Procedural Programming Language: What It Is and When It’s Used

Key takeaways

A procedural programming language, such as Java or C, is one type of programming paradigm that functions similarly to computer hardware. 

• Software engineers, who have various programming skills, make a median annual salary of $131,450 [1].

• Procedural programming languages are best for constructing operating systems, making programs, and creating graphics tools. 

• You can learn programming by pursuing a degree in computer science, taking a coding boot camp, or engaging in self-study. 

Discover more about the procedural programming language paradigm and how its use affects different careers. If you’re ready to start building skills in a procedural programming language, try the Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization from Duke University to learn programming foundations and how to solve complex problems with Java. 

What is a procedural programming language?

A procedural programming language follows commands sequentially, similar to how computer hardware functions. This relationship results in programs that execute commands efficiently, receiving, interpreting, and executing one instruction at a time. Examples of procedural programming languages include Java, C, Pascal, and BASIC. 

Procedural programming follows a set of subroutines, also known as procedures, where the execution of each subroutine happens in a specific order. This makes it easier to reuse code, reduce the amount of repetitive code, and manipulate data. In order for a subroutine to initiate, you have to first call it, and then the program will call the subsequent subroutines. 

Advantages of procedural programming

Procedural programming is easy to learn and can help you set a foundation before learning other programming paradigms. It also has several additional advantages that can be useful depending on the nature of your work:

• In procedural programming, you don’t have to create any objects or classes, allowing you to write code quickly.

• Using procedural programming, you can complete projects in various areas, such as web and software development.

• The prevalence of procedural programming within popular programming languages means you can develop your skills through online resources, such as courses or communities.

Procedural programming vs. object-oriented programming

Procedural programming languages differ from object-oriented programming languages. Object-oriented programming utilizes objects and classes to create models. Rather than relying on objects and classes, procedural programs break tasks into subroutines. Object-oriented programming also makes it easier to modify programs, whereas procedural programs require more extensive revisions. This is because all corresponding lines of code require editing when a change is made to the original code.

Procedural programming language uses

C is a programming language that exclusively uses procedural programming. Take a look at some of the different uses of the procedural programming language C:

• Constructing operating systems

• Scripting programs and embedded systems

• Graphic design tool development

How to learn procedural programming languages

When learning how to code, you have several options. You can take courses in college or university as part of a degree program, enroll in a boot camp, or take online courses. 

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in an area such as computer science will give you the opportunity to develop your programming skills. However, getting a degree is typically a more expensive option that requires a significant time commitment. 

Other learning options, such as boot camps, may be a better fit depending on your circumstances. Boot camps allow you to focus primarily on developing the specific skills you need for your job and allow you to direct your efforts toward a single discipline rather than covering a wide variety of topics like you would while earning a computer science degree. 

This route also typically offers more flexibility with a time and financial commitment that works for you. The Introductory C Programming Specialization from Duke University on Coursera presents programming fundamentals to help you prepare for a career in software development. 

Careers that use procedural programming languages

You can find a career where procedural programming skills are valuable, working on both the server side of programs as well as the back-end of different platforms and in software engineering. Below is a closer look at some of the different procedural programming-related careers you can pursue:

1. Software engineer

Median annual US salary (BLS.gov): $131,450 [1]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2024 to 2034): 15 percent [1]

Education Requirements: Some roles may require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a similar field. 

Utilizing engineering principles and programming skills, software engineers develop software programs, contributing to software testing, development, and design. Software engineers develop applications for computers, as well as operating systems that allow computers to function.

Read more: What Does a Software Engineer Do?

2. Web developer

Median annual US salary (BLS.gov): $95,380 [2]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2024 to 2034): 7 percent [2]

Education requirements: Education requirements for web developers can vary, with some employers requiring a bachelor’s degree. However, you have several options for developing the necessary skills, such as boot camps or online courses.

Web developers create web applications and websites. You can pursue a career in front-end, back-end, or full-stack development within web development. Front-end engineers handle the interactive, user-facing components of websites, while back-end engineers build the structure. Full-stack engineers perform the responsibilities of both front- and back-end engineers. 

3. Network systems administrator

Median annual US salary (BLS.gov): $96,800 [3]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2024 to 2034): -4 percent [3]

Education requirements: To become a network systems administrator, you will need a bachelor’s degree or associate degree in an area like computer science or information systems. Certifications can also help boost your qualifications.

Depending on the organization's specific needs, network system administrators ensure the correct hardware and software are in place. This includes testing equipment, troubleshooting, and maintaining the network. 

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