The top online associate degrees can also serve as a prerequisite to a bachelor’s degree in computer programming, which employers often prefer or require. As virtually every business, organization, and agency uses computer programs to operate, opportunities in this field should remain steady. Computer support specialists, for example, should see a projected 9% job growth increase during 2020-2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS projects a 13% employment growth for web developers.
Top 5 online schools for computer programming associate degrees
The best online computer programming associate degrees
ZDNet’s ranking methodology builds rankings based on expert curation, research, and meticulous editing. Schools cannot pay for inclusion in ZDNet’s rankings, which ensures the objectivity and accuracy of each program listed. Raymond, MS Application fee: Free Springfield, IL Application fee: $75 Moberly, MO Application fee: Free Sioux Falls, SD Application fee: Free Toledo, OH Application fee: $40 Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.
What to expect in an online computer programming associate degree program
Online computer programming associate degree programs focus on practical skills that include software and web development and programming using languages such as CSS, Javascript, and SQL. Curriculums may include industry certifications in areas like Microsoft and Oracle platforms. Some programs offer internship opportunities at worksites in students’ communities or remotely.
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 23%Avg. annual net price: $3,757Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not required (ACT score required)Minimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: Spring, summer, and fall semestersCourse delivery method: Asynchronous with possible on-campus exams
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 35%Avg. annual net price: $6,168Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not required but recommended if availableMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 23%Avg. annual net price: $7,143Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Synchronous with live lab options
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 49%Avg. annual net price: $14,633Years to completion: Two to threeSAT range: 360 mathMinimum GPA: 2.0Enrollment periods per year: TwoCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 96%Graduation rate: 43%Avg. annual net price: $17,630Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 2.0Enrollment periods per year: TwoCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 56%Avg. annual net price: $10,131Years to completion: Two to fourSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: 2.0 for transfer creditsEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 40%Avg. annual net price: $10,818Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 33%Avg. annual net price: $3,226Years to completion: Two to fourSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 41%Avg. annual net price: $8,326Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: CEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 10%Avg. annual net price: $6,861Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 85%Graduation rate: 61%Avg. annual net price: $33,561Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 2.5Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 20%Avg. annual net price: $4,693Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 19%Avg. annual net price: $4,208Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 26%Avg. annual net price: $3,478Years to completion: TwoSAT range: 480 evidence-based reading and writing; 530 mathMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 16%Avg. annual net price: $6,464Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 23%Avg. annual net price: $5,469Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 26%Avg. annual net price: $10,845Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 21%Avg. annual net price: $8,584Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous; may include in-person exams
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 16%Avg. annual net price: $6,539Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 20%Avg. annual net price: $9,047Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: TwoCourse delivery method: Asynchronous
Graduates typically earn one of three degrees: an associate of applied science, which focuses on programming and technical support; an associate of arts, which emphasizes foundational coursework in IT topics; or an associate in science, which centers on technical skills and specializations. Remote learners who are also self-starters fare the best, along with those possessing time-management skills and motivation.
Computer programming courses
While curricular content and program concentrations vary, online learners pursuing associate degrees in computer programming often start with similar introductory courses in which students may complete group or individual projects or labs. Computer programming foundations This introduction to programming concepts, principles, and techniques teaches code structures and expressions and examines different programming languages. Course topics may include algorithms, conditional and iterative structures, and parallelism. Data management and data systems Students learn the basics of database design and management systems use, including data definition and manipulation languages, data models, relational databases, and schema versus data. A typical focus area is writing and executing SQL statements for managing data. Java programming As a foundational software programming language, Java skills are important for solving problems and building applications. The course is often project-based, providing opportunities for hands-on writing, compiling, and executing Java programs and developing applications for multiple platforms. Web development Students learn about the functionality of websites and how to design and build them. The course covers full-stack applications and front-end technologies like HTML, along with back-end technologies, such as Node modules.
Computer programming degree levels
Which type of computer programming degree to choose depends on your goals. If you want to spend minimal time and money on your education and are willing to work your way up through job experience, a certificate or associate program may be for you. To increase the odds of employability and higher salaries, a bachelor’s or graduate degree could be a better path.
Certificate in computer programming
Length: Four months to two years Cost: $2,000-$10,000 per certificatePost-grad careers: Entry-level computer programmer, software coder, information systems technician
Computer programming certificates offer learners new to the field the fastest route to mastering job skills. They also function as ways experienced programmers can gain additional skills in a particular area and advance their careers. Certificate programs focus on common languages and technologies, such as C#, C++, HTML. Java, Python, and SQL Students generally earn their certificates part-time and may complete a capstone project. Credits can often transfer toward an associate degree in computer programming.
Associate in computer programming
Length: Two years Cost: $3,500-$33,500 per yearPost-grad careers: Computer programmer, computer support specialist, web developer
Associate in computer programming degrees can qualify graduates for jobs in software development, web development, and database management, but also provide the foundation for bachelor’s-level study. Employers increasingly look for bachelor’s in computer programming degree-holders, and credits earned in an associate degree can apply toward a baccalaureate.. Advantages of an associate degree include the opportunity to see if computer programming is a good fit before spending a lot of time and money. Internships can also be part of the curriculum, providing networking and skills-based experiences.
Bachelor’s in computer programming
Length: Four years Cost: $9,000-$48,000 per yearPost-grad careers: Database administrator; information analyst; software developer
A computer programming degree at the bachelor’s level offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes general education topics, computer programming theory, and practical application courses that emphasize programming languages. Students complete individual and group projects and, often, a final capstone project. The ability to collaborate within teams and analytical skills will help learners succeed in their degree programs, as well as their future workplaces. Employers tend to prefer job applicants with bachelor’s degrees, which can make the time and money well spent.
Master’s in computer programming
Length: Two yearsCost: $6,000-$54,000 per yearPost-grad careers: Computer research scientist; network architect; systems analyst
Master’s in computer programming students focus primarily on practical skills and specialization in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, program design, and research. Graduates gain an advantage in the job market, command higher salaries, and qualify for doctoral degree programs. Master’s programs lead to master of science (MS) or master of arts MA degrees. MS curriculums tend to emphasize math and sciences more than MA programs. Students can expect to complete a thesis project and/or practicum.
Doctorate in computer programming
Length: Three to seven years Cost: $5,500-$52,000Post-grad careers: College professor, computer and information research scientist, software engineer
Individuals pursuing doctorates in computer programming are interested in collegiate-level teaching and research careers or high-level technology industry positions. Degree options include earning a Ph.D. in computer science or software engineering. Doctoral students specialize in areas like information security, systems, and theory. Coursework covers advanced skills and research in computer algorithms, artificial intelligence, cryptography, database applications, network architecture, and programming languages design. Graduation typically requires taking a comprehensive examination and writing and defending a research-based dissertation.
In conclusion
An online associate degree can provide a fast and cost-effective route to positions in computer programming, computer support, and web development. It also can qualify you for admission to a bachelor’s degree program. To find the right educational choice for you, explore our list of the best online computer programming associate degree programs.
