Associates Degree in Computer Science Jobs: Entry Level Opportunities and Salary Information
Earning an associate degree in computer science can be a great way to break into the technology industry. Many entry-level positions in computer science require only an associate degree, making it an accessible option for those who do not want to invest four or more years in a bachelor’s degree program. This article will explore the entry-level job opportunities available to those with an associate degree in computer science and provide information on salary expectations.
Entry-Level Jobs for Associate Degree in Computer Science
There are many entry-level jobs in computer science that require only an associate degree. These positions include computer support specialist, network and computer systems administrator, and web developer.
Computer support specialists are responsible for providing technical support to computer users. They may work in-house for a company or organization or provide support services to clients as an external consultant. A computer support specialist may troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, install and configure software and hardware, and provide training to users.
Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for maintaining an organization’s computer network. They may be responsible for installing and configuring network equipment, monitoring network performance, and troubleshooting technical issues.
Web developers are responsible for creating and maintaining websites. They may work for a company or organization or provide services as a freelance web developer. A web developer may design and develop a website from scratch or work on updating and maintaining an existing site.
Other entry-level positions in computer science may include database administrator, software developer, and IT project coordinator.
Can I Get a Job with an Associate Degree in Computer Science?
Yes, you can definitely get a job with an associate degree in computer science. While many positions in the tech industry require a bachelor’s degree or higher, there are plenty of entry-level opportunities available to those with an associate degree.
In addition to the positions listed above, other entry-level jobs may include computer programmer, information security analyst, and computer systems analyst.
It is worth noting that having certifications in addition to your associate degree can help you stand out in the job market. For example, a certification in a specific
programming language or software tool can demonstrate your proficiency in that area and make you a more desirable candidate for certain positions.
Computer Science Associate Degree Jobs Salary
The salary you can expect to earn with an associate degree in computer science will vary depending on the position and location. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer support specialists was $54,760 in May 2020. The median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $84,810, and the median annual wage for web developers was $77,200.
It is important to keep in mind that these are median wages, meaning that half of all workers in these positions earned more than the median and half earned less.
Factors that can affect your salary include your level of experience, the industry you work in, and the geographic location of your job.
Conclusion
An associate degree in computer science can open up many opportunities for entry- level positions in the tech industry. Positions such as computer support specialist, network and computer systems administrator, and web developer are just a few examples of jobs that can be obtained with an associate degree. While the salaries for these positions vary depending on the specific job and location, they offer a competitive salary for an entry-level position. By continuing to gain experience and earning certifications, individuals with an associate degree in computer science can advance their careers and potentially earn higher salaries in the future.
