A.S. Computer Science
64
Credit Hours
69%
Max Transfer Credit
Class Type
100% online, 6 & 12-week courses
Next Start Date
Jan 6, 2025
Cost Per Credit

Develop your career with a computer science associate degree online

Technology is helping to solve problems and propel business toward the future. And behind every technology-based solution is a computer science professional helping to make it happen. Whether you take courses on-campus or earn an associate in computer science degree online, you'll learn to analyze business problems and leverage technology to solve them. In the end, you’ll be able to translate logic into programs to create software.

And because software permeates all aspects of business from manufacturing to marketing, demand for qualified software development professionals is high. Start a fast-paced career in a dynamic field and help solve real-world problems such as streamlining operations and creating a competitive edge using data structures, algorithms and design patterns.
 

Program Availability

On Site

Language-Independent Curriculum

Acquire the foundation that'll keep you relevant through technology changes.

Real-World Practitioners

Learn from experienced technology leaders.

100% Online Classes

Take classes that fit with your busy life.

Program Overview

Participate in the science of problem solving

With Franklin’s transfer-friendly A.S. Computer Science degree program, you’ll acquire a variety of in-demand skills, including object-oriented design, development and testing, database management and quality assurance. 

You’ll be introduced to the concepts and principles of software construction as you gain real-world experience with hands-on projects based on Java programming. 

In addition to foundational software development skills, you’ll gain a thorough working knowledge of advanced object oriented techniques, algorithm efficiency, design patterns and data structure so you can support the design, development and deployment of software, mobile applications and frameworks.

And because you’ll be exposed to best practices in software development, what you learn now will start you on a career today -- and carry you through to tomorrow. Plus, your A.S. Computer Science degree also sets you up for success if you decide to go on and earn your Computer Science bachelor’s degree here, too.

Earn your degree from a university built for busy adults

Earn your degree on your terms by taking classes 100% online. Accredited and nonprofit, Franklin was built from the ground-up to satisfy the needs of adult learners. Our seamless transfer process and team of academic advisors will help ease your transition to becoming a student, while our flexible course schedules help to balance your education with work, family, and life. Get started on your future today.

Read more >

Elliott H.

A.S. Computer Science '22

" Franklin offered me flexibility with its online courses. The practicum courses required for my degree provided me with a workflow of my field of study while building up my soft skills, which I appreciated."

Future Start Dates

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

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Your Best Value

Choose Franklin's A.S. Computer Science and get a high-quality degree that fits your life and your budget.  

Keep the Credit You've Earned

44
MAX TRANSFER HOURS

On average, students transfer in 2/3 of the credits required.

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98%
STUDENT SATISFACTION

98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.

Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023)

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Curriculum & Course Descriptions

64 Semester Hours
Fundamental General Education
English Composition
ENG 120 - College Writing (4)

In this course, students acquire the writing competencies necessary for completing analytical and argumentative papers supported by secondary research. A variety of assignments, beginning with personal reflections, build upon one another, as students develop ideas that respond to, critique, and synthesize the positions of others. Students systematize and organize knowledge in ways that will help them in all their courses. The course also emphasizes the elements of critical reading, effective writing style, appropriate grammar and mechanics, clarity of language, and logical and cohesive development. It culminates in submission of an extended, documented research paper.

Mathematics
MATH 160 - College Algebra (4)

This course is designed to prepare students for Applied Calculus and Discrete Mathematics and to provide the mathematical background needed for the analytic reasoning used in other courses. Topics include functions and their graphs, including exponential and logarithmic functions; complex numbers; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; basic principles of counting and probability; and other selected topics. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

AND

Take MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite and earn a minimum grade of “C". Course can count as a University elective.

Science

6 credits from the following types of courses:
Two courses from the Science discipline. One course must have a lab component.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

6 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology disciplines. Choose courses from two different disciplines to meet degree requirements.

Arts & Humanities
HUMN 211 - Introduction to Critical Ethics (2)

Critical Ethics uses critical thinking to get around the limitations of personal belief and indoctrination to get to what ought to be done and why to improve the human condition. Accordingly, the goal of this course is to help the student improve his/her ethical analysis and evaluation skills to help the student do the thing that must be done, when it ought to be done, using critical thinking.

AND

4 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Art, English Literature, Fine Arts, Humanities, Music, Philosophy, Religion or Theater disciplines.

Additional General Education
PF 121 - Basic Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferrable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for time management, goal setting, reading comprehension, and advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments.

OR PF 321 - Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments. The assignments and activities in the course are created to closely simulate teamwork found in the workplace.

AND

COMM 150 - Interpersonal Communication (4)

By using applied critical and creative thinking, students in this course will develop a set of communication skills that will enhance their personal and professional relationships and endeavors. This course will focus on skill development in key areas such as self, perception, listening, verbal messages, conversations, relationships, conflict management, persuasion, and presentation skills.

OR SPCH 100 - Speech Communication (4)

This basic public-speaking course intends to improve the student's ability to think critically and to communicate orally. Theory and practice are provided in various speaking situations. Each student is required to speak before an audience, but class work also involves reading, gathering and organizing information, writing, and listening.

AND

4 credits from the following types of courses:
Any General Education course at the 100 or 200 level

Major Area Required
COMP 111 - Introduction to Computer Science & Object-Oriented Programming (4)

This course provides an introduction to software construction using an object-oriented approach. The student learns and reflects on problem analysis, object-oriented design, implementation, and testing. To support the concepts and principles of software construction, the student will design, code, test, debug, and document programs using the Java programming language. Basic data types, control structures, methods, and classes are used as the building blocks for reusable software components. Automated unit testing, programming style, and industrial practice are emphasized in addition to the object-oriented techniques of abstraction, encapsulation, and composition. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

COMP 121 - Object-Oriented Data Structures & Algorithms I (4)

This course continues the objected-oriented approach to software construction. The student learns and reflects on advanced object-oriented techniques, algorithm efficiency, class hierarchies, and data structures. To support the concepts and principles of software construction, the student will design, code, test, debug, and document programs using the Java programming language. Design principles, I/O, exception handling, linear data structures (lists, stacks, and queues), and design patterns are emphasized in addition to the object-oriented techniques of inheritance and polymorphism. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

COMP 201 - Principles of Computer Organization (2)

This course is the first of four courses that holistically explore the structure of computational systems. This course deals with the nature of computer hardware. The course will cover the structure of current computer systems at the level of functional organization, representation of data and programs, the design of the memory hierarchy, and, the design of the I/O system. The course will introduce basic assembly language.

COMP 204 - Principles of Computer Networks (2)

This course serves as an introduction to the function, design, administration, and implementation of computer networks. Topics include network infrastructure, architecture, protocols, applications, and the OSI networking model. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

COMP 281 - Database Management Systems (4)

This course, Database Management Systems, covers the fundamental concepts necessary for the design, use, implementation, and administration of database systems. The course will stress the fundamentals of database modeling and design, the languages and facilities provided by database management systems, and some techniques for implementing and administering database systems.

COMP 294 - Computer Science Practicum I (2)

This is the first practicum course in the Computer Science program. It provides experience in an on-going software development project. A student at this level will be given an assignment in a team similar to that of a new hire in industry. The software development project will require the student to apply industry best practices in completing an assignment for the project.

COMP 101 - Problem Solving With Computing (2)

Many organizations today utilize computers and information systems to store, organize, analyze, and summarize data to solve problems. As a result, computing is a tool that can benefit students in many different fields. At the heart of solving problems with computers is the study of structured thinking using algorithms. This course is designed for students with no prior programming experience and teaches the building blocks of algorithms, including variables, expressions, selection and repetition structures, functions and parameters, and array processing.

CLOUD 200 - Cloud Fundamentals (2)

This course explores the concepts of cloud computing, including financial impacts and business value, financial requirements, deployment, risks, and security. Hands-on exercises help students to gain experience with cloud computing environments, identifying technical and security requirements for given deployment scenarios, implementing the proposed cloud deployment scenario, and troubleshooting technical issues of existing cloud computing scenarios.

CYSC 200 - Cybersecurity Fundamentals (2)

The Internet has changed dramatically; so have the activities that are dependent on it in some shape or form. Understanding the need for security, it's influence on people, businesses and society, as well as business drivers is critical. The course also covers malicious attacks, threats and vulnerabilities common to the world of security, as well as access controls, and methods to assess and respond to risks. Hands-on labs accompany the various concepts that are taught.

University Electives

4 credits from the following types of courses:
Any undergraduate courses offered by the University except developmental education courses.

Additional Requirements

All students are required to pass College Writing (ENG 120), and either Basic Learning Strategies (PF 121) or Learning Strategies (PF 321) prior to enrolling in any course at the 200 level or above. Students who enroll at Franklin with 30 or fewer hours of transfer credit are required to pass PF 121 Basic Learning Strategies in place of PF 321 Learning Strategies. Interpersonal Communication (COMM 150) or Speech Communication (SPCH 100) must be taken prior to enrolling in any course at the 300 level or above. Students must also meet the University algebra competency requirement.

A.S. Computer Science Program Details

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Employment Outlook

12%

From 2023-2033, jobs in Computer Science are expected to increase by 12%

Occupation Median Salary (2023) Job Postings (2023) Projected Growth (2023-2033)
Occupation
Computer and Information Research Scientists $145,080 8,719 26%
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Median Salary: $145,080
Job Postings: 8,719
Projected Growth: 26%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer and Information Research Scientists 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.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Computer Scientists3,41839%
Computational Scientists1,16713%
Research Computer Scientists99011%
Scientists7419%
Principal Scientists5516%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Computer Science3,58754%
Python (Programming Language)2,50338%
Machine Learning2,41537%
Artificial Intelligence1,98230%
Statistics1,51323%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Federal Government, Civilian32%
Computer Systems Design and Related Services21%
Scientific Research and Development Services15%
Software Publishers8%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)7%
Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services3%
Other15%
Computer Network Architects $129,834 105,281 8%
Computer Network Architects
Median Salary: $129,834
Job Postings: 105,281
Projected Growth: 8%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer Network Architects design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Network Engineers50,59048%
Automation Engineers12,00911%
Network Architects5,5665%
Network Analysts3,8294%
Network Systems Engineers2,8663%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Network Engineering41,61634%
Network Routing35,89930%
Automation32,99627%
Computer Science30,76725%
Firewall30,42125%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services25%
Wired and Wireless Telecommunications (except Satellite)12%
Management of Companies and Enterprises9%
Employment Services4%
Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services4%
Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services3%
Other43%
Information Security Analysts $120,370 63,767 31%
Information Security Analysts
Median Salary: $120,370
Job Postings: 63,767
Projected Growth: 31%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Information Security Analysts plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Cybersecurity Analysts10,49717%
Information Security Analysts9,45915%
Information Systems Security Officers12,36219%
IT Auditors4,6727%
Cybersecurity Specialists4,1477%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Cyber Security26,55049%
Auditing20,50838%
Vulnerability16,55930%
Computer Science14,76027%
Incident Response14,05826%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services22%
Management of Companies and Enterprises8%
Depository Credit Intermediation6%
Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services6%
Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Services6%
Scientific Research and Development Services4%
Other48%
Computer Systems Analysts $103,792 100,703 14%
Computer Systems Analysts
Median Salary: $103,792
Job Postings: 100,703
Projected Growth: 14%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer Systems Analysts 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.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Business Systems Analysts30,87931%
Systems Analysts19,86520%
Technical Business Analysts5,6336%
Technical Analysts4,2874%
Configuration Analysts5,1075%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Systems Analysis28,29622%
Project Management28,07522%
Computer Science27,47421%
SQL (Programming Language)24,88319%
Workflow Management21,66917%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services23%
Management of Companies and Enterprises11%
Insurance Carriers5%
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals4%
Depository Credit Intermediation4%
Employment Services4%
Other51%
Computer Programmers $99,715 36,884 -4%
Computer Programmers
Median Salary: $99,715
Job Postings: 36,884
Projected Growth: -4%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer Programmers 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.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Programmer Analysts11,25531%
Program Analysts4,59513%
Programmers5,75416%
Statistical Programmers2,5527%
Systems Programmers1,3094%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Computer Science9,63028%
SQL (Programming Language)8,53925%
Project Management5,45216%
Debugging4,40713%
Python (Programming Language)4,39013%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services33%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)7%
Software Publishers6%
State Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals5%
Scientific Research and Development Services4%
Management of Companies and Enterprises4%
Other42%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Network and Computer Systems Administrators install, configure, and maintain an organization’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Systems Administrators39,81139%
Network Administrators13,74014%
Linux System Administrators7,9068%
Windows Administrators5,5305%
Linux Administrators3,9144%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Operating Systems29,29232%
Linux28,68231%
System Administration23,75026%
Computer Science23,50625%
Active Directory21,48723%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services16%
Management of Companies and Enterprises7%
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals5%
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)4%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)4%
Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services3%
Other61%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer Network Support Specialists analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Network Technicians6,72739%
NOC Technicians1,75710%
Network Support Technicians1,1357%
Network Operations Technicians9576%
Network Operations Center Technicians8635%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Network Routing2,86525%
Network Switches2,84624%
Telecommunications2,38621%
Local Area Networks2,12018%
Computer Networks2,05818%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services20%
Wired and Wireless Telecommunications (except Satellite)8%
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)7%
Management of Companies and Enterprises6%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)5%
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals5%
Other50%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Computer User Support Specialists provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
IT Specialists25,04212%
Desktop Support Technicians20,44510%
IT Support Specialists16,9818%
Help Desk Technicians18,8929%
Help Desk Analysts15,4867%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Technical Support84,19531%
Help Desk Support79,70029%
Operating Systems60,62222%
Active Directory47,41817%
Computer Science46,49317%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Computer Systems Design and Related Services22%
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)6%
Employment Services5%
Management of Companies and Enterprises5%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)4%
Software Publishers4%
Other55%
Show More

Source: Employment Outlook data is provided by Lightcast. Franklin University cannot guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

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