Associate Degree in Computer Science Online Associate of Science (AS) Program
Program Overview Why get an associate degree in computer science online?
Today's computer-driven world calls for software analysts, designers and developers. With your Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Science from Southern New Hampshire University, you're on the path to fill this demand. By learning applied programming skills using Python, Java and C++, and using design and testing tools – including Netbeans and Eclipse – you'll have the knowledge you need to support all aspects of the software development life cycle.
Skills you'll learn:
- Principles of computing
- Computing problem-analysis techniques
- How to design solutions to computing problems
- Solution implementation and evaluation
- Professional communication skills
- Application of computer science theory
Courses & Curriculum Online computer science courses built for the modern workforce
With a heavy focus on experiential and applied learning, and courses that emphasize the design and development of computer software, this program will allow you to work on real-world problems while developing a digital portfolio. Upon graduating, your portfolio can give you a way to demonstrate the technical skills you have gained to potential employers.
Online computer science associate degree courses
In this program, your major courses will focus on helping you hone your programming techniques, as well as your mathematical computation and quantitative reasoning skills. You'll explore topics like programming languages, data structures and algorithms, system analysis and design, the software development life cycle and operating platforms — all of which will help you deepen your understanding and feel more prepared to enter the computer science industry as a professional.
And if you choose to continue on to a bachelor's program at SNHU in an area like cybersecurity, IT or computer science, this associate degree is a great stepping stone along the way. The best part? By transferring credits from your associate degree, you'll have completed a significant portion of your bachelor's degree.
Courses may include:
Introduction to Scripting
Course ID:
IT 140
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.
Programming Languages
Course ID:
CS 210
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.
Operating Platforms
Course ID:
CS 230
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.
Software Development Lifecycle
Course ID:
CS 250
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.
System Analysis and Design
Course ID:
CS 255
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.
Modeling and Simulations for the Sciences
Course ID:
CS 300
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.
Visit the course catalog to view the full AS in Computer Science curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Computer Science Programs Hardware and Technical Requirements
| Required Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10, 64 Bit |
| Processor | Intel 8th Gen i5 or i7 |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB RAM |
| Hard Drive | 250+ GB |
| Graphics Card | Built-in (Intel) |
| Wireless | 802.11 a/c dual band |
| Office Suite | Office 2013 Professional or newer |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| Optional Accessories | CD/DVD drive, external hard drive, extra power cord and headphones/earbuds |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Reccomended Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10, 64 Bit |
| Processor | Intel 9th Gen i7 |
| Memory (RAM) | 16GB RAM |
| Hard Drive | 500+ GB Solid State Drive (SSD) |
| Graphics Card | Discrete/dedicated (such as NVIDIA or AMD) |
| Wireless | 802.11 a/c dual band |
| Office Suite | Office 2013 Professional or newer |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| Optional Accessories | CD/DVD drive, external hard drive, extra power cord and headphones/earbuds |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
Help desk support: Microsoft Windows 10, limited support for MacOS (Campus only). Support for other OS is not currently available.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
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Upcoming term starts: March 3, 2025 | May 5, 2025
Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty bring with them decades of experience in the computer science field and exhibit strong leadership both in the classroom and in their professional careers. This experience informs the development of courses and curriculum that can help position graduates for success, wherever they go next.
Featured Faculty
Tim Hogg
Tim Hogg spent time working in marketing and law enforcement before deciding to pursue his passion for software development. Since then he's earned a master's degree in IT and is now working as a director of IT. He also founded a growing software development agency.
Position
Technical Program Facilitator - Computer Science
Joined SNHU
2018
Education
- BS in Economics from Florida State University
- MS in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati
- MS in IT with a concentration in Software Application Development from Southern New Hampshire University
"We are committed to providing you with the best learning experience possible. Our ... faculty and staff continuously strive to enhance our curriculum to prepare you for a successful career in the field."
A dedicated academics team
Dr. Curtis George brings over 20 years of experience as a senior engineer. After a successful Navy career, his work informed the creation of embedded systems for military aircraft and enterprise software for NASA/NOAA. He also developed a role-playing game to acclimate international students to American campuses and created an award-winning Spanish verb conjugation mobile app. Drawing from his own experience, George knows how an associate degree in information technology can position you for success in the field.
"The world is becoming increasingly reliant on software systems and is becoming increasingly connected. With an associate degree in computer science, students can begin an exciting career as an application developer, software engineer or game developer."
Dr. Curtis George, associate dean, information technology at SNHU
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online associate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 60-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$19,800
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$13,860
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$3,960 $7,920 $11,880 $14,850If 12 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,840
If 24 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,880
If 36 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $7,920
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $4,950
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for an associate degree. Most associate degrees require 60 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 45 credits, requiring a minimum of 15 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Career Outlook What can I do with an online computer science associate degree?
Deciding to build a solid computer science skill set is a great career move. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2032.1 Earning this degree is a great first step toward an array of entry-level computer science roles.
The 2-year computer science degree online is also great option if you're already working in a computer science role and want to formalize your abilities with a degree. And if you decide you want to continue on and earn your bachelor's degree online, you'll have the background you need to take your knowledge and skills even further.
Occupations
When you graduate from the online computer science associate degree program, you'll have developed new skills — or further developed some that you already had in your toolkit. Earning your degree and strengthening your technical expertise could help position you for computing jobs like:1
Help Desk Technician
Help customers troubleshoot their computer problems by offering technical support virtually or in person. If you have a background in customer service and are adept at problem-solving, this could be a great job for you.
Application Software Developer
Design the kind of applications you're already familiar with, like word processors, presentation programs, weather apps and mobile games. You might even create customized applications or databases for clients.
Systems Software Developer
Create the underlying operating systems that allow computers to function and design the computer system's user interface that allows people without coding knowledge to use computers.
Computer Programmer
Bring life to the ideas software developers create by writing the code that gives computer applications functionality.
Applications Analyst
Make administration, monitoring and maintenance of applications your responsibility. You'll be a technical point of contact, in charge of fixing application and systems issues on the spot.
25%
Increase in software developer roles through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
$130,160
Median annual salary for software developers as of May 2023, according to the BLS. In the same timeframe, computer programmers earned $99,700.1
Note: While these roles typically require candidates to hold a bachelor's degree, some employers will hire individuals with associate degrees who have experience in specific programming languages.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an associate in computer science and an associate in IT?
To put it simply, computer science is the creation of technology while information technology (IT) is the application of the technology.
In computer science programs, you'll focus on learning to design and develop programs and applications using theory and mathematics. This includes courses involving programming, coding and engineering software to create new applications or improve existing ones.
In IT programs, you'll learn about the installation, maintenance and operation of those programs. Jobs in IT often involve more interaction as they may have duties that involve anything from solving business problems to troubleshooting technical issues with customers.
Overall, computer science programs teach you transferable skills like computation and reasoning. The knowledge and skills you'll gain in an associate in computer science program are broadly applicable across the field of computer and information technology and beyond.
Can you get an associate degree in computer science?
While bachelor's programs are more common, it is possible to earn your associate degree in computer science.
Few schools offer computer science degrees at the associate level, but at Southern New Hampshire University, you can choose to pursue both associate and bachelor's degrees in computer science online. Whether you're already working in the field or looking to get your foot in the door, the 60-credit associate program is great for anyone interested in computer science.
Students will learn scripting and object-oriented programming languages including Python, Java and C++. The coursework emphasizes industry best practices for developing quality software programs.
What's even better is that our associate program is aligned with our 120-credit bachelor's in computer science program. This means you're halfway to your bachelor's once you've successfully completed your AS in Computer Science, should you decide to continue your education.
The online computer science associate program is a great option if you're trying to juggle earning your degree with all of life's responsibilities, including family and work. Because SNHU's online programs have no mandatory login times, you can complete your weekly assignments whenever it's most convenient for you.
What can I do with an associate degree in computer science?
Getting your associate degree in computer science is a great way to kick off a career in the field or take on more computer science-related responsibilities in your current role. Earning your associate degree online could help prepare you for entry-level roles in the computer science field, including:
- Help desk technician
- Software developer
- Computer programmer
- Applications analyst
- Applications developer
To further solidify your abilities as a candidate for these jobs, you may need documented experience or a bachelor's degree. Luckily, Southern New Hampshire University's computer science associate degree program can help in both of these departments. In the program, you'll build a digital portfolio that you can show to potential employers, and earning your associate degree is a milestone in your journey to earning a bachelor's degree.
Once you've earned your computer science associate degree, you might find yourself interested in other areas of computing and technology. You could continue your education, specializing your knowledge in areas like cybersecurity, information technologies, game programming and development or even project management.
How much can you make with an associate degree in computer science?
How much money you make with your associate degree in computer science depends on several factors.
Computer science is a broad technology degree, giving you knowledge to work in many fields and positions beyond the obvious. Overall, earning your associate degree puts you at an advantage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, workers with an associate degree had median weekly earnings of $1,058, compared with $899 for people with a high school diploma alone.1 That's a difference of almost 18% in wages.
If you're just starting your career in computer science, it's important to know that landing a high-paying position in areas such as software development and computer programming may require at least a bachelor's degree.
Is an associate in computer science worth it?
Whether you already have computer science knowledge or not, having a degree helps formalize your abilities. This means earning your associate degree in computer science could make your resume more attractive to employers.
Numbers back up the value of earning your associate degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates are lower for people with associate degrees than those with a high school diploma alone. The unemployment rate in 2023 was 2.7% for those with associate degrees versus 3.9% for workers with no college experience.1
Of course, continuing your education and earning your bachelor's can open even more doors, but there are plenty of reasons to enroll in an associate program first:
- Starting your career. If you're just kicking off a career in computing and technology, the computer science associate degree is a great way to dip your toes in the water. Upon graduating, you can decide to go into the workforce or continue onto a bachelor's program.
- Taking your career further. If you've already worked in a computer science role but need credentials in order to take your career further, earning your associate degree might be a smart choice. This 2-year program is half as long as a bachelor's and you'll graduate with a degree that formalizes your knowledge and skill set.
Providing education you can afford is our priority. At Southern New Hampshire University, tuition for a computer science associate degree is $19,200. SNHU has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, and by transferring in up to 45 credits and work experience, you could lower your final cost even further. Our staff is ready to help you with the financial aid process, because we want to help you see yourself succeed.
Which computer degree pays the most?
Because computer and information technology jobs are technical in nature, they often pay well. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $104,420 in May 2023 – much higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060.1
There are many fields of study to consider in the world of computing. You could pursue a degree in computer science, cybersecurity, information technologies, computer information systems and beyond.
It's important to note that a computer science job that pays 6 figures will likely require a minimum of a bachelor's degree and years of experience. Going on to earn your master's degree can also help you climb the ranks further in your computer science career.
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (viewed April 22, 2024).
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm (viewed April 22, 2024).
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm (viewed May 1, 2024).
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (viewed May 1, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.