Is an Associate’s Degree in Computer Programming Worth It?
By Joy Miller
Updated on September 17, 2024
Is an Associates Degree in Computer Programming worth it in 2024? Let’s discuss what you can do with programming skills.
Computer programmers with a traditional or online computer programming degree are known to shake up the world. In fact, you’ll be entering a field where the way has been paved by tech and cultural pioneers like Alan Turing and Bill Gates.
Let’s talk about how an Associates Degree in Computer Programming can help you design a career that can withstand the future!
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Programmers play vital roles in all industries because technology drives so much of our world today! Some programmers find themselves working for large tech or software firms.
It’s also possible to find a position outside of the tech sector at enterprises like marketing firms, hospitals, universities, investment firms, banks, and consumer brands.
Let’s talk about some actual roles that you could fill after completing your on-campus or online Associates Degree in Computer Programming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, here’s a look at median pay expectations for some in-demand options:
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $126,830 |
| Computer Network Architects | $116,780 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $103,590 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $93,730 |
| Computer Programmer | $89,190 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $84,810 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Computer Support Specialist | $55,510 |
Depending on the employer, you may need additional education or work experience to qualify for some of these jobs. It’s not uncommon to work your way up to acting as a manager or team lead after entering the tech world in an entry-level position. The other thing to consider is that there’s quite a bit of consulting work available for professionals with programming skills.
One of the perks of entering an Associates Degree program for Computer Programming is that you’re going to get right to the meat of learning highly marketable skills. That means your coursework will be focused on hands-on mastery of popular and useful programming systems and languages.
Let’s take a look at some of the courses you’ll most likely take while studying programming.
As a student, you may be drawn to courses that are focused on specific coding languages or skill sets. Some programmers are interested in designing user-facing programs. Others prefer to manage complex networks that support back-end databases.
Are you still weighing the benefits of entering an Associates Degree program in Computer Programming?
Let’s break down the pros and cons of using this avenue to pursue a career in tech.
Pros:
Cons:
Most people who have a natural talent for coding often find programming courses to be very fulfilling. Of course, the coursework required to complete this degree path is rigorous. Be prepared to keep up with a fast-paced learning environment!
Did you know that computer programmers actually participate in professional organizations that offer networking opportunities and training resources?
It makes sense that people with a passion for tech would want to keep up with what other pioneers in their field are doing!
Here’s a look at the professional organizations to watch if you see a future for yourself in the programming world:
Many tech professionals join professional networks specifically for the events and awards ceremonies that take place around the country. Being active in a professional organization straight out of college is a smart idea if you’re interested in making lifelong professional connections.
Have you had a chance to consider accreditation when researching colleges that offer Computer Programming degrees? This might be something that you want to shift to the forefront.
One of the big questions to get out of the way relatively early on is if you want to attend a college with regional accreditation. No, regional accreditation isn’t required. However, it could increase your career or degree prospects going forward.
The simple way to look at it is that a school with regional accreditation from a designated regional agency is simply viewed as being more prestigious. Regionally accredited schools generally provide the benefit of offering credits that are easy to transfer.
Regional accreditation isn’t necessary for federal financial aid. Only federal accreditation is required for that!
You have a variety of options to consider when financing your Associates Degree in Computer Programming. This includes federal loans, private loans, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Yes, many future tech leaders of today are beginning their studies with help from generous scholarships. Here’s a list of the ones you need to know about:
The bottom line is that the world is rooting for programming and STEM majors! In fact, they need you to push the next big breakthroughs in tech and computing.
That’s precisely why you’re going to find many possible scholarship and funding opportunities along your educational journey.
Yes, it’s entirely possible to get a programming job with an associate’s degree. This degree path can help prepare you for a number of entry-level positions.
It’s quite likely that you’ll be able to use certifications, a more advanced degree, and on-the-job training to move into highly specialized or leadership roles.
Yes, it is worth getting an associates degree in computer science for many undergraduate students. Computer Science is a degree path that holds a lot of weight.
In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an 11% job growth in the computer and information technology field for the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Many people find that an associates degree equips them with the actionable skills needed to enter the tech field.
The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations stands at $91,250, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Your ability to harness your skills and passion toward a specific tech niche will ultimately determine just how much you’ll be able to demand from employers.
As a graduate of a Computer Programming program, you can apply your skills for both front-end and back-end systems design and management.
It’s possible that you’ll want to work for a software or tech firm upon graduation.
Don’t forget that organizations and companies in all industries often need IT professionals who are capable of managing and updating databases and systems.
Do you have a passion for building worlds within worlds using logic and technical languages? People who have the “gift” of programming often know long before they enter into degree programs.
Yes, you should strongly consider pursuing an Associates Degree in Computer Science if you have a passion for programming and technology. This can be a path to a fulfilling, in-demand career.
Most companies do want to see proof that you have the dedication and perseverance to graduate from a program. Keep that in mind as you explore training options!
Yes, a computer science degree is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the computer and information technology sector is projected to grow 11% over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations. Common careers in this field include computer support specialist, web developer, computer programmer, and computer systems analyst.
STEM degrees are universally regarding as being among the most valuable degrees in the past year. Yes, it’s true that a computer science degree may set you up for a good career.
However, there’s a good chance that you simply desire the opportunity to play around with code and design things that have never been brought to life before! That can make you a natural fit for this field!
Let’s talk about how to begin a career in tech. An Associates Degree in Computer Science is a great starting point for making sure your skills are where they need to be. There’s also a good chance that being introduced to new courses will help you pinpoint the specific programming or tech specialty you want to pursue.
Why wait any longer to jump on the tech wave? Start researching associates programs that can help you to harness your tech skills today!
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