Develop in-demand programming and analysis skills with an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Computer Science. At San Juan College, you'll study programming languages, design, testing, and other computing skills.
Our two-year degree program gives you a strong foundation for this growing field. You'll be ready to transfer to a university to earn your bachelor's degree. Begin your journey to a career in computer science by studying at SJC.
Why Study Computer Science?
Technology powered by computers touches almost every aspect of our lives. From phone apps to game development, computer science plays a crucial role in many fields, such as:
- Data analysis
- Education
- Entertainment
- Finance
- Healthcare
- Software development
If you enjoy working with technology and solving problems, computer science may be the field for you. You'll learn to design new software applications, develop algorithms, perform data analysis, and more. This in-demand field commands high salaries and offers many job opportunities where you can use your creativity to help create the next generation of computer technology.
Transfer to a four-year university with a Computer Science AS. Once you earn your bachelor's degree, you'll have the knowledge and skills you need for an entry-level computer science career in various fields.
Why Earn an Associate Degree in Computer Science at San Juan College?
Ready for Research
San Juan College has partnered with the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) so you can gain real-world research experience. Our Computer Science AS graduates can easily transfer to New Mexico Tech and apply to the Research Experiences for Undergraduates – Emerging Issues in Cybersecurity program, funded by the National Science Foundation and a paid research position. Get experience for your future career by starting at SJC.
Choose an Affordable Option
With SJC's low tuition rates, earning your Computer Science AS is a smart investment. You'll take the same classes at SJC as you would at a four-year school but pay thousands of dollars less. You may also qualify for a tuition-free degree through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.
What You'll Learn in the Computer Science Associate Degree
Study programming and advanced mathematics in the Computer Science AS. You’ll also learn about problem analysis, design testing, and programming languages.
Courses covered in the Computer Science AS are:
- Computer Programming Fundamentals I and II
- Data Structures
- Java Programming
- Programming in Python
- Windows GUI Programming
You'll also take math courses:
- Algebra-based Physics or Calculus-based Physics
- Calculus II
- Discrete Mathematics
Computer Science AS Curriculum
Transfer Options for Computer Science AS
SJC's associate degree in computer science will prepare you to transfer to a four-year university. You can earn your bachelor's degree in computer science in just two more years.
Within New Mexico, the Computer Science AS best transfers to the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NM Tech). Some courses may transfer computer science or computer technology programs at other schools as electives.
Schools that you may consider transferring to include:
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Fort Lewis College
- Georgia Tech
- Northern Arizona University
- The University of New Mexico
- The University of Arizona
- University of Colorado - Colorado Springs
- University of Colorado - Denver
Meet with your advisor if you wish to transfer to pursue your bachelor's degree in computer science at any of the above institutions. You will need to coordinate your coursework at San Juan College with the transfer institution's requirements.
Learn More About the Transfer Process
Careers and Outcomes for Computer Science AS Graduates
Employees skilled in computer science are in great demand all over the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031. This is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Our computer science graduates transfer to four-year colleges and universities to complete their bachelor's degrees in computer science or a similar field. Because of the many applications of computer science, you can work in various industries:
- Cloud computing
- Cybersecurity
- Game development
- Investment
- Medical software
- Robotics
Graduates of our computer science program work for:
- City of Farmington
- Intel
- Las Alamos National Laboratory
- Sandia National Laboratories
Prerequisite Courses
Your student records and experience will determine your placement in SJC math courses. You may have to complete prerequisite math courses prior to taking the advanced math courses in the Computer AS program.
Students who place at the beginning of the math sequence, MATH-095 Pre-Algebra, will need to complete 11 additional credit hours of math courses to complete the degree requirements. The amount of additional credit hours depends on your placement.
Next Steps
To enroll in the Associate of Science in Computer Science, you must first apply to San Juan College. It's easy, and you can apply online at any time!
If you are already a student at San Juan College, talk to your advisor about our Associate of Science in Computer Science degree program.
