Can You Get a Computer Science Degree in 2 Years?

A computer science degree offers a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Students explore various computer science concepts and learn how to apply what they've learned in real-world scenarios. Students build their knowledge of the following concepts:

• algorithms
• data structures
• programming languages
• operating systems
• computer networks
• software engineering
• information security
• machine learning

If you're eager to join the job market, earning a computer science degree quickly is likely on your agenda. But can you get a computer science degree fast — maybe in two years? You can earn a degree in computer science in two years by enrolling in an associate degree program.

Below, we'll examine how to earn a computer science degree in 24 months and explore the top two-year online programs.

Is It Possible To Earn a Computer Science Degree in Two Years?

Associate degrees allow students to complete their studies in two years. The curriculum of an associate degree in computer science teaches students the fundamentals of CS concepts like computer programming, web development, and software design. After graduating, students are ready for an entry-level job — or they can transfer to a four-year college.

A computer science bachelor's degree usually takes four years to complete. However, you can find accelerated computer science degree programs with shorter courses that help students finish their studies faster.

Some bachelor's programs are competency-based. Students take exams to prove their CS knowledge and complete coursework at their chosen pace. Many schools also let students transfer credits from associate programs to graduate in fewer than four years.

Master's degree programs in computer science are typically two-year programs for students who want to take on roles like IT manager or computer engineer. While bachelor's programs usually require 120 credits and delve deeper into CS concepts than associate programs, master's programs often require 30-50 credits and prepare students for leadership roles.

Now, you know how to earn a CS degree in two years. Next, we'll look at online computer science programs for students who want to finish their degree in this timeframe.

Two-Year Online Computer Science Degrees

Many schools offer online computer science associate programs you can finish in two years. Here are some of the best computer science programs for students who want to learn from the comfort of home.

Davenport University

Davenport University offers the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in computer information systems. This 60-credit online degree can be completed in two years. Computer science courses in this program explore computer systems, information systems, programming, and project management. During enrollment, students can qualify for certifications like CompTIA and Cisco Corporation.

Southern New Hampshire University

At Southern New Hampshire University, students can earn an Associate of Science (AS) in computer science. Courses explore Python, Java, and agile project management. Students in this program build their problem-solving skills for work settings. When finished, learners will be ready for roles as help desk technicians, app software developers, and computer programmers.

Finger Lakes Community College

Finger Lakes Community College is home to a 100% online AS in computer science program. Courses explore technical ethics and data structures. Students must also complete various CS electives. Some general education coursework in the program helps students complete the first two years of four-year CS and cybersecurity programs.

The college offers students access to internships to grow their knowledge in the field. Learners can also earn college credits for prior CS work, helping them finish their degrees sooner.

Rio Salado College

Rio Salado College is home to the AS degree with a CS emphasis. This program teaches students to write programming languages, construct software systems, and design software. Rio Salado College lets students take classes on a full-time or part-time basis. Most courses are offered online. After graduating, students will be ready for roles as computer network architects, computer programmers, and systems analysts.

South Texas College

Students who want a CS career can pursue an associate degree from South Texas College. This 100% online program explores data structures, assembly language, and programming basics. Students who complete this program can pursue a CS-related bachelor's degree from South Texas College. They can also use their AS degree to transfer to another four-year school.

Jamestown Community College

Jamestown Community College offers the AS in computer science. This two-year program is designed for students who want to transfer to four-year colleges. Coursework explores artificial intelligence, UX design, and more.

Alongside CS courses, students must complete math and natural science classes. They must also take English and other humanities courses. The program has earned high rankings as one of the most affordable online associate CS degrees.

Wallace State Community College

At Wallace State Community College, students can enroll in a computer science program that explores cloud computing, AI, data science, and more. The program awards an AS or AAS degree. Students can take courses online or choose day, evening, or hybrid courses. To enter this program, students must have a high school diploma or GED and meet general admission requirements (ex. GPA).

Career Paths for Computer Science Associate Degree Graduates

You can find various entry-level jobs in computer science after completing an associate degree. Employment for computer and information technology roles is expected to grow much faster than average from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual salary in May 2023 was also higher than average.

If you're eager to work in this field, check out some top career paths.

Computer Support Specialist

A computer support specialist helps maintain computer networks or offers computer users technical support. There are two types of computer support specialists: computer network support specialists and computer user support specialists.

Computer network support specialists:

• assess network issues
• assist with disaster recovery efforts
• perform regular network maintenance

Computer user support specialists:

• offer technical help to non-IT users
• set up and repair computers
• train users on new software and hardware

Computer support specialists find jobs in various settings. They could work for large software companies, or service support firms to help businesses manage IT issues. These experts might also work in call centers and help customers fix their computer problems.

Web Developer

Web developers create content and code for websites. They also measure website speeds and test how much traffic they can handle. Other duties include the following:

• design graphics and integrate them into the website
• create website menus and apps
• produce website and app mockups
• work with clients to determine website needs

Employers often accept a high school diploma or undergrad degree for web developers. Candidates should understand SQL, HTML, Flash, and more.

Systems Analyst

A computer systems analyst improves systems and procedures to help organizations operate efficiently. In their role, analysts might:

• run tests to make sure computer systems work properly
• work with managers to decide the role of an IT system
• research tech options to improve efficiency
• check costs to help decide which IT systems are best

According to the BLS, about one in four systems analysts work for computer systems design services. Finance and insurance are also top employers.