The Best Online Associate in Computer Science

All students have unique needs and goals, which means they have different considerations for their college searches. When deciding which online computer science degree is the best fit, consider how the following factors might impact and shape your online learning experience.

Computer science is the systematic study of computing processes, which are a series of encoded actions used to achieve a desired result, like totaling a bank account balance, generating digital graphics, or running an application.

Students can learn many of the skills needed to succeed in computer science in a classroom. Individuals who naturally excel at problem-solving, organization, collaboration, and creativity often thrive in the field.

Professionals in the computer science field typically specialize in an area like artificial intelligence, software development, human-computer interface, networking, or information security. Programming language experts, for example, may use their knowledge to code mobile applications, video games, or webpages.

Although many professionals covet careers with top tech firms in Silicon Valley, computer science majors can find work across the nation in many different industries, as most companies rely on software infrastructure. Graduates can find work as full-stack developers, database administrators, information security analysts, and cloud computing engineers.

Computer science focuses on how data is processed, stored, and communicated between devices. Computer engineering has a broader focus, including the electrical components of computing systems and the design, function, and interaction of software and hardware.

College students pursuing degrees in computer science and computer engineering take many of the same courses, including computer architecture, data structures, programming, and networking. Each program also requires courses unique to the discipline, such as database systems for computer science students and product design for computer engineering students.

After graduation, students in both fields can begin careers with similar employers in similar locations with comparable salaries, but their specialized roles require different skills. For example, Apple hires both computer science and computer engineering professionals to design new iPhones. While computer scientists focus on operating systems, memory, and data encryption, computer engineers design the circuits, chips, and components that allow the devices to function.

An associate in computer science provides students with the foundation needed for entry-level employment or to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program. Associate programs require a minimum of 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time students typically graduate in three years.

Colleges may be selective or use open enrollment policies. Open enrollment colleges accept any applicant who has completed a high school education, although placement testing may be required in English and math. Selective admission schools require additional criteria, such as a minimum GPA and ACT or SAT scores.

A computer science associate degree provides students with foundational skills in mathematics, programming, and database management. Students receive an introduction to terminology and topics that enable further study in areas like information security, network technology, and mobile applications.

At the undergraduate level, an online computer science degree consists of three major components: general education, major core courses, and electives. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 60 credits. Core courses like those listed below provide a solid foundation in computer science concepts and techniques.

Associate degrees are an affordable way to complete the lower-level requirements needed for a bachelor’s degree. After completing an associate, many graduates transfer to a four-year school to complete additional major core courses and electives. A computer science associate degree can qualify students for bachelor’s programs in computer programming, health informatics, and digital marketing.

Earning an online computer science associate degree can provide you with the foundation needed to pursue various careers, though many employers prefer bachelor’s degrees.