In today's world, computers and software are essential for nearly every industry. From remote work to online shopping, coding powers the technology that makes modern life possible. As the demand for programmers continues to grow, high school students stand to benefit from learning how to code early.
Fortunately, for the younger generation, learning how to code has never been easier. According to the 2023 State of Computer Science Education report from Code.org, 57.5% of public high schools in the United States offer foundational computer science as part of their curriculum. Coding education is also starting to reach the lower grades, with at least 46% of middle schools offering foundational computer science.
Learning programming not only helps students understand the digital world they engage with daily but also prepares them for lucrative career opportunities. But with so many programming languages to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones are best suited for high school computer science classes. Here, we highlight the top five programming languages that provide a solid foundation for both beginners and aspiring professionals.
Criteria for Evaluation
For each programming language, we considered the following criteria to determine its suitability for high school students:
- Difficulty: Is it beginner-friendly, or does it have a steep learning curve?
- Category: Is it a front-end, back-end, scripting, or general-purpose language?
- Relation to Other Programming Languages: Does it share similarities with other common languages that make it easier to learn others later on?
- Practical Applications: What types of projects can students build with it?
- Professions: In which careers is this language widely used?
C#
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly, especially for object-oriented programming (OOP)
Category: General-purpose, object-oriented
Relation to Other Programming Languages: Shares similarities with C and C++, making it a great foundational language to support learning other languages later on
Practical Applications: Create video games, mobile apps, and desktop software
Professions: Game development (e.g., Unity), software development, app development
Why Teach C#?
C# is an excellent language for high schoolers because it introduces core programming concepts with a relatively simple syntax. Its object-oriented structure helps students grasp the basics of programming while working on exciting projects like video games and apps using the Unity game engine. Learning C# also opens the door to industry-recognized certifications through Unity, making it a valuable skill for students interested in game development or app creation.
In Mastery Coding's Game and App Development Pathway, students build a portfolio of impressive video games using C# and Unity as they learn the fundamentals of computer science and programming through project-based learning modules.
JavaScript
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly but can become more complex with advanced concepts
Category: Scripting language, primarily for web development
Relation to Other Programming Languages: Pairs well with HTML/CSS for web development, shares concepts with other scripting languages
Practical Applications: Build interactive websites, create dynamic web apps
Professions: Web development, UX/UI design, software development
Why Teach JavaScript?
JavaScript is the backbone of web development, powering nearly all interactive elements on the internet. Teaching JavaScript equips students with the ability to build websites and web applications, an essential skill in today’s digital world. Its flexible, real-time functionality makes it ideal for project-based learning where students can see their work come to life in real-time.
Mastery Coding's Web Development Foundations introduces students to the world of web development through project-based lessons that place a heavy emphasis on coding and the foundations of computer science, demonstrating key CS concepts using JavaScript.
Python
Difficulty: Extremely beginner-friendly, with simple syntax resembling English
Category: General-purpose, high-level programming language
Relation to Other Programming Languages: Great introductory language that builds foundational skills for more complex languages like Java and C++
Practical Applications: Data science, AI and machine learning, web scraping, automation
Professions: Data science, AI development, software engineering, web development
Why Teach Python?
Python’s simplicity and readability make it a fantastic choice for beginners. It introduces students to coding without the frustration of complex syntax, enabling them to focus on solving problems. Python is also one of the most versatile languages, allowing students to explore fields like AI, data analysis, and web development, giving them a broad understanding of how code can be applied in the real world.
Check out Mastery Coding's Computer Science Principles with Python, an engaging, project-based course that prepares students for the AP Computer Science Principles exam and other industry-based certifications.
Java
Difficulty: Medium; steeper learning curve compared to Python and C#
Category: Object-oriented, platform-independent
Relation to Other Programming Languages: Shares many similarities with C#, making it easier for students to transition between languages
Practical Applications: Mobile app development, enterprise-level software, embedded systems
Professions: Mobile app development (especially Android), software engineering, cloud computing
Why Teach Java?
Java is a powerful, versatile language that plays a huge role in mobile and enterprise applications. Its “write once, run anywhere” philosophy allows students to create projects that work across multiple platforms. Java is also integral to the Android operating system, making it the go-to language for students interested in mobile app development.
C++
Difficulty: Advanced; requires a deep understanding of programming concepts
Category: General-purpose, object-oriented
Relation to Other Programming Languages: Builds on C syntax; understanding C++ makes it easier to learn other languages like C# and Java
Practical Applications: Develop video games, software, operating systems, and high-performance applications
Professions: Game development, software engineering, systems programming, embedded systems
Why Teach C++?
C++ is the perfect next step for students who have already gained confidence in simpler languages like C# and are ready to take on more advanced programming challenges. With its shared syntax and object-oriented principles, C++ builds upon the foundation of C#, making the transition smoother while offering greater control over system resources and performance. One of the most exciting applications of C++ is in game development, particularly through the Unreal Engine, where students can explore more sophisticated projects and dive into the world of high-performance gaming. This blend of complexity, creativity, and practical application not only makes learning C++ both rewarding and enjoyable but also equips students with in-demand skills that can open doors to careers in software and game development.
Build a Coding Curriculum With Mastery Coding
Incorporating these programming languages into your curriculum equips students with a robust foundation in computer science, preparing them for the future.
At Mastery Coding, we provide turn-key curricula that help students learn some of these languages through engaging, project-based lessons. Whether you're a veteran computer science teacher or have no technical background, our curriculum provides everything you need to guide your students to success. With step-by-step instructions, detailed video lectures, classroom resources, and built-in assessments, teachers can feel confident in delivering high-quality instruction that leads to measurable student growth and industry-recognized certifications—even if they’re teaching coding for the first time.
Interested in enhancing your school’s coding program? Contact us to learn more about how Mastery Coding can support your computer science and STEM initiatives.
