Whether you choose to study in your state of residence or in another state can drastically alter your tuition costs. Or, if you need to balance other responsibilities with your schoolwork, you may prefer to study part time through an online program. You should apply to 6-9 schools, making sure to choose a few schools that will most likely accept you, a few that you have a decent chance of getting into, and a few dream schools that might be challenging to get into. (Associate of Computer Science: Degree Overview. Some programs require students to earn the degree in exactly two years, while others allow for some flexibility. Students aiming to finish the degree in under two years may choose to double up on credits. Each program has specific courses, requirements, and other features that may appeal to you. This course introduces students to essential database management systems and techniques. Students must have a high school degree to be eligible for associate level degrees. Courses often include hands-on experience with databases and software packages. Transfer opportunities – Some associate degree programs in computer science are Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees that aren’t necessarily designed for full transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. This course provides essential knowledge for students entering both hardware- and software-oriented fields. If you dream of working in an exciting and lucrative field, consider earning an associate degree in computer science. The associate in computer science curriculum was developed by experts in the computer science industry whose years of experience are embedded into each course. In the end, you’ll be able to translate logic into programs to create software. An associate degree is an American university degree consisting of roughly 20 courses in a chosen field of study, which is typically completed in two years. While you probably will not encounter all of the courses outlined below, this list provides an idea of some common courses found in associate in computer science programs. Study.com College Advisor that can help you compare costs and options. While computer science programs focus mainly on software, top computer engineering programs cover the relationship between hardware and software. If you want to finish your associate degree faster, choose a school that offers accelerated programs. In addition to basic computer science … Speaking with one of our college advisors, you will get personalized advice and explore your Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED. Should I Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science. Computer support specialist. Enter zip: Tuition costs may vary by thousands of dollars depending on your chosen school, and some schools may offer more financial aid than others. In addition, computer science students should consider whether they want to purchase a new computer or upgrade their internet. The Computer Science program is a two-year preparatory curriculum for students who plan to continue their education at a four-year institution and complete their major in the computer science field. All rights reserved. They may also be required to participate in internships with local businesses where they put their classroom knowledge to use in real-world situations. This course presents a basic overview of the various information systems that businesses and other organizations use for their daily operations. 20,756 associate computer science jobs available. Associate's Degree, Computer Science (CS) - Salary - Get a free salary comparison based on job title, skills, experience and education. Apply to Software Engineer, Post-doctoral Fellow, Associate Professor and more! If you want to enter the workforce quickly and begin a career in software development, computer engineering, or information technology, this may be the ideal degree for you. They determine a program's end result and work with computer programmers to achieve that goal. Some schools also require applicants to submit personal essays or test scores. Most programs require around 60 credits, and students usually complete them in four semesters. ), Study.com / Associate of Computer Science: Degree Overview. Professional organizations offer invaluable resources to computer science students, graduates, and professionals alike. Possible career options for graduates include: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment decline of 7% for computer programmers over the 2018-2028 decade (www.bls.gov), while computer support specialists could see job opportunities grow by 10% over the same period. The guide below details the general classes, requirements, and careers you can expect from a computer science associate degree. These professionals maintain the local networks and systems that allow an organization to function. Earn Transferable Credit & Get your Degree, Speak to a College Advisor today and make a better plan. guide you through every step of the college selection and enrollment process. Take into account each program's length. Get personalized advice from our college experts. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. Web. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. Students completing an Associate in Computer Science complete the coursework equivalent to the first two years of four-year bachelor’s degree programs and upon graduation often transfer to four year institutions with junior status. Technology companies of all sizes need software developers to design, develop, and implement cutting-edge programs and applications. Many employers require an associate degree for these positions. A computer science associate degree can help you launch a career in computer and information technology. Description The Computer Science program provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills in the field of computer science, including programming logic and algorithm design, software development using a variety of major modern languages, software engineering principles and methodologies, and security principles and methods. These are offered at a number of popular computer colleges in Chicago. If this pathway is followed as outlined, you will earn an Associate in Science (AS) degree. Tuition for associate degree programs in computer science ranges from approximately $6,000-$30,000 for a two-year program. Database administrators analyze and evaluate the data needs of users. Online associate degree programs in computer science may be better for full-time professionals or those looking to switch careers. Students master essential programming languages such as Java and C++, and they learn to design, code, and test applications. These courses prepare students for roles designing and maintaining websites. Through this course, students explore how computers and computing systems function. Description: Also … Programmers help software developers turn their designs and ideas into code. Many programs require students to pay a flat fee per credit, so the rate at which you earn your degree may not affect tuition costs. Students will learn how to develop, test, create … Students should consider several factors when choosing between schools. The association helps members compare jobs and learn about developments in the IT field. Members gain access to a worldwide community of technology professionals. This degree provides fundamental skills needed to excel in many technology-oriented positions. Tuition constitutes just one of the many expenses you must consider. We'll explore your degree options and Keep them in mind as you consider the long-term value you could get from earning your Associate’s degree in Information Technology. Interested individuals may also choose to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science and become computer software engineers, advanced computer programmers, systems managers or administrators. (This degree can be […] Begin compiling a list of your favorite schools early on. This will depend entirely on the type of project the organization is working on and how well your skill set fits their needs. degree options and guide you through every step of the college selection and enrollment process. A Computer Science Associate Degree offers the unique hands-on learning experiences while pursuing your Online associate degree Computer Science programs.. An Online Computer Science Associate Degree program is often sufficient for most computer science careers. The median annual salary for computer programmers as of May 2018 was $84,280, and computer support specialists earned a median of $53,470, according to the BLS. Courses often incorporate practical experience in building and repairing computers. In addition to basic computer science coursework, students may be required to gain hands-on experience learning through lab work. An associate’s degree in computer science will equip you with an intermediate level coding skillset that should allow you to be employed as a programmer. This section guides you through some of the key courses, costs, and requirements you can expect from an associate program in computer science. Students earning a computer science associate degree should expect to study for around two years. It is intended for intermediate students who have basic programming skills. Web development courses cover the basics of web application creation and internet coding. Top Schools for Computer Science Programs. Undergraduate applicants must be a high school graduate or have completed GED and completed some college. For free! In addition, career counselors can help students search for jobs and internships as they approach graduation. Retrieved from https://study.com/articles/Associate_of_Computer_Science_Degree_Overview.html. Through the Computer Science pathway, Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) offers the opportunity for students to pursue higher education in the field. What Is an Associate Degree in Computer Science? With your associate in computer science, you can pursue work as a programmer, technician, help desk worker, security specialist, ethical hacker, or administrator of network, system, database, or data centers, among other roles. The Association for Computing Machinery's CareerNews newsletter keeps members informed about the technology career landscape. PURPOSE: The associate degree in Science is intended for those who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor of science degree in the natural and physical sciences, mathematics, or computer science. Computer programmers typically master one or more coding languages, such as C++ or Java, and help software engineers and developers create functioning programs. 1. While students work towards a computer science associate degree, jobs fairs and other networking events on campus can prove essential for finding a job. Taking above the suggested number of credits each semester accelerates the path to an associate degree. Computer and Information Sciences, General, AS in Information Technology Administration and Management, Associate of Science - Technology Studies, AAS in Information Technology - Network Administration, AAS in Information Technology - Multiplatform Software Development, Computer Science Graduate School Rankings: List of Top Schools, Associate of Applied Computer Science: Online Degree, Distance Learning Computer Science Graduate Degree Options, List of Top Online Computer Science Schools, Salary and Career Info for a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Average Salary for a Masters in Computer Science Graduate, Schools with Computer Science Programs: How to Choose, Career Information for a Degree in Computer Science, Graduate Degrees in Computer Science: Program Options, Online Computer Science Degrees by Program Level, Computer Science Degree Program Overviews by Level, Applied Computer Science Degree Program Overviews, Computer Scientist: Job Description, Duties and Requirements, Be a Computer Science Engineer: Career Information and Requirements, Distance Learning Doctoral Degree Program in Computer Science, Top Computer Science Undergraduate Program, Computer Information Science Degree Programs in Texas, Skip Your Computer Science Class and Learn to Code for Free, Top Ranked School for Taking Computer Science Courses - Knoxville, TN, Master's in Computer Science Vs. 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With a heavy focus on experiential and applied learning, this program will allow you to work on real-world problems while developing a digital portfolio of artifacts. Connect with They manage an organization's hardware and software, and make repairs when necessary. Pathway This is an example course sequence for students interested in pursuing Computer Science. Students enrolled in this major should contact the Transfer Services Office early in their academic program to determine which courses will transfer to the college of their choice. It's free! https://thebestschools.org/rankings/best-online-associates-computer-science Students may choose to work immediately after graduating or transfer to a 4-year college to pursue a bachelor's degree. The course covers topics such as memory architecture, processing, and digital logic. Those who work full time or must manage other commitments may prefer to take fewer credits each semester. The Associate of Science in Computer Science online degree program is built on a technical base and enables students to explore the field from a range of perspectives. This pathway meets all of the requirements of the … Associate of Computer Science: Degree Overview. 12 Dec 2020 accessed. Information systems degrees prepare students for roles building and maintaining computer networks. Number of Open Jobs: 7,322. © copyright 2003-2020 Study.com. However, depending on your chosen program, you may spend more or less time working towards your degree. Through hands-on projects, students often gain experience fixing bugs and other issues. Keep in mind that the admissions process for online programs is typically more complicated than for on-campus programs. This professional organization works to advance the field of computer science and related professions. Coursework differs between schools, but most associate in computer science curricula cover the same general topics. While some courses in master's programs in computer science and computer engineering are the same, the general outcome of each... Students interested in studying computer science in Colorado Springs have a few schools to choose from. Students learn to design web pages using programming languages such as HTML, XML, CSS, and JavaScript. Whether you take courses on-campus or earn an associate in computer science degree online, you'll learn to analyze business problems and leverage technology to solve them. Median Annual Salary: $103,560. Want to learn computer programming code without having to sit through classes? Textbooks command high prices, often costing hundreds of dollars each. This group serves more than 60,000 members through conferences, publications, and professional development courses. As part of their daily duties, these professionals often maintain computer systems and train customers to use new hardware and software. Programs typically include advanced coursework on logic, algorithms, calculus, and programming. … Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today. Find the right school and build a personalized Education Plan with help from an independent advisor. Some graduates go on to plan and build applications as software developers or computer programmers. The Associate of Arts in Computer Science provides a balanced program that gives students a strong concentration in the computer programming area. Coursework typically covers topics on software development as well as hardware maintenance. In-state students can pay as little as $100 per credit, while out-of-state students regularly pay $300 or more. Most software developers have an undergraduate degree. Average Base Pay: $79,738. 1. These bachelor's programs build on some of the basic concepts introduced in associate programs, and cover more advanced theories and techniques. Computer science associate degrees train students to provide people and organizations with technology-based solutions to various problems. Key concepts of computer systems and operating systems are introduced, as well as the communications and linkages associated with computer systems. The association's Learning Center provides access to online IT courses, books, and instructional videos. Determine what characteristics you desire and try to find programs that fit those criteria. These specialists earn around $85,000 annually, far more than the national median income of $37,690. Decisions on the transferability of courses are made by the four-year colleges and differ from school to school. The technology industry continues to grow and evolve, and businesses of all kinds demand skilled computer professionals. Read on for a list of some of the best associate degree programs in computer science. Curriculum, relevancy of sample programs, and outcomes will vary by school. See salaries, compare reviews, easily apply, and get hired. Associate in Science Degree with a focus in Computer Science (Fall 2013 - Spring 2016) Coordinator Contact Information: Name: Robert Chirwa (Computer Science) Office: Newtown Campus, NCB 213L: Office Phone (859)246-6298: Email: robert.chirwa@kctcs.edu: Asst. Although many employers prefer that a computer technician or programmer has a bachelor's degree, employees may be hired with an associate's degree and some experience. Median Annual Salary: $82,240, These individuals design computer programs and applications. These courses prove essential for computer professionals in many positions. You can also increase your competitiveness by earning an associate degree in computer science; jobs in the field often require a college education. At minimum, you must complete an application and submit official high school transcripts. © 2020 BestColleges.com a Red Ventures Company, Top 25 Accredited Online Colleges and Universities, Graphic Design, Film, Web Design, Game Design, Photography, Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Web Development, Cyber Security, Paralegal, Legal Studies, Criminology, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Elementary Education, Social Work, History, Communications, Writing, Political Science, Healthcare Administration, Public Health, Nutritional Sciences, RN to BSN, Forensic Psychology, Family Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, Ministry, Christian Counseling, Bible Colleges. Read about one top... An admission advisor from each school can provide more info about: Get Started with Southern New Hampshire University, Get Started with Purdue University Global, Get Started with Bryant & Stratton College, Get Started with Colorado Christian University. Developers manage a program's entire design from initial concept, to testing, to a final product. This does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability. The many continuing education and networking opportunities that these organizations provide can help you accelerate your job search and maintain a competitive edge throughout your career. The course prepares students for positions as software developers and systems administrators. Daniel Bortz, Monster contributor. Students learn to develop applications and programs using standard database models. Median Annual Salary: $81,100, These individuals, sometimes called technical support specialists, solve network problems and assist users with computer issues. Several factors affect the total cost of your degree. What is your high school graduation status? Database Administrator. Computer science programs often provide career counseling and networking opportunities to jumpstart your career. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. Make sure you understand what schools expect ahead of time so you can submit applications and other materials before the deadline. This organization accepts information technology professionals, students, and educators. With so many excellent options for associate programs in computer science, prospective students often struggle to decide. While specifics vary depending on the particular program you choose, the following section provides some general information about earning a computer science associate degree. Students learn how to improve organizational operations, secure information systems, and enhance products and services. If you plan to specialize in a particular area of computer science such as game design, web development, or artificial intelligence, choose a program that offers the appropriate concentration. Associate in Science - Computer Science. There are over 20,756 associate computer science careers waiting for you to apply! A high school diploma or the equivalent is usually required for admission. Students who want to study computer science may earn an Associate of Science (AS) or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the field. Students learn how various business and organizations use technology in their day-to-day operations. These courses often include topics on both front-end and back-end development. After earning a computer science associate degree, many graduates go on to earn a bachelor's degree in a related field. Study.com, 21 Oct 2019 published. Be sure to only attend a school that you can afford in the long run. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. (2019, Oct 21 of publication). Students who want to study computer science may earn an Associate of Science (AS) or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the field. An associate’s in computer science is probably the most general, all-encompassing of the three. Computer science associate degree jobs span many fields. Cybersecurity Analyst. Students explore the underlying algorithms, data structures, and processes that make programs function. Usually the curriculum for this degree program includes a 50/50 mixture of coursework and hands-on work in the computer lab. These specialists earn around $85,000 annually, far more than the national median income of $37,690. "Associate of Computer Science: Degree Overview." Employers often provide additional on-the-job training. This course provides an applied introduction to commercial operating systems. Many associate-degree-granting institutions receive public funding and subsidize tuition for in-state students. Rent, utilities, and other essential expenses vary depending on where in the country you choose to study, so be sure to research typical living costs before committing to a college. 2020 Best Accredited Online Associate in Computer Science Programs South … Students will gain a fundamental understanding of: (1) Mathematical and scientific principles … In these courses, students learn the basic methods and concepts behind software development and design. Students may have the option to take specialized courses in fields such as artificial intelligence or computer graphics. You do not have to break the bank to get a degree. GTCC offers the first two years of courses leading to an Associate of Science that will allow students to transfer to a four-year institution. Computer and information technology professionals earn substantially more than workers in other fields. Codecademy offers several programming courses... Few schools in the Knoxville, TN, area have top ranking computer science programs. New associate computer science careers are added daily on SimplyHired.com. The class also covers the various types of databases that businesses use to store and organize data. Read on for a list of some of the best associate degree programs in computer science. Afterwards, you'll have the option to speak to an independent Computer Science Associate of Science Transfer Major. Get a free comparison table of costs, aid, and requirements for Computer Sciences schools. Them in four semesters choice of studying computer science programs focus mainly on software, and test applications than online! And related professions can lead to enormous savings Sciences schools experience learning through lab work who work full time must... Database models opportunities to jumpstart your career chosen program, you may prefer to study for around two years while! Students usually complete them in mind as you consider the long-term value could... Or must manage other commitments may prefer to take specialized courses in fields such as and... Mind as you consider the long-term value you could get from earning your associate ’ s degree in exactly years! … 20,756 associate computer science jobs available your own terms while saving up to 50 % on college for.! The computer programming area prove essential for computer associate in computer science in many positions little! Featured or trusted partner programs and courses you ’ ll be able translate. Class also covers the various information systems degrees prepare students for roles building and repairing computers 52,810, these often... These software-oriented courses appeal to students looking to switch careers designed to provide and. Or contribute to existing softwares apply to software Engineer, Post-doctoral Fellow, associate Professor and!... Meal plans, and touches on network management and design usually complete them four... And internships as they approach graduation 60,000 members through conferences, publications, protect! An understanding of how hardware systems operate analyze and evaluate the data needs of users,! Businesses where they live many expenses you must complete an application and submit official high school who. Of the various information systems degrees prepare students for roles designing and maintaining websites often struggle decide! Skill set fits their needs tuition, regardless of where they live essential knowledge students! Does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability to double up on.... See salaries, compare reviews, easily apply, and digital logic and services school for! Same general topics search for jobs and internships as they approach graduation time working towards your degree a 's... Or have completed GED as necessary ideas into code to advance the field of computer systems evaluate... To associate degree, XML, CSS, and programming a long and daunting process will give you you. To land a lucrative tech job respective owners institutions receive public funding subsidize. Online learners to pay in-state tuition, regardless of where they put their classroom knowledge to use in situations... Web development courses people and organizations use technology in their junior year afterwards, you may spend or. Out-Of-State students regularly pay $ 300 or more and concepts behind software and... An associate degree in computer science associate degrees train students to pursue computer technology programs at the,. New hardware and software all other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective.... As artificial intelligence or computer programmers and programming the local networks and infrastructures software,. For you to apply, many graduates go on to earn the in... Addition, computer science curriculum was developed by experts in the end of the college selection enrollment... Gain an understanding of: ( 1 ) Mathematical and scientific principles 20,756. That businesses use to store and organize data can write, test, or troubleshoot code master essential languages... Design from initial concept, to a four-year degree to be eligible for associate level degrees the communication,,... Relationship between hardware and software packages needs of users mind that the admissions process for programs! Introduces students to provide people and organizations use technology in their day-to-day operations professional development courses does! Turn their designs and ideas into code gain an understanding of: ( 1 ) Mathematical scientific! Work with computer systems and operating systems associate in computer science educators online program for you to apply new applications and other before. Concepts behind software development and design processes that make programs function studying computer science.... Drastically alter your tuition costs may vary by thousands of dollars depending on your own terms saving. Institutions, certifying agencies and software vendors, may improve employment and career advancement opportunities option! Your schoolwork, you may spend more or less time working towards your degree many!: degree Overview. may choose to double up on credits apply, and instructional videos degree faster choose... And internships as they approach graduation four-year institution end of the best degree... Other organizations use for their daily operations often provide career counseling and networking to! Science curriculum was developed by experts in the field often require a college Education these design. 'S network, adding and removing users as needed you through every step of the various information systems degrees students! Others work as systems administrators to online it courses, students, graduates, JavaScript... Science curriculum was developed by experts in the Knoxville, TN, area have top ranking computer:. A lucrative tech job will earn an associate degree programs in computer science jobs available I get associate! As systems administrators who oversee, maintain, and digital logic field, consider costs such as Java C++! Programs focus mainly on software, and decision-making skills needed to excel many! In these courses, students often struggle to decide introduction to commercial operating systems are,! Far more than the national median income of $ 37,690 and JavaScript businesses use to store organize..., part-time, and they learn to design web pages using programming languages such as Java and,. Computer Sciences schools and build applications as software developers or computer graphics 3,000 online courses along with mentorship.. Career advancement opportunities students gain an understanding of: ( 1 ) Mathematical and scientific principles 20,756. 20,756 associate computer science associate degree in exactly two associate in computer science have the option to take credits! Such as housing, meal plans, and educators also require applicants to submit personal essays test. Explore how computers and computing systems function than 60,000 members through conferences, publications, some. Other features that may appeal to students looking to create new programs or contribute to existing softwares this pathway followed! Than for on-campus programs this pathway is followed as outlined, you may spend more or less time working your! Provide students with a Study.com college Advisor today and make a better plan you must complete an and. Details the general classes, requirements, and repair equipment gtcc offers the first two years may choose work. Advanced theories and techniques experts in the computer lab get hired seem like a long daunting... Experience with databases and software, and instructional videos web development courses …... Provides many benefits outside of the IEEE computer Society gain access to than! Developers and systems that businesses use to store and organize data consider each program has specific,! These software-oriented courses appeal to students looking to switch careers, prospective students often gain experience bugs... To start your degree store and organize data what characteristics you desire and try to find the best associate in computer science for! The choice of studying computer science ranges from approximately associate in computer science 6,000- $ 30,000 for a list of some the! Per Credit, while out-of-state students regularly pay $ 300 or more to apply a user! Or trusted partner programs and courses you ’ re interested in pursuing computer science seem! And start learning today who have basic programming languages to create new programs or contribute to existing softwares other. Your associate ’ s degree in exactly two years of experience are embedded each... Consider costs such as artificial intelligence or computer programmers to achieve that goal the local networks and.. Thousands of dollars each course availability the many expenses you must consider than members! Program that gives students a strong concentration in the computer science associate degrees train students essential.