[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-2″]Computer science is a rapidly growing field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm/” target=”_blank”]computer and information technology occupations[/hen-ui-link] are projected to grow much faster than other occupations between 2023-2033, with a large demand for professionals in cloud computing, big data, and information security.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Working in computer science can be lucrative. The BLS reports a median income of $129,840 for [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm/” target=”_blank”]computer network architect[/hen-ui-link], which is a career obtainable with a bachelor’s degree and several years of related work experience. Software developers, information security analysts, and network systems administratorscan also earn six-figure salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While many entry-level [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/information-technology/”]computer science careers[/hen-ui-link] require a bachelor’s degree, prospective students should not ignore the value of a transferable associate degree. Associate degrees provide [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]affordable access[/hen-ui-link] to general education and lower-level core requirements, making it easier to pursue a bachelor’s later.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For more details, view our ranked list of the best online associate degrees in computer science below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Computer Science Associate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online Associate in Computer Science Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Choose Your Major” href=”/resources/how-to-choose-your-major/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”What to Look for in an Online College” href=”/resources/what-to-look-for-online-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is Computer Science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]College students pursuing [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]degrees in computer science[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Computer Science Associate Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Will I Learn in an Online Associate in Computer Science Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text]

• Programming Fundamentals: Often presented in 2-3 consecutive courses, studies in programming fundamentals introduce learners to the major concepts of structured programming and the techniques used to develop software applications. Topics include object interaction, algorithms, data structures, and the mechanics of running, testing, and debugging.
• Computer Organization: A course in computer organization examines the components, structure, and function of contemporary computer systems. Using assembly language to strengthen and reinforce course concepts, students learn about computer arithmetic, data types, memory hierarchy, performance metrics, and other fundamental topics. This course may include a lab component.
• Discrete Mathematics: Often required or recommended for computer science majors, a course in discrete mathematics provides a background in abstraction, notation, and critical thinking. Covered topics include sets, logic, the nature of proof, recurrence relations, and Boolean algebra.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Educational Paths for Online Computer Science Associate Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Computer Programming[/hen-ui-heading] After earning an associate in computer science, many graduates transfer to a four-year computer programming degree. Programming majors study major programming languages like C++, Java, and Python, which they use to write code for software applications. Students also learn to test programs, troubleshoot errors, and debug systems.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Health Informatics[/hen-ui-heading] Health informatics is an evolving field that combines elements of information technology, communications, and healthcare to improve patient care quality. A bachelor’s program in health informatics provides training in the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and use of healthcare data and information. Transfer students with an associate in computer science enter healthcare informatics programs with a foundational knowledge of database systems, software development, and programming.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Digital Marketing[/hen-ui-heading] A digital marketing curriculum develops fundamental skills in market research, project management, communication, and e-marketing strategy. These skills, combined with a foundation in computer science, allow graduates to create digital marketing campaigns from the ground up.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Science Jobs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Information Security Analyst” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $120,360[/hen-ui-text] 33% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm”]Information security analysts[/hen-ui-link] plan and implement security measures to protect an organization’s network and computer systems. These IT professionals monitor networks, investigate issues, evaluate and report damage caused by breaches, and discover solutions to mitigate system weaknesses.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Entry-level information security analysts typically hold a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information science, or a related field. Professional certification is voluntary but preferred by many employers. Relevant experience in information technology or network systems administration can be beneficial. Information security analysts must be detail-oriented, analytical problem-solvers who can anticipate risks and develop new protection methods.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Database Administrator” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $117,450[/hen-ui-text] 9% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm”]Database administrators[/hen-ui-link] store and organize data like financial information and shipping records for businesses, employees, and customers. Using specialized software, database administrators ensure this data remains available to intended users and secure from unauthorized access. These professionals ensure error-free database operation, design and test modifications, and perform other maintenance duties as needed.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most database administrators hold a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and several years of work experience as database developers or data analysts. Software-specific certification may be required by some employers. Database administrators must possess excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Computer Network Architect” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $129,840[/hen-ui-text] 13% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm”]Computer network architects[/hen-ui-link] design and build local area networks, wide area networks, and intranets, including both small connections and major infrastructures serving multiple customers. Responsibilities include creating plans and layouts, presenting plans to management, upgrading hardware, and researching new technologies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most computer network architects hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like computer science or engineering, plus 5-10 years of relevant information technology experience. Employers may require certain product- or software-specific certifications. Network architects must have a strong understanding of an organization’s business plan to design networks that reflect and achieve its overall goals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Web Developer” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $92,750[/hen-ui-text] 8% [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm”]Web developers[/hen-ui-link] design and create websites according to client needs. Web developers are responsible for all aspects of the site, including its visual appearance, speed and performance, traffic capacity, and functionality. To create websites, developers may write code using programming languages, create and test applications, and work with other professionals, such as graphic designers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Web developers may specialize in front-end development, which focuses on how a site appears on screen, or back-end development, which focuses on how a site performs and behaves. While educational requirements vary, many web developers hold an associate degree in web design or a related field. This job requires creativity, customer service skills, and attention to detail.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is Computer Science?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science is all about software and hardware, whether you focus on theory, design, development, or application. Practitioners can build careers in fields like database systems, programming, security, and artificial intelligence.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Computer Science?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students can complete an associate degree in computer science in two years of full-time study. Bachelor’s degrees typically require four years of full-time study.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Are the Highest Paying Jobs in Computer Science?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although pay varies by employer and geographic location, it’s common for computer science salary rates to be six figures, especially for computer network architects and software developers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What School Has the Best Computer Science Program?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]=Many schools offer excellent computer science programs. Our ranked list of the top online programs in the country is a great place to start the search.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After earning an associate in computer science, graduates may pursue entry-level employment or professional certifications, or they can transfer to a bachelor’s program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Kinds of Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The skills learned during a computer science degree apply to careers like information technology, cybersecurity, software development, and database administration.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]