and other devices.
There are several reasons someone may want to learn to code. Learning to code opens up many lucrative career opportunities in a burgeoning tech industry. Skilled programmers are in high demand as industries become increasingly more digitized. Coding is also a great medium for problem-solving and self-expression, allowing programmers to create innovative solutions to complex problems or bring their ideas to life through digital art, interactive websites, video games, or applications.
Programmers use coding languages, like Python, Java, and C++ to write instructions for computers to comprehend and perform. Coding is used to power many of the technologies enjoyed today, such as video games, web and mobile applications, and other software products. Learning to code has many benefits. Coding is in demand in the job market today and is employed in various sectors, including technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. Software development, data analysis, and web development are potential job routes for programmers. Learning to code can pave the way for a successful and rewarding profession, enabling programmers to realize their ideas or create ground-breaking software to solve real-world issues.
Coding classes offer a structured curriculum designed to take learners from the basics to advanced concepts, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of programming languages and techniques. These industry-standard curriculums emphasize hands-on, project-based curriculums that ensure students can apply concepts to real-world problems, build their confidence, and develop problem-solving skills. Those interested in learning to code should consider the following courses to help them learn to code.
For those interested in front end web development, NYC Career Centers’ JavaScript for front end is the best course. This course teaches students the fundamental concepts of JavaScript for front end web development. The curriculum covers topics such as variables, data types, functions, and control flow in JavaScript. Students learn to manipulate the Document Object Model (DOM) and add interactivity to webpages using JavaScript. The course also covers event handling, form validation, and AJAX for seamless data retrieval and updates. Additionally, participants gain practical experience through hands-on exercises and projects, developing dynamic and responsive webpages using JavaScript.
ONLC’s C# Programming Level 1: Intro for Non-Programmers introduces those with no programming background to the fundamentals of C# programming. The curriculum covers essential topics such as variables, data types, control structures, and object-oriented programming concepts. Students learn to write C# code using Visual Studio, the popular integrated development environment (IDE) for C# development. The course also covers basic input/output operations and error handling in C#. Additionally, students gain practical experience through hands-on exercises and coding examples, allowing them to apply their newly acquired knowledge to solve programming challenges.
Consider enrolling in Noble Desktop’s Full-Stack Web Development Certificate to learn to program both the front and back end of websites. Students learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript through a hands-on, project-based curriculum to create visually appealing web pages. The latter part of the course introduces students to the MERN tech stack, which includes MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js, to add databases, APIs, server environments, and interactivity to web applications.
General Assembly’s front end Web Development Certificate is a hands-on, project-based curriculum designed to teach students the essential skills needed to pursue a career as a front end Web Developer. Students learn HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript (ES6), and user experience (UX) principles to build and style interactive, user-friendly web pages.
ONLC’s R Programming Introduction provides a deep dive into the R programming language and its applications in data analysis and visualization. The curriculum covers essential topics such as data manipulation, statistical analysis, and data visualization using R. Participants learn to import, clean, and manipulate data using R packages and functions. The course also covers basic statistical analysis techniques, such as descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis using R.
Those interested in learning Python should look no further than Learning Tree International’s Introduction to Python. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming and covers essential topics such as variables, data types, control flow, and functions in Python. Participants learn to write Python code and work with Python's built-in data structures, such as lists, dictionaries, and tuples. The course also covers file input/output operations, exception handling, and basic object-oriented programming concepts in Python. Additionally, participants gain practical experience through hands-on exercises and coding examples, allowing them to apply their newly acquired knowledge to solve complex problems.
Computer Training Source, Inc. offers a SQL Queries Introduction that teaches students the fundamentals of SQL (Structured Query Language) and how to write effective queries to extract, manipulate, and manage database data. The course covers the basics of database concepts, including tables, fields, and relationships. Students learn how to construct SQL queries using SELECT statements to retrieve specific data from databases, apply filtering and sorting techniques, and use aggregate functions to perform calculations on data. The course also introduces concepts such as joining tables, creating subqueries, and working with multiple tables simultaneously.
Industries That Use Coding
Coding is a fundamental skill used in a wide range of industries in the US. Here are some major industries that use coding or hire programmers:
- Technology: The technology industry is the most prominent coding user and the primary employer of programmers. Coding is used to create and maintain applications, websites, and software systems, enabling businesses to innovate, automate processes, and provide digital solutions to customers. Companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft use coding to power web and mobile applications, operating systems, artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, and other digital products.
- Finance: The finance industry relies heavily on coding for data analysis, risk management, financial modeling, and algorithmic trading. Financial institutions, such as banks, insurance companies, and investment firms, employ programmers to develop financial software, build trading platforms, and develop models for predictive analytics. Additionally, coding helps build secure financial systems and implement advanced technologies like blockchain and fintech applications.
- Healthcare: The healthcare industry uses coding to develop and maintain electronic health records, medical billing, and healthcare software. Medical technology companies hire programmers to develop medical devices and healthcare software applications. Additionally, coding is crucial for medical research and analysis, enabling the extraction of insights from large volumes of healthcare data and supporting advancements in precision medicine and healthcare analytics.
- Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry uses coding to automate production processes, track inventory and quality control, manage supply chains, and streamline operations. Manufacturing companies employ programmers to develop manufacturing execution systems, machine control systems, and data analytics tools.
- Education: The education industry uses coding to develop e-learning platforms, educational software, and gamification tools. Many universities and schools offer computer science programs and hire programmers as instructors or researchers.
- Gaming and Entertainment: Coding is critical in developing video games, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and multimedia entertainment applications.
- E-commerce: Coding is essential for building and maintaining e-commerce platforms, enabling online shopping, user-friendly interfaces, and secure transactions.
Overall, coding is a valuable skill that is in demand across many industries in the US. With the increasing digitalization of our society, the demand for programmers is expected to grow in the coming years.
Coding Jobs & Salaries
There are a few career paths one can take after learning to code, including:
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design and develop computer software using programming languages, math, UX design, and engineering techniques. While most software engineers know full-stack web development, others specialize in just one. Software Engineers build the video games, web applications, mobile applications, and operating systems we use daily. The most popular programming language that Software Engineers may need to know is JavaScript, Swift, Scala, Go, Python, Ruby, C#, and Elm. Depending on the employer, an additional programming language may be helpful.
The average salary of a Software Engineer is $115,000 in the United States. However, salaries can vary depending on various factors, including location. For example, a Software Engineer based in San Francisco, which has a high cost of living, typically earns an average salary of $152,000 annually. On the other hand, a Kansas City-based Software Engineer earns an average annual salary of $90,000.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists, also called Data Engineers or Business Intelligence (BI) developers, collect, organize, and analyze data and form predictions to inform decision-making. These data professionals have in-depth knowledge of statistics, programming, and mathematics. Python, SQL, R, C/C++, Java, and JavaScript are essential languages to know in Data Science.
Data Scientists work with nonprofits, governments, and other organizations to help form actionable plans from the insight gained from data trends.
Data Scientists earn an average annual salary of $128,000; however, this can vary depending on your location. Data Scientists in HCOL (High Cost of Living) areas where housing, food, transportation, and other expenses are higher earn higher salaries. For example, a Data Scientist in San Francisco can expect to earn an average annual salary of $155,000, respectively. On the other hand, a Charlotte-based Data Scientist earns $125,000, much closer to the national average due to its lower cost of living.
Web Developer
Web Developers are the people behind all of your favorite websites. They design, build and maintain websites and web applications using coding languages. Web developers can specialize in front end, back-end, or full stack development. The most common programming language that a Web Developer uses will depend on their specialization. Those specializing in front end development should be proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Django, and Python. Popular back-end languages include PHP, C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, Node.js, Ruby, GO, and REST.
The average annual salary of a Web Developer is $82,000. You can expect a higher salary living in a high-cost-of-living (HCOL) area. For example, an Atlanta-based Web Developer makes an average salary of $102,000 annually. In contrast, a Grand Rapids-based Web Developer typically earns $76,000 annually.
DevOps Engineer
Development Operations Engineers, also known as DevOps engineers, ensure the continued functionality of the software platforms they create. They work with developers and IT staff to streamline software updates and creations. DevOps Engineers deeply understand IT infrastructure and oversee code releases and deployment in multi-tenant or hybrid cloud environments. DevOps engineers use the most common programming languages: JavaScript, Python, Java, PHP, Ruby, Perl, and C/C++. Other languages depend on the industry and organization you work for.
The average annual salary of a DevOps Engineer is $125,000, though this can vary depending on where you live. The highest-paying cities for DevOps Engineers are San Francisco (CA), Herndon (VA), and New York (NY), which boast salaries of $135,000+.
What Will I Need to Learn Coding?
To learn to code, you will need access to a high-speed internet connection through a laptop or desktop computer. A computer is often provided if you enroll in an in-person class, but you should check with the school. Live online courses typically require that you have your own computer or laptop. While Apple machines are often suggested for software engineering and web development courses, Windows or Linux systems are also acceptable. The PC must run macOS 10.15, Windows 10, Ubuntu 18.0, or a later version of these operating systems. You must also have a webcam and microphone to participate in live online classes. In general, you should contact people in charge of the class to learn about any extra minimal or suggested technical requirements for taking their course.
Is it Difficult to Learn Coding?
Many beginners worry that coding may be too difficult to learn, yet it is far easier than most people believe. While learning to code might be difficult, with time and dedication, you can master it. Once you grasp one or two programming languages, the barrier to learning other languages is much reduced, and if you're having trouble, there are lots of tools available to help you learn to code and stay motivated.