Information Systems Associate Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Career Karma

An information systems associate degree is a two-year undergraduate program that focuses on using analysis, design, programming language, testing, and development techniques to bridge the gap between the digital world and the business world.

For those with an interest in the field, this article will fill you in on information systems associate degree requirements and the best colleges to pursue this career path. We’ll also discuss common jobs you can land with this type of degree and their median salary. Let’s dive in.

What Is Information Systems?

Information systems is a formal integrated set of components for collecting, storing, and processing data, and distributing information from a socio-technical perspective. Information systems is made up of four main components, namely task, people, structure, and technology.

What Is An Information Systems Associate Degree?

An information systems associate degree is an undergraduate degree that provides a path to a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree takes approximately two to three years to complete, with the degree in information systems offering classes on creating websites, creating and managing databases, understanding computer networking, coding, and more.

Information Systems Associate Degree Requirements

Students who want to pursue an associate degree in information systems should have a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a GED, and any school transcripts from previously attended colleges.

While some prestigious institutions might choose only candidates with a 3.0 GPA or better, most schools require standardized test scores through an assessment exam such as the ACT or SAT, or the completion of alternative college placement.

How Much Does an Information Systems Associate Degree Cost?

The cost of associate degrees varies according to the type of institution. Public institutions run about $11,069, while private institutions charge around. $26,749. Non-profit schools cost approximately $28,425, and for-profit schools, $24,960.

Information Systems Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Information Systems Degree

Students might be eligible for federal financial aid options as long as the on-campus or online university is accredited. Students can fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid application (FAFSA) to see if they qualify to receive federal aid or loans.

Best Information Systems Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Information Systems: Top Information Systems Associate Degree Programs

In this section, we expand on the above list and give more detailed information on the above schools and the associate programs they offer.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Anne Arundel Community College

The Anne Arundel Community College computer information systems associate degree offers students a solid computer background and hands-on experience in solving business problems using technology. This degree covers fundamental concepts like computer networking, information systems, and cyber essentials.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Borough of Manhattan Community College

The Associate Applied Science in Computer Information Systems at the Borough of Manhattan Community College concentrates on the application of computer technologies in a business environment. It has an emphasis on the design of business information systems.

Computer Information System | Community College of Baltimore County

The Computer Information Systems program at the Baltimore Community College County lays more emphasis on business computer program design and development. It offers students a chance to gain practical experience in networking and programming applications using various system applications such as UNIX.

Associate of Science in Information Technology | Keiser University

The information technology associate degree program offered by Keiser University focuses on developing skills within the realms of software engineering, network engineering, and technology management.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology | Metropolitan Community College

This program at the Metropolitan Community College fully prepares students for entry-level programming jobs. It also helps students transfer seamlessly to several 4-year Nebraska universities. Classes include Java programming, networking essentials, web page creation, and more.

Associate of Science in Information Technology | Northern Virginia Community College

Northern Virginia Community College enables students to gain strong technical knowledge in core areas of information systems with an emphasis in computer programming, database, operating systems, computer networking, network security, system analysis, and project management.

Associate of Science in Computer Sciences and Information Systems | Salt Lake Community College

The Computer Sciences and Information Systems associate degree program equips students with workspace skills in highly technical areas such as business and science computing, computer science fundamentals, and database information systems and technology.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems | Tompkins Cortland Community College

The Computer Information Systems program at the Tompkins Cortland Community College features coursework in several programming languages. It also educates students in systems analysis, network design, software applications, introduction to databases and database design, and more.

Associate of Arts in Information Technology | University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix’s Information Technology degree offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with the needed skills and knowledge required to succeed in technology-related roles. These include help desk technician, technology trainer, cybersecurity expert, and more.

Associate of Applied Science in Data Science and Programming Support Services | Wake Technical Community College

This is a flexible degree program designed to include computer systems terminology and operations, logic, operating systems, database, and introduction to networking. It also covers other business-related topics.

Best Online Information Systems Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Information Systems: Top Online Information Systems Associate Degree Programs

Keep reading to find out more details about the online information systems associate degree programs listed above.

Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems | Alexandria Technical & Community College

This computer information systems associate degree is built around 30 technical credits that involve hardware, database and spreadsheet applications, and Windows. The program is most useful for those who wish to transfer credit hours to a 4-year university.

Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems | Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology’s computer information systems program provides online students with a solid foundation of technical skills, business knowledge, and computing technologies. It offers comprehensive coverage of concepts, theories, and practices in this field.

Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology | Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan’s program teaches students to design and manage information systems and sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This degree also provides an overview of many of the areas in which computer information technology is most often applied, including accounting, database development, marketing, business and management, and communication.

Associate of Science in Information Technology | Keiser University

Keiser University’s associate of science degree in information technology teaches students core courses that cover web systems, principles of information security, networking, and more. It offers quality education in the field and the chance to earn credit hours to put towards more advanced technology programs.

Associate of Arts in Information Systems | Liberty University

Liberty University’s online Associate Degree in Information Systems teaches students how to launch a rewarding career as an information systems professional. Throughout the program, students learn how to efficiently manage both people and computer systems to achieve business goals.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology | Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Minnesota State Community and Technical College’s associate degree in information technology teaches students core courses that cover network security, IT essentials, microcomputer operating systems, and more.

Associate of Science in Information Sciences and Technology | PennState World Campus

This online associate degree includes extensive practice using contemporary technologies in the creation, organization, and storage of information. Students with this degree can look forward to great job opportunities as application programmers, associate systems designers, network administration, web designers, or information systems support specialists.

Associate of Science in Information Technologies | Southern New Hemisphere University

An online associate degree from Southern New Hemisphere University will help students gain real-world experience and skills they need to bridge the gap between IT and business. Courses include topics such as computer networks and IT operations.

Associate of Science in Information Technology | UMass Online

This associate program’s online courses provide a comprehensive introduction to the field of information technology. The degree allows students to customize the focus of their studies on a particular area that interests them such as fundamental programming concepts, networking, database management, website design, multimedia, and more.

Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems | University of Maine

The online program offers important courses that provide hands-on application in hardware and operating systems, networking and security, systems analysis, database design, applications development, or web design and development. Students can select from more than 20 information technology electives that are specifically designed to help further their career goals.

What’s the Average Information Systems Associate Degree Salary?

Now that you know the various associate degree programs and have decided that making a career with a degree in information systems is what you would like to do, let’s look at the various career opportunities and average salary you can expect with your degree.

Top Information Systems Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Information Systems Associate Degree Jobs Explained

Computer Programmers

• Average Salary: $89,190
• Job Outlook: Employment of computer programmers is projected to decline 10 percent from 2020 to 2030.
• Number of Jobs: 185,700
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, Washington DC, California

Computer programmers use their expertise in various programming languages to create code that allows software and applications to function properly. They are also capable of testing existing code in order to improve it or eliminate errors. They work collaboratively with experts in tech in a variety of fields.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

• Average Salary: $84,810
• Job Outlook: Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to decrease by 8 percent from 2020 to 2030.
• Number of Jobs: 350,300
• Highest-Paying States: Texas, California, New York

Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for designing, installing maintaining, and upgrading communications systems within an organization. They need to have a strong understanding of network security in order to maintain data integrity and safety.

Web Developers and Digital Designers

• Average Salary: $77,200
• Job Outlook: Employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
• Number of Jobs: 199,400
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Georgia

Web developers and digital designers use their expertise to create websites, keep them updated, and improve their speed and capacity. They might focus on the backend and work on the structure that lies behind the scenes, or work in the front end and ensure the design and user experience are optimal.

Computer Support Specialist

• Average Salary: $55,510
• Job Outlook: Employment of computer support specialists, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• Number of Jobs: 844,600
• Highest-Paying States: California, Texas, Florida

Computer support specialists might work for an organization or offer their services to clients independently. They are tasked with providing technical support and helping clients or members of their organizations deal with common tech issues.

Customer Service Representative

• Average Salary: $35,830
• Job Outlook: Employment of customer service representatives is projected to decline 1 percent from 2019 to 2029.
• Number of Jobs: 607,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, Virginia, New York

A customer service representative deals directly with customers. They provide support, answer questions, and take care of complaints. They are also tasked with offering potential customers information about an organization’s services or products.

Information Systems Bootcamp vs Information Systems Associate Degree: Which Is Better?

An information systems associate degree provides the necessary skills needed for an information systems student. A coding bootcamp is a short-term intensive program that teaches students job-ready skills. Potential students who wish to quickly obtain necessary information systems skills will likely prefer a bootcamp, as an associate degree takes 2-3 years to complete.

A coding bootcamp is worth it if you’re looking to zero in on a specific skill, but if you desire a longer-term plan that provides you transfer options for higher education and a well-rounded array of core classes to boot, an associate degree might be a better fit.

Benefits of an Information Systems Associate Degree

• It takes less time than a bachelor’s degree: An associate degree does not take too long to complete (2-3 years).
• It offers flexible learning: There is a lot of flexibility when pursuing an information systems associate degree because of its popularity in most online and on-campus universities and colleges.
• It has simpler requirements: Unlike a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree does not have as many education requirements for acceptance into the college.
• It provides better job opportunities: The associate degree provides an edge over someone who does not have a degree. With an Associate Degree in Information Systems, it is easier to land a job in this field.

Benefits of an Information Systems Bootcamp

• It provides practical training: Bootcamp students have a chance to implement the theory they learn through practical exercises and projects.
• It offers relevant training: A bootcamp curriculum offers in-demand skills that students can use to break into tech immediately while gaining awareness of current and future tech trends.
• They are open to all types of students: Bootcamps welcome students from all walks of life, regardless of their background, age, or prior experience in tech. They help equip the masses with basic computer information systems knowledge.
• Offers great career opportunities: Bootcamps allow students to land a role in tech without the need for undergraduate studies, opening the door to limitless opportunities in the information technology field.

Should You Get an Associate Degree in Information Systems?

Yes, you should. An associate degree is cheaper and takes less time to complete than a baccalaureate degree. If you love information systems, want to make a career of it but don’t have much time on your hands, and need something flexible and fast, you should consider pursuing an associate degree in information systems.

Information Systems Associate Degree FAQ

The post Information Systems Associate Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries appeared first on Career Karma.

Source link

Segba Eseoghene Keva Laya

#Information #Systems #Associate #Degrees #Programs #Jobs #Salaries