It's an entry level Sandy Bridge dual core CPU @ 2.1Ghz. That's not terrible.
And it has a dedicated entry level graphics card = Geforce GT 520M.
LCD resolution isn't mentioned. It's probably 1366x768. 1600x900 would be nice - but it would add to the cost.
For your programming stuff - do you need a dedicated number pad?
If yes, you need a 15", if no, then the 14" size is OK.