60 credits
required for program
- Available online
- PSEO/Early college online classes
Timeframe
22–28 months
Discover an online computer science degree that gives you the foundational knowledge in computer systems and languages to develop software solutions. Prepare for quick entry into careers in IT, software development, and database administration.
Our online associate degree in computer science may be the right fit if you…
- Enjoy working with technology
- Have strong math and technical skills
- Value faith-infused curriculum that interlocks faith and purpose
- Appreciate an online format that fits your busy life
- Crave an interactive and supportive community
- Desire to transition into a 4-year program in the future
- Want the option to complete a collegiate degree while in high school
Why pursue an associate degree in computer science at Northwestern?
Our online computer science degree is intentionally designed to be both realistically attainable and undeniably valuable—providing you with quick entry into the job market.
As you pursue this online computer degree, you will grow in knowledge, experience, and unshakable ethics to navigate the innovative role of technology. Plus, receive training in the latest programming languages—including Python, Java, Structured Query Language (SQL), and Rivescript. You will also utilize multiple platforms—including PC-based platforms, cloud-based platforms, and virtual platforms.
Program Features
- Training in the latest programming languages, including Python, Java, Structured Query Language (SQL), and Rivescript
- Hands-on practical experience designing an app for a local business
- Expert faculty who are active technology professionals
- Faith-infused curriculum that interlocks faith and purpose
- Courses optimized for quality and user experience
Experience it all within a supportive Christian community to encourage you as you live out your calling.
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PSEO Pathway to an Associates
The Associate of Science in Computer Science is a flexible program for our PSEO and Early College Students. Once accepted into the PSEO or Early College programs, students interested in an Associate’s degree will be assisted by the Admissions office in creating an application for a future term, usually after high school graduation. Admissions and advising will work together to ensure students either:
- Graduate from high school with the A.S. degree completed, or
- Prepare to enter the program after completing PSEO.
Admitted PSEO students who express interest in the Associate’s degree will be referred to an advisor. Each semester, the advisor helps create a personalized academic plan and tracks the student’s progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about earning an online computer science degree? Check out a few of our most frequently asked questions!
Definitely. We know it can be nerve-wracking to take the next step toward your goals, especially as you consider how pursuing a degree will fit into your busy life.
That’s why we’ve created a value-packed online computer science degree that provides a manageable workload for a busy adult. Experience flexible education and student-friendly courses all within a convenient online format—so you can complete coursework when it’s convenient for you.
Yes! It is a top priority to make quality education affordable so that you can ignite your calling right here at UNW. You can expect competitive tuition that’s actually less than many private and state undergraduate programs.
More than our commitment to an affordable education, though, is our commitment to a valuable one. Invest in an education at UNW that offers faith-infused learning, a highly interactive online community, courses taught by actively practicing faculty, and student-friendly course design.
Click here to learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Absolutely. We believe students of all ages thrive in a learning environment where they feel known, supported, and encouraged. Our online computer science degree, steeped in faith-infused principles, offers access to free tutoring and coaching resources, personal academic advising, and — of course — our highly interactive virtual community.
We recognize that faith often plays a central role in professional life. Our online courses explore a variety of skills as they apply to the field of computer science from a faith-infused perspective. Not only will you be equipped with real-world knowledge, you’ll learn how to use it to exemplify Christ in your daily professional responsibilities.
One of the unique pieces of our AS in Computer Science program is the emphasis on ethics and a Christian Worldview. Throughout the program, students will be presented with ethical dilemmas as they’re developing code. These scenarios challenge students to think about how to safeguard their work from being used with ill intent and ensure it truly enhances people’s lives.
What will I learn?
As you pursue an online computer science degree at UNW, you will learn to program computers, think critically, and utilize industry-standard programming languages and platforms. Dive into this practical associate degree that will prepare you to be a successful computer science professional in a variety of fields.pyt
COS 2005
Python Programming
This course uses a popular computer language for the development of many types of computer applications. Topics include program design, program structure, debugging programs, computer language syntax, computer commands, assignments and expressions, system inputs and outputs, variables, data types, loops and structured control. The course continues with additional topics such as object types, numerical types, strings, lists, using files, data analysis, functions, scope of variables, arguments, modules, object-oriented programming, exceptions, and developing larger applications for data analysis.
CYS 3065
Systems Analysis and Design
This course presents an overview of the systems-development life cycle with emphasis on the analysis and design phases of software development. The student learns to use one of the popular analysis and design methodologies and a software tool supporting the methodology.
COS 3272
Programming II – Mobile Application Development
This course focuses on the development of applications on mobile platforms. Emphasis is placed on the development of applications for current and emerging mobile computing devices. Students include the following factors into their development projects: platform capabilities, user characteristics and networking infrastructure. The course concludes with development of a major application for an off-campus organization.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the Department of Computing, Analytics, & Mathematics
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our computer science faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your knowledge, skills, and faith while you earn your degree.
Study under professors in our computer science program who not only have decades of past experience, but who are actively practicing in their fields on a daily basis. This means you will have the opportunity to learn about potential real-world challenges (and their solutions), explore industry-specific ethical dilemmas, and visualize how coursework applies to a professional career.
