Computer Technology Option, Associate in Applied Science
Program Description
The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Technical Studies – Computer Technology Option is designed for students who have gained technical knowledge through work experience, military training, apprenticeships, or industry-based education and would like to apply that experience toward earning a college degree.
This program allows students to receive academic credit for relevant professional experience while completing coursework that strengthens their technical, analytical, and communication skills. Students develop knowledge in computer technology and related technical fields while enhancing their ability to apply practical experience in professional settings.
Up to 17 credits may be awarded for prior work experience, including military service, trade or proprietary school training, apprenticeship programs, and documented on-the-job training. The program provides a flexible pathway for working professionals seeking career advancement or formal recognition of their technical expertise.
Transfer Information
The A.A.S. in Technical Studies – Computer Technology Option is designed primarily as a career-focused degree and is not structured under the New Jersey Statewide Transfer Agreement. Students interested in continuing their education toward a bachelor’s degree should consult with Advising & Transfer Services to explore articulation agreements or credit evaluation options at their intended transfer institution.
Career Information
The A.A.S. in Technical Studies – Computer Technology Option supports career advancement for individuals already working in technical or technology-related fields. By combining prior professional experience with college-level coursework, graduates strengthen their qualifications for supervisory roles, specialized technical positions, or expanded responsibilities in their current field.
Potential career paths may include:
- Computer Support Specialist
- Network or Systems Technician
- IT Support Analyst
- Technical Operations Specialist
- Technology Services Coordinator
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services to explore opportunities for career advancement and continued professional development within technology and technical fields.
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| MATH 156 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 |
| CSIT 110 | Introduction to Computers and Computer Applications | 3 |
| Computer Technology Technical Studies Program Electives | 6 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Social Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Computer Technology Technical Studies Program Electives | 6 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| Social Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Lab Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 4 | |
| Computer Technology Technical Studies Program Electives | 6 | |
| Credit Hours | 13 | |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| Select from the following: | 17 | |
Professional Core Transfer Credits Awarded for Work Experience | ||
and/or | ||
| Credit Hours | 17 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60 | |
The AAS in Technical Studies degree program is designed to provide students the opportunity to apply their work experience to earning an associate degree in applied science. Students can earn credit for their work experience while they prepare for career advancement. Up to 17 credits may be awarded for work experience, including military experience, trade/proprietary school preparation, apprenticeship programs, and on-the-job-training.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand and use important terms specific to the workforce.
- Use computer tools such as Microsoft Office to enhance their efficiency in the
- workplace.
- Apply basic concepts of professional practice to the workplace.
- Diagnose and solve real world problems.
- Demonstrate both creativity and critical thinking in connection with real world problems and applications.
- Through reading, listening, speaking, and writing, develop the ability to
- communicate effectively, especially in using scientific terminology.
- Solve problems by collecting, organizing and evaluating information and by
- utilizing objective and subjective scientific tools.
- Demonstrate an understanding of science and technology and their impact on society and the environment.