Programmer

Programmers are the people who write the code behind your favourite computer software and smartphone apps. They write and modify programming code according to a project brief and usually work exclusively on programming tasks.

As a Programmer you’ll need high-end coding skills using multiple programming languages — but you’ll also need a working knowledge of operating systems, application server, database, and cloud infrastructure. A typical workday could involve deploying code to a live environment, meticulously testing a program for bugs, implementing improvements and hot-fixes.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $83,200
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a programmer?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
ICT40120

Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming)

Online
12 - 18 months
$1,500 - $5,299
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
ICT50220

Diploma of Information Technology

Online
18 months
$5,928
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
ICT50220

Diploma of Information Technology (Back End Web Development)

Online
18 months
$5,999
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
ICT60220

Advanced Diploma of Information Technology

Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
4 - 24 months
$0 - $32,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
ICT50220

Diploma of Information Technology (Web Development)

Blended
24 months
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
ICT50220

Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Programming)

Blended, On Campus
6 - 24 months
$0 - $17,820
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Programmer

Bachelor of Computer Science

Blended, On Campus
3 - 6 years
$0 - $48,969
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)

Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $27,900
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Science (Software Development)

Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $27,900
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Information Technology (Computer Science)

Blended
3 years
$0 - $27,432
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Common questions

Further reading

Anything but binary

26th February 2020)

How do I get started as a professional web developer?

7th August 2019)

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023)