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The differences between database programmers and computer programmers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a database programmer, becoming a computer programmer takes usually requires 6-8 years. Additionally, a database programmer has an average salary of $78,390, which is higher than the $70,979 average annual salary of a computer programmer.
The top three skills for a database programmer include PL/SQL, access database and microsoft sql server. The most important skills for a computer programmer are C #, java, and javascript.
| Database Programmer | Computer Programmer | |
| Yearly salary | $78,390 | $70,979 |
| Hourly rate | $37.69 | $34.12 |
| Growth rate | 9% | -7% |
| Number of jobs | 18,188 | 205,491 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 60% |
| Average age | 46 | 47 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 8 |
A database programmer specializes in developing and maintaining database programs, modifying them according to their clients' needs. They design and write codes for different programs, establish and implement test systems, troubleshoot problems, solve concerns or issues, and upgrade systems as necessary. They may also establish data security plans and implement protocols to protect company and client data. Moreover, a database programmer maintains an active communication line with co-workers, working together to ensure a smooth workflow and provide optimal services to clients.
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.
Database programmers and computer programmers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Database Programmer | Computer Programmer | |
| Average salary | $78,390 | $70,979 |
| Salary range | Between $56,000 And $107,000 | Between $55,000 And $90,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Richmond, CA |
| Highest paying state | Massachusetts | Washington |
| Best paying company | Edwards Lifesciences | |
| Best paying industry | Pharmaceutical | Finance |
There are a few differences between a database programmer and a computer programmer in terms of educational background:
| Database Programmer | Computer Programmer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 60% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | University of Chicago |
Here are the differences between database programmers' and computer programmers' demographics:
| Database Programmer | Computer Programmer | |
| Average age | 46 | 47 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 73.6% Female, 26.4% | Male, 70.2% Female, 29.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 7.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 9.7% Asian, 21.0% White, 55.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | 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% |
| LGBT Percentage | 6% | 11% |