C++ Programmer
Certificate
Curriculum code 1459
Course Requirements                    Information Management Systems Web site

This program prepares students with programming skills that will, when combined with a degree, provide the background for entry-level or trainee positions or enhance an information technology professional's versatility and career advancement potential.

C++ is the primary language of choice when performance is critical. Designed as a general-purpose, cross-platform language, C++ can be used to write a wide variety of applications for many of today's popular operating systems, including Windows, Unix and Linux. C++ offers the tools necessary to develop object-oriented skills that will be in demand for years. Within this certificate's courses, you will learn the latest in software design and development methodologies while gaining hands-on experience with the latest versions of C++.

You will gain hands-on experience on the latest equipment in Moraine Valley's Center for Contemporary Technology.

This program is intended to lead to employment. If you are considering transferring to a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor's degree using the courses from this program, make an appointment with an academic advisor to review your options.

Nature of Work—This program is designed to qualify you as an entry-level C++ programmer.

Related Job Title—Programmer, junior programmer and programmer trainee

Employment Outlook—Employment of programmers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2010. Jobs for both systems and applications programmers should be most plentiful in data processing service firms, software houses, and computer consulting businesses. These types of establishments are part of computer and data processing services, which are projected to be the fastest growing industry in the economy over the 2000-10 period. As organizations attempt to control costs and keep up with changing technology, they will need programmers to assist in conversions to new computer languages and systems. In addition, numerous job openings will result from the need to replace programmers who leave the labor force or transfer to other occupations such as manager or systems analyst.

Median annual earnings of computer programmers were $57,590 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $44,850 and $74,500 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,020; the highest 10 percent earned more than $93,210. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of computer programmers in 2000 were: 

According to Robert Half International, average annual starting salaries in 2001 ranged from $58,500 to $90,000 for applications development programmers/developers.

The Moraine Valley Job Placement Center listed 3 computer-programming positions in 2001-2002 with an average hourly salary of $17.00.

For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Resource Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, at (708) 974-5737, www.morainevalley.edu/jrc.