Starting Java without CS Degree

This is my first post at the Ranch and I wanted to start by saying everyone on the forums seems very helpful and I look forward to spending many hours with everyone on here!

Now, to my question. I have relatively recently decided to pursue a career as a Java programmer. I have always had a strong passion for computers, programming, and everything electronic really. I do not however possess a bachelor's degree in a computer related field. I have a bachelor's degree in History from UC Berkeley. I am trying to figure out the viability of my becoming a Java programmer. My plan thus far is to finish building my knowledge base in Java(and other helpful areas like Tomcat etc.) and get SCJP certified. I am curious to hear if you guys think this would be enough to get entry-level positions, and if not what would you suggest be my course of action to get to a point where I would be hire-able.

Thank you all in advance for your responses!

Of course building the knowledge base in Java is the first step, followed by a SCJP certification should definitely do good on your resume. If you want to really gain some practical experience, try contributing for the OpenSource. There are numerous number of Java based projects that you can choose from and work.

I'm in the same situation as you,Bobby

I'm currently a student in a business school, but I have a passion for programming

My plan is to first get an SCJP, then move on to Java EE, this is the most needed aspect of Java in the market these days

But first you have to learn the basics,the Java tutorial might come in handy

And if you know the basics already,go on and study for SCJP,I recommend Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates' book,which you'll find support for in this forum

However,if you want a book about Java's best practices, most people recommend "Effective Java"

Good Luck

Welcome to JavaRanch

I also have a BS in something unrelated to computers and want to move over into the programming field. My question is how is the job market for Java programmers? Or bigger/better question is,, what type of programming or IT should I go for? I'm live in NYC and am lookng to make around 100k/yr. I don't care if it takes a few years to get there as long as there is a bright job market for me to come to and which speciality should I pursue to obtain that?

I know it's a broad question. I started here becuase I heard that Sr Java programmer is the hardest computer job to fill and thus I should have a pick of jobs. I appreciate any feedback. Thanks!

John,
Welcome to JavaRanch!

The job market for Java developers is good in NYC at the moment. Especially for contractors. It takes time to get to 100K of course. Not sure how good the market is for entry level or what the future will hold.

The best advice I have is to pick an aspect of IT you enjoy. Hot technologies change and you don't want to have done something just because you thought it would pay well in a few years.