How to Learn Programming Without a Professional CS Course

Is it possible to learn programming without taking a professional CS course? Yes, it is. This article explores the journey of self-taught programming, the importance of practice and experience, and provides a roadmap for beginners to build a solid foundation in programming.

From Tech Writer to Senior Developer

I started programming in 1976, and to this day, I don't have a computer science (CS) degree or any formal training in coding. Instead, I taught myself through a combination of hands-on practice and perseverance. My journey began when I worked as a tech writer, learning to code by examining other people's code and reading manual documentation repeatedly.

My boss then gave me a basic coding job, which eventually evolved into a senior level programmer/analyst position. This experience underscores the fact that with the right attitude and determination, anyone can become a programmer, regardless of formal education.

Accessible Learning Resources

Today, there are numerous free online resources available for aspiring programmers, such as free courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and These platforms offer tutorials and courses in popular programming languages like Python, which are beginner-friendly.

Books by authors such as Dennis M. Ritchie, the creator of the C programming language, are also invaluable resources. Online platforms host a plethora of books and e-books that cover the essential concepts and fundamentals of programming. Additionally, there are numerous YouTube channels that offer step-by-step guidance on writing and running code, making it easier to get started.

Key Concepts and Transferability

While learning a specific programming language is crucial, it's equally important to understand the fundamental concepts that are widely applicable across different languages. Concepts such as reading and writing records, loops, conditional statements, error trapping, and debugging are crucial. Once you master these core ideas in one language, you can apply them in others with relative ease.

Popular languages like Python are a great starting point as they simplify complex programming tasks and provide excellent resources for beginners. As you progress, you'll find that the concepts of coding remain consistent, allowing you to expand your skills and knowledge base.

Practical Experience and Career Growth

While it's possible to learn the basics of programming through self-study and online resources, becoming a successful programmer requires a significant amount of practical experience. You can't just teach yourself to code and expect to land a high-paying senior development position out of the gate.

Practical experience involves working on real-world projects, contributing to open-source initiatives, or taking on entry-level positions. These opportunities allow you to refine your skills, build a portfolio, and gain the experience necessary for more advanced roles. Furthermore, as a programmer, it's essential to understand both coding and programming. Coders typically handle specific tasks, while programmers develop entire programs or systems, often requiring a deeper understanding of the business software environment and user needs.

Conclusion

Programming can be a fulfilling career path, but it requires a combination of learning, practice, and real-world experience. By starting with free online courses, reading essential books, and working on practical projects, you can build a solid foundation in programming. Remember, success in this field is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about applying it in meaningful ways.

Happy coding, and best of luck on your programming journey!