I've noticed that there is a gap between getting formal education in computer science as a student and entry-level/junior programming jobs. Obviously entry-level programming requires that you know some programming but how much do you need to break in?

I'm in a QA non-coding role with basically a minor in CS, looking to improve my own programming skills to eventually switch industries. However I'm completely at a loss as to what I should be focusing on learning and am curious as to the steps other people have taken to get experience post-undergrad.