Programming is the act of instructing computers on how to perform tasks through computer languages, also known as “programming languages” or “coding.” It involves analysis, generating algorithms, profiling algorithms’ accuracy and resources consumption, and the implementation of these languages.

Some popular programming languages include C Programming, Perl, Java, Python, JavaScript, and Ruby.

Programming is important to learn for anyone interested in coding for personal reasons or to begin careers related to the web. Successful learners will be able to build the operating systems, applications, websites, programs, and other computing systems we use every day.

According to collegegrad.com, the median annual wage for Computer Programmers is $84,280. Despite concerns of Programming jobs in the U.S. being outsourced, CompTIA shares that the top 10 specialized skills employers are looking for include multiple Programming languages. Staying on top of hot technologies such as Python can help Programmers stay in-demand.

Programming languages make for transferable skills that can lend to various opportunities in addition to Programmer, such as: Computer and Information Research Scientist, Computer Hardware Engineer, Computer Network Architect, Computer Specialist, Computer Systems Analyst, and others that are related.

Through Coursera, Programming is covered in various courses. These courses focus on learning how to program and analyze data with Python; how to write fun and useful programs; how to apply fundamental programming concepts, such as data structures; how to program in Scratch; how to think like a Software Engineer; and more.

Lessons in these courses are taught by professors from top universities such as Duke University, UC Santa Cruz, University of Colorado, and others. Learners can explore Programming with professors specializing in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and related fields through video lectures, readings, quizzes, and others.