Java or .Net/C#: Which Programming Language Should I Learn?

By Tech Elevator Instructor Myron Law

“Which language should I choose to learn?”

This is a very common question. Understandably, one that many of our prospective students struggle with. If you’re struggling with which language to choose, don’t worry — it makes sense, as choosing to attend Tech Elevator’s coding bootcamp is a big commitment and definitely a decision you will want to feel confident in. Unfortunately, it is not quite as straightforward to determine which language to learn as you might think. The good news, however, is that in the grand scheme of things, regardless of the language that you choose to learn, you’ll be set up for success. Not to be flippant; it just means that ultimately for our program, the language path, whether .Net/C# or Java, is equivalent in terms of programming principles, marketability and landing a job as a software developer/IT professional.

Ultimately, for our program, the language path, whether .Net/C# or Java, is equivalent in terms of programming principles, marketability and landing a job as a software developer/IT professional.

Tech Elevator offers both Java and .Net/C# languages based on overall industry demand trends and from the direct feedback of our hiring partners. Both Java and .Net/C# are very mature and highly desirable languages. With that said, an important thing to keep in mind is that Tech Elevator’s full-time and part-time coding bootcamps focus on teaching the programming principles and fundamental skills needed to be a software developer. These underlying principles and skills are essentially language agnostic, meaning they can be applied to almost any software language. Here are a couple of anecdotal scenarios that may provide some clarity…

Which one should I choose?

Game Console:

In this scenario, Let’s say you initially chose an Xbox and developed/honed your gaming skills on a number of cross platform games as well as Xbox console exclusives. If you later happened to be at a friend’s house and you guys decided to play “Call of Duty” on your friend’s Playstation, do you think the skills you have acquired playing games on your Xbox would translate? Of course they would! You would obviously have to familiarize yourself with the menu, on screen interface, as well as the controller configuration differences, however, your underlying skills as a gamer would certainly be applicable.

Playstation vs. Xbox vs. Nintendo Switch

Driving:

The same could be said for the scenario of choosing a car. Imagine if Tech Elevator was teaching you the principles and fundamentals of how to drive. Now imagine you have to choose a car to get to and from work, the store, etc. Would the make of the car really matter as far as your fundamental ability to drive and operate the vehicle? Again, of course not! The skills you acquired learning how to drive would translate to any vehicle you choose.

General Motors vs. Ford

Now, you may be thinking…

“Thanks for the analogies; I still can’t decide between Java and .Net/C#, what should I do?”

Here are a few more things you can try:

  • Search the job postings of the types of companies where you think you would like to work to determine what languages/skills they are looking for.
  • Seek perspective from a friend/colleague/instructor that is knowledgeable in the software development field. (Feel free to email me: [email protected])
  • If all else fails, flip a coin or just go with your gut and don’t look back – both Tech Elevator Java and .Net/C# programming paths are excellent choices and will provide you with the required skills necessary to make the successful transition to a career in software development.

 

Myron Law - Instructor

Myron Law

Myron has spent the last 20+ years performing software development primarily in the financial, banking, and insurance sectors. Most of his professional experience includes designing, developing, managing and integrating software systems across a wide range of technologies and companies. Myron is an instructor for Tech Elevator’s National Live Remote Program.