dont forget objective-c
hi, i just started programming myself 2 weeks ago.
Im taking class in html and CSS, that will be follow after christmas with a class on php and mySQL. Im learning java by myself, and next year i have a class on c++ using Borland C++ builder on PC.
If you are posting on a macintosh site, i would assume that you would like to program on your mac. Then u need to learn Objective-C, wich is a object oriented language use in mac os x. Then learn Cocoa for the design of interface...
You can also learn java, wich is crossplatform and a good language to start with (i dont usually recommend alot of book from them, but Barry Burd's "Beginning programming with java 2nd edition for dummies" is a must have for the absolute beginner. It wont be a reference book on java, but it will teach you how to understand alot of programming concept that you will encounter in all object oriented programming languages. Plus, it give you a pretty good start in java.
U can use Xcode to code in C, C++, objective-C and java (and more). its a pro IDE (integrated developpement tool) that come bundle on every mac. Just install it from you os x cd/dvd.
For java, i would recommend Eclipse 3.1, wich is an open source IDE, or JCREATOR from Sun (have to buy it).
What i love about learning java, is that you can use your knowledge to build good desktop app, and use it for developping with java enterprise platform (J2EE) for server/client app, etc. It is widely use (in competition with .net).
hope that help !