A.S. Computer Science
64
Credit Hours
69%
Max Transfer Credit
Class Type
100% online, 6 & 12-week courses
Next Start Date
Sep 25, 2023
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

Earn your degree around your schedule.

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 >

Future Start Date

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.

Fall 2023
September
25
Recommended Register By:
Sep 15
Fall 2023
November
6
Recommended Register By:
Oct 27
Spring 2024
January
8
Recommended Register By:
Dec 29
Spring 2024
February
19
Recommended Register By:
Feb 9
Spring 2024
April
1
Recommended Register By:
Mar 22
Summer 2024
May
20
Recommended Register By:
May 10
Summer 2024
July
1
Recommended Register By:
Jun 21
Fall 2024
August
19
Recommended Register By:
Aug 9
Fall 2024
September
30
Recommended Register By:
Sep 20
Fall 2024
November
11
Recommended Register By:
Nov 1

Curriculum & Course Descriptions

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

In this course, students acquire the writing competence necessary for conducting and presenting 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 of their courses. The course also emphasizes the elements of good writing style, appropriate grammar and mechanics, clarity of language, and logical and cohesive development. It culminates in submission of a 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).

Choose MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite. 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.

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 introduces students to the Franklin University community and provides strategies for successful transition to and participation in that community. Topics include University resources and procedures, strategies for advancing communication skills, the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments, and the development of an academic and career plan.

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 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.

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 public speaking.

OR SPCH 100 - Speech Communication (4)

This public-speaking course emphasizes the fundamentals of extemporaneous speaking. Skill-building activities and assignments focus on research, organization, reasoning, style and delivery of presentations as well as listening and audience engagement.

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 object-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 one 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. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

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 covers 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. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

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.

ISEC 200 - Cyber Security 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.

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. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

ITEC 205 - 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.

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.

Program Details

Request Free Information!

Want to learn more about Franklin University? Complete the simple form - it just takes a minute!

  • Invest in yourself by finishing your degree.

  • Take advantage of flexible courses that fit your busy schedule.

  • Finish faster. Save more. Franklin fits your life.

  • Get in-demand knowledge that helps Franklin grads stand out with top employers.

Request Information

In submitting my contact information, I understand that I will receive phone calls, text messages and email about attending Franklin University. I may opt out of these communications at any time.

Your privacy is important to us. Privacy Policy
Loading...

Career Opportunities

Computer User Support Specialist

Computer user support specialists provide troubleshooting, training and technical assistance to help the people who use computers accomplish a given task.

Software Developer

Software developers, also known as computer programmers, help design, create, install, test and maintain relevant and functional computer programs and device applications. 

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts identify opportunities for increasing performance and efficiencies and propose technology-based solutions to resolve, mitigate or remediate deficiencies.

Get College Credit for What You Already Know

The certificates and training listed below are relevant to this degree program. Search our database to view pre-evaluated credentials and see how a license, certification or professional training saves you time and money toward your degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Back to College Blog