Hi Peter, I have a degree in computer science, which I obtained in 1983.
I have worked as a general systems analyst/computer programmer, as well as network administrator, and database administrator. It was a good time in 83 to get a computer degree, but even now I'd recommend as one of the best choices you could make. I recommend strongly against choosing a business degree which has only a small amount of computer programming (such as Management Information Systems (MIS)). they don't offer enough specialization, and a chance for you to show you possess rare and unique skills, for someone to take the chance and hire you with a degree based on a business degree. Just because some elements of programming are concerned with the visual appearance of dialogs, etc., doesn't mean that all programmers have to do that kind of programming. Many jobs still exist for programming other parts of a complete system; the parts which are not the user interface portion. And of course, a lot of jobs right now wanted web designers and programmers who really do understand what ADA accessibility means, and can produce and test for, web sites which meet ADA guidelines. Programming is ultimately about problem solving, and patience, not about pretty screens. having a 4 year degree such as computer science demonstrates to a perspective employer that you're able to do that kind of work, as well as being able to stick at a long-term difficult task such as obtaining a degree. good luck, Chip -----Original Message----- From: Peter Wolfe [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Saturday, May 29, 2010 8:12 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Off topic - choosing a major in computers -- Peter Q. Wolfe, A.S. Webmaster http://www.darkstruggle.com Alternative Email: [email protected] To list: I'd like to hear from computer professions that just purely screen readers like Window-Eyes with several years of experience. I'm having serious reservations about staying with this current major in social science/history education cause of the comminesss of which the nation grasp onto it like a life raft and all. The visual elements concern me the most about anything to do with computers in general. Technology every minute is changing but the government could perhaps hire me as a worker? I like programming when I have the time to learn it but it has it's challenges like turning thins in a visual appealing way. I'm thinking about e-mailing more people on the Mentors at AFB in the future about them. Please describe your field, experience, degree, difficulties and challenges both past, present and even in the future trends on the market. Is this a major that you wouold suggest people that are blind to go into and if so why? I just don't have confidense I suppose in making my mind up about computers or education and I chose education cause it seems so relible. Then, I see how many people have those degrees and then again out sourcing is a big dump on computers. sincerely, Peter If you reply to this message it will be delivered to the original sender only. If your reply would benefit others on the list and your message is related to GW Micro, then please consider sending your message to [email protected] so the entire list will receive it. GW-Info messages are archived at http://www.gwmicro.com/gwinfo. You can manage your list subscription at http://www.gwmicro.com/listserv. If you reply to this message it will be delivered to the original sender only. If your reply would benefit others on the list and your message is related to GW Micro, then please consider sending your message to [email protected] so the entire list will receive it. GW-Info messages are archived at http://www.gwmicro.com/gwinfo. You can manage your list subscription at http://www.gwmicro.com/listserv.
