Computer programmer career

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Computer programmers develop and manage code and scripts that allow computer applications to run.

Computer programmers develop and manage code and scripts that allow computer applications to run.

What would you do as a Computer programmer?

Computer programmers

  • usually work regular business hours but may work weekends and evenings or be on call
  • usually work in offices
  • need to be methodical, accurate and identify and solve problems

Tasks

  • write computer programming code
  • create and modify software programs
  • test software performance
  • learn different programming languages
  • fix computer software problems
  • develop operational documents
  • train others to use software
  • learn new tools and technology

How can you become a Computer programmer?

You usually need a qualification to become a computer programmer and experience may be useful.

You may need

  • a relevant tertiary qualification in computer science or similar area
  • experience in similar work

If you're in school

You usually need NCEA Level 3 to do the study or training for this job.

Qualifications

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Learn to write, test and improve code in our Bachelor of Computer Science. If you're studying in Tauranga, our Bachelor of Applied Computing gives you practical programming experience, with a programme designed alongside the local tech industry. Like all our undergraduate degrees, both include work-integrated learning.

For a stronger systems-engineering focus, choose Software Engineering in our Bachelor of Engineering with Honours, which includes 800 hours of work experience.

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Computer programmer FAQs

Scholarships

A range of scholarships are available to help with the cost of studying at Waikato. Options are available across a wide range of subjects and study levels, including scholarships for new students, current students and specific areas of study.

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QS World University Rankings 2027

Waikato is ranked equal 293rd globally, placing us in the top 1.5% of universities worldwide, and 2nd in New Zealand by citations per faculty.

QS Sustainability Ranking 2026

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