Training and Careers in Programming

[zener]

I have been learning c++ for fun and have no official training in programming or computers. I was wondering if anyone here had a job specifically as a programmer and could tell me what a good path would be to take? I am interested in learning any number of programming languages, but i know i am interested specifically in programming. I was thinking about some continuing education course's but wondered if they would cover enough to make me a valuable programmer. Wheres a good place to start my education?

[WingedPanther]

If you don't have any formal education, you'll have a much harder time getting a programming job. That said, if you want to do freelance work, or make friends with a programmer who will give you a good word, you can still make it.

[zener]

yeah im looking for advice on where to start my education? what area of computers to get into? are there programming corses i take? or broader coarses? do i need a degree?

[WingedPanther]

At least in the US, most colleges offer programming courses as part of the Computer Science major. If you're more into hardware, Computer Engineering is another choice.