Design the Future With an AS in Computer Science
Whether you’re looking to advance your career or start a new path, an Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Science degree on campus at Southern New Hampshire University can help you achieve your goals. Here, you’ll have opportunities to develop critical technical and professional skills through authentic, industry-relevant projects. The program curriculum will provide you with a solid understanding of fundamental programming techniques and concepts, preparing you for entry-level positions in both the public and private sectors.
See Yourself Succeed in Computer Science
The associate degree in computer science is built for today’s technology-driven world, where software analysts, designers and developers are in demand. You’ll experience courses that emphasize the design and development of computer software so you can build a foundation in problem solving using technology and algorithmic thinking.
In this program, you’ll learn applied programming skills, such as Python, Java and C++. You’ll also use design and testing tools, including Microsoft Visual Studio, to support all aspects of the software development lifecycle.
To prepare you for work on a development team, you’ll learn steps for agile project management including:
- Analyzing complex computing problems and using computing principles to solve them
- Designing, implementing and evaluating computing-based solutions to meet a given set of computing requirements
- Communicating professionally and effectively in a variety of situations
- Applying computer science theory and software development to create computing-based solutions
The 2-year program is a great option if you're already working in a computer science role and want to advance your skillset. It's also a smart choice if you want to explore the field of computer science without committing to a 4-year bachelor's degree.
As a private, nonprofit university, SNHU has one mission - to help you see yourself succeed. The benefits of majoring in accounting at SNHU include:
- Supportive community. Join the SNHU campus community of students who are closely connected with faculty and staff dedicated to your success
- Affordability. It’s our mission to make higher education more accessible. That’s why SNHU is one of the most affordable private, nonprofit universities in New Hampshire
- Accessible faculty. Learn from highly credentialed faculty who are experts in their fields and interact with you in the classroom, dining hall, fitness center and the stands
- Opportunity. Tap into our nationwide network of alumni and strong connections with employers for internship and career opportunities
- Campus experience. Enjoy more than 50 student clubs, champion Division II athletics and fun events on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, named a "Best Place to Live" by Money magazine
Career Outlook
The associate degree in computer science prepares you to enter technology-related roles in a variety of industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031.1
With your associate in computer science, you'll be qualified for these roles and a number of entry-level jobs including:
- Applications analyst
- Application software developer
- Computer programmer
- Database Administrator
- Systems software developer
- Web developer
The skills you’ll gain from your associate degree in computer science provide a great foundation for continuing your education. If you want to earn a bachelor’s degree, you'll have the background you need to take your knowledge and skills even further.
Courses and Curriculum
The associate in computer science curriculum was developed by experts in the computer science industry whose years of experience are embedded into each course. You'll work on honing your programming techniques and mathematical computation and quantitative reasoning skills in major courses such as: programming languages, software development lifecycle, operating platforms, system analysis and design, and data structures and algorithms: analysis and design.
With a heavy focus on experiential and applied learning, this program will allow you to work on real-world problems while developing a digital portfolio of artifacts. Through the hands-on opportunities you'll have in your courses – and beyond – you can demonstrate your skills in a tangible way, giving you real experiences you can talk about with potential employers.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| AS in Computer Science |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| AS in Computer Science | ||
| IT 140 | Introduction to Scripting | Students will learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions and file handling. By developing simple scripts, students will understand how to use common scripting language constructs including lists, literals, and regular expressions to build useful applications. |
| CS 210 | Programming Languages | Students will develop functional programs that comply with industry regulations and best practices using various programming languages. Special attention will be paid to the importance of developing code that is not only functional, but also secure, efficient, and professional. |
| CS 230 | Operating Platforms | Students will develop a deeper understanding of operating platforms and architectures through the analysis and evaluation of the characteristics, advantages, and weaknesses of each. Students will learn the value of utilizing software design templates as well as how to utilize them to solve problems. |
| CS 250 | Software Development Lifecycle | Students will explore the stages of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) through the lens of developers and testers to examine the characteristics, documentation, and purpose of each stage. Through applying SDLC stages within an agile development environment, students will learn the principles and best practices used to develop high quality software while also assessing the impact of communication, documentation, and ethics on the SDLC. |
| CS 255 | System Analysis and Design | Students will explore the principles, methods, and techniques used in systems development so that they can create system models using appropriate industry tools. As a part of creating system models, students will also learn to effectively communicate technical concepts and design decisions to various audiences in a professional manner. |
| CS 300 | Modeling and Simulations for the Sciences | This course introduces the student to developing computer models and simulation for a variety of industries. Current tools and technologies for computer modeling and simulation are covered. |
| Total Credits: 60 | ||
Campus Undergraduate Tuition
Our Manchester campus aims to keep tuition and related costs low for our students so that you can pursue your degree and your goals.
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References
Sources & Citations (1)
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (viewed April 4, 2023). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.