- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best computer science associate's degree programs reveals that associate's degree in computer science costs 60-70% less than bachelor's programs—average $3,360/year at community colleges vs $12,000 at 4-year universities.
- 2.Our top-ranked associate's programs are Northern Virginia Community College, Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale, Santa Monica College—selected for transfer agreements and job placement rates.
- 3.33% of associate's graduates transfer to bachelor's programs, often with guaranteed admission to state universities.
- 4.Entry-level computer science technician positions start at $45,500 median salary (BLS, 2024).
- 5.Complete in 2 years full-time, or 3-4 years part-time while working—many programs offer evening and weekend classes.
Source: An associate's degree in computer science is worth it for students seeking affordable entry into tech careers. At ~$3,500/year (vs $40,000+ for bachelor's), you can enter the workforce in 2 years or transfer to a 4-year university with completed prerequisites. Entry-level technician roles start at $45,500.
Why Choose an Associate's Degree in Computer Science?
An associate's degree in computer science offers a cost-effective pathway into technology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Software Developers earn a median salary of $130,160 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $70,000.
Key Benefits of the 2-Year Path
- Lower cost: Average $3,500-4,000/year at community colleges vs $11,000+ at 4-year schools (AACC)
- Strong job outlook: 15% projected growth from 2024-2034 (BLS)
- Large job market: 1,790,000 positions nationwide in this field
- Transfer-friendly: Credits typically transfer to bachelor's programs at state universities
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and online options for working adults
- Hands-on focus: Practical skills emphasized over theoretical coursework
Salary potential: Entry-level computer science positions start at $70,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $208,000+ (BLS OEWS, 2024).
Who succeeds with an associate's: Students seeking quick entry to tech careers, working adults balancing jobs and education, career changers looking for an affordable credential, and those planning to transfer to bachelor's programs.
Best Computer Science Associate's Programs - Top 10
Northern Virginia Community College
NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in computer science degree program.
Northern Virginia Community College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,550 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Close to Washington DC tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Close to Washington DC tech corridor
- •Access to federal contractors and tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in computer science degree program.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $22,936 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. South Florida tech hub
Hakia Insight: South Florida tech hub
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •South Florida tech hub
- •Multiple campus locations
Career Outcomes
Florida tech companies
Admissions
Santa Monica College
SMC is one of California's top transfer community colleges with guaranteed ADT transfer to CSU campuses and strong UC transfer rates.
Santa Monica College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Santa Monica College as the #3 associate's in computer science degree program.
Santa Monica College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Los Angeles westside location
Hakia Insight: Los Angeles westside location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles westside location
- •Access to high technology industries
- •Proximity to major tech employers
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
LA area tech companies, Entertainment industry
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
MiraCosta College
MiraCosta is located in San Diego County and has produced successful transfer students to UC Berkeley and other top universities.
MiraCosta College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #4 associate's in computer science degree program.
MiraCosta College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. San Diego County location
Hakia Insight: San Diego County location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •San Diego County location
- •Access to biotech and defense industries
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
San Diego tech sector, Defense contractors
Admissions
Green River College
Green River is one of Washington's top transfer community colleges, nationally known for math and science preparation.
Green River College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Green River College as the #5 associate's in computer science degree program.
Green River College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,074 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Seattle metro area
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Seattle metro area
- •Access to Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Admissions
Houston Community College
HCC serves the Greater Houston metro area, one of the largest tech employment markets in Texas with strong energy sector tech demand.
Houston Community College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #6 associate's in computer science degree program.
Houston Community College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $2,904 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Houston tech hub
Hakia Insight: Houston Community College's direct partnerships with Houston energy companies and NASA give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Houston tech hub
- •Energy industry technology jobs
- •NASA Johnson Space Center
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Energy sector, NASA, Houston tech companies
Admissions
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College
BMCC is ranked #1 for Computer Science Associate Degrees in New York (Niche 2023) and offers seamless transfer within the CUNY system.
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College as the #7 associate's in computer science degree program.
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,800 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Manhattan location
Hakia Insight: Students at CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College benefit from active collaborations with NYC tech companies and Wall Street firms, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Manhattan location
- •Access to NYC tech and finance industries
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
NYC tech startups, Financial services
Admissions
Weber State University
Weber State offers ABET-accredited CS degrees with strong industry partnerships and career placement support.
Weber State University Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Weber State University as the #8 associate's in computer science degree program.
Weber State University's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,471 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Utah tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Utah tech companies and Salt Lake Community College, Weber State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Utah tech corridor
- •Growing tech ecosystem
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Utah tech companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Tacoma Community College
TCC offers affordable CS education at 1/3 the cost of state universities with direct transfer agreements to Washington universities.
Tacoma Community College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Tacoma Community College as the #9 associate's in computer science degree program.
Tacoma Community College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,477 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Tacoma location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Tacoma location
- •Access to Seattle tech market
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Seattle/Tacoma tech companies
Admissions
Montgomery College
Montgomery College offers fully online CS degrees with transfer agreements to UMD, UMGC, and other Maryland universities.
Montgomery College Associate's Computer Science Program Overview
Hakia ranks Montgomery College as the #10 associate's in computer science degree program.
Montgomery College's associate's Computer Science program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $8,190 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. DC metro area
Hakia Insight: Montgomery College's industry network — including DC area federal contractors and Maryland tech companies — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •DC metro area
- •Access to federal tech jobs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Federal agencies, Defense contractors, DC tech companies
Admissions
Best Computer Science Associate's Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Annandale, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,550/year | Score: 100.0
What makes Northern Virginia Community College stand out: NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers an Associate of Science in Computer Science designed primarily for students who wish to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program prepares students for success in bachelor's degree programs or entry-level programmer positions. NOVA's ADVANCE transfer partnership with George Mason University provides a guaranteed pathway for CS students to complete their bachelor's degree, with students saving money at NOVA before seamlessly transferring to Mason.
Degree Programs: Associate of Science in Computer Science (2 years)
Industry Partners: George Mason University, Virginia Tech
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum for ADVANCE program
Accreditations: SACSCOC
#2. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Type: Private | Tuition: $22,936/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 85.3
What makes Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale stand out: Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Hakia Insight: South Florida tech hub
Program Overview: Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Information Technology and Programming that requires 72 credit hours completed over approximately 24 months. The program develops skills in software, hardware, and system integration while exposing students to essential computer networking and programming concepts. Students learn current networking practices and computer policies critical to real-world applications.
Degree Programs: Associate of Science in Information Technology and Programming (24 months)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Florida tech companies
Admissions:
#3. Santa Monica College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Santa Monica College as the #3 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Santa Monica, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 84.6
What makes Santa Monica College stand out: SMC is one of California's top transfer community colleges with guaranteed ADT transfer to CSU campuses and strong UC transfer rates.
Hakia Insight: Los Angeles westside location
Program Overview: Santa Monica College's Associate in Science in Computer Science prepares students for transfer to four-year universities through California's ADT (Associate Degree for Transfer) program. The curriculum covers core computer science topics including programming, data structures, database theory, operating systems, and computer hardware. Students can also earn certificates in Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Entry Level Programmer.
Degree Programs: AS in Computer Science for Transfer (2 years); Certificate in Web Development (1 year)
Industry Partners: Silicon Beach tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: LA area tech companies, Entertainment industry
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum for degree
Accreditations: Cloud Computing Certificate, Cybersecurity Certificate
#4. MiraCosta College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #4 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Oceanside, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Graduation Rate: 94% | Score: 82.7
What makes MiraCosta College stand out: MiraCosta is located in San Diego County and has produced successful transfer students to UC Berkeley and other top universities.
Hakia Insight: San Diego County location
Program Overview: MiraCosta College in Oceanside, California offers an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) in Computer Science that prepares students for seamless transfer to California State University campuses. Students learn programming fundamentals, data structures, and computer architecture while completing calculus and discrete mathematics requirements. Graduates are prepared for careers as software engineers, data scientists, and systems analysts.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science Degree Computer Science for Transfer (2 years); Associate in Arts Degree Software Development (2 years)
Industry Partners: San Diego tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: San Diego tech sector, Defense contractors
Notable Faculty: Nery Chapeton-Lamas (Computer Science (Chair)); Eduardo Mariscal (Computer Science); Michael Paulding (Computer Science); Catherine Walker (Computer Science)
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum
#5. Green River College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Green River College as the #5 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Auburn, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 82.3
What makes Green River College stand out: Green River is one of Washington's top transfer community colleges, nationally known for math and science preparation.
Program Overview: Green River College offers an Associate in Computer Science (ACS-DTA/MRP) designed for students preparing to transfer to computer science programs at Washington universities. Students can complete their degree in as little as six quarters full-time. GRC also offers Bachelor of Applied Science degrees in Software Development and Cybersecurity & Networking for students who want to continue at the college.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science Transfer Track 2 (Computer Science, Engineering, Physics) (6 quarters minimum); Associate in Computer Science (ACS-DTA/MRP) (6 quarters minimum); Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development and Data Analytics
Industry Partners: Seattle area tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing
Admissions:
#6. Houston Community College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #6 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,904/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 81.5
What makes Houston Community College stand out: HCC serves the Greater Houston metro area, one of the largest tech employment markets in Texas with strong energy sector tech demand.
Hakia Insight: Houston Community College's direct partnerships with Houston energy companies and NASA give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: Houston Community College offers Associate in Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees in Computer Science and Computer Programming. The program teaches fundamental programming principles including algorithm analysis, software design, operating systems, and databases. Students can specialize in Microsoft C#, Java, or Database Administration. HCC serves the Greater Houston area where nearly 5,000 computer programmers are employed.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science - Computer Science (2 years); Associate of Applied Science - Computer Programming (2 years)
Industry Partners: Houston energy companies, NASA
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Energy sector, NASA, Houston tech companies
Admissions:
#7. CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College as the #7 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: New York, NY | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,800/year | Score: 80.3
What makes CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College stand out: BMCC is ranked #1 for Computer Science Associate Degrees in New York (Niche 2023) and offers seamless transfer within the CUNY system.
Hakia Insight: Students at CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College benefit from active collaborations with NYC tech companies and Wall Street firms, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) offers an Associate in Science in Computer Science that provides students with understanding of computer theory, organization, and applications. The program prepares students to continue education or enter the workforce. BMCC was ranked #1 for Computer Science Associate Degrees in New York by Niche in 2023. Students can transfer to CUNY four-year colleges including NYC College of Technology's Data Science program.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science - Computer Science (2 years)
Industry Partners: NYC tech companies, Wall Street firms
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: NYC tech startups, Financial services
Notable Faculty: Professor Hao Tang (Program Coordinator)
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 for transfer programs
#8. Weber State University Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Weber State University as the #8 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Ogden, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,471/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 80.1
What makes Weber State University stand out: Weber State offers ABET-accredited CS degrees with strong industry partnerships and career placement support.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Utah tech companies and Salt Lake Community College, Weber State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Weber State University offers an ABET-accredited Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science that can be completed in just over a year through their open-entry program. The program offers flexible learning modalities including face-to-face, online, hybrid, and FLEX options. Weber State works closely with industry partners to secure jobs for students and provides career counseling with resume help and mock interviews.
Degree Programs: Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science (1+ years); BS in Computer Science (2 additional years)
Industry Partners: Utah tech companies, Salt Lake Community College
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Utah tech companies
Admissions:
Accreditations: Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
#9. Tacoma Community College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Tacoma Community College as the #9 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Tacoma, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,477/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Score: 79.2
What makes Tacoma Community College stand out: TCC offers affordable CS education at 1/3 the cost of state universities with direct transfer agreements to Washington universities.
Program Overview: Tacoma Community College offers an Associate of Arts in Computer Science (DTA/MRP) designed for students transferring to baccalaureate institutions in Washington state. The 90-credit degree satisfies general education requirements at most Washington universities. TCC costs approximately 1/3 of state university tuition, with 60% of students receiving financial aid. Graduates are prepared for careers in programming, system architecture, and IT management.
Degree Programs: Associate in Computer Science A.A. (2 years); Associate of Science — Specialization in Computer Engineering A.S. (2 years); Associate of Science — Specialization in Computer and Electrical Engineering A.S. (2.25 years)
Industry Partners: Tacoma area employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Seattle/Tacoma tech companies
Notable Faculty: David Anderson (Computer Science Faculty Advisor)
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum
#10. Montgomery College Associate's Computer Science Program
Hakia ranks Montgomery College as the #10 associate's in computer science degree program. Location: Rockville, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,190/year | Score: 79.0
What makes Montgomery College stand out: Montgomery College offers fully online CS degrees with transfer agreements to UMD, UMGC, and other Maryland universities.
Hakia Insight: Montgomery College's industry network — including DC area federal contractors and Maryland tech companies — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Montgomery College offers Associate of Arts degrees in Computer Science and Technologies with concentrations in Computer Science or Information Sciences and Systems. The programs are designed for transfer to four-year institutions including University of Maryland College Park, UMGC, and Towson. All courses are available online for flexible completion. Transfer students from MC perform as well or better at four-year schools than direct admits.
Degree Programs: AA in Computer Science and Technologies - CS Concentration (2 years); AA in Computer Science and Technologies - ISS Concentration (2 years)
Industry Partners: DC area federal contractors, Maryland tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal agencies, Defense contractors, DC tech companies
Admissions:
Full Computer Science Associate's Rankings 2026
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale, VA | Public | $5,550 | — | 100 |
| 2 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | 85.3 |
| 3 | Santa Monica College | Santa Monica, CA | Public | $1,104 | 95% | 84.6 |
| 4 | MiraCosta College | Oceanside, CA | Public | $1,104 | 94% | 82.7 |
| 5 | Green River College | Auburn, WA | Public | $4,074 | 99% | 82.3 |
| 6 | Houston Community College | Houston, TX | Public | $2,904 | 86% | 81.5 |
| 7 | CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College | New York, NY | Public | $4,800 | — | 80.3 |
| 8 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | 80.1 |
| 9 | Tacoma Community College | Tacoma, WA | Public | $4,477 | 87% | 79.2 |
| 10 | Montgomery College | Rockville, MD | Public | $8,190 | — | 79 |
| 11 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | Public | $6,930 | 98% | 78.9 |
| 12 | De Anza College | Cupertino, CA | Public | $1,395 | — | 78.7 |
| 13 | Antelope Valley Community College District | Lancaster, CA | Public | $1,104 | 82% | 78.1 |
| 14 | Modesto Junior College | Modesto, CA | Public | $1,188 | 77% | 77.2 |
| 15 | Ivy Tech Community College | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $4,912 | — | 76.9 |
| 16 | Arapahoe Community College | Littleton, CO | Public | $3,940 | 78% | 75.7 |
| 17 | Grossmont College | El Cajon, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 75.1 |
| 18 | Lone Star College System | The Woodlands, TX | Public | $5,544 | — | 74.9 |
| 19 | San Diego Miramar College | San Diego, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 74.4 |
| 20 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | 74.3 |
| 21 | Collin County Community College District | McKinney, TX | Public | $3,450 | 89% | 74.3 |
| 22 | University of the People | Pasadena, CA | Private | $0 | — | 74.1 |
| 23 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH | Private | $15,450 | 67% | 74 |
| 24 | Mt San Jacinto Community College District | San Jacinto, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 73.9 |
| 25 | Wake Technical Community College | Raleigh, NC | Public | $2,076 | — | 73.8 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Transfer Pathways to Bachelor's Programs
Transfer pathways are critical for CS students. According to NCES, about 34% of first-time community college students transfer to another institution within 150% of normal completion time. Another 14% transfer within this period, while the remaining 42% are no longer enrolled at their first institution.
Preparation is Key: Success in CS transfer requires strong math foundations (calculus, discrete math, linear algebra) and programming fundamentals. Students should complete prerequisite courses at their community college and verify course equivalencies through official articulation agreements before transferring.
State Transfer Systems
- California: The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) guarantees CSU admission. In 2021-22, 65% of successful transfers earned an ADT before leaving community college.
- Washington: Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) programs like Green River College's ACS-DTA/MRP provide guaranteed pathways to state universities.
- North Carolina: The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement ensures seamless credit transfer to UNC System schools.
- Use ASSIST.org: California students should use ASSIST to verify course-by-course transfer equivalencies.
Key to Success: Research from PPIC shows successful CS transfer students share common traits: they start earlier, attend colleges in tech hubs, don't change schools frequently, and choose universities with strong support services.
Community College Advantages
Community colleges are experiencing a significant resurgence. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, community college enrollment increased 5.4% between Fall 2023 and Fall 2024 (+288,000 students)—the largest growth among all institutional sectors.
As Dr. Walter Bumphus, president of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), noted: "Community colleges have always been gateways to opportunity, but in 2025, they are increasingly engines of innovation in workforce development."
Why Community Colleges Excel for Computer Science
- Smaller class sizes: Community college classes average 25-35 students, compared to 100+ in university introductory courses (Community College Review)
- Industry-connected instructors: Many CS instructors work in tech and teach part-time, bringing current industry practices to the classroom
- Lower cost: Average public community college tuition is $3,990/year vs $11,260 at public 4-year schools (AACC Fast Facts 2024)
- Open access: No SAT/ACT requirements—community colleges serve all students regardless of prior academic performance
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and hybrid options designed for working adults
- Transfer pathways: State articulation agreements provide guaranteed transfer to 4-year universities
2-Year Curriculum Overview
Computer Science associate's programs typically require 60-65 credit hours completed over 2 years full-time. The curriculum balances technical skills with general education requirements, preparing students for both employment and transfer to bachelor's programs.
Core Computer Science Courses
- Programming (Java/Python)
- Data Structures
- Algorithms
- Discrete Mathematics
- Computer Organization
- Operating Systems
Typical Course Sequence
- Year 1: Programming fundamentals, math requirements (algebra/statistics), English composition, introductory technical courses
- Year 2: Advanced technical courses, electives in specialization area, capstone project or internship
Transfer Requirements: Most courses will transfer to 4-year universities through articulation agreements. A grade of C or better is typically required for technical courses. Check your state's transfer agreements (e.g., ASSIST.org for California, Direct Transfer Agreement for Washington).
Accelerated & Online Options
Online learning has become mainstream in higher education. According to NCES, 53% of U.S. students were enrolled in at least one online course in 2022-23. BestColleges research found that 60% of institutions reported online classes filling first in 2024—indicating strong student preference for flexible formats.
Enrollment Trends: The National Student Clearinghouse reports associate degree enrollment grew 6.3% in Spring 2025. Notably, older first-year students are driving growth—enrollment among those aged 25+ increased 19.7% compared to the prior year.
Flexible Format Options
- Fully online: Complete your degree from anywhere. Programs like Montgomery College offer 100% online CS associate's degrees
- Hybrid programs: Mix of online coursework and in-person labs—ideal for hands-on programming practice
- Accelerated tracks: Complete in 18 months with year-round enrollment (e.g., Weber State University)
- Evening/weekend programs: Designed for working adults; many community colleges offer courses starting at 6pm or on Saturdays
Tip: Look for programs with asynchronous course delivery if your work schedule is unpredictable. Synchronous (live) classes require logging in at specific times.
Career Paths
Computer User Support Specialist
Help desk and technical support roles. Despite declining employment, about 50,500 openings projected annually due to replacement needs.
Computer Network Support Specialist
Network troubleshooting and maintenance. Higher pay than user support due to specialized networking skills.
Web Developer (Entry-Level)
Front-end web development. Bachelor's preferred but associate's with strong portfolio can qualify.
Junior Database Administrator
Database maintenance and basic administration. Entry roles available; advancement requires bachelor's.
Associate's vs Bootcamp vs Certificate
Choosing between an associate's degree, bootcamp, or certificate depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path has trade-offs.
Coding Bootcamp Outcomes: According to the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR), 71% of coding bootcamp graduates find a job within 6 months of completion. Course Report's 2025 survey found 79% of alumni land programming jobs within six months, with a 51% average salary increase over pre-bootcamp income.
Comparison
- Associate's degree (2 years, $7-15K total): Regionally accredited credential, transfers to bachelor's programs, qualifies for federal financial aid, recognized by employers across industries
- Coding bootcamp (3-6 months, $10-20K): 71% job placement within 6 months (CIRR), fastest path to specific dev roles, but limited to certain job titles and employers
- Industry certificate (6-12 months, $2-5K): CompTIA, AWS, or Google certifications focus on specific skills; best for career changers with some tech background
Key difference: Only associate's degrees are regionally accredited and qualify for federal student aid. Bootcamps typically require full upfront payment or income share agreements. As The Century Foundation notes, always read the fine print on any education program's outcomes claims.
Our recommendation: Choose an associate's degree if you want maximum flexibility—transfer options, employer recognition, and financial aid eligibility. Choose a bootcamp if you're confident about a specific developer role and can afford the upfront cost.
Financial Aid & Employer Tuition Assistance
Community college programs qualify for federal financial aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance. With average tuition under $4,000/year, many students graduate debt-free.
Federal Pell Grants: The maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2024-25 is $7,395 (minimum $740). Since this exceeds typical community college tuition, eligible students may have funds left for books and fees. Lifetime eligibility is limited to 12 semesters.
Free Community College Programs: Over 300 promise programs now operate at state and local levels, including:
- California: California College Promise provides free tuition for first-time students at participating community colleges
- Maryland: Community College Promise Scholarship covers up to $5,000/year in tuition
- Oregon: Oregon Promise Grant covers tuition for recent high school graduates
- Maine: Free College Scholarship covers tuition at all 7 Maine community colleges for classes 2020-2025
Employer Tuition Assistance: In 2023, 80% of large U.S. employers offered tuition reimbursement, spending $28 billion annually (Learn & Work Ecosystem Library). Key programs:
- Amazon Career Choice: Pre-pays 100% of tuition, books, and fees for associates and bachelor's degrees at participating schools. Available to hourly employees after 90 days.
- Target Dream to Be: 100% tuition coverage for 250+ programs at 40 partner schools, or up to $5,250/year for other programs
- Starbucks College Achievement Plan: 100% tuition coverage for Arizona State University online bachelor's programs after 3 months of 20+ hours/week
Tax benefits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit provides up to $2,500/year in tax credits for the first four years of higher education.
Top States for Computer Science Associate's Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in California | 54 | $11,800 | University of California |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Texas | 27 | $32,900 | Texas A & M University |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in New York | 42 | $21,200 | Cornell University |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Florida | 19 | $32,800 | University of Miami |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Virginia | 17 | $18,300 | William & Mary |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Pennsylvania | 43 | $40,500 | Carnegie Mellon University |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Maryland | 11 | $9,900 | University of Maryland |
| Best Computer Science Associate's Programs in Illinois | 38 | $35,700 | University of Illinois Urbana |
Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
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Frequently Asked Questions
Data Sources
Federal database of U.S. postsecondary institutions
May 2024 salary data by occupation and location
Department of Education outcomes data
Related Computer Science Resources
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.