Programming Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Getting a Programming Degree in Jacksonville, Florida

As one of Florida’s largest cities and a growing hub for technology, Jacksonville offers excellent opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a Programming Degree. Whether you’re looking to launch a career in software development, data science, or cybersecurity, this guide will help you navigate the educational options, prerequisites, and career prospects available in the area.

A Programming Degree provides the technical and theoretical skills needed to excel in fields like computer science, software engineering, and IT project management. Educational paths range from Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees to specialized certifications and coding bootcamps, offering flexibility to meet varying career goals and schedules.

About Jacksonville, Florida

Located in Duval County, Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida and a major center for business and technology. Known for its vibrant downtown area, beautiful beaches, and proximity to the St. Johns River, the city offers a dynamic setting for students and professionals alike. Jacksonville is home to emerging tech companies and robust educational institutions, making it an excellent location for aspiring programmers. Learn more about the city through its official website.

Programming Degree Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville boasts several colleges and universities offering robust programming and computer science programs. Below are some of the top options:

1. University of North Florida (UNF)

• Location: Southside neighborhood
• Programs Offered:
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
  • Master of Science in Computer Science
• Highlights: UNF emphasizes hands-on learning with opportunities for internships and capstone projects. The program is ABET-accredited and offers specializations in areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
• Website: UNF Computer Science Programs

2. Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

• Location: Multiple campuses across Jacksonville
• Programs Offered:
  • Associate of Science in Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Highlights: FSCJ offers flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses. The curriculum focuses on practical programming skills and includes courses in Python, Java, and SQL.
• Website: FSCJ Computer Science Programs

3. St. Johns River State College (Closest Institution Outside Jacksonville)

• Location: Orange Park, approximately 25 miles from Jacksonville
• Programs Offered:
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming and Analysis
• Highlights: This program provides foundational programming knowledge and prepares students for entry-level positions in software development.
• Website: SJR State Computer Science

Programming Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville’s expanding tech sector offers a range of employment opportunities for programming graduates. Below are some of the city’s major employers:

1. FIS Global

• Location: Southside neighborhood
• Overview: A leading provider of financial technology solutions, FIS Global offers roles in software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
• Careers Page: FIS Careers

2. Black Knight, Inc.

• Location: Deerwood neighborhood
• Overview: Specializes in software solutions for the mortgage and real estate industries. Black Knight consistently seeks programming professionals for roles in software engineering and IT project management.
• Careers Page: Black Knight Careers

3. JAXUSA Partnership

• Location: Downtown Jacksonville
• Overview: As part of JAX Chamber, JAXUSA focuses on promoting tech industry growth in the region. It connects local talent with tech companies in Jacksonville.
• Website: JAXUSA Tech

Prerequisites for Programming Degree Programs

To enroll in a Programming Degree program in Jacksonville, students typically must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Background: High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT (varies by institution)
• Minimum GPA: Requirements vary but generally range from 2.5 to 3.0
• Programming-Specific Prerequisites:
  • Calculus I and II
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Data Structures

Programming Degree Requirements in Florida

Florida’s programming degree programs adhere to national and state accreditation standards to ensure quality education. Key information includes:

• Accrediting Bodies:
  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Core Curriculum:
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Algorithms and Data Structures
  • Computer Systems and Databases
  • Software Development
• Internship/Capstone Projects: Most programs require practical experience through internships or a final project.

For statewide education regulations, visit the Florida Department of Education.

Certification Options

Programming certifications are an excellent way to complement your degree and enhance job prospects. Popular certifications include:

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
• Oracle Certified Professional: Java SE Programmer
• AWS Certified Developer – Associate
• CompTIA Security+

These certifications validate technical expertise in specific programming languages and cloud platforms, making candidates more competitive in the job market.

Get Started Today

The journey to earning a Programming Degree in Jacksonville can open doors to exciting and lucrative careers in the tech industry. Whether you aim to specialize in software engineering, data science, or cybersecurity, Jacksonville’s educational institutions and growing tech sector provide a strong foundation for success. Begin exploring your options by contacting a local university or coding bootcamp today. Take the first step toward your programming career!