Take the first step to a high-demand software development career with the online Introduction to Computer Programming Certificate from Southern New Hampshire University. Designed by SMEs with real-world experience, this 12-credit, 4-course certificate program can help prepare you for entry-level positions in your field and save time along the way. With 8-week terms and multiple-term starts per year, you can earn your certificate in as few as 4 months.

The computer programming certificate hones in on critical areas to succeed in today's workforce from competency with programming languages like Java, C++, and Python, to collaboration and problem-solving skills. Upon earning your computer programming certificate, you'll be prepared for entry-level roles in a variety of industries. You may also opt to transfer all 12 certificate credits to continue your education at SNHU. For example, our AS in Computer Science, BS in Computer Science, and BS in IT with a concentration in Software Development all seamlessly build upon the certificate program saving you even more time and tuition in pursuit of your goals.

Learn how to:

- Use foundational programming and software development knowledge and skills to develop efficient software applications

- Apply object-oriented programming concepts and principles throughout the various phases of the Software Development Lifecycle

- Develop collaborative skills to create solutions to problems within an agile development environment

- Explore various programming and software development concepts and principles such as data structures, inheritance, polymorphism, abstraction, and encapsulation

"The curriculum for the Certificate in Computer Programming is designed by SMEs with real-world experience in their field. It is specifically designed to help position you for professional success whether you're changing your career or just getting started. The curriculum of the Introduction to Computer Programming Certificate is one of the most advanced and inclusive being offered online," said Dr. Sharon Kibbe, associate dean of STEM programming at SNHU. "Preparing students for a job or enhancing the skills of a current job were foremost in the minds of the course developers to offer a flexible and career-focused opportunity."

The program includes 4 courses:

- Introduction to Scripting

- Foundation in Application Development

- Programming Languages

- Software Development Lifecycle

In the Introduction to Scripting course, you'll learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions, and file handling. By developing simple scripts, you'll use common scripting language constructs including lists, and literal and regular expressions to build useful applications. Foundation in Application Development will have you use programming as a problem-solving technique in business and engineering applications. You'll write computer code in a logical, structured, and organized manner, then learn how to incorporate the key concepts of object orientation into your programming. Additionally, you'll learn to write, review and document interactive applications and work with Software Development Kits and Integrated Development Environment tools.

In Programming Languages, you'll develop functional programs that comply with industry regulations and best practices using various programming languages. You'll also focus on the importance of developing code that is not only functional but also secure, efficient, and professional. Finally, the Software Development Lifecycle course will have you explore the stages of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). Looking through the lens of developers and testers, you'll examine the characteristics, documentation, and purpose of each stage in the cycle. You'll then apply SDLC stages within an agile development environment, helping you learn the principles and best practices used to develop high-quality software while also assessing the impact of communication, documentation, and ethics on the SDLC.

Part of our mission to expand access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That's why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials. Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.

$150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)