- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best information systems associate's degree programs reveals that associate's degree in information systems costs 60-70% less than bachelor's programs—average $4,116/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, Montgomery 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 information systems technician positions start at $38,500 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 information systems 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 Information Systems?
An associate's degree in information systems (management information systems, or MIS) offers a cost-effective pathway into technology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer Systems Analysts earn a median salary of $102,360 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $60,000.
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: 9% projected growth from 2024-2034 (BLS)
- Large job market: 538,100 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 information systems positions start at $60,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $169,080 (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 Information Systems 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 Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in information systems degree program.
Northern Virginia Community College's associate's Information Systems 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 Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in information systems degree program.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale's associate's Information Systems 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
Montgomery College
Montgomery College offers fully online CS degrees with transfer agreements to UMD, UMGC, and other Maryland universities.
Montgomery College Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Montgomery College as the #3 associate's in information systems degree program.
Montgomery College's associate's Information Systems 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
CUNY New York City College of Technology
CUNY New York City College of Technology is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
CUNY New York City College of Technology Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks CUNY New York City College of Technology as the #4 associate's in information systems degree program.
CUNY New York City College of Technology's associate's Information Systems program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $6,930 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Located in New York City with strong employment opportunities
Hakia Insight: Located in New York City with strong employment opportunities
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
- •Located in New York City with strong employment opportunities
- •Access to diverse industries that depend on computer engineering technology
- •Brooklyn location at 300 Jay Street providing urban technology ecosystem access
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Arapahoe Community College
Arapahoe Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Arapahoe Community College Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Arapahoe Community College as the #5 associate's in information systems degree program.
Arapahoe Community College's associate's Information Systems program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $3,940 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Littleton, CO location
Hakia Insight: Littleton, CO 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
- •Littleton, CO location
Career Outcomes
Denver metro IT departments, Local healthcare IT departments, Regional financial services firms
Admissions
Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Ivy Tech Community College Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Ivy Tech Community College as the #6 associate's in information systems degree program.
Ivy Tech Community College's associate's Information Systems program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,912 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Indianapolis, IN location
Hakia Insight: Indianapolis, IN 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
- •Indianapolis, IN location
Career Outcomes
Salesforce, Microsoft, Indiana hospitals and healthcare networks, Manufacturing firms across Indiana, Financial institutions
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 Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #7 associate's in information systems degree program.
Houston Community College's associate's Information Systems 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
Liberty University
Liberty University is a private institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Liberty University Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Liberty University as the #8 associate's in information systems degree program.
Liberty University's associate's Information Systems program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $15,015 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lynchburg headquarters provides access to regional healthcare and finance IT operations
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Microsoft and CompTIA, Liberty 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
- •Lynchburg headquarters provides access to regional healthcare and finance IT operations
- •Proximity to Virginia government and defense contractor IT modernization initiatives
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Wake Technical Community College
Wake Technical Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Wake Technical Community College Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks Wake Technical Community College as the #9 associate's in information systems degree program.
Wake Technical Community College's associate's Information Systems program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $2,076 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Raleigh, NC 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
- •Raleigh, NC location
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of the People
University of the People is a private institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
University of the People Associate's Information Systems Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of the People as the #10 associate's in information systems degree program.
University of the People's associate's Information Systems program provides a solid foundation for students beginning their educational journey. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Pasadena, CA location
Hakia Insight: Pasadena, CA 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
- •Pasadena, CA location
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Information Systems Associate's Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in information systems 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 information systems 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 Information Systems students to complete their bachelor's degree, with students saving money at NOVA before seamlessly transferring to Mason.
Degree Programs: AS in Information Systems (2 years); AAS in Information Systems Technology (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, National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by NSA and DHS
#2. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Type: Private | Tuition: $22,936/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 95.1
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: AS; BS
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Florida tech companies
Admissions:
#3. Montgomery College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Montgomery College as the #3 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Rockville, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,190/year | Score: 87.7
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 information systems and Technologies with concentrations in information systems 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 Information Systems and Technologies - CS Concentration (2 years); AA in Information Systems 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:
#4. CUNY New York City College of Technology Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks CUNY New York City College of Technology as the #4 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Brooklyn, NY | Type: Public | Tuition: $6,930/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 87.4
What makes CUNY New York City College of Technology stand out: CUNY New York City College of Technology is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Located in New York City with strong employment opportunities
Program Overview: CUNY New York City College of Technology offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Brooklyn, NY, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Systems (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Professor Colin Persaud (Computer Information Systems Program Coordinator)
Admissions:
#5. Arapahoe Community College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Arapahoe Community College as the #5 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Littleton, CO | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,940/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 85.6
What makes Arapahoe Community College stand out: Arapahoe Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Littleton, CO location
Program Overview: Arapahoe Community College offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Littleton, CO, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Systems (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Denver metro IT departments, Local healthcare IT departments, Regional financial services firms | Common Roles: Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Specialist, Junior Systems Administrator
Admissions:
#6. Ivy Tech Community College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Ivy Tech Community College as the #6 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Indianapolis, IN | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,912/year | Score: 83.3
What makes Ivy Tech Community College stand out: Ivy Tech Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Indianapolis, IN location
Program Overview: Ivy Tech Community College offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Indianapolis, IN, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: AAS in Information Systems (2 years); IT Support Specialist Certificate (1 year)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Salesforce, Microsoft, Indiana hospitals and healthcare networks, Manufacturing firms across Indiana, Financial institutions, State and local government agencies | Common Roles: Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Specialist, Junior Network Administrator, IT Support Technician, Systems Support Specialist
Admissions:
#7. Houston Community College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Houston Community College as the #7 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,904/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 83.3
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 information systems 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 of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems (2 years); Associate of Science in Computer Science (2 years); Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity (2 years)
Industry Partners: Houston energy companies, NASA
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Energy sector, NASA, Houston tech companies
Admissions:
#8. Liberty University Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Liberty University as the #8 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Lynchburg, VA | Type: Private | Tuition: $15,015/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 82.6
What makes Liberty University stand out: Liberty University is a private institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Microsoft and CompTIA, Liberty University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Liberty University offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lynchburg, VA, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); BS in Cybersecurity (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years)
Industry Partners: Microsoft, CompTIA
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Software Developer, Cybersecurity Specialist, Network Administrator
Admissions:
Accreditations: CompTIA Security+ pathway integrated into curriculum, Microsoft Azure certifications available
#9. Wake Technical Community College Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks Wake Technical Community College as the #9 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Raleigh, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,076/year | Score: 81.8
What makes Wake Technical Community College stand out: Wake Technical Community College is a public institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Program Overview: Wake Technical Community College offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Raleigh, NC, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Systems (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: Microsoft, CompTIA, AWS, Cisco, Cybersecurity
#10. University of the People Associate's Information Systems Program
Hakia ranks University of the People as the #10 associate's in information systems degree program. Location: Pasadena, CA | Type: Private | Score: 81.8
What makes University of the People stand out: University of the People is a private institution known for information systems education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Pasadena, CA location
Program Overview: University of the People offers an associate degree program in information systems designed for students seeking entry into the information systems field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Pasadena, CA, the program provides foundational skills in information systems with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Systems (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Full Information Systems 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% | 95.1 |
| 3 | Montgomery College | Rockville, MD | Public | $8,190 | — | 87.7 |
| 4 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | Public | $6,930 | 98% | 87.4 |
| 5 | Arapahoe Community College | Littleton, CO | Public | $3,940 | 78% | 85.6 |
| 6 | Ivy Tech Community College | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $4,912 | — | 83.3 |
| 7 | Houston Community College | Houston, TX | Public | $2,904 | 86% | 83.3 |
| 8 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | Private | $15,015 | 78% | 82.6 |
| 9 | Wake Technical Community College | Raleigh, NC | Public | $2,076 | — | 81.8 |
| 10 | University of the People | Pasadena, CA | Private | $0 | — | 81.8 |
| 11 | Collin County Community College District | McKinney, TX | Public | $3,450 | 89% | 81.5 |
| 12 | University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College | Blue Ash, OH | Public | $6,161 | 97% | 81.4 |
| 13 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | 81.3 |
| 14 | Austin Community College District | Austin, TX | Public | $2,010 | — | 80.5 |
| 15 | CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College | New York, NY | Public | $4,800 | — | 80.1 |
| 16 | Lone Star College System | The Woodlands, TX | Public | $5,544 | — | 80 |
| 17 | Prince George's Community College | Largo, MD | Public | $5,016 | — | 80 |
| 18 | Victor Valley College | Victorville, CA | Public | $1,402 | — | 79.6 |
| 19 | Fullerton College | Fullerton, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 79.6 |
| 20 | Chabot College | Hayward, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 79.6 |
| 21 | Mission College | Santa Clara, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 79.3 |
| 22 | Imperial Valley College | Imperial, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 79.2 |
| 23 | Mt San Jacinto Community College District | San Jacinto, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 79 |
| 24 | Diablo Valley College | Pleasant Hill, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 79 |
| 25 | Long Beach City College | Long Beach, CA | Public | $1,472 | — | 78.9 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Transfer Pathways to Bachelor's Programs
Transfer pathways are critical for associate's degree students. According to NCES, about 34% of first-time community college students transfer to another institution within 150% of normal completion time.
Preparation is Key: Success in transfer requires strong foundations and careful planning. 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. Use ASSIST.org to verify course-by-course transfer equivalencies.
- Washington: Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) programs provide guaranteed pathways to state universities.
- North Carolina: The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement ensures seamless credit transfer to UNC System schools.
- Texas: The Texas Common Course Numbering System facilitates transfer between community colleges and state universities.
Key to Success: Research from PPIC shows successful transfer students share common traits: they start planning early, attend colleges with strong transfer partnerships, and choose universities with robust support services for transfer students.
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 Technology Programs
- Smaller class sizes: Community college classes average 25-35 students, compared to 100+ in university introductory courses (Community College Review)
- Industry-connected instructors: Many 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
Information Systems 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 Information Systems Courses
- Systems Analysis
- Database Management
- Business Process Design
- Project Management
- Enterprise Systems
- IT Strategy
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 with asynchronous courses—many community colleges now offer 100% online associate's degrees
- Hybrid programs: Mix of online coursework and in-person labs—ideal for hands-on technical practice
- Accelerated tracks: Complete in 18 months with year-round enrollment at schools offering quarterly or trimester calendars
- 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.
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 vendor-specific 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 Information Systems Associate's Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in California | 11 | $14,400 | California Institute of Technology |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Texas | 40 | $8,300 | University of Houston |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in New York | 30 | $7,100 | Syracuse University |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Florida | 21 | $12,200 | University of South Florida |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Virginia | 14 | $13,700 | Virginia Commonwealth University |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Pennsylvania | 41 | $14,700 | Pennsylvania State University |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Maryland | 14 | $9,200 | University of Maryland |
| Best Information Systems Associate's Programs in Illinois | 19 | $35,700 | University of Illinois Urbana |
Data Analytics Career Track
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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 Information Systems 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.