Apple or orange?

People asking  if programming is better than designing or vice versa is like asking if apple is better than orange. The truth is, these are two different and independent concepts in the realm of information technology. They are both interdependent from one another, and sometimes, they are two completely different worlds. Programmers are more logical than designers and designers are more creative, as most IT professionals would put it. This is where a lot of college students are confused because they do not know which road to take.

Online computer courses are IN

Whether you’re gearing up for programming or designing courses, you should know that there are online computer courses available from various colleges and educational institutions. These courses can last for least 6 months for short term courses up to 4 years for Bachelors’ Programs. These courses also cover a variety of topics, from basic Excel courses to the more complicated Java or Adobe Photoshop courses. Of course, there are also graduate programs available online, from Master’s to PHD levels. The best thing about these courses is that you can also use your scholarship or grant to enrol in these online courses.

To make your decision-making process a lot easier, allow me to give out a few details on what you can expect from programming and designing courses.

What to expect from programming courses

The most basic courses in programming are usually C and C++, which are building blocks for developing your programming skills in other languages like Java, PHP, etc. Do not worry if you don’t have any background in programming, as there are introductory courses offered, like Introduction to Computer Science and Programming from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology OpenCourseWare. For more background on the different kinds of languages, you can also take up Programming Languages from the same school. However, if you want to get down and dirty, you may find A Gentle Introduction to Programming using Python and Introduction to C Memory Management and C++ Object Oriented Programming to be your liking.

What to expect from designing courses?

Online graphic design courses are usually basic and more novice-friendly, as compared to programming courses. Like programming, graphic design courses also provide you with a lot of options, ranging from basic introductory and complicated courses to certification programs. If you want to get the best education in graphic design, you can enrol in the following colleges:

• American InterContinental University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication, which allows students to focus on four areas of concentration, namely digital design, graphic design, illustration, and web design.
• The University of Phoenix also has a lot of educational opportunities in graphic and digital design, from certification programs, Associate degrees, to Bachelor’s degree in multimedia design.
• The International Academy of Design and Technology is dedicated to enriching the creativity of its students. The college has become the leading provider of creative degree programs. The courses are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary in the field of graphic design, from theories of colours and illustration to problem solving skills.

Programming and designing can go hand in hand together, but they can also be learned separately. If you have the time and dedication, you can be a good programmer and designer.