Computer programmers with programming experience may find that they can take the advantages of their training and experiences to pursue a number of other-based professions. If you wish to stay in tech and use your existing programming or technological knowledge this list could be of great help.

Career information for programmers seeking alternative careers

1. Computer system Analyst: Computer systems analysts, in general, need to have a bachelor's degree, and employers consider computer programming experience to be an advantage. Computer systems analysts work to develop computer systems in place at organizations. Their works involve determining how to improve the performance of existing computer systems or they may install new systems. Computer System Analyst works with both computer hardware and computer software as part of their duties.

2. Database Administrator: Application DBAs work with computer programming languages to create or fix programs, so computer programmers may find that this is a good career option that will allow them to use their programming skills. They focus their talents on managing information stored in databases. They perform tasks such as restricting access to sensitive information or modifying the database so that it operates more effectively. Database administrators require a bachelor's degree in computer science or management information systems.

3. Information Security Analyst: The job of an Information security analyst is to secure the computer networks that organizations use by performing tasks such as installing firewalls. They investigate if someone tries to gain unauthorized access to the systems, and they perform tests on the existing security measures to see how secure they are and produce security protocols to help protect data.

4. Computer and Information Research Scientist: Computer and information research scientists are the ingenious forces behind discovering new ways to use existing computer systems or creating new technology. They basically write a new computer programming language. Computer and information research scientists do need to have a doctoral degree in their field and with experience in computer and information research, they can also consider pursuing advancement to a computer and information systems managerial role.

5. Web Developers: Web developers are the innovative and technical minds behind websites. They can start their career with an associate's degree, training in HTML programming, and even need to know how to work with programming languages. Web developers decide the intended look and function of a website and then program the code for the site.

6. Software Developers: To become a software developer one need to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and experience in programming experience. They create computer programs or applications. They usually work with computer programmers on a regular basis, so computer programmers will be familiar with the tasks that software developers perform.

We explored some career options similar to programmers.  If you are thinking to start a new IT career, the good news is that there is an abundance of practical IT career options for you to explore. Apart from the above options, here’s a list of some alternatives career options you can consider: Consultant, Technical writing, Project/Program Management, Sales or marketing, Graphic or Web design, R&D, Application Analyst, Technical risk analyst, Data Scientist, Technical lead /Programming software lead and System or Solution Architect. Another consideration you must think over is the type of environment you want to work in because this could impact your final decision. Depending on your needs, wants, and personality, the right fit could be freelancing, a start-up or a small business.