Why Earn a Computer Electronics Associate Degree?
Computers are everywhere. Millions of people use computer technology every day, for work and for play. For students interested in how and why computers work, a computer electronics associate degree can be an important step towards a rewarding and challenging career. Students who complete an associate's degree in computer electronics are able to pursue a variety of high-tech careers as well as continuing their education in an undergraduate program if desired.
Career Possibilities
Job Outlook and Growth
Graduates of a computer electronics associate degree program can pursue careers such as computer repair technicians, software development, support technician, database administrator, network administrator, and more. The US Department of Labor, www.bls.gov, predicts that the demand for technologically savvy employees will remain strong over the next ten years. Businesses in all industries will begin to adopt new technologies as a means for streamlining their operations. Potential employees who have a strong background in computer electronics and other cutting edge technologies will be in high demand as well.
Salary Information
PayScale.Com, www.payscale.com, reports that a network support technician (one of many careers available to graduates of a computer electronics associate degree program) can earn anywhere from $35,000 to over $47,000 per year depending on experience. Computer support technicians can expect salaries starting at around $30,000 per year. Most positions related to advanced applications of computer technology offer high salaries and opportunities for advancement to skilled, educated, and qualified employees.
Degree Specifics
Required Courses
Students enrolling in a computer electronics associate degree program desire to work in the field of electronics and computer technology. Some programs prepare students to sit for EIA -Certified Electronics Associate and ISCET -- Certified Electronics Technician certification exams. Typical coursework may include the following:
- Computer Programming Languages
- Network Protocols and Security
- Microprocessor Design
- Operating System Programming
- Logic and Circuitry
- Introductory Electronics
- Algebra, Calculus, and Statistics
- Database Programming and Administration
- Computer Hardware Design
Skills Learned
Students learn their skills through a combination of laboratory and classroom instruction and an internship. They will have the skills to maintain, troubleshoot and install system components and microprocessors. Specific skills learned in a computer electronics associate degree program may include:
- Ability to design and build a simple microprocessor
- Design and implement a wired or wireless computer network with adequate security
- Create computer programs in the most common languages and quickly adapt to new languages and technologies
- Understand the roles that computers and other modern technologies hold in the modern business environment.
- Study and analyze a circuit diagram
- Apply mathematical principles to real world computer problems
