Computer Science Associate in Arts
Program Overview
As the name suggests, Computer Science is a more science-intensive program than CIS. In addition to courses in programming and applications, the program provides a thorough grounding in mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics. Computer scientists design technical programs, do research, create new technologies, develop operating systems, code device drivers, write specialized programming languages and implement complex applications in a variety of settings. Computer Science requires skills in mathematics and physics. Students must complete Calculus II and Physics with Calculus II before entering their junior year.
| Estimated tuition cost: | $7,093.20 |
| Program credits: | 60 |
| Estimated time to complete: | 2 years |
Program Details
This is a pathway program. The AA degree pathway is designed to prepare students to transfer to four-year institutions by providing them with the necessary general education credits and elective courses. Earning an Associate of Arts (AA) degree at MDC guarantees admission into one of the state's public universities where students can complete a bachelor's degree. An advisor will work with you to determine which elective courses will lay the best foundation for your selected major and continued studies.
See a complete course list
See a course sequence guide (2024)
See a course sequence guide (2025)
Career Prospects
Interested in this program of study? Learn more about South Florida's employment picture and explore career options when you pursue additional studies in this area.
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
8,328 Computer and Information Systems Managers are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to increase by 7.4% over the next four years.
Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
173 Computer and Information Scientists are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to increase by 15.6% over the next four years.
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
8,386 Computer Systems Analysts are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to increase by 4.9% over the next four years.
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
1,432 Computer Programmers are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to decrease by 0.4% over the next four years.
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
23,990 Software Developers are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to increase by 10.9% over the next four years.
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
2,729 Software QA Analysts and Testers are currently employed in a 50 mile radius from Miami. This number is expected to increase by 9.1% over the next four years.
Paying for College
An education at Miami Dade College is more affordable than you might think. Learn more about our tuition rates and see why more than 90 percent of our graduates finish their course of studies without incurring any student debt.
Apply for Financial Aid
Even if you are not sure you will be eligible for financial aid, you should apply because that's the only way to find out. Apply for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or go to MDC's financial aid page.
Scholarships
As an MDC student, you may be eligible for a number of scholarships, grants and awards that will help you pay for college. These are awards that you don’t have to pay back. Explore the options available to you on the Scholarships page.