Is an associates degree in computer information systems worth it

GetEducated compared 50 online computer information systems associate degrees from 48 regionally accredited schools to create this “Best Buy” ranking. These rankings reveal the most affordable options in the United States—31 options for a computer information systems associate degree online at a reasonable and accessible price.

ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide

Average Cost (In-state): ~$14,500
Least Expensive: Palomar College ~ $2,864
Most Expensive: Davenport University ~ $50,240

Our data-driven research creates a truly reliable system of scientific rankings. There are no fancy formulas here. We meticulously calculate total full-time tuition—including any fees—for the most accurate total cost. Our rankings cannot be bought, and therefore factually showcase the cheapest computer information systems associate degree online. The online CIS degrees listed above the gray dividing line are official 2020 “Best Buys” and cost less than the national average.

Most Affordable Computer Information Systems Associate Degree Online

NOTE: The following schools did not make our Best Buy ranking but are also great online options.

14   Program is no longer accepting new students.

Accreditation Note

To qualify for a ranking, a program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table.

17   Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Rankings Note

These online college rankings are based on a GetEducated Fall 2020 review of regionally accredited computer information systems associate degree online options. Associate ranks include Associate of Science, Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees from both 4 & 2 year schools. AS & AA are typically best for transfer, while the AAS degree is career-oriented. Total cost includes full-time tuition and fees and was valid at the time of collection and specific to the online learning program. School profiles for the online associate degree programs in our directory may reflect a slightly different cost based on different editorial update schedules.

The published cost is an estimated sticker price for the entire online degree including fees. Actual costs may vary by student. Factors such as transfer credits, prerequisite courses, professional licensing and financial aid availability will affect final cost.

Editorial Note

Online schools do NOT pay to be included in any GetEducated online degree ranking. These rankings are editorially independent, open to any regionally accredited or candidate college that offers an associate degree that is available at least 80 percent through online learning and that is open to enrollment by the public. If your online college is regionally accredited and not currently reviewed by GetEducated, please contact us for inclusion.

These rankings of the cheapest online schools for computer science may NOT be re-posted online or reprinted in any format without a license from GetEducated ®. Consumer finance bloggers and writers can contact our editors for a free custom article on the best computer information systems associate degree online for use on your website. Our mission: Help consumers GetEducated ® about the best online colleges for cost and credibility.

CIS Associate Degree Career Guide

A computer information systems associate degree online can help you launch an exciting career working for some of the top companies on the planet. By learning how computer networks interact to spread information, increase efficiencies, and create better processes, you will be-come a viable candidate for many exciting jobs!

What to Expect in a Computer Information Systems Associate Degree Online?

A computer information systems associate degree online will give you a broad understanding of the latest hardware, software, and computer applications that are available to both consumers and businesses. The main focus however, as the name suggests, is how these computers work together. (The system!) It will teach you how one computer works hand-in-hand with another, and how different systems can be connected, revised, repaired, and enhanced.

With this degree, you can expect a variety of computer and system-related courses, including web development, systems analysis, and IT network concepts. Course may be titled “Introduction to Programing Using Visual Basics” or “IT Project Management.” The programs often include business and professional-development courses, which prepare you for working for companies (and with people) who use advanced computer networks.

For most programs, there will be a work-experience requirement, usually completed at the end of the final semester. This will give you the chance to join a real company and see how computer networks and systems are applied every day, helping you gain valuable knowledge that is highly desired by employers.

The amount of time required to complete online computer information systems associate degrees can vary, but in most cases it will take roughly two years of full time learning. If you take classes throughout the summer months, it can likely be completed faster, but part-time students may need three years or more to complete the program.

Best Careers in Computer Information Systems

Completing a computer information systems associate degree online will prepare you for a variety of careers, and many bring a strong income while providing the stability of a growing career field.

Computer Support Specialist

• Salary: $54,760
• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree
• Training/Experience: None
• Growth: 8%

Many computer systems are simple and easy to use. They have intuitive designs and controls that allow users to seamlessly flow through the functions. But others can be extremely complex. When users need guidance and clarification, they often turn to computer support specialists.

These tech-savvy specialists analyze, troubleshoot, and evaluate computer systems and network problems. The job usually includes listening to a customer’s issues, asking appropriate questions, then diagnosing the problem and trying to find a solution. The career often includes walking users to the solution.

Many employers will require a bachelor’s degree, but there are computer support specialist jobs available for people with only an associate’s degree, and post-secondary classes could even be enough for some positions.

Web Developer

• Salary: $73,670
• Education: Associate’s Degree
• Training/Experience: None
• Growth: 8%

Web developers are the brilliance behind the internet. They create all sorts of websites, including business, government, and personal sites, using their knowledge in programming to enhance the functionality and visual attractiveness of a specific site. They often work with graphics designers and other professionals to create the website’s layout and overall map-ping.

The skills learned during an online computer information systems associate degree can be directly applied to web development, although you may need additional classes in web programming, coding, and other site-based topics. But with only an associate’s degree and no prior experience, you can enter a career with median salaries over $73,000 and an expected growth of 8%!

Additional Requirements, Including Licensing & Exams

Most of the careers that come from a computer information systems associate degree online do not require licensing or exams. You simply don’t have to be certified or licensed to develop a network or connect a computer system. However, this career works in a rapidly-changing field, so constant education is often required.

Classes, seminars, and even continued formal education can help you stay on top of the career field while improving your skills and knowledge. New technologies are becoming a reality virtually every day, so staying at the forefront of the industry is essential for your long-term success.

Advanced education, such as a bachelor’s degree and graduate education, could also be extremely useful. This will make you a more attractive hire for companies, and could help propel you into advanced positions such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Chief Information Officer (CIO).