What are Computer Programming Languages?

Python is a programming language that is best known for its robustness, readability and flexibility. Python is most commonly used for financial services, data analysis, scripting, scientific research, system integrations and web- or AI-based business applications. Python also integrates well with other languages such as C-languages.

Python is a helpful computer programming language for beginners and advanced programmers alike, thanks to its simple syntax and robust semantics — even NASA uses Python in its Integrated Planning System as a standard!

Java is a programming language that is best known for its general utility. Java is most commonly used for enterprise-level application development for games and mobile apps, as well as web-based development. Originally built to integrate with the language C++, Java allows very small applications to be downloaded through a web browser to perform functions that may not be available within the browser’s current feature set.

In the past, Java was an excellent computer programming language for those who wanted to develop mobile apps, as it was the core foundation for older Android app development. While it’s possible to run Java on both Android and iOS today, it’s not as common as it used to be.

C-sharp is a programming language that is best known for its use in Windows desktop applications and game development, as well as its similarity to Java capabilities. Although it is similar to Java, however, C-sharp also has its challenges like a steep learning curve and less flexibility compared to C++.

C-sharp was developed in 2000 and is closely related to Microsoft’s .NET framework, of which it is the primary language thanks to its initial development alongside the framework. C-sharp is also used in the creation of web and mobile applications that can be used on any mobile device.

JavaScript is a programming language that is best known for multiple frameworks, JQuery compatibility, and for the development of interactive websites — for which it is the most popular language used. JavaScript is also commonly used to develop mobile and browser-based applications using Node.js. JavaScript is also used to create games, APIs and other tasks not possible with plain HTML.

A challenge for JavaScript’s use in browser-based applications and web development is that it can be disabled. Browsers offer this control to users because of JavaScript’s prominent use in malicious web pop-ups.

SQL was developed at IBM in its Research Center in 1975 and was originally known as SEQUEL. The first commercial version of this language was introduced by Oracle four years later, in 1979. It is a database query language that is best known for its practicality and easy-to-understand syntax.

SQL is commonly the default method for communicating with databases and is used specifically to add, access and otherwise manage the contents of a database. These foundational uses of SQL are commonly referred to as CRUD, which stands for “Create, Read, Update and Delete.” Oracle also uses the language in partnership with its relationship database management system, MySQL.

HTML is the standard markup language for documents meant to be displayed in a web browser — known today as webpages — since the early 1990s. HTML is best known for its major role in the creation of the diversity and complexity of the internet as we know it today.

Since its wide adoption, HTML has gone through many iterations, each of which has helped to move web standards and capabilities forward. For example, the most recent version, HTML5, now supports audio and video markup, whereas previous iterations of HTML did not.

Once you’ve decided to learn a computer programming language, you’ll want to get as much practice and real-world application experience as possible. This can be accomplished through independent study or through organized coursework.

Degree programs like DeVry’s Associate Degree Specialization in Information Systems and Programming or our Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development can give you a strong foundation, plus, resume-boosting credentials from an accredited school1 like DeVry University that can help you stand out among job candidates. Becoming educated in elements of computer programming languages and technology can help prepare you to pursue careers such as: