Degree Overview: Associate of Computer Programming and Applications
Majors Overview August 23, 2013Students who have earned their associate’s degree in computer programming and applications will be prepared for entry-level positions in accounting, business, and finance. The associate degree program will cover various aspects of this discipline, including programming languages and networking technology.
Associate Degree Program in Computer Programming and Applications
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Students must also submit transcripts of all courses completed by them. Students enrolled in an associate degree program can expect to become an expert in web design, programming and database design and theory. They are taught how to customize a variety of software applications employed in business environments. Students are also expected to create a portfolio showcasing customized applications created by them to present to potential employers. Hands-on training is also imparted in programming languages, such as .Net, Perl, Visual Basic and Java. Once students have graduated from the associate degree program, they will be eligible to take the Microsoft Certified Application Developer and Sun Certified Java Programmer examinations.
Program Coursework
Generally, these programs are designed to be completed within two years, if students are enrolled full-time. The degree programs concentrate on math, database theory, and programming. Students usually participate in a capstone experience near graduation. Program course topics may include the following:
•Microsoft Excel
•Linux administration, configuration, and installation
•Visual basic programming
•Microsoft Word
•Database implementation
•Programming logic
•Data structures
•Java programming
•System design and analysis
•Computer programming
Career Options
Associate degree program graduates will find employment opportunities with hospitals, stock brokerages, utility companies, airlines, and banks. Graduates may obtain the following job titles:
•Programmer analyst
•Operations research analyst
•Computer specialist
•Computer programmer
•Systems analyst
Information on Continuing Education
Computer programming associate degree program graduates might want to enroll in a bachelor or master degree program to ensure advancement and marketability in current positions. Relevant programs can include subjects such as computer science, computer information systems or software engineering. Students will be able to find master degree programs in online formats. A doctoral degree might be appropriate for students who want to teach or conduct research at the postsecondary level.
