Computer Applications Online Degree Programs

American InterContinental University Online

• Programming (Bachelor's)
  The main objectives of the BIT Programming degree are to prepare students to: build a dynamic user interface and content using data driven objects, extract, modify and insert data through a web interface, apply project management principles to software projects, ase the requirements process to develop software specifications, employ design architecture to design software, write test plans and test cases, and to develop test documentation. ..

Kaplan University Online

• Intro to Computer Programming Language (Certificate)
  Our comprehensive curriculum provides students with the foundational knowledge they will need to pursue further study in advanced programming and adapt to the future changes in technology. As a student in this program, you will receive an introduction to four programming languages: Visual Basic (for Windows programs), HTML (the Internet presentation language), C++ (an object-oriented programming language), and Java (the Web's cross-platform language.) ..
• Information Technology /Database (Bachelor's)
  By specializing your course of study in database design and administration, you will qualify for employment opportunities in data control and designing solutions for data storage including backup and recovery operations which have become an integral part of running a successful IT department. You will also learn techniques for transferring database information to physical devices such as wireless units. Courses include: Structured Query Language, Advanced Query Design and Reporting, Database Design, and Database Administration...
• Information Technology /Programming (Bachelor's)
  Learn to develop solutions for business application challenges by creating specialized programs. Your course of study will qualify you for career opportunities in IT fields seeking candidates who can program Web, network, and software solutions to meet specific goals. Lessons include text-based study materials and projects that simulate real-world situations and automate administrative tasks. Courses include: Programming II, Advanced Visual Basic, Structured Query Language, Advanced Visual Basic II, Object Oriented Programming, and Advanced Object Oriented Programming...

Westwood College Online

• Game Software Development (Bachelor's)
  The Game Software Development program is designed to provide students with a career in the Game Software Development industry including the following roles: Game and Interactive Software Tester, Game Maintenance Administrator, Game Documentation Writer, Game Requirements Analyst, and Game Support Specialist. This degree program will prepare you to manage the full lifecycle of the software development process including the design, development, testing, and deployment of a game or interactive software product...

Capella University

• System Design and Development (Master's)
  The system design and development specialization helps equip technical leaders with the skills necessary to design and implement high-quality applications that meet business needs. This expertise is critical for professionals in systems integration, software engineering and development, and information management. Upon completion of this online degree, you will be well positioned to succeed in key systems, software development, or business analyst roles...

National American University Online

• Internet Systems Development (Bachelor's)
  The purpose for this program is to give students a deeper knowledge of current information technology and the foundation of business operations and practices. Courses focus on the analytical skills to determine the information needs of a business and problem-solving skills to apply technology to meet those requirements. In addition to the development of analytical tools, emphasis is placed on communications, teamwork, ethics, and the skills for managing diversity within the information technology industry. Our Information Technology degree with an emphasis in Web Developer/Webmaster is an excellent degree for students interested in a career in information technology developing and maintaining Web pages that represent companies to the outside world..

Strayer University

• Information Systems - Programming (Bachelor's)
  The principal objective of the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems program is to teach students state-of-the-art computer concepts. This will prepare them for programmer/analyst, database management, Web development, networking, internetworking and security positions. Within this curriculum, students have the option of choosing a concentration in: Computer Security, Database Developer, Database Management, Homeland Security and Information Systems, Internetworking Technology, Networking, Programming, Security Administration, and Web Development...

Florida Metropolitan University (FMU)

• Associate of Science in Computer Information Science / Programming
  This concentration provides coursework in computer programming and systems development, computer hardware and operating systems, as well as accounting and business courses that complement the business-oriented applications graduates will encounter in the work place. The graduate will be familiar with microcomputer applications, programming applications, and design in a programming language. This concentration prepares an individual to enter the information technology industry in a variety of job roles, including entry-level programmer...
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Science / Programming
  This program offers graduate's special training in the analysis, design, implementation, maintenance, and use of computer information systems and data base systems necessary to business and industry. The program focuses on the concepts, principles, goals, functions, and management of information-driven organizations, stressing the development of computer-based applications through the use of programming languages. To ensure graduation with the minimum number of courses, students should choose the CIS Programming concentration for their lower division studies...

Baker College

• Associate of Applied Science - Computer Programming / Java Option
  Students in this program acquire skills in programming, systems analysis and design based on the curriculum developed under the Sun/Java Academic Initiative. This program concentrates instruction with the Java programming language while also introducing the student to C++ and VisualBASIC programming concepts...
• Associate of Applied Science - Computer Programming
  Students in this program acquire skills in programming, systems analysis, and design. Instruction in multiple programming languages provides students with diverse, flexible, and employable skill sets in a variety of businesses and industries in positions such as programmers, developers, and systems analysts...

University of Maryland University College

• Certificate in Object-Oriented Design and Programming
  This certificate program in object-oriented design and programming is appropriate for technical professionals who will be working as programmer/analysts or application developers. Students are taught introductory and advanced features of object-oriented languages as well as program design concepts...
• Certificate in Visual Basic Programming
  The Visual Basic programming certificate program is designed for students seeking entry-level programming positions. Hands-on experience using Visual Basic software is provided...

American Sentinel University

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Game Programming
  The BS in Computer Science-Game Programming Specialization program provides students with a broad exposure to the field of computer science and specialized knowledge in the area of game programming. This program is suitable for students who desire to immediately enter the game programming field and for students who want a general degree in computer science but wish to learn how to apply the general principles in an exciting genre. The objectives of the program are to provide students with a well-rounded education through the study of mathematics, natural sciences, social science, humanities, and written and oral communication; Develop students' fundamental understanding of the major areas of computer science: algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence, computer organization and architecture, numerical computation, operating systems, programming language theory, and software engineering; Enable students to develop critical thinking and interpersonal skills; And develop students into proficient software developers and game programmers..

Career Summary - Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. May analyze and design databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Specializations

• Applications programmers write software that performs specific functions. They work on software such as word-processing and database applications, computer games, and all sorts of specialized software.
• Systems programmers create the operating software that maintains and controls individual computers and allows them to recognize and use applications and to interact with peripheral devices such as printers. Systems programming requires extensive knowledge of computer architecture and is more technically demanding than general programming.
• "Software engineers" is a term used in several ways. Legally, only licensed professional engineers trained in schools of computer engineering are allowed to call themselves "software engineers." These degrees train students in programming and systems analysis. Sometimes, however, this title is used indiscriminately for advanced-level programmers, or "programmer-analysts" who do not have engineering degrees.

Education, Certification & Licensing - Requirements for computer programming positions have been rising over the past decade, and most positions now require a college degree. However, work experience, computer course-work, and proven talent may still sometimes substitute for a degree. Employers who use computers for business applications often look for people with college course-work in programming and business. Scientific or engineering applications may require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences. Graduate degrees are required for some jobs and can be a real advantage when seeking promotion.

Many companies offer certification in programming languages. For example, Brainbench and Cisco Systems offers a variety of programming certificates from Java to Unix. Microsoft certifies programmers who use their products.

Getting Ahead - Computer programmers usually start out as trainees, though those who have sufficient education, training, or experience, can enter higher positions directly. They advance through a combination of experience, training, and further education to become programmer analysts. Programmer analysts who demonstrate work and leadership skills may become systems analysts, who may then move up into project management, research, and system design. As programmers advance they do less coding and more visionary work, planning systems and inventing ways for computers to serve people more efficiently and innovatively.

Opportunities - Prospects likely will be best for college graduates with knowledge of a variety of programming languages and tools; those with less formal education or its equivalent in work experience are apt to face strong competition for programming jobs.

Salary & Employment Trends - Earnings for computer programmers vary depending on their level of experience and responsibility. Entry-level salaries are generally moderate, in the $36,000-$60,000 range. Senior programmers usually earn moderately high salaries, in the $60,000-$103,000 range. Those with ambition and talent can earn even more. As a rule, salaries are higher in Northern Virginia than elsewhere. However, salaries in recent years have leveled off or even declined in some instances. The move to outsource jobs will probably keep salaries from rising very fast in the future. According to Robert Half International, a firm providing specialized staffing services, average annual starting salaries in 2005 ranged from about $53,000 to $83,000 for applications development programmers, and from $55,000 to $88,000 for software developers. Starting salaries for mainframe systems programmers ranged from $50,000 to $68,000 in 2005.

Computer and information technology jobs had a real a slump in the early years of this decade. Things have turned around somewhat and companies are hiring more people again. Lots of people left computer jobs a few years ago, and some employers are scrambling to find people now, especially in hot areas like Washington DC.

Advanced jobs--for analysts, project managers, and the like--are likely to remain here instead of being sent overseas, however, since these workers need to keep in close contact with managers, system users, and each other. As with other fields, keeping your skills up-to-date will be the key to finding and keeping the best jobs.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics