So you want to learn about computers?  How to use them?  How to program them?  Depending on what it is that you specifically want to learn (and your purpose for learning it), there are a few different avenues for you to follow ranging from self-education to intensive computer programming courses and every shade in between.  There are hundreds of computer learning centers and computer programming schools around the country that can provide a student (be they young or experienced) with the necessary education to accomplish their goals.  So how do you choose one?  Different circumstances dictate different answers to that question.  Do you learn best from a book?  Having someone demonstrate and lecture?  Directly from hand-on experience?  The learning style that fits you best will dictate if you get the most out of classroom-based training, one-on-one personal training, e-learning, or self-learning.

Self-learners can search the bookstores and online publications for a wealth of material. Much programming and computer information can found for free but there is also a huge amount of information available for sale.  E-Books and online libraries are filled with every topic imaginable including how to program in specific languages, general computer use and concepts, specific application usage, computer hardware, making money with computers … and so on.  This type of learning may take a bit longer than instructor led training, but it offers complete flexibility and low cost.

For people who prefer a more structured, instructor led, traditional school education experience, there are likely some computer learning centers and computer programming schools in your own community (or one nearby).  Many computer learning centers are run by various levels of government while others are privately run.  Investigating what centers and schools are in your area is the first step.  If you are required to go to a location for lectures and training, you likely want to pick one that you can easily get to.  Contact them for specific course and program information including length of the program, cost, class schedule, and course content.  You may need to take an ‘intro’ course before being allowed to advance to more interesting topics, or you may be able to jump right into whatever you like.  Each program is different and may be difficult to compare so make sure that you ask a lot of questions and find out as much as you can about each potential learning center or school.  Don’t be afraid to contact them a few times if you don’t get all your questions answered or come up with new ones.  They are there to serve you and if you are serious about attending, they will likely be more than happy to answer any and all of your questions.

Another popular option is on-line training.  This offers the advantage of learning from the comfort of your own home while being able to interact with the instructor and your other classmates.  Many on-line courses encourage interaction and sharing between students. Some online courses are run at a specific day and time, so you’ll have to log in to listen to the lecture at a pre-set time – just like attending a classroom.  Other online courses are pre-recorded and allow you more flexibility in listening to the lecture.  If this is the case, many instructors provide a set time each week that they can be contacted directly for questions and discuss issues, or a chat-room or forum that students can log into to discuss the lessons.  Since on-line training (usually) does not require you to attend training in person, it offers much more flexibility in terms of where you can take a course.  Again, investigate various schools and training centers to examine the course curriculum, requirements (for your computer and yourself), length and depth of training, time requirements, instructor credentials, school or training center credentials, feedback from former and current students, and of course, cost.  Also consider location.  Even though the training is on-line and remote, there may be some benefits from selecting a school or training center close to you.  You may be able to meet with the instructor in person (if they are close to the school as well) for additional help or just to get a better feel for them.  If you have any problems or issues, you can visit face to face which may provide better resolution.  Also, some larger programs offer social functions and get togethers and even graduation ceremonies.

Sometimes having more options and choices makes coming to a decision tougher, but don’t let that dissuade you.  Sometimes you just have to do it!

There are over 200 colleges in the United States that offer computer engineering and programming programs. Graduates of these programs generally earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Engineering(B.Eng.), Masters of Science (M.S.), Masters of Engineering (M.Eng.) or Master of Applied Science (MASc).

A bachelor’s degree is often required for computer engineering jobs, although a master’s degree is preferred for some positions. Employers generally favor applicants who already have relevant skills and experience. The usual college majors for computer engineers are computer science, software engineering, or mathematics.

Employers who use computers for scientific or engineering applications usually prefer college graduates who have a degree in computer or information science, mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences. Employers who use computers for business applications prefer to hire people who have had college courses in management information systems and business, and who possess strong programming skills.

Computer engineers must have strong problem-solving and analytical skills. The ability to work with abstract concepts and to do technical analysis is especially important for computer engineers because they work with the software that controls the computer’s operation. Engineers and programmers also must be able to communicate effectively with team members, other staff, and end users. Because they often deal with a number of tasks simultaneously, they must be able to concentrate and pay close attention to detail. Business skills are also important, especially for those wishing to advance to managerial positions.

Unlike pure computing degrees which often concentrate on the scientific and mathematical aspects of computing and software, computer engineering degree programs provide a broader range of engineering skills, particularly in hardware and electronic systems.

A computer engineer can be expected to:
- diagnose, solve, troubleshoot, and document technical problems involving computing devices.
- understand computer architecture, logic design, micoprocessor system design, computer
- interfacing and system analysis and design.
- integrate multiple software and hardware components using appropriate architecture.
- plan, install, configure, modify, test, and maintain a variety of computer systems to meet functional requirements.
- apply principles of digital and analog circuits to the implementation of embedded computing devices.
- analyze, build, test, implement, and maintain applications.
- determine potential security issues associated with a variety of computing devices.
- coordinate the implementation, maintenance, and expansion plans of a company’s computer systems.
- oversee the design, manufacture and installation of computer hardware, including keyboards, computer chips, circuit boards and even printers.