Best Online Associate in Computer Programming Programs

An associate in computer programming is a two-year degree that students can usually earn at a community college. This degree prepares learners for entry-level jobs in computer programming.

According to National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data, tuition and fees at a two-year college cost an average of $3,885 per year, for a total of $7,770. This costs less than the average tuition and fees of $17,709 per year at a four-year school. Students who plan to complete a bachelor’s in computer programming can save money by earning their associate degree at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution.

Some schools charge less for online students, while others charge additional technology fees. Many online schools charge the same rate to all students.

The job outlook for graduates with an associate in computer programming varies by occupation. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 11% decline in jobs for computer programmers from 2022-2032. The BLS also projects a 25% increase in jobs for software developers during the same period.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Students enrolled in an associate in computer programming must be patient. Programs do not always work on the first try. Programmers need the patience to troubleshoot the program and figure out how to fix it. Other traits that benefit both students and graduates of computer programming programs include passion, creativity, and logic.

The typical online associate in computer programming requires about 60 college credits and takes about two years to complete. Students can often complete the program faster by taking classes during the spring and summer terms.

Some schools feature concentrations in computer programming. For example, Atlantic Cape Community College offers a concentration in computer programming or database design and development. Some computer science or computer information systems degrees offer computer programming as a concentration.

Some schools may require labs or internships. Degree-seekers should check with their school to learn about any additional requirements beyond their regular classes.

Associate in science (AS) and associate in applied science (AAS) degrees are both common. Students may benefit more from an AS degree if they plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree. An AAS degree may suit learners who want to enter the workforce after graduating.

This course introduces C++ programming language. Students learn object-oriented programming with C++. The course includes C++ syntax, input and output devices, and data and file structures.

This course teaches beginner programmers how to design and code applications using Java. Students learn how to create web-based applications with attractive graphical user interfaces.

In this course, students learn how to analyze users’ needs and determine the systems required for an organization. They consider various options for systems design, including open-source software, IT service firms, and in-house software developers.

This course teaches students how to design and create relational databases. They learn how to store, retrieve, display, and update data using SQL. This course covers functions, stored procedures, packages, and triggers.

In this course, students learn how to program computers using the Visual BASIC programming language. The course integrates object-oriented programming, with an emphasis on event-driven programming.

The BLS projects the demand for computer programmers in the U.S. to drop due to employers hiring programmers from other countries. Computer programmers can work remotely from anywhere, so many companies hire programmers from places where wages are lower.

Still, the average base salary of $67,000 per year for those with an associate of applied science degree in computer programming compares favorably to other degrees. For example, Payscale reports that people with an associate of arts degree in communication earn an average base salary of $65,000 per year as of April 2024.

Many computer programmers work for computer systems design and related companies. They can also work in finance, insurance, manufacturing, and software publishing.

See where an associate in computer programming can take you. Learn more about computer programming careers.

Computer programmers work with software developers to create the code that runs a software program. The software developer designs the program, and the programmer codes it. Programmers also test the code to make sure it runs properly. In addition, the programmer troubleshoots any problems and figures out how to fix them.

Software developers create a plan for the design of a software program. They talk to users and figure out necessary program features. They also plan how the user will interact with the software and decide what happens behind the scenes. The software developer then gives this plan to a programmer for coding.

Web developers create websites and keep them running smoothly. They troubleshoot problems, such as page errors and slow-loading webpages. They use markup languages such as HTML and XML to code webpages. In addition, they work with graphic artists to perfect the layout and look of the website. Web developers monitor website traffic and bandwidth.

Computer support specialists provide technical support to computer users. They listen to customers describe their problems and ask questions to learn the source of the problem. Then, they either walk the customer through the necessary steps to resolve their problem, or fix the customer’s issue in person or remotely. Computer support specialists may also provide training to help users learn to use computer equipment.

Network and computer systems administrators make sure a company’s computer networks operate smoothly. They monitor the day-to-day operation of the networks and install software upgrades and new equipment as needed. They install wide-area networks, intranets, local area networks, and other data communication systems.

An associate in computer programming prepares graduates for entry-level computer programming jobs. However, a bachelor’s degree in the field may enhance job advancement opportunities. People may pursue a bachelor’s in computer programming, computer science, or computer forensics.