Do you want to make money programming in Java? Here are 6 creative ways for a Java developer to make a decent amount of money programming
If you are a Java Developer or even aspire to be a Java Developer, you can still make money programming in Java.
Java is one of the leading programming languages among developers. It is part of many curriculums in India as well. So Java is a well-known language for many college students.
Like other programming languages like PHP or JavaScript, you can work in JAVA and earn a decent income. However, I prefer that one be ready to learn and make a decent side income or increase your overall salary and earnings with Java programming.
So without much ado, let’s begin the ways to make money with Java Programming
1. Get a Job in Java
I am sure no one will argue that Android is the most popular operating system for smartphones. However, in 2020, the market share of Android across all mobile and desktop devices had crossed that of Windows.
Source: StatCounter
Android is the future, and if you want to be a Java Developer, there is nothing wrong. So the first step for you is to get a job in Java.
I know this can be tough for someone with years of experience in a different programming language to switch to Java. However, if you are looking for better career choices, you have to make that switch at some point.
Today may not be the right choice if you look back and consider the current salary and what you may get as a Java Developer. However, today may be the best day to do it because, with time, you are making it more challenging for yourself.
As your expenses increase, you may not be able to make that switch. With the next salary hike, things will be even more complicated.
Try working your way into Java on weekends. Opt to show your expertise in interviews, try to work out a bare minimum monthly needed for survival, and get a salary around that level.
Still, the salary may take a step backwards when you move from being experienced in some technology to a fresher in Java, but I am damn sure you will not regret the choice of career for sure.
Remember this quote from Vladimir Lenin.
It is necessary sometimes to take one step backwards to take two steps forward – Vladimir Lenin
So be prepared to take that one step back now on your salary so that you can leap forward in your choice of career.
2. Build an Android App
When you are trying to work your way into being a Java Developer, it is always good to start building an Android App.
Google has a great step by step resource to start building your Android App here. So get your hands on building an app, and then try to clone any of the utilities you use on Android.
If you are out of ideas of what app one should build, I can help. Build yet another notes app for Android. As freshers, we aren’t trying to earn directly from the app but learning to code a complete app in Android and Java.
You can monetise the app if you want, but the critical aspect is to use the app for blogging about Java or Android development or becoming a freelancer for building Android Apps.
3. Blog About Java (Android App Building)
Working in JAVA, you can share many how-to articles that can help many other aspiring Java Developers. However, if you are even learning JAVA, I am sure many others will wish to embark with you on the journey of learning Java from your blog.
There are many ways to monetise a blog but don’t expect significant earnings in the first few months of your blogging career.
Building a Blog is a slow process. So a significant amount that one can earn from a blog can take a long time to trickle in. However, as your blog grows with great content, you will make a decent income over time.
4. Freelance in Java (Android App Building)
Working on online freelancing sites like Upwork can help you make money programming in Java. It is one of my favourite ways to learn any programming language and get paid by clients.
The way I do it is to learn the language using an online course. Then do some minor tasks for the same to sharpen my skills. Next, I use the tasks as samples to get client work.
I learned PHP the same way and made a move from vBulletin to Xenforo with a similar approach.
It is the most rewarding way to learn something new.
5. Teach Java (Online or Offline)
If you like to interact with students, consider teaching Java.
One can start a local coaching institute or even making a complete course and sell it on Udemy.
However, if you aren’t sure about selling a course, release a few videos on YouTube to see how they perform.
I know there are tutorials available, but the Internet will always welcome your style of teaching your student.
6. Build an Android Game in Java
I think developing games is one of the best ways to utilise your Java programming skills. However, you may think that games require many graphics work, and you don’t have the expertise.
However, you can start with 2D board games like TicTacToe or Quiz, Scrabble, Logo Puzzles etc. They will require minimal graphics, and you can get hands-on experience developing games.
Final Thoughts
If you are willing to learn, there is so much that one can do online and make a decent amount of money with Java Programming.
The missing piece in the puzzle is the willingness to learn. Instead, people are trying to trick things and make quick bucks.
