An associate’s degree in computer science is the foundation for developing computational skills. Computer science is the study of computers and computational theory. From scanning barcodes to monitoring activity and health, computers play an essential role.
CS has a range of traditional and emerging opportunities that include artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Industry professionals are in high demand and can work in research labs, higher education, and government agencies. Graduates can work as web developers, programmers, and support specialists.
ZDNet has developed a ranking formula based on data, methodized by industry experts, researchers and scientists. Learn more about potential programs and ZDNet’s approach to the best online degrees.
Top 3 Online Schools for Associate Degrees in Computer Science
University |
Program statistics |
How much? |
Lincoln Land Community College Springfield, IL |
|
Avg. annual net price: $6,168 Registration fees: $75 |
South Texas College McAllen, TX |
|
Avg. annual net price: $1,174 Registration fees: To free |
Laramie County Community College Cheyenne, Wyoming |
|
Avg. annual net price: $6,000 Registration fees: To free |
Best Computer Science Associate Degrees Online
ZDNet’s ranking methodology encompasses data and tools from the National Center for Education Statistics’ annual survey.
Data analysis includes, but is not limited to, admission rates, certificates and degrees awarded, and graduation rates. Industry experts, researchers and scientists conduct rigorous reviews of data collection.
Unless otherwise specified, data are from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and the College Scorecard.
1. Lincoln Land Community College
Springfield, Ill.
About the program: LLCC’s associate’s degree in computer science includes 61 to 63 credit hours of general education and curriculum-related coursework such as computer applications and concepts, computer programming concepts, and understanding technology today.
- Acceptance rate: 63% part-time and 37% full-time
- Graduation rate: 35%
- Avg. annual net price: $6,168
- Years of completion: Of them
- SAT range: N / A
- Minimum MPC: Not accessible to the public
- Registration periods per year: Of them
- Course delivery method: Asynchronous
2. College of South Texas
McAllen, TX
About the program: STC’s Computer Science Associate’s degree includes 60 credit hours of general education and degree-specific courses such as programming fundamentals, computer organization, and c-programming.
- Acceptance rate: 69% part-time and 31% full-time
- Graduation rate: 24%
- Avg. annual net price: $1,174
- Years of completion: Of them
- SAT range: N / A
- Minimum MPC: Not accessible to the public
- Registration periods per year: Three
- Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
3. Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, Wyoming
About the program: The LCCC Associate’s Degree in Computer Science includes 65-66 credit hours of general education, software-related coursework, and several traditional specializations in networking, multimedia, and artificial intelligence.
- Acceptance rate: 63% part-time and 37% full-time
- Graduation rate: 23%
- Avg. annual net price: $6,000
- Years of completion: Of them
- SAT range: Not accessible to the public
- Minimum MPC: Not accessible to the public
- Registration periods per year: Three
- Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
4. Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste Marie, Michigan
About the program: LSSU’s associate’s degree in computer science includes 62 credit hours of general education, degree-specific coursework, and a real-world capstone project in web page design, systems programming, or another highly specialized area. interesting.
- Acceptance rate: 69%
- Graduation rate: 67%
- Avg. annual net price: $12,976
- Years of completion: Of them
- SAT range: N / A
- Minimum MPC: 2.4
- Registration periods per year: Three
- Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
5. Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, Florida
About the program: The SSCF Associate’s Degree in Computer Science includes 60 credit hours of general education courses and pathways such as principles of computer programming, python programming, and web programming.
- Acceptance rate: 75%
- Graduation rate: 41%
- Avg. annual net price: $8,000
- Years of completion: Of them
- SAT range: N / A
- Minimum MPC: N / A
- Registration periods per year: Three
- Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous
What To Expect In An Online Computer Science Associate Degree Program
Is the computer difficult? Yes. A computer science degree is a significant time investment and requires sufficient time management and study skills.
As you learn the steps to earning a computer science degree, learn about class sizes, hands-on learning opportunities, and real-world experiences. Contact the department and learn more about what to expect in a computer science degree.
Computer lessons
Explore the IT course overview for advanced level courses. Consider your key skills and select a career path. Depending on the courses you take, you can prepare for a leading role in artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering.
Computer science degree levels
There are several IT certifications and degree levels to explore. If you’re looking to add to your technical skills, consider a computer science certification.
An associate degree can prepare working professionals for entry-level positions such as computer programmer or systems analyst.
With a bachelor’s degree in computer science, students can gain advanced training and design opportunities for innovative technologies. The best computer science masters and doctorate programs can prepare graduates for senior and executive careers.
In conclusion
IT is embedded in every industry and every institution. From computer systems and networks to bioinformatics and computer theory, computer scientists are essential to our daily lives.
If you are passionate about studying computers and computer systems, consider enrolling in a computer science certification or degree program.