Should I learn Java or should I learn C++?

Question

I have a pretty good non-OOP background. I've done lots of Visual Basic coding, and a little SQL.

I want to widen my skillset and be more marketable. Most of my experience has been working with scientific companies, and I've been supporting scientists a lot.

I want to take some online classes from my local community college. Should I take Java or C++ programming? My goal is to be more marketable. Some more background information: I've had a little bit of experience with .NET, and I am assuming that since I know C# a bit, it may be worthwhile for me to get into C++?

Should I learn Java or C++?

I beg you please don't close this question. Give me 10 minutes to see everyone's input.

Answer 1

C# is a lot more similar to Java than to C++.

Answer 2

I would also say if you want to support scientific computing invest some time into learning F#. There's even a book with all the right words in the title =).

Answer 3

I want to widen my skillset and be more marketable

That's a reasonable goal, but the information you've provided doesn't help us guide you.

• What do you want to do with your career?
• Where do you want to market your skills?
• What kinds of programming interests you?
• What companies interest you?
• Do you just want to learn something similar, or try a different paradigm altogether?

For example, Java would be a poor choice if you want to hack on the Linux kernel. C would be better. If you're interested in programming languages, maybe you should look into learning a functional language. OTOH, C++ would be a poor choice if you don't want to learn about memory management, and Java might be easier to get a head start writing webservers (not that both aren't well equipped for that).

You can learn any language, just for the hell of it. But it's more important to use a language that helps you accomplish your real goals. The language is only a tool.

Answer 4

I am a recent Computer Science graduate and from my job search I have to say that there are many more people wanting Java programmers than C++. I also saw a great deal of people looking for C# programmers. C++ is not being used as much outside of the academic and scientific field right now.

Java and C# are also similar languages so once you understand one you should be able to go to the other.

If you do want to do C++ that is fine. If you can learn C++ and then master C then you will be in a good position for those few places that need incredibly skilled C programmers. C++ and C are able to reach to a lower level (closer to the hardware) more easily than Java and C# can. That is why they are used mostly in the areas that are dealing with specific and custom hardware.