About the programming: No, it's not hard to learn on the 7C or 9C.
The menues are straight forward and if you check the manual you'll get the hang of it in no time.

...And that instructor you spoke with 10 minutes ago, well if he recommended you the 7C, then he's probably a Futaba man and can show you the ropes.

Now, get the equipment, build the plane and get your wings!