Guide to Online Associate's Degrees in Computer Programming

Take a look at the code below, and see if you can figure out what it means:

sub radixSort{ my @A = @_; my $d = length($A[0]); for (my $pos = $d - 1; $pos >= 0; $pos--) { @A = sort  sortFunction($pos) @A; displayArray($pos, @A); }}

Give up? This code is written in Perl, and its function is to sort things like integers. Believe it or not but to people with a computer programming associate degree, all those lines of letters and symbols actually mean something. They can take one look at it and know what it’s for, and know if there is something out of place that’s preventing the program from running correctly.

When most people see code it’s like trying to read Latin; it doesn’t make any sense. But skilled programmers know how to read code, and in turn use that code to create computer programs that make our world an easier, more pleasant place to live and work. Computer programmers are responsible for writing all the instructions that a machine must follow in order to do something. It’s a detail-oriented, demanding career, but one that’s fun and interesting for people who love computers.

If you’re at all interested in computers then getting an associate degree in computer programming would be a great step for you. It’s a well-paid field because just about everyone uses computer programs, so once you’re in job security is pretty high.

So, we’ll hit you with the bad news first. The field of computer programming is slowing a bit right now. Competition is fierce due to limited openings, so you need to know what you’re doing if you want to make a career in this. Most employers prefer candidates to have at least a Bachelor’s in this field, so while getting a computer programming associate degree is a smart first step, you will probably want to continue onward with your education if you want to do well.

The good news is just what we mentioned earlier: computer programmers make great money. The average income, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, is around $64,000. Programmers work for a variety of companies including Microsoft, Google, and Sun Microsystems, but also in places you might not expect, like smaller start-ups. They get to work solo as well as on teams, and much of the time their work is fun and challenging.

If you decide to pursue a computer programming associate degree you’ll get to learn all about different programming languages, algorithms, networking, SQL concepts, operating systems, database management, and much, much more. It’s a field that offers a fascinating inside look on how the programs we use everyday really work.

People that excel in this field are very detail-oriented. One comma out of place in your code and the whole program won’t work right! You definitely need patience, and a strong love of the field.

If this sounds like you, however, then you might want to look at getting your associate degree in computer programming. Yes, it’s challenging and competitive, but once you’re in you’re well rewarded for all your hard work!

Guide to Online Associates Degree Programs

Associate degree holders generally have better job prospects than those with only a high school diploma. Earning an associate degree usually takes two years, and doing so in at an online school can be much more convenient than at a traditional campus. Below are the top accredited online schools offering associate degrees in the US.

	With one of the largest offerings of accredited online associate degrees, Post University is consistently highly rated by its students because of its flexibility and affordability. All associate degrees offered are fully accredited. Post was founded in 1890 and has been providing highly-rated degree programs to students ever since with an emphasis on practicality and application. Read full school profile » Request Information
	The University of Phoenix was one of the first accredited colleges to offer online degrees. Today, it has grown to become one of the nation's largest universities through its online division and campuses coast to coast. They remain one of the top choices for students looking for an associates degree online because of the broad array of choice and affordability they offer students. Read full school profile » Request Information
	With perhaps the largest number of online associates degrees offered, Kaplan University's degrees are fully accredited, affordable, and offer a flexibility that many other online schools cannot match. This unrivaled selection spans several industries, hundreds of specializations, and all degree levels of education, empowering students to choose their own path to a career. Read full school profile » Request Information
	One of the nation's leading Christian universities, Liberty offers a broad range of accredited associate degrees online. Their incorporation of moral and ethical considerations into study make them a popular choice for students seeking a well-rounded education built on academic integrity. Established in 1985, Liberty University has one of the longest-standing online education programs in the country. Read full school profile » Request Information
	The online associates degrees at Everest University can be completed in under 2 years, making this a great way for students to quickly works towards their life goals. An associates degree can give you a jump-start on your career and open opportunities around every corner. Many of the programs help students pursue positions in ever-growing fields. Read full school profile » Request Information
	Virginia College offers a wide range of accredited associates programs. VC takes several steps in helping students pays for college by offering financial aid to those who qualify, including textbooks in the tuition cost, and providing online programs that can be completed under two (2) years, giving students a quick way to jump start their careers. Read full school profile » Request Information
	DeVry University is a highly-regarded leader in education with campuses across the nation and several online degrees available. DeVry focuses on providing degrees centered in the technology industry or fields that require a broad understanding and need for technical skills. DeVry has several highly popular degrees like Accounting, Web Graphic Design, Health IT, and Network Systems Administration. Read full school profile » Request Information
	Strayer University has over the last decade become one of the most respected schools offering accredited online associate degrees. Their strong reputation among employers, broad course offerings, and over one hundred years in education make them consistently a top choice for students. Strayer has over 85 campuses and 60,000 students currently attending online or at one of its campuses. Read full school profile » Request Information