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The differences between computer programmers and computer systems analysts can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-8 years to become a computer programmer, becoming a computer systems analyst takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a computer systems analyst has an average salary of $82,655, which is higher than the $70,979 average annual salary of a computer programmer.
The top three skills for a computer programmer include C #, java and javascript. The most important skills for a computer systems analyst are computer system, database, and C++.
| Computer Programmer | Computer Systems Analyst | |
| Yearly salary | $70,979 | $82,655 |
| Hourly rate | $34.12 | $39.74 |
| Growth rate | -7% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 205,491 | 118,439 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 59% |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 6 |
A Computer Programmer is a specialist in writing computer programs as well as mobile applications. In addition to writing and testing code written, they are responsible for installing updates for software, debugging or improving functionality, troubleshooting parts of the program that is not functioning, and rewriting code for computer programs to be compatible in different operating systems. They also work to prevent data leaks and breaches in security by identifying malicious software and building firewalls.
A computer systems analyst is responsible for creating and designing computer applications and network solutions to support business functions and requirements. Computer systems analysts evaluate the systems' efficiency and performance to perform configuration and improve infrastructure for smooth navigation and controls. They also assist end-users in resolving network issues, perform troubleshooting, and write resolution reports for reference and failure prevention. A computer systems analyst must have excellent technical and computer skills, especially in installing new upgrades and developing features for existing applications.
Computer programmers and computer systems analysts have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Programmer | Computer Systems Analyst | |
| Average salary | $70,979 | $82,655 |
| Salary range | Between $55,000 And $90,000 | Between $60,000 And $112,000 |
| Highest paying City | Richmond, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Mayo Clinic | |
| Best paying industry | Finance | Professional |
There are a few differences between a computer programmer and a computer systems analyst in terms of educational background:
| Computer Programmer | Computer Systems Analyst | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 59% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | University of Chicago | Stanford University |
Here are the differences between computer programmers' and computer systems analysts' demographics:
| Computer Programmer | Computer Systems Analyst | |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 70.2% Female, 29.8% | Male, 76.7% Female, 23.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 5.1% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Asian, 15.0% White, 66.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 10.2% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 10.9% Asian, 14.6% White, 59.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 8% |