Need advice on career/ college.

[TheeLord]

I am looking for a job in programming. I am going to begin school in Spring for this purpose. I love the problem solving and satisfaction you get from programming.. What is the major I should be going for? Computer Science? Also, what skills should I focus on? what language? Whats going to be in demand in 5 years from now?

Please provide as much insight as possible Thank you

[Memnoch1207]

With the future of IT and programming...You should major in Medicine!

[hellswraith]

I agree. Sure, I keep hearing all these studies saying that millions of tech workers will be needed in the next ten years along with the same amount of nurses and health care workers.

Now, with the state of the economy right now, I can tell you this. Businesses can cut back on tech workers when times are bad, but people can't stop being sick. So, the way I see it, the medical field is a pretty safe bet...lol.

To answer your question, Computer Science would be the degree you want. As far as languages, well, your school will determine those. You will be pretty safe knowing C, C++, and Java because most schools will teach them, and a lot of jobs require them. You can move from those languages pretty easily to others when needed.

[Radames]

Look at the classifieds and see the skills that are most on demand right now and start learning them on your own like myself and most programmers have. My guess is 5 years from now the programming jobs will be all about .Net

Learn to work with databases also.
As for the debate between Programming VS Medicine, Im doing a bit of both: I write software for HMO's!

[The Hobo]

Pfft. Be a janitor. Medial would require years of college. But you already know how to use a broom and plunger.

The demand for janitors will never go down. Long as people keep poopin'.

[Radames]

It's always good to hear positive, reassuring advice. Thanks Hobo.

[The Hobo]

Always glad to help.