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What proggraming language should I study?

Should I study C++, Java, Python, or HTML5 in college?

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Amelia’s Answer

It ultimately depends on what track you want to move forward with at college. A good way of doing this is working backwards, starting at a high-level (think senior or junior year class) that you eventually want to take. See what the pre-requisites/co-requisites are for that dream class and then see what pre-reqs those classes have and so forth as you work your way down. It becomes fairly easy to build a schedule if you design it using this method.

I see you tagged computer engineering so I will use this as an example. Computer engineers benefit from having low-level systems knowledge so try to add courses that use C, assembly or hardware description languages like Verilog or SystemVerilog. If you are interested in more front-end (think the design of websites, sending data between web pages, etc), it would be beneficial to learn HTML or JSON.

These are just things to think about before settling into a college freshman schedule. It's also great to speak to upper classmen who can warn you or guide you to classes that have shaped their experiences while in college! Good luck!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hey there, Shayne!

Let's Talk About Picking a Programming Language for College
When it comes time to select a programming language to focus on during your college years, you'll want to take into account your study field, career aspirations, and personal passions. Each programming language comes with its own unique characteristics and uses, so it's crucial to pick one that fits your goals. In this piece, we'll be exploring four widely-used programming languages: C++, Java, Python, and HTML5, and we'll assess their suitability for college studies.

C++: C++ is a flexible and potent programming language that underpins many of today's software applications. It's a go-to for game development, system programming, and high-performance computing. If you're a college student eyeing computer science, engineering, or similar fields, C++ could be a great fit. Its low-level nature offers students the chance to delve deeper into computer systems and sharpen their problem-solving skills.

Java: Java is a well-liked programming language celebrated for its platform independence and its broad use in enterprise applications, web development, and Android app development. If you're a student drawn to web development, mobile applications, or the corporate world, Java could be your language. Its object-oriented style and robust library system make it a solid foundation for budding programmers.

Python: Python is a high-level, adaptable, and beginner-friendly programming language that's been gaining traction lately. It's a favorite in areas like data analysis, web development, artificial intelligence, and scientific computing. If you're a student fascinated by data science, machine learning, or web development, Python could be your best bet. Its readability and extensive library system make it a user-friendly yet powerful language for students to pick up and apply.

HTML5: HTML5 is a markup language used to craft and structure web pages. It's not a programming language per se, but a language used to describe web page content and structure. If you're a student keen on web development or design, HTML5 could be a good match. It's a must-know for understanding the front-end side of web development and can be paired with other languages like JavaScript or CSS to create more engaging and interactive web applications.

To wrap up, the programming language you choose to study in college should align with your personal goals, interests, and study field. C++ is a good fit for those into low-level programming, Java for web development and enterprise applications, Python for data science and web development, and HTML5 for web design and development. Each language has its unique strengths and uses, so consider your career goals and personal interests when picking the right one for your college studies.

Recommended Reading:

1. “C++ Programming Language, Fourth Edition” by Bjarne Stroustrup
2. “Java: The Complete Reference, Eleventh Edition” by Herbert Schildt
3. “Python Crash Course” by Eric Matthes

Book Summaries:

1. “C++ Programming Language, Fourth Edition” by Bjarne Stroustrup: This comprehensive guide to C++ covers the language's features, syntax, and semantics. It's a great resource for students eager to learn C++ and get to grips with its inner workings.
2. “Java: The Complete Reference, Eleventh Edition” by Herbert Schildt: This book provides a thorough introduction to Java, covering its syntax, libraries, and APIs. It's perfect for students wanting to learn Java and understand its many facets, including object-oriented programming and the Java Virtual Machine.
3. “Python Crash Course” by Eric Matthes: This beginner-friendly guide to Python programming covers the basics of Python syntax, data structures, and control flow, while also showcasing practical applications in web development and data analysis. It's ideal for students keen to learn Python and apply it in various fields.

Don't forget to check out my BIO for nutrition tips - they're key to top-notch academic performance!

May your career pursuits be abundantly blessed!
James.
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Jason’s Answer

When learning to program it is fine to have a language to focus on and grow your expertise. You should have a language that you are most comfortable with. However, your goal in college shouldn't be to come out with just expertise in a single language. You should instead make sure you learn how to learn to program in a new language. If you tie yourself to just a single language your career and future success will be forever tied to the success of that language. If for some reason that language starts to fall out of favor or be replaced so too will your career opportunities. On the other hand, if you learn how to learn to program in a new language as a skill, then you will set yourself up to be able to program in whatever language is being asked of you. You will be able to respond to whatever the market needs. There are several types of languages: Functional, Procedural, Scripting, Logical, and Object Oriented Programming. I would suggest you gain experience with at least one language in all of these as a good foundation for your career in addition to having a language that is your strong suit.
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Aileen’s Answer

Hey Shayne,

I would say this depends on what you're interested in. Are you interested in web development? Game development? Devops / backend engineering? Machine learning? Mobile development? Don't know yet? Cater the language you're learning to align with what you'd like to get an internship or job in. If you're in the "don't know yet" camp, consider going to hackathons throughout college! They're a great way to quickly ramp you up into learning new languages over a matter of hours and producing a project in that language. That can give you insight on how much you enjoy / dislike writing in a specific language or domain, helping you whittle down the other languages to try.

Even if you delve into a language during college, it's likely you won't use that once you land your professional job as well. Personally, I studied Java throughout high school and college because our courses were taught in that language. When I interviewed for jobs in 2020, I performed all my technical interviews in Java. Present day at work, I write in Typescript / Javascript + HTML / CSS and minimal Python everyday.

TL;DR pick any language that matches what interests you. Note that Python, Java, and C++ are commonly used in the industry today and would serve you best to have knowledge of. However, no matter what you choose, you could very well end up writing code in a completely different language than you studied. Good luck Shayne!
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Mark’s Answer

I was part of the Intel family from 1989 to 2007. If you're asking me, I'd say C++ is a great place to start.

Here's a little tip for you: Try to find an open-source project in C++ that piques your curiosity, something you can compile and run without too much hassle.

Once you've got that up and running, why not start making small changes? You could begin with something as simple as tweaking the text.

When you feel at ease with these minor modifications, you could step up your game and start hunting for bugs to squash. Don't hesitate to reach out to the project authors if you need a hand. They're usually more than happy to help!
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Alok’s Answer

The programming language you should study depends on your goals and interests. Here are some popular programming languages and their typical use cases:

1. Python: Python is a versatile language known for its simplicity and readability. It's widely used in web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, machine learning, scientific computing, and more. If you're a beginner, Python is often recommended as a great starting point.

2. JavaScript: JavaScript is the primary language for web development. If you want to build interactive websites, web applications, or work on the front-end and back-end of web development, learning JavaScript is crucial. You may also want to explore related technologies like HTML and CSS.

3. Java: Java is a widely-used, platform-independent language. It's commonly used in building Android mobile apps, enterprise applications, and large-scale systems. Learning Java can provide you with strong fundamentals in object-oriented programming.

4. C++: C++ is known for its performance and is used in game development, system programming, and high-performance applications. It's also a good choice if you're interested in competitive programming or working with hardware.

Your choice should also consider your long-term goals. If you're just starting and not sure which path to take, Python is often recommended due to its versatility and ease of learning. As you gain experience and identify your specific interests and career goals, you can branch out into other languages and technologies that align with those goals.
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Karthik’s Answer

I would say Python if you want an easy, safe introduction to programming. C++ is what I started off with, and it's a bit more like diving into the deep end or taking off the training wheels. It's great for learning the deeper aspects of programming, but it can get confusing very quickly for the same reason.
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Cameron’s Answer

Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and SQL are not just programming languages, they are keys to unlocking a prosperous future in the tech world. Python, with its adaptability, shines across various fields such as data science, web development, and automation. Java, on the other hand, is a trusted ally in enterprise-level applications, ensuring a steady demand for Java wizards. JavaScript, the lifeblood of front-end web development, is gaining more popularity as web technologies continue to evolve. C++ excels in systems programming, game development, and performance-critical applications, while SQL, the backbone of database management and querying, is an indispensable skill in numerous business scenarios. By mastering these languages, you're not just learning codes, you're paving your way towards a wide array of rewarding opportunities in the tech industry.
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Russ’s Answer

I'd break it out in 3 buckets:
- Front End: JavaScript. Maybe framework like React.
- Back End: NodeJS. Maybe Python esp if you want to play with it for Machine Learning.
Thank you comment icon Hi Russ! You mention 3 buckets but only give 2. What is the third? Sharyn Grose, Admin
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Jerome’s Answer

They're all good choices. Make your decision based on what you want to do:

C++ (I'd suggest getting the hang of C first, and if you can get a little background on basic assembly language, that's even better) is great for system level programming where you want to get into the guts of the machine. You will need to get down and dirty with what's really going on in the computer to be effective. You might want to consider Rust as an alternative -- it may well take over from C++ eventually.

For general-purpose programming, Python is a good choice. As an interpreted language, it's a lot easier to learn and there's a ton of support out there; if you want to do something, chances are that there's a module waiting for you to plug in and run. Potential employers rarely turn up their noses at a solid Python background.

If you're interested in web-based applications then Java and HTML5 are the way to go. Add a database course (MongoDB, postgresql, SQL, etc.) so that you can talk to the DBAs running the back-end data munchers; just understanding the front end probably isn't enough.

Good luck in your career!
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Gordon’s Answer

Since you mentioned learning in a college environment, I would not overthink this too much. If there are programming classes you can take, any language they teach in those classes will set you up for success. Once you're familiar with the fundamentals of programming it is much easier to pick up a second language. The languages that are in vogue for certain applications change over time, and if you decide to pursue software development as a career you will probably find yourself learning many languages. And even when it comes to landing your first job I think most recruiters and hiring managers are receptive to candidates who have less experience with the specific language they'll need on the job if they have deep experience in another language and are willing to learn.

Good luck!
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Matt’s Answer

Indeed, as many have pointed out, your major and specific focus within that major can influence this. However, if you're new to programming, Python is an excellent starting point. It's a wonderful way to familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts of a programming language. So, go ahead and give it a shot!
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