Can I become an expert in computer programming without having to attend a formal computer class?

FYI, my bachelor's degree is in English Literature.

Can I become an expert in computer programming without having to attend a formal computer class?
Sure, there are plenty of books and websites where you can learn programming without taking formal class's.
Reply:it depends on which programming language you want to master (or more then one if you wish)





'expert' is somewhat of a stretch, but you can always download a compiler, and read manuals, visit programming websites, view online programming tutorials and ask/read on programming message boards





this way is much more time consuming and difficult without classes, but hey I became a PHP expert without any classes :)
Reply:Sure, you can become. Trying to become a language purist and a language designer requires some formal training or lots of hard work and reading.


If you just want to be an expert programmer, all you need is loads of common sense and dedication.


I am a Mechanical Engineer by qualification but into pure programming job. I am not an expert but consider myself good enough to do what people with computer science background are doing around (not the pure scientist, they are in academia and into real research)