Degree Overview: Associate of Information Technology (A.I.T.) Degree in Computer Programming
Majors Overview January 10, 2014Information technology (IT) refers to the technology used to store, access, and create information. Students will be taught how to test, maintain, and write the source code of programs and software using “coding.”
A.I.T. Programs in Computer Programming
Students enrolled in an Associate of Information Technology Computer Programming degree program are provided with the knowledge and skills they would need in order to seek entry-level jobs in career fields such as management, systems analysis and programming with government organizations, educational institutions, insurance careers, software publishers and telecommunications companies.
Coursework
Individuals pursuing an Associate of Information Technology Computer Programming degree are required to complete general education courses in liberal arts and social sciences, apart from degree-specific courses such as:
•Data Structures in C
•Systems Analysis and Design
•Database systems, such as DB2
•Business Writing
•Computer Systems/Programming
•Programming in a Windows Environment
•Introductory to Programming with C
•Management of Database Systems
•Networking I and II
•Java Programming
Skill-sets Requisite
Hirers give preference to those who possess skills in management information systems (MIS) augmented by strong programming skills. Those who know traditional computer languages are most favored though, in recent times, job givers have shown a preference for candidates who are adept at contemporary object-oriented programming tools and languages including Java and C++.
Career Choices
Those who aim for part-time employment or temporary positions will be well-served by earning an Associate of Information Technology Computer Programming degree; hirers usually employ candidates as independent consultants or on a contract or temporary basis.
Job and Wage Outlook
In 2005, analysts and applications development programmers earned an average annual wage ranging between $50,000 and $80,000 (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)). Recruiters for programming jobs usually prefer individuals with a two-year degree augmented by work experience; this associate’s degree is best suited for those with knowledge and skills in various programming tools and languages including Java among other object-oriented languages, and C, C++, etc.