A background in systems analysis opens job opportunities in the tech, data, and business industries. An Associate Degree in Systems Analysis can help you jumpstart your information technology career. Luckily, the best associate degrees in systems analysis can be found across the country both online and in person.
Systems analysis associate degree programs equip their students with the skills they need to excel in their chosen specialty. If you are interested in a combination of business systems and IT, then this field of study is for you. Below is a list of the best systems analysis associate degrees, their program descriptions, and the best systems analysis jobs.
What Is Systems Analysis?
Systems analysis is the process of improving the efficiency of business processes by upgrading its IT systems. Systems analysts troubleshoot computer systems and conduct software and hardware tests to identify their weaknesses and strengths. They also upgrade system designs to accommodate new business operations and goals.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
The best colleges where you can get an associate degree in systems analysis are found all across the country. Their programs range from in-person to hybrid to fully online, meaning that you can get an accredited and highly respected associate degree in systems analysis from the comfort of your home.
What Schools Offer the Best Systems Analysis Associate Degrees?
- Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
- Milwaukee Area Technical College
- Scottsdale Community College
- Sinclair Community College
- University of Phoenix
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
The admission requirements for an associate degree in systems analysis are typically not particularly demanding. Most associate degree programs have an open enrollment policy, meaning that anyone who has received their high school diploma or an equivalent degree is able to apply and be admitted.
Generally speaking, systems analysis associate degree requirements include having a high school diploma or equivalent degree, paying an admission fee, and taking a placement test if you haven’t taken any standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Associate degree programs build your skills from the ground up, meaning that there are no programming language requirements.
Systems Analysis Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Admission fee
- Placement test or submission of standardized test scores
How to Get an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis
You can get a systems analysis associate degree by completing all of the degree requirements set by the school or institution offering the program. These requirements usually include the completion of a certain number of credits in elective, general education, and degree-specific courses, the completion of a capstone project, and maintaining a 2.0 GPA.
Luckily, you don’t need to have any kind of pre-existing knowledge going into college for a systems analysis associate degree. Everything you need to graduate, you will earn during your studies. The only thing you should know before starting a systems analysis associate degree is the basics of using a computer.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
Typically, you need 60 credits or 90 quarter credits for an associate degree in systems analysis. Each course in a systems analysis associate degree program is typically worth three credits or 4.5 quarter credits. You will need to take a mix of general education, elective, and degree-specific courses, with each program having its own specific amount of each required.
Systems Analysis Degree Requirements
- General education credits. A specific portion of the total credits you need to earn to graduate need to come from general education courses. While this amount will vary from program to program, this will typically be just under half of your required total number of credits. General education courses include English, math, and history classes.
- Elective credits. In addition to general education and degree-specific classes, you will need to take a certain number of elective classes. Typically, you will only need to take two. These classes are generally lower-level courses from majors outside of yours. In the case of systems analysis, these could be philosophy, dance, or biology classes.
- Degree-specific classes. Degree-specific classes make up the rest of your required credits. These are the classes that will teach you the specific skills you need to excel in your field. Degree-specific classes in a systems analysis associate degree program may include classes on programming, network security, and operating systems.
- Capstone project. Many systems analysis associate degree programs use a capstone project course as a way to test the preparedness of their graduating students for the next step. Capstone projects require students to apply all of the skills they’ve gained during the program and are a great way for students to graduate with a solid portfolio.
- 2.0 GPA. A general requirement across all associate degree programs is for all students to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in order to graduate. This is a way for schools to ensure that their students are managing to succeed in their classes and will be able to effectively use their skills after they graduate.
Best Systems Analysis Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Cincinnati State Technical and Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming and Database Management – Computer Information Systems Major | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Dunwoody College of Technology | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking Systems | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Lakeland Community College | Associate of Technical Studies in Computer Information Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Laramie County Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Mesa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Programming and Systems Analysis | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate of Applied Science, IT Information Systems Security Specialist | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Montgomery College | Associate of Arts in Information Systems, Computer Science and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Paradise Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Programming and Systems Analysis | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Scottsdale Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Programming and Systems Analysis | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern Arkansas University Tech | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Systems Analysis: Top Systems Analysis Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for systems analysis degree programs can be found across the country. They are a great alternative to four-year degree programs and build the hard and soft skills you need, such as knowledge of programming languages and communication skills, for entry-level positions. Here are the best in-person associate degree programs in systems analysis.
Best Online Systems Analysis Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Ashworth College | Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| DeVry University | Associate Degree in Network Systems Administration | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Liberty University | Associate of Arts in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Oakland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Programming and Systems Analysis | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Purdue University Global | Associate of Science in Information Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Seminole State College of Florida | Associate of Science in Computer Programming and Analysis | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Sinclair Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems/Secure Systems Administration | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Strayer University | Associate of Arts in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Phoenix | Associate of Arts in Information Technology | The Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Systems Analysis: Top Online Systems Analysis Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for online systems analysis associate degrees are accessible from anywhere in the country. Online learning is convenient for many students who need more flexible schedules. Below is a list of the top online systems analysis associate degree programs. These programs will prepare you for a long and lucrative tech job in systems analysis.
What Is a Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
A systems analysis associate degree is a two-year undergraduate tech program offered by community and state colleges. You can get a systems analysis degree in the business, IT, or arts fields. This education pathway is best suited for beginners in tech looking for an affordable degree program to help them enter the job market.
Depending on your specialization you will learn computer programming, data analysis, business systems, and networking. You can also choose to transfer your credits after completing an associate degree to a bachelor’s program.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
It’s very important to have an associate degree in systems analysis if you want to access entry-level jobs without any other educational or work background in tech. While many jobs in the field are primarily only open to those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, an associate degree is the minimum education required for a job in the systems analysis industry.
On top of an associate degree, certifications are extremely beneficial in helping you land a job in systems analysis. Many systems analysis associate degree programs include professional certifications in their curriculum or help their students prepare for them as they approach graduation. The main reasons why a systems analysis associate degree is important are:
- Increased job opportunities
- Certification preparation
- Ability to easily transfer to a bachelor’s degree program after graduation
- Networking through professors and other students
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Systems Analysis?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for systems analysis:
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Arts
The type of associate degree that is best to get in systems analysis depends on your career and education goals. If you intend on transferring to a bachelor’s program after graduating from your associate degree program, an Associate of Science or Associate of Arts would be better. If you want to join the workforce immediately after graduating, an Associate of Applied Science is best.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science Degree or Associate of Applied Science Degree in Systems Analysis?
It’s better to get an Associate of Science degree in systems analysis if you want to transfer to a bachelor’s degree after graduating. This is because most Associate of Science degree programs have transfer agreements with bachelor’s programs. Their curriculums are also more tailored towards continuing education, featuring fewer industry-preparedness courses.
An Associate of Applied Science degree in systems analysis is better for getting you a job straight out of school as they will typically have more classes meant to prepare you for working in the industry, have more condensed and intensive workloads, and provide you with more opportunities to get professional certifications right before or after you graduate.
What Is the Difference Between a Systems Analysis Associate Degree and a Systems Analysis Certificate?
The main difference between a systems analysis associate degree and a systems analysis certificate is the scope of the education provided by each program. If you’re coming out of high school or don’t have a background in tech, you should get a systems analysis associate degree because it’ll help you land a job or pursue a higher education much easier.
How Much Does a Systems Analysis Associate Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of an associate degree at a two-year institution for on-campus students is $16,445. This cost increases and decreases drastically depending on whether the college is private or public and whether the student lives on or off-campus.
You can significantly reduce the financial burden of getting an associate degree by applying for financial aid through federal grants, federal and private scholarships, and bursaries. Many colleges and higher education institutions also offer a wide variety of payment options. Applying for student loans can also make it easier to afford your degree.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an associate degree in systems analysis when taking a full course load. When using credits as a metric, this is equal to 15 credits per semester, meaning a total of four semesters to complete the required 60 credits. If you are in good academic standing, you can often apply to increase your maximum amount of credits per semester to 18 and finish sooner.
Naturally, not all associate degree programs require the same amount of credits for completion. Associate of Applied Science degree programs often go over the 60-credit minimum in order to provide you with more hands-on training in the same amount of time.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
It’s not hard to get an associate degree in systems analysis as long as you are motivated and enjoy the work. Associate degrees are meant to teach beginners from the ground up and prepare even the most inexperienced students for the workforce by the time they graduate. Besides, colleges provide a great environment for students to learn and have fun doing it.
Why Should You Get a Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an associate degree in systems analysis include the following.
- Access to more job opportunities. An associate degree is the minimum level of education required for many jobs in the field. Why you may be able to apply for certain jobs without one, an associate degree on your resume functions as solid proof of your skills and knowledge to potential employers.
- Ability to easily transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. Going straight into a bachelor’s degree out of high school isn’t always possible whether due to your grades, the cost, or a number of other reasons. Associate degrees are a great way to improve your grades and reduce the cost of getting a bachelor’s degree.
- More networking opportunities. Trying to get a job in systems analysis or a related field can be difficult without anyone who can vouch for your skills. Getting an associate degree gives you the chance to create a personal connection with your teachers or become friends with other people in your program, all of whom can help you find a job.
The benefits of getting a second associate degree in systems analysis are more apparent if your first degree is outside of the field of technology. By getting a second degree in systems analysis, you’ll expand your skillset and learn to use all the technical tools needed in a supportive environment.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Systems Analysis?
The required courses you’ll need to take in a systems analysis associate degree program will help you learn the technical and theoretical knowledge you’ll need to work or transfer to a bachelor’s. Systems analysis associate degree courses will differ from school to school, but here’s an example of what you might find in an associate degree in systems analysis course list.
Programming
In a programming course, you’ll learn the basics of one or multiple programming languages, usually those most relevant to your chosen specialization. By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid understanding of the different operations you can perform, the syntax, and the limitations of each language you learn.
Operating Systems
In an operating systems course, you’ll learn about the different types of operating systems for mobile devices, computers, web and mobile applications, and consoles. The approach you need to take with each is different, and knowing how one operating system behaves compared to another will greatly help you.
Network Security
In a network security course, you’ll learn vital skills related to the technologies used for safeguarding the digital data networks used by businesses and individuals used in order to protect their information. You’ll learn how to prevent bad agents from accessing, stealing, and damaging networks.
Cloud Computing
In a cloud computing course, you’ll gain a better understanding of the tools and technologies permitting large amounts of data to be stored on the Internet and accessed by a wide amount of users. This knowledge will serve you immensely when working as a systems analyst or in a similar position.
Wireless Communication
In a wireless communication class, you’ll learn more about the different kinds of technologies used in wireless communication such as Bluetooth, the Internet, and Near Field Communication. You’ll also gain a better understanding of how to use them to your advantage as a tech professional.
Continuing Education Paths for Systems Analysis Associate Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take as a systems analysis associate degree graduate is to transfer to a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree. This will give you the highest growth potential in your industry. You should additionally acquire certifications as you begin working in the industry. This will allow you to work with specific tools and in specific industries.
Related {Subject} Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Systems Analysis Associate Degree Programs
The best systems analysis associate degree programs come from schools with a high reputation and graduation rate, a continuously updated curriculum, an affordable cost of tuition, and a wide range of student services that will help you earn your degree with few issues. You should be able to expect nothing but the best from the program you choose.
Reputation of School
A school’s reputation will tell you a lot about the quality of its programs, its teachers, and the learning environment it has created. During your school search, make sure to look at reviews left by alumni. If a school has a good or bad reputation, it shouldn’t be difficult to find out why.
Graduation Rate
Just like a school’s reputation, its graduation rate will give you a good idea of how supported students are during their studies. A high graduation rate is often a sign that the teachers are able to effectively communicate the course content in a way that the students understand and properly absorb. A low graduation rate is often a sign of a lack of support for struggling students.
Curricular Content
The world of tech moves fast, and so does the popularity and the relevance of the tools and technologies used by professionals on a daily basis. Make sure that the program you choose offers a curriculum that stays up to date with the latest advancements and discoveries made in the field, otherwise, you’ll graduate with a skill set that is no longer relevant.
Cost
This may seem obvious, but you should strongly keep in mind what you can reasonably afford when picking schools. Make sure to calculate a budget and stick to it. Consider factors like distance, out-of-state fees, room and board, and whether a program is offered in-person or online, as these will all affect the total cost of your degree.
Student Services
The best systems analysis associate degrees provide a wide range of student services to help each and every learner be supported during their studies. These can range from career services to help graduates find employment, to financial aid officers who can help current students find and apply for scholarships and grants.
What Is the Most Affordable Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
The most affordable associate degrees in systems analysis are listed below.
- Mesa Community College, Paradise Valley Community College, and Scottsdale Community College for in-county students attending their in-person programs, with a tuition of $85 per credit for in-county students.
- Southern Arkansas University Tech for out-of-state students attending its in-person program or online program, with a tuition of $108 per credit for in-state students and $156 per credit for out-of-state students.
- Ashworth Community College for both in-state and out-of-state students enrolled in the school’s 100 percent online associate degree program, with a tuition of $79 per credit for in and out-of-state students.
Top Systems Analysis Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
Systems analysis associate degree jobs come in all shapes and sizes. The average associate degree in systems analysis salary is relatively high as well, and higher than the national average. While some will require you to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field to unlock higher growth potential, there are plenty of entry-level positions you can apply to.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
It can be a little hard to get a job with only a systems analysis associate degree. Most systems analyst positions require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree, but you can still find entry-level positions open to applicants with an associate degree directly related to your degree or in adjacent fields.
What’s the Average Systems Analysis Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an associate degree in systems analysis in an entry-level position is $54,161. An associate degree in systems analysis will only qualify you for entry-level positions in the field, but getting a bachelor’s degree can help you move up. Your salary may differ depending on the industry, your educational qualifications, and your experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer systems analysts is $93,730. You will need to get a few years of experience under your belt along with a bachelor’s degree to reach this kind of pay.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Systems Analysis Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a systems analysis associate degree include working as a network systems analyst, network support specialist, network and computer systems administrator, quality assurance engineer, and business systems analyst. Keep in mind you won’t always have the easiest time finding openings for associate degree holders.
Systems Analysis Degree Jobs
- Business Systems Analyst
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator
- Network Support Specialist
- Network Systems Analyst
- Quality Assurance Engineer
Potential Careers With a Systems Analysis Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis?
You can make between $41,000 and $70,000 a year with an associate degree in systems analysis. The average amount of money that systems analysis majors make out of college depends highly on where they are working and what kind of position they occupy. By getting a systems analysis bachelor’s degree, however, you can make significantly more.
Highest-Paying Systems Analysis Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Systems Analysis Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Network Architect | $116,780 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $103,590 |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $99,815 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $93,730 |
| Business Systems Analyst | $91,789 |
| Quality Assurance Engineer | $84,888 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $84,810 |
| Network Systems Analyst | $67,820 |
| Network Support Specialist | $57,910 |
Best Jobs for Systems Analysis Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for systems analysis associate degree grads are all entry-level positions. If you want to access the best paying jobs in systems analysis, you’ll need to keep studying and earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Luckily, an associate degree can help you significantly when it comes to continuing your education.
*Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Information Security Analysts
**Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Computer Systems Analysts
***Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Systems Analysis Bootcamp vs Systems Analysis Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
A systems analysis associate degree is better than a systems analysis bootcamp if you plan on getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the future or have a tech background. A coding bootcamp is best suited for those looking to get extensive tech training and upskill or reskill within a short time frame.
Benefits of a Systems Analysis Associate Degree
- Traditional undergraduate degree. A crucial benefit of a systems analysis associate degree is that it’s a universally accepted undergraduate degree. Most associate systems analysts and IT jobs accept this degree for entry-level positions.
- Broader academic experience. Depending on your career goals you can specialize in an industry-specific or general IT program. An associate degree includes classes outside of technical knowledge including history, math, and economics.
- Transferable college credit. If you want to get a bachelor’s degree in computer science, business intelligence, or a related field you can transfer your associate degree credits.
- Affordable undergraduate option. An associate degree is an affordable alternative to a four-year bachelor’s degree that provides you with all the essential IT and computer systems skills you need to land entry-level positions.
- Open to high school graduates. Most associate systems analysis programs only require a high school diploma to get accepted, making it incredibly easy for anyone to get in.
Benefits of a Systems Analysis Bootcamp
- Short commitment. Most coding bootcamps only last a few weeks to a few months and cover all the essential systems analysis skills needed for an entry-level job.
- Cheap alternative. A bootcamp education is an affordable alternative to a traditional undergraduate degree. Bootcamps also offer several accommodating financing plans including income share agreement loans, installment payments, and other loan financing options.
- Industry-standard skills training. You can attend software development, computer systems analyst, or quality assurance bootcamps to become a systems analyst. These bootcamps will cover the essential skills needed for this profession including programming, network security, QA analysis, and database management.
- Career services. Most bootcamps provide in-depth career services including portfolio development assistance, resume critiques, interview prep help, and networking opportunities.
- Job prospects. Coding bootcamp graduates work in tech positions at high-profile companies including Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Microsoft. Bootcamps are often partnered with companies that will hire straight out of the bootcamp.
Is an Associate Degree in Systems Analysis Worth It?
An associate degree in systems analysis is worth it if you want to enter the entry-level job market in quality assurance, business analysis, and computer systems analysis or want to transfer to a bachelor’s degree. This two-year program will help you land IT jobs in a wide variety of industries.
Additional Reading About Systems Analysis
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Systems Analysis Associate Degree FAQ
To become a systems analyst, you typically need a bachelor’s degree. That being said, an associate degree can help you land a related entry-level position from where you can work your way up.
An associate degree in systems analysis will qualify you for entry-level positions as an analyst, IT support agent, or network administrator. However, once you gain experience, you can move up to higher positions including roles as an information security analyst, business analyst, and systems manager.
An associate program in systems analysis can vary depending on the concentration, but it generally covers network security, programming, database solutions, computer systems, and software design.
You can transfer your associate degree credits to bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, data science, software development, and cyber security. Most schools have specific universities they are partnered with to which you can transfer your credits.
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