Programming and the Trail to Eagle
Programming is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Programming Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Programming. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Safety. Do the following:
- a.View the Personal Safety Awareness 'Digital Safety' video with your parent or guardian's permission.
- b.Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries that could occur during programming activities.
- 2
History. Discuss with your counselor the history of programming and the evolution of programming languages.
- 3
General Knowledge. Do the following:
- a.Create a list of five popular programming languages in use today and describe which industry or industries they are primarily used in and why.
- b.Describe three different programmed devices you rely on every day.
- 4
Intellectual Property. Do the following:
- a.Explain the four types of intellectual property used to protect computer programs.
- b.Describe the difference between licensing and owning software.
- c.Describe the differences between freeware, open source, and commercial software.
- 5
Project. With your counselor's guidance, select three different programming languages and development environments. Write or modify a program in each.
- 6
Careers. Find out about three career opportunities that require knowledge in programming.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Programming Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Programming, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Programming is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 6 weeks for a demanding badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 13 Programming requirements for you.
Programming Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Programming merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Programming is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Programming merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Programming in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Programming merit badge?
Programming is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Programming can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Programming merit badge have?
Programming has 6 main requirements with 7 sub-requirements, for 13 items in total.
