Want to start a career in tech without spending four years and tens of thousands of dollars? An associate degree in information technology (AS in IT) might be your smartest move. In this increasingly technological and global business world, earning your associate degree can provide a faster, more affordable path to a tech career, equipping you with foundational IT skills and knowledge.
Such degrees are in demand. Employment in computer and information technology positions is expected to increase by 11% through 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s much faster than the overall job market.
Keep reading for more about the benefits of an Associate of Science in Information Technology (AS in IT) program.
Quick Benefits of an IT Associate Degree
- Earn your degree in just 2 years
- Lower tuition costs and reduced student debt
- Hands-on, job-ready training in IT fundamentals
- Industry certifications like CompTIA and AWS included
- Fully online, flexible format for working learners
- Transferable credits to bachelor’s programs
- Entry into in-demand tech careers with growth potential
These highlights make an associate degree a smart investment for anyone eager to jumpstart their career in tech.
Top Advantages of an IT Associate Degree
You may be wondering, is an IT associate degree worth it? The answer is yes, there are several key advantages of 2-year IT programs. Here are benefits of an associate degree in information technology.
Faster Workplace Entry
Because finishing an associate degree takes just two years, graduates can begin their careers before those who pursue a four-year bachelor’s program. This enables earlier earnings and hands-on experience.
Less Financial Investment
Then there’s IT associate vs. bachelor’s advantages. Due to shorter durations and generally lower tuition rates at community colleges, associate programs are typically more affordable than bachelor’s degrees. Because students often graduate with minimal debt, it can be easier to manage personal finances while gaining work experience.
Practical, Skill-Focused Training
The program emphasizes vocational skills such as cybersecurity basics, software troubleshooting, and network administration, preparing graduates for immediate job requisites.
Flexibility for Online Learning
Pursuing an online associate degree means no commuting, which allows students to better balance their education with work and family obligations. With this adaptability, it can be easier for non-traditional learners to change careers or upskill.
Pathway to Further Education
Oftentimes, your associate degree credits can transfer to bachelor’s programs, enabling students to enter the workforce while maintaining the option to pursue IT specialties such as IT management or data science.
Competitive Salary Potential
Earning potential is one of the biggest motivators for starting a career in IT—and the right education can make a major difference. While salaries vary by role and experience, individuals with an associate degree typically earn more than those with only a high school diploma or no degree at all.
In the U.S., the average salary for someone without a high school diploma is about $29,800 per year. With a high school diploma, that number rises to around $42,590. But stepping up to an associate degree brings the average salary to $44,100 for adults aged 25–34. While bachelor’s and master’s degree holders earn more on average—$59,600 and $69,700 respectively—an associate degree can still provide a solid return, especially when it leads to in-demand tech roles.
Entry-level IT positions like help desk technician, junior developer, or network support specialist offer a strong foundation for long-term growth—and with hands-on experience and industry certifications, associate degree holders can continue to advance their careers and earning power over time.
Career Opportunities with IT Associate Degree
There are a number of career prospects with IT associate degree. Such a degree can open doors to various entry-level tech positions, with opportunities for advancement through certifications and experience.
Entry-level IT Roles
Computer Network Support Specialist
Here, you troubleshoot network issues and perform maintenance tasks
Help Desk Technician
You provide technical support for software, hardware issues.
IT Support Specialist
In this role, you help users with technical issues.
Network Technician/Analyst
This position, which often requires certifications such as CompTIA Network+, calls for you to maintain and optimize network systems.
Specialized Technical Roles
Cloud Support Specialist
This position requires you to manage cloud infrastructure issues.
Web Designer/Developer
Here, you’ll focus on designing and coding websites.
Mobile Application Developer
In this position, you’ll create apps for mobile devices. The role commonly requires coding skills in languages like Java or Swift.
Software Engineer
You’ll develop software solutions in this role.
Security and Analysis Roles
Information Assurance Analyst
Your primary responsibility in this role is to protect systems from cyber threats.
Computer Systems Analyst
Your primary job will be to evaluate and improve information technology systems.
Information Technology Offerings at Campus
If you're looking for a fast, focused, and flexible way to break into tech, the Associate of Science in Information Technology from Campus, an alternative to online community college, could be your ideal next step. Designed with today’s job market in mind, this fully online program offers hands-on training in IT fundamentals, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing—all while preparing you for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Security+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner.
Campus emphasizes practical skills over fluff, making the program a great fit for career-starters, career-changers, and anyone looking to move from curiosity to capability. The curriculum is streamlined to get you workforce-ready in just two years, with the added benefit of tuition priced below the Pell Grant maximum—meaning many students pay little to nothing out of pocket.
Whether your goal is to land an entry-level IT role, build a foundation for long-term career growth, or transfer into a bachelor’s program down the line, Campus is built to support your journey—every step of the way.
Apply to Campus today.