Best Computer Science Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
Four-year college degrees aren’t the only way to gain computer science knowledge. You can progress into a computer science role with one of the best Associate Degrees in Computer Science, too. Compared to a bachelor’s degree , computer science associate degree programs are quicker and cheaper while still providing a solid foundation of IT knowledge.
This detailed guide will dive into the best computer science associate degrees. You will learn about the top job opportunities for an Associate Degree in Computer Science and how computer science bootcamps compare to Associate Degrees in Computer Science.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is the study of computers and computational methods. There are many subsets of computer science, but primarily, the computer science field is concerned with computers and how their systems work together. Some subsets of computer science are data science, programming, data analytics, and network security.
Find Your Bootcamp Match
- Career Karma matches you with top tech bootcamps
- Access exclusive scholarships and prep courses
By continuing you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you consent to receive offers and opportunities from Career Karma by telephone, text message, and email.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Computer Science are Austin Community College, Glendale Community College, and Seminole State College. Community colleges are usually where to get a computer science associate degree, as most universities don’t offer associate degrees. Keep reading to find out more about where to get an Associate Degree in Computer Science.
What Schools Offer the Best Computer Science Associate Degrees?
- Hudson County Community College
- Lincoln Land Community College
- Los Angeles City College
- Raritan Valley Community College
- Rogers State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Computer Science are typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Some schools may require a minimum GPA, and you might have to complete standardized tests too. However, many community colleges don’t have many computer science associate degree requirements, as two-year associate degrees are meant to be accessible to anyone.
Although there may not be many computer science associate degree requirements, some knowledge of programming languages could be useful. The required languages for an Associate Degree in Computer Science are likely some of the most popular programming languages like CSS, Python, and JavaScript.
Computer Science Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- English proficiency
- Minumum GPA
- Standardized test scores
- Application essay and/or letter of recommendation
How to Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science
You can get a computer science associate degree by enrolling in the college of your choice and completing the degree requirements. The education requirement to get an Associate Degree in Computer Science will include a certain number of credits for courses specific to computer science as well as general education requirements.
The best way to get a computer science associate degree is to find a program that matches your interests and professional goals. You do not technically need any type of knowledge going to college for a computer science associate degree. However, interest or proficiency in subjects like coding, mathematics, and analytics will help you get a head start on your education.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
You need 45 to 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Computer Science. How many credits for an Associate Degree in Computer Science will depend on the institution to choose and any credits you may be transferring from a previous school. An Associate Degree in Computer Science takes an average of two years to complete.
Computer Science Degree Requirements
- Approximately 25 major-specific credits
- Approximately 18 general education credits
- Approximately 15 elective credits
- A capstone project or portfolio may be completed
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Austin Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Glendale Community College | Associate Degree in Computer Science | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Hudson County Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Lake Superior State University | Associate of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Laramie County Community College | Associate Degree in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Lincoln Land Community College | Associate in Arts in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Los Angeles City College | Associate Degree in Computer Science | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Montgomery County Community College | Associate Degree in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Raritan Valley Community College | Associate of Science in Science and Mathematics, Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Seminole State College of Florida | Associate in Arts in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
Best Schools for Computer Science: Top Computer Science Associate Degree Programs
If you prefer to study in person, these computer science associate degree programs are ideal. You’ll find colleges and community colleges offering the best computer science associate degree programs and additional student services. Let’s take a deep dive and see what the best schools for an Associate Degree in Computer Science can offer.
Austin Community College
Austin, TX
Austin Community College is a school that focuses on transfer degrees and continuing education for professional students. The school has over 100 associate degree and certificate programs, as well as two bachelor’s degrees for any student interested in becoming a nurse or software developer.
Associate of Science in Computer Science
If you want to study information theory, software engineering, coding, and database management, this program has what you need. This computer science associate degree allows students to gain transfer credits and progress into a four-year degree. Students at this community college can access emergency funds, counseling, tutoring, and career development.
Associate of Science in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Tuition (and Fees): $2,550/year (in-district); $8,580/year (in-state); $10,590/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60-62 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 12%
Associate of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: SAT, ACT, AP, CLEP, or IB (only required if seeking credits)
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Reading, writing, and mathematics placements based on TSI
Applying to Austin Community College
- Choose your program
- Talk to an admissions counselor and/or attend an online information session
- Fill out the online application
- Submit high school transcripts, test scores, proof of residency, meningitis requirements
- Apply for financial aid
Glendale Community College
Glendale, CA
Glendale Community College is part of the California Community College system. Like many of the degree programs on this list, the Associate Degree in Computer Science is designed to allow students to transfer to four-year institutions after completing the program.
Associate Degree in Computer Science
This degree program provides you with the skills necessary to become a computer science professional. There are 57 credit hours of courses to take covering Java, data structures, C++, algorithms, and more. Additionally, Glendale Community College offers employment support, counseling, and sports activities.
Associate Degree in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: WASC
- Tuition (and Fees): $1,171/year (in-state); $7,531/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 57 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 31%
Associate Degree in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Glendale Community College
- Submit an online application
- Complete placement and attend online orientation
- Meet with a counselor to discuss your first two semesters
- Register for classes
Hudson County Community College
Jersey City, NJ
Hudson County Community College is committed to giving each student a well-rounded educational experience. With online classes and programs geared toward working professionals, Hudson County Community College makes education accessible to all.
Associate of Science in Computer Science
This associate degree teaches computer networks, information systems, operating systems, microprocessors, and programming. In addition, there are many elective courses to pick from, and this community college hosts many student-centered events. Importantly, you can fund your studies through numerous financial aid plans.
Associate of Science in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Tuition (and Fees): $4,814/year (in-district); $8,390/year (in-state); $11,798/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 14%
Associate of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Hudson County Community College
- Apply online
- Take any placement tests needed
- Submit immunization records
- Consider your financial aid options
- Enroll in classes
Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste Marie, MI
Lake Superior State University functions on five core values that include opportunity, diversity, and stewardship. This university offers one tuition rate for all of its students, regardless of their country or state of origin.
Associate of Science in Computer Science
Students enrolled in this associate of science degree program will learn software best practices and create computer programs. They will learn how to design solutions for networks, databases, and software. One of the focuses of this program is teaching students to communicate.
Associate of Science in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: HLC
- Tuition: $538/credit
- Required Credits: 62 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 51%
Associate of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.4 (students with lower GPAs will be reviewed individually)
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Lake Superior State University
- Submit an online application
- Submit official high school transcripts
- Submit SAT or ACT scores if applying for merit scholarships
Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, WY
Like many community colleges, Laramie County Community College is focused on providing comprehensive education through academic and career-oriented programs. Students can enjoy a vibrant community on campus, with 37 clubs and teams including one for rodeo and equestrian arts.
Associate Degree in Computer Science
This associate degree program allows students to explore different fields within computer science, including software, data analysis, and cyber security. Students get hands-on training with hardware and software, equipping them with the real-world skills needed to enter the job market after graduation.
Associate Degree in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: HLC
- Tuition: $154/credit (in-state); $364/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 65-66 credits
- Program Length: 5 semesters at 14-17 credits per semester
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%
Associate Degree in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Laramie County Community College
- Create an application account
- Log in and start the online application
- Select your desired starting term
- Wait for your myLCCC account to be created
Lincoln Land Community College
Springfield, IL
Lincoln Land Community College is considered the “community’s college” by those in Springfield. Since 1968, this community college has offered affordable programs to students from Illinois and beyond. It has open admissions, which means almost anyone can get in.
Associate in Arts in Computer Science
Lincoln Land Community College focuses primarily on in-person learning. As this is an Associate in Arts, you'll learn life science, humanities, and social science alongside technical skills. Besides career development support, Lincoln Land Community College also provides youth programs and travel opportunities for students.
Associate in Arts in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: HLC
- Tuition (and Fees): $3,612/year (in-district); $6,840/year (in-state); $10,068/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60-67 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 38%
Associate in Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: SAT, ACT, ACCUPLACER Next Generation Exam
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Lincoln Land Community College
- Apply online
- Submit high school transcripts
Los Angeles City College
Los Angeles, CA
For nearly 100 years, LA City College has provided low-cost education to students looking to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program or start their career journeys. LA City College offers accessible education on a vibrant, diverse campus.
Associate Degree in Computer Science
If you want to learn SQL , operating systems, C++, Java, and programming design, this is the degree for you. At Los Angeles City College, students gain a broad understanding of essential computer science topics in a program that consists of 60 credit hours. The school also offers peer mentoring, student clubs, and a health and wellness center.
Associate Degree in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: WASC
- Tuition (and Fees): $1,238/year (in-state); $9,012/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 25%
Associate Degree in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Los Angeles City College
- Complete the online application
- Apply for FAFSA
- Submit transcripts
- Attend orientation
- Meet with a counselor and enroll in courses
Montgomery County Community College
Blue Bell, PA
Montgomery County Community College has tons of opportunities to create a thriving student life for yourself. Even as an online student, you’re welcome to take advantage of the clubs, organizations, sports teams, and events offered by the school.
Associate Degree in Computer Science
This program focuses on programming concepts and mathematics. Required courses include Probability and Statistics, Computer Architecture and Organization, and Computer Science II: Object-Oriented Programming. You can use this Associate Degree in Computer Science to transfer to Pennsylvania-based universities like Temple University and Penn State.
Associate Degree in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Tuition: $114/credit (in-county); $288/credit (out-of-county); $432 (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 61 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester or 9 semesters at 6 credits per semester
- Learning Format: Synchronous or asynchronous online and hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 25%
Associate Degree in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, AP (for college credit)
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Montgomery County Community College
- Submit an online application
- Submit transcripts
- Meet with an academic advisor
- Sign up for classes
Raritan Valley Community College
Branchburg, NJ
Raritan Valley Community College is New Jersey’s first bi-county community college. The school has dedicated institutes for ethics, social justice, and genocide studies. Raritan Valley Community College is dedicated to fostering growth among all of its students.
Associate of Science in Science and Mathematics, Computer Science
Centering on theoretical learning, students in this program will study data structures, high-level programming languages, basic computer architecture, and much more. You will also learn subjects like social science and humanities. Attending this campus, you can join activities, use the bookstore, and join clubs and student organizations.
Associate of Science in Science and Mathematics, Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Tuition (and Fees): $5,232/year (in-district); $6,912/year (in-state); $6,912/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%
Associate of Science in Science and Mathematics, Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Raritan Valley Community College
- Apply online
- Apply for financial aid and/or FAFSA
- Find out your class placements
- Register for classes
- Pay tuition
Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, FL
For over 50 years, Seminole State College of Florida has been offering career-based programs to its students. In 2020, Seminole State was recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution due to its large percentage of Hispanic students. This college is a great place to complete an associate degree and begin your career or transfer to a four-year college or university.
Associate in Arts in Computer Science
Comprising 60 credit hours, this Associate Degree in Computer Science combines technical and social studies for a well-rounded computational education experience. Seminole State College also guarantees a transfer to a state university in Florida. In addition, you can join campus clubs and societies, apply for the student government, and enroll in sports activities.
Associate in Arts in Computer Science Overview
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Tuition (and Fees): $3,131/year (in-state); $11,456/year (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%
Associate in Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- GPA: N/A
- Standardized Tests: N/A
- Application Fee: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
Applying to Seminole State College of Florida
- Complete the online application
- Submit your residency status
- Submit your high school transcript
What Is a Computer Science Associate Degree?
A computer science associate degree is a two-year degree program that teaches you the basics of computer science. This degree covers fundamental topics like data structures, discrete mathematics, software engineering, and information systems. Additionally, completing an Associate Degree in Computer Science can grant you entry to a four-year degree.
Students don’t require computer science skills for an associate degree, just a high school diploma or GED. If you don’t fulfill the minimum requirements for a certain program, many community colleges and universities offer preparatory courses.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
An Associate Degree in Computer Science is important for those who want to start a computer science career but can’t commit the time or money to a bachelor’s degree. The main reason why a computer science associate degree is important is that it offers a low barrier to entry for tech jobs. Computer science associate degrees are more affordable and shorter than four-year degrees.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Computer Science?
The most common computer science associate degree type is an Associate of Science. You can get the following types of Associate Degrees in Computer Science:
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science
- Associate of Arts in Computer Science
- Associate of Science in Computer Science
- Associate of Science and Mathematics in Computer Science
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science in Computer Science?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Computer Science because it focuses on technical skills and their applications, whereas an Associate of Arts in Computer Science focuses more on theory and its applications. However, both types of associate degrees will get you an entry-level computer science job.
What Is the Difference Between a Computer Science Degree and a Computer Science Certificate?
The main difference between a computer science degree and a computer science certificate is that a degree will help you start your career path, while a certificate will help you improve the career you already have. It is better to get a computer science degree over a computer science certificate because a degree gives you foundational knowledge.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
The average computer science associate degree cost is $3,621 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This doesn’t include the price of accommodation and food. If you consider housing and meal plans, the Associate Degree in Computer Science cost will be about $11,391 annually.
Computer Science Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Computer Science Degree
You can pay for a computer science associate degree through federal grants, private loans, scholarships, and GI Bill benefits. The availability of financial aid for an Associate Degree in Computer Science varies between schools. Some schools also offer scholarships to students that excel academically or in sports. Community colleges are generally affordable and offer financial aid.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Science Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Computer Science. The Associate Degree in Computer Science length will vary depending on the institution. Some schools will allow you to complete an accelerated degree program or take classes during summer semesters.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
It is not hard to get an Associate Degree in Computer Science. Computer science associate degrees are easy because they are designed to be accessible to high school graduates with low GPAs, adult students, and career changers.
Why Should You Get a Computer Science Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Computer Science are that it’s a short degree that provides a foundation of computer science knowledge and allows students to enter the workforce in two years.
Alternatively, the main benefit of an Associate Degree in Computer Science could be that it allows students to transfer to a four-year university and spend less money getting a bachelor’s degree.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Computer Science?
You need to take courses on information technology and programming for an Associate Degree in Computer Science. The courses listed below are based on the Associate Degrees in Computer Science courses required by the schools on the list above.
Introduction to Networking
This course would cover wide area networks (WANs) and local area networks (LANs). It would teach the theory and application of WANs and LANs to solve business problems.
Programming in Java
This class would teach the basics of learning to code using the Java programming language. Java is used to do things like develop applications and process big data. It is one of the core languages for computer science.
Programming Fundamentals
This would be a basic course that introduces programming fundamentals like debugging and coding in different languages, functions, and arrays. Languages taught in this course might be Python and JavaScript, or other popular programming languages.
Mathematics for Programmers
This course would focus on binary arithmetic. Students would use math to solve problems that come up while coding. It would teach problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills.
Microcomputer Applications
This is a course that would focus on teaching computer literacy. It will teach students Internet basics, like how to use a word processor and spreadsheet.
Continuing Education Paths for Computer Science Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a computer science associate degree is to use the credits achieved at a community college to transfer to a bachelor’s program at a four-year college or university. Most associate degree programs are designed with this path in mind.
Related Computer Science Degrees
What to Look for in the Best Computer Science Associate Degree Programs
The best computer science associate degree programs cover the basics of computer science while allowing some room for general education and electives. Schools should focus on supporting their students in all facets of their education.
Specialization/Concentration Options
Computer science is a broad field. Many schools offer specializations for students who want to concentrate on more specific subjects like information technology, cyber security, or programming.
Continuing Education Options
Most computer science associate degrees are designed to allow students to transfer to universities. If that is something you’re interested in, make sure the school you choose will make that easy to do.
Student to Faculty Ratios
The majority of the schools on our list have low student-to-faculty ratios. When there are fewer students in each class, the professors have more time to commit to providing support and guidance to their students.
Cost
Associate degrees should be affordable. Make sure to speak with the schools you’re interested in attending to find out what financial aid options are available to you in addition to FAFSA. An online computer science associate degree might be more affordable for prospective students.
Student Services
Consider how you’re treated during the admissions process. If you feel that the school isn’t helping you when you have questions, that might be a sign that the student services are lacking. Whether you choose a public college or private college, make sure there is a strong foundation for students. This can include career advancement assistance and financial aid packages.
What Is the Most Affordable Computer Science Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degree in Computer Science is offered to in-state students at Los Angeles City College. Tuition and fees are just over $1,000 for California residents. However, most community colleges offer affordable computer science associate degree programs.
Salary and Job Outlook for Computer Science Associate Degree Graduates
There are many computer science associate degree jobs available across a wide variety of fields related to technology. Computer science is a broad field and an associate degree will equip you with the skills necessary to start a career in tech. While Associate Degree in Computer Science salaries may not be as high as those for people with advanced degrees, there are many well-paying jobs available.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Computer Science Associate Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a computer science associate degree. Many careers in tech accept people who are educated through non-traditional forms of education or lower-level degrees. There are many entry-level and junior positions available to those with Associate Degrees in Computer Science.
What’s the Average Computer Science Associate Degree Salary?
According to Payscale, the average salary for professionals with an Associate Degree in Computer Science is $65,000 per year. The more experience you have, the higher your earning potential will be. Most technology occupations pay computer science students well, even if they come from online programs.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a computer science associate degree are junior or mid-level IT jobs. These include entry-level jobs like computer support specialists and higher-level jobs like software engineers. If you want to climb to a higher position, you should get a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Computer Science Degree Jobs
- Computer systems analyst
- Computer programmer
- Network and computer systems administrator
- Associate software engineer
- Web developer
Potential Careers With a Computer Science Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
You can make between $40,000 and $95,000 with an Associate Degree in Computer Science. Usually, computer science majors make a lot of money. However, you will likely need many years of industry experience and technical skills in addition to an Associate Degree in Computer Science to land higher-paying jobs.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Computer Science Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analyst | $93,730 |
| Computer Programmer | $89,190 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $84,810 |
| Associate Software Engineer | $78,500 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
Best Jobs for Computer Science Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for computer science associate degree graduates are jobs related to programming and information technology. The short list below details the job descriptions for careers across a range of specializations.
Computer Systems Analyst
Average Salary: $93,730
Professionals in this career use programming skills to analyze a business's current computing processes and find ways to optimize them. If you’re interested in this field, you must fully understand popular programming languages like Python and maintain efficient troubleshooting abilities for practical problems.
- Average Salary: $93,730
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 607,800
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, New Jersey, Rhode Island
Computer Programmer
Average Salary: $89,190
Computer programmers are masters in all aspects of programming. They develop software like websites and applications for businesses depending on their goals and needs. This job position requires knowledge of a wide range of topics in computer science to perform accurate testing and debugging.
- Average Salary: $89,190
- Job Outlook: -10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 185,700
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Hampshire, Vermont
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Average Salary: $84,810
These experts work alongside cyber security teams to maintain daily network processes. Becoming a network and computer systems administrator demands quick analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills. You should also have excellent communication skills to report network issues and solutions to your colleagues.
- Average Salary: $84,810
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 350,300
- Highest-Paying States: Washington, Maryland, California
Associate Software Engineer
Average Salary: $78,500
Associate software engineers are essentially junior professionals assisting senior developers. People in this role have mastered the basics of computer programming but may require fine-tuning from a professional mentorship.
This job allows people to improve their knowledge of software systems and gives them the opportunity to take on small technological projects, like developing software design templates for businesses.
- Average Salary: $78,500
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: Arkansas, California, Washington DC
Web Developer
Average Salary: $77,200
Web developers design and create functional websites according to company requirements. To excel in this job, you need to understand coding languages like PHP , R, JavaScript, and Python. These professionals work closely with web designers, so they must cultivate their communication skills.
- Average Salary: $77,200
- Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 199,400
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Minnesota, California
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is an Associate Degree in Computer Science Worth It?
Yes, getting an Associate Degree in Computer Science is worth it if you want an entry-level career in computer science. Many community colleges and universities offering these degrees provide financial aid solutions. Additionally, you can apply some of the credits you earn toward a bachelor’s degree to further your education.
More importantly, computer science graduates with an associate degree can find employment quickly and leverage their practical experience for countless career opportunities. An associate degree will help you land an entry-level job and get the experience you need to pursue a fulfilling career in this industry.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/what-is-computer-science/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-science-bachelors-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/computer-science-career-paths/
Computer Science Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, you can land an exciting career with a computer science associate degree. With an associate degree, you can
become a web developer
, web designer, and data administrator, to name a few. Since associate degrees only require two years of studying, you will be able to enter the workforce faster than if you were to opt for a bachelor’s degree.
Yes, an Associate Degree in Computer Science is worth it. Many computer science graduates from two-year institutions go on to launch successful tech careers. In addition, earning an associate degree will make it easier to gain admission into and complete a bachelor’s degree because you can transfer some of your credits.
Associate degrees are typically offered by community colleges, but some universities offer them too. For example, Franklin University and Southern New Hampshire University offer associate degrees.
Whether you choose to get an associate or a bachelor’s degree ultimately depends on how much time and money you can invest into school and how soon you want to start working. If you can commit to a bachelor’s degree, then this degree option is ideal. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and quicker option, an associate degree is the best choice.
