I'm interested in becoming a programmer but I don't want to go back to university. At 36 years old, with two kids and a full-time job, I'm looking for alternatives. I'm open to investing time and money into online courses that offer certification. What are some starting points for me? What skills or knowledge do I need to break into the field, especially in AI?
5 Answers
A lot of employers are still looking for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, so that might be a hurdle. But I've come across stories of people getting into programming by showcasing their skills and building a portfolio instead of just relying on a degree. So, if you can build up some projects and demonstrate your capability, it might open some doors for you.
There are affordable online Master’s programs that some employers respect, similar to traditional routes in terms of qualification. These can be beneficial for landing jobs with organizations that are a bit more casual about hiring requirements. However, keep in mind that just a degree might not prepare you fully for being productive in the real world right away.
Jobs for those transitioning into development can be competitive, and I know from my experience in recruitment that there are many more candidates than jobs. But if you have a project or an app idea, you can learn a lot by doing! Basic knowledge in areas like object-oriented programming and databases is crucial, so starting there could be a solid plan.
Honestly, I wouldn't invest too much in online courses. Most of them aren’t really helpful for getting hired. You can absolutely self-teach, but it takes dedication and a solid plan. If you're unsure about going back to school for financial or time reasons, you might want to start learning on your own. Just be prepared for a lot of research and figuring out what to learn as you go along!
So, any advice on what I should focus on first if I decide to self-teach?
Keep in mind, there's a difference between being a programmer and someone specializing in AI or machine learning. If you want to go the AI route, you should definitely learn Python and get familiar with frameworks like PyTorch or Keras. There are great resources out there to kickstart your learning, but do be aware that competition in this area can be quite fierce.
Right? I've heard companies often want candidates with at least a Master’s degree in Data Science or similar fields.
It's good to hear others are finding ways in! Focusing on real projects could really make a difference.