{"id":2303,"date":"2022-02-08T18:46:44","date_gmt":"2022-02-08T18:46:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/?p=2303"},"modified":"2024-05-10T15:43:15","modified_gmt":"2024-05-10T15:43:15","slug":"degrees-best-associate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/degrees\/associate\/computer-science\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Associate Degrees in Computer Science"},"content":{"rendered":"

A computer science associate degree covers the basics of computer science theory and practice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 13% growth for computer and information technology occupations<\/a> from 2020-2030, faster than the average growth projection for all jobs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\n Earning an associate degree in computer science is a great starting point for anyone interested in a computer and information technology (IT) career.\r\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n

Many graduates continue their education in a computer science bachelor's program, while others enter the field immediately. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

This page includes a ranking of the best computer science associate programs. We also explain the value of a computer science associate degree, potential careers for graduates, and what to expect from a typical program. You can find suggestions for choosing the right school for your computer science associate degree as well.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Why Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science? <\/h2>\r\n\r\n

Computer science is the study of computers and computing, covering everything from computer and network design to algorithms and data structures. The discipline attracts people who enjoy mastering technologies, solving problems, and math and analytical thinking. Computer science professionals<\/a> earn higher salaries and face a better job market than those in many other fields. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

A computer science associate degree<\/a> prepares students for entry-level positions helping organizations solve a variety of computer and IT problems. Students looking to establish foundational credentials and knowledge to break into the job market can benefit from an associate degree, as these programs typically only take two years of full-time study to complete. An associate program also provides a good introduction for students planning to continue their education and get a bachelor's degree in computer science<\/a>. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Career Opportunities<\/dt>\r\n
Graduates may qualify for a variety of well-paying computer science associate degree jobs, including web developer, computer support specialist, computer programmer, and network and computer systems administrator.<\/dd>\r\n
Increased Salary Potential<\/dt>\r\n
Getting a computer science associate degree can help students increase their earning potential by helping them develop in-demand technical skills. For example, the median annual salary for web developers was $77,200 as of 2020<\/a>.<\/dd>\r\n
Preparation for Other Degree Programs or Certifications<\/dt>\r\n
Computer science associate programs help learners prepare to transfer to bachelor's programs at four-year universities or to apply for technical certifications.<\/dd>\r\n <\/dl>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\r\n
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Top Online Programs<\/h2>\n

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.<\/p>\n <\/sonic-editorial-listings>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\r\n

Computer Science Associate Degrees Versus Bootcamps<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Prospective computer science professionals may wonder what the difference is between a computer science associate degree and a bootcamp. <\/p>\r\n

Bootcamps provide training<\/a> in coding and other high-demand skills. These programs are nontraditional, intensive learning experiences, which students complete in a short timeframe. Bootcamp attendees learn skills quickly to begin their job search even more quickly than associate degree graduates, which make them an attractive option for job-seekers with limited time or money to pursue a full degree.<\/p>\r\n

In contrast, a computer science associate degree provides a broad foundation in computer science, emphasizes theory, and gives students more time to absorb new information. Those who want to get a bachelor's and qualify for a larger variety of careers should pursue a computer science associate degree. <\/p>\r\n

The table below highlights differences between computer science associate degrees<\/a> and bootcamps. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Comparing Associate Degrees and Bootcamps<\/caption>
<\/th>Computer Science Associate Degree<\/strong><\/th>Computer Science Bootcamp<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Program Length<\/td>Two years of full-time study <\/td>Anywhere from one day to six months or longer. Some bootcamps offer self-paced options.<\/td><\/tr>
Types of Classes<\/td>Introduction to computer science, web development, computer architecture<\/td>Introduction to HTML, JavaScript, web development<\/td><\/tr>
Focus<\/td>Foundational theory and practices of computer science<\/td>Practical, career-focused skills like coding<\/td><\/tr>
Admission Requirements<\/td>High school diploma or equivalent<\/td>Some require basic coding or other computer skills, while others welcome true beginners.<\/td><\/tr>
Goal<\/td>Prepare graduates for entry-level jobs in the computer and IT field or to apply to a computer science bachelor's program<\/td>Provide training leading to immediate employment opportunities<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\r\n\r\n

Continuing Your Education Past an Associate Degree<\/h2>\r\n

Students can pursue a variety of higher education opportunities in computer science past an associate degree, opening the door to higher salaries and more certification opportunities. Some prospective computer science professionals start off with an associate degree to ascertain whether they enjoy the field before investing in a longer program. Below, we outline education opportunities beyond an associate degree in computer science.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

A bachelor's degree in computer science teaches students more about computer science theory while also developing practical, career-relevant skills in coding, database management, and web development. Many bachelor's programs offer concentrations in areas like data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Applicants usually need a high school diploma and meet GPA and SAT\/ACT minimum requirements. It usually takes four years of full-time study to earn a computer science bachelor's degree, though associate degree-holders may be able to transfer credits and complete a bachelor's program more quickly.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-resource-list>\r\n\r\n

A master's degree in computer science develops advanced knowledge in computer science theory and practice. Applicants typically need a bachelor's in computer science, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and satisfactory GRE scores. Most master's programs also offer concentrations in areas like machine learning and artificial intelligence, big data, mobile computing, and cybersecurity. Most master's in computer science programs take two years of full-time study to complete.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-resource-list>\r\n\r\n

Many employers require or prefer job applicants with certifications in areas relevant to their positions and expertise. The type of computer science certifications you should pursue depends on what types of jobs you plan to pursue. Potential certifications include vendor-specific certifications from companies like Microsoft or Cisco and vendor-neutral certifications from professional organizations like CompTIA.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-resource-list>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Available Careers With an Associate Degree in Computer Science<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

You can pursue many lucrative careers with an associate degree in computer science. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $91,250<\/a> for computer and IT occupations, more than double the median annual wage for all occupations. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

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\r\n Many computer science and IT professionals can improve their earnings and career opportunities by earning technical certifications in their areas of expertise. \r\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n

Below we describe potential careers for computer science associate degree-holders, including web developer, computer support specialist, computer programmer, and network and computer systems administrator. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\n

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