Degree Overview: Associate of Occupational Science (A.O.S.) – Computer Information Systems
Majors Overview August 21, 2013Colleges and universities might not offer an Associate in Occupational Science (A.O.S.) in Computer Information Systems degree program; students will be able to find programs under other degree titles, including Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Associate of Science (A.S.). These degree programs will train students how to process, retrieve, store, and collect information critical to the administration processes and decision-making of modern business organizations.
Associate Degree Program in Computer Information Systems
Students enrolled in associate degree programs in computer information systems are taught various programming languages along with database management, computer architecture and system design and analysis. Elective courses may also be taken by students interested in specializing in specific areas such as network administration and programming. It typically takes about two years to complete these degree programs, if students are enrolled full-time, and it allow graduates to seek various entry-level positions that require an understanding of computer systems. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Along with computer systems studies and general educational coursework, students will also specialize in certain areas, including web development, programming, and network administration. Associate degree program courses may include the following:
•Microsoft Office
•Object-oriented programming
•C programming
•Data and network communication
•PC applications
•Computer Science
Career Options
Computer information systems associate degree program graduates will have a broad range of career opportunities. Students who have earned their associate’s degree will be prepared for entry-level positions with organizations and companies in various industries that use internet, databases, and operating systems. Graduates may obtain the following job titles:
•Junior programmer
•Web developer
•Network administrator
•Database manager
•Data processor
Continuing Education Information
Although most schools may not allow students to transfer credits earned from an associate degree program in computer information systems, some courses can be applied towards a four-year bachelor degree program. Associate degree program graduates should consider pursuing a bachelor degree program in computer-related field, including computer information systems or computer science. Master degree programs in these fields may also be available. There are also different types of certificate programs available to students who want to specialize within the field that include web development, programming, Microsoft Network Administration, and CISCO Network Associate certificates.