i want to get a programming job. i'm already really good at it (i know being "really good at it" is kinda nebulous but bear with me), but all the job listings i see ask for a bachelor's/associate's degree (i never finished college bc i don't have the time/money). i figure if i can demonstrate (close to) equivalent experience i would be considered for a position like that, so is it worth getting a certification for programming? i'm not aiming for like, comptia or anything pricey/security related, i just figure that being a certified programmer in a given language would make me a more likely candidate. for example, i've already been looking at this c++ certification as something small and achievable
- she/her
- foreverwip.github.io/
far like the future, bright like the soul
trans programmer & gamedev, occasional multimedia creator, amy rose kinnie
nd/adhd/(possibly) autism
Portfolio
foreverwip.github.io/email
amywrightmail (at) protonmail (dot) com
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in reply to @amy's post:
In less formalized settings like video game programming (which is all I can speak to personally), showing something you've made before + aceing the technical test will matter way more than any cert or degree.
It can be hard to get your foot in the door at big places with a big HR department filtering tons of applications this way, but at somewhere small (like, up to 50ish people) where the lead/senior programmers have a hand in hiring, a big juicy Projects section (and maybe a link out to a Portfolio website) in your resume will instantly grab attention and make up for an empty/missing Education section.
Similar to what @CJCin posted: I want some assurance that you actually know something about programming! Certificates and diplomas are less-reliable indicators than a Comp Sci or equivalent degree, but they’re something. Projects, even incomplete ones, are much more solid, and they’re a signal that you’re genuinely interested in programming, not just on the hunt for a well-paying desk job, and that goes a long way.
And yeah, try smaller places that are less likely to be deluged by hundreds/thousands of applicants. Somewhere where someone might actually read your cover letter and be convinced that despite a formal education or past experience, you’re worth talking to.
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