[derrenb]

Hi,

I am interested in a career in computer/website programming. The problem is I don't have the relevant qualifications I find all employers looking for. I am good at math and enjoy problem solving and have an understanding of HTML and very basic PHP skills.

I left college after a year and spent three years working for a local company, originally as an administrator but within 2 years I was promoted to head of it. I am a fast learner but can't find anywhere that will employ me as a "junior" if you like and offer me training on the job. Does anyone know if this is a good way to get into programming, or is it necessary to be fully trained before getting into the industry?

Any advice you can give is greatly appreciated.

Ta very much.
derrenb

[Carbon]

Computer programming, you should at least have a intermediate understanding of C.
Website, at least some MySQL, a good amount of PHP.

[MySlowQuietLife]

Hello!
A lot of colleges nowadys allow you to do a course in computing with little to know exp.
The thing i suggets is realy the same as above Read about c php and mysql (they rock) so you dont get boged down by the jargon so much and then perhaps play around with some of the programs on your comp (when i say play i mean learn).
Install a free c-compiler and notepad++ and use some basic (very basic) online tutorials.
I only use php and mysql myself for web design but IT IS GREAT!

[Mike0001]

Originally Posted by derrenb

Hi,

I am interested in a career in computer/website programming. The problem is I don't have the relevant qualifications I find all employers looking for. I am good at math and enjoy problem solving and have an understanding of HTML and very basic PHP skills.

I left college after a year and spent three years working for a local company, originally as an administrator but within 2 years I was promoted to head of it. I am a fast learner but can't find anywhere that will employ me as a "junior" if you like and offer me training on the job. Does anyone know if this is a good way to get into programming, or is it necessary to be fully trained before getting into the industry?

Any advice you can give is greatly appreciated.

Ta very much.
derrenb

You should look at whether your salary as a programmer will be less than if you progress your current career.

CompSci depts in unis are flooding the market. I have it on good evidence that even the "best" universities are finding it difficult to fill places on their courses. The cost these days is high and the rewards meagre, both intellectually and financially! Think £3000 fees, £2,500 to £4000 accommodation, a few thousand for food and recreation per year, then calculate how long it will take to pay it back! (And it is only interest-free loans in the sense of increasing at 4%, the current rate of inflation!)

Plus, there is an awful lot of non-programming dull stuff in CD degrees, forced on them by industry!

However, places like unis are cash-strapped and desperate to employ people on a low salary and status in their comp. support departments, so that may be a possibility.