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Computer and Information Sciences at St. Augustine College

Credential: Associate's | State: IL

Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): $30,889 | Annual Completions: 2

St. Augustine College CIS Associate's: A Foundational Start, Modest Initial Earnings

Program Analysis

Navigating Your Future: An In-Depth Analysis of the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's Program at St. Augustine College

Prospective students considering a career in technology often seek programs that offer a direct path to employment and a solid return on investment. This comprehensive analysis delves into the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program (CIP Code: 1101) at St. Augustine College in Illinois, providing a data-driven perspective on its curriculum, career prospects, earning potential, and overall value.

What You'll Learn: Foundations for a Digital World

The Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program at St. Augustine College is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of computing principles and practical skills essential for entry-level roles in the technology sector. A 'General' designation typically means a broad curriculum covering various aspects of IT rather than specializing in a single area like programming or networking from the outset. Students can expect to gain competencies in areas such as:

  • Programming Fundamentals: Introduction to logic, algorithms, and basic coding in languages like Python or Java, enabling them to understand and write simple scripts or applications.
  • Database Management: Concepts of data organization, querying (e.g., SQL), and database administration basics.
  • Networking Essentials: Understanding network topologies, protocols (TCP/IP), hardware, and basic network configuration and troubleshooting.
  • Operating Systems: Familiarity with various operating systems (Windows, Linux) and their administration.
  • Hardware and Software: Knowledge of computer components, assembly, maintenance, and software installation/troubleshooting.
  • Web Development Basics: Introduction to HTML, CSS, and potentially JavaScript for front-end web design.
  • Cybersecurity Awareness: Fundamental concepts of information security, threats, and protective measures.

St. Augustine College, as a private, non-profit institution, often emphasizes a student-centric approach, potentially offering smaller class sizes and more personalized instruction compared to larger universities. Given its Associate's level, the program likely focuses on hands-on, practical skills directly applicable to the workforce, preparing students for immediate entry into support or technician roles rather than advanced theoretical research. The 'General' nature allows graduates flexibility to explore different IT domains before committing to a specialization, making it a good stepping stone for further education or diverse entry-level roles.

Career Paths and Job Prospects: Entry Points into Tech

Graduates with an Associate's degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, are typically prepared for entry-level positions that require a broad understanding of IT systems and problem-solving skills. While not geared towards highly specialized roles like software engineering or data science, these graduates fill critical support and operational functions within organizations across various industries, including healthcare, education, finance, and small businesses. Specific job titles include:

  • Computer Support Specialist: Providing technical assistance to computer users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
  • Help Desk Technician: Responding to user inquiries, resolving technical problems, and escalating complex issues.
  • Network Support Technician: Assisting with the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of computer networks.
  • IT Assistant/Associate: Performing a variety of IT tasks, including system monitoring, data entry, and basic administration.
  • Junior Web Support Specialist: Assisting with website maintenance, content updates, and basic troubleshooting.

These roles are foundational to any organization relying on technology, ensuring a consistent demand for skilled individuals. The growth outlook for many of these positions, particularly Computer Support Specialists, is projected to be moderate, driven by the increasing reliance on technology across all sectors.

Salary Expectations: A Realistic Look at Earning Potential

Understanding salary expectations is crucial for evaluating a program's value. For graduates of an Associate's degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, the earning potential typically starts at the entry-level and grows with experience and further specialization.

  • Entry-Level (0-2 years experience): Graduates from this program at St. Augustine College reported a median earning of $30,889 one year post-graduation. Nationally, entry-level roles for Associate's degree holders in IT support or similar fields might range from $35,000 to $45,000, depending on location and specific role.
  • Mid-Career (3-7 years experience): With a few years of experience, additional certifications, or a bachelor's degree, individuals can expect to move into roles like Network Administrator or Systems Administrator. Salaries could range from $50,000 to $70,000.
  • Senior-Level (8+ years experience): Highly experienced technicians or those who advance into specialized roles (e.g., cybersecurity analyst, database administrator) or management positions (e.g., IT Manager) could earn $75,000 to $100,000+. However, reaching these higher tiers often requires further education (Bachelor's or Master's) and continuous professional development.

Earnings Comparison and ROI

The reported median earnings of $30,889 one year post-graduation for this program at St. Augustine College are a critical data point. This figure is notably lower than the national median for all Associate's degree holders (approximately $49,000 annually, BLS 2022) and significantly below the national median for Computer Support Specialists (approximately $57,910 annually, BLS May 2022), which often includes individuals with higher degrees or more specialized training. It is also lower than what might be expected for an Associate's degree specifically in Computer and Information Sciences, which often sees national averages closer to $40,000-$50,000 for entry-level roles.

When considering the cost of the degree, even if St. Augustine College offers competitive tuition rates (e.g., $10,000-$20,000 for the entire program), the initial return on investment appears modest. Students should carefully weigh the tuition costs against these reported earnings. While an Associate's degree can be a stepping stone, the initial salary suggests that graduates might need to pursue further education or certifications quickly to significantly boost their earning potential and achieve a stronger ROI.

Valued Skills and Competencies

Employers in the IT sector highly value a blend of technical and soft skills. Graduates of this program will develop:

  1. Technical Troubleshooting: The ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network issues.
  2. Operating System Proficiency: Expertise in navigating and managing Windows, Linux, or macOS environments.
  3. Networking Fundamentals: Understanding of basic network protocols, configurations, and security.
  4. Database Querying (SQL): Competence in retrieving and manipulating data from relational databases.
  5. Customer Service & Communication: Essential for help desk and support roles, involving clear explanation of technical issues to non-technical users.
  6. Problem-Solving & Analytical Thinking: The capacity to break down complex issues and devise effective solutions.
  7. Basic Programming Logic: Understanding of coding principles, even if not a primary job function, aids in automation and scripting.

Industry Trends Affecting Demand

The demand for IT professionals remains robust, driven by several key industry trends:

  • Digital Transformation: Businesses across all sectors are increasingly relying on digital technologies, creating a continuous need for IT support and infrastructure management.
  • Cybersecurity Concerns: The rising threat of cyberattacks means organizations need skilled individuals to protect their data and systems, even at the entry-level for monitoring and incident response.
  • Cloud Computing: The shift to cloud-based services requires professionals who can manage and support cloud environments.
  • Remote Work: The prevalence of remote and hybrid work models necessitates strong IT support to ensure seamless operations for distributed teams.

These trends ensure a steady demand for individuals with foundational IT skills, making the 'General' nature of this degree relevant for various entry points into the evolving tech landscape.

Practical Advice for Prospective Students

  1. Supplement with Certifications: Given the reported earnings, consider pursuing industry certifications (e.g., CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+) alongside or immediately after your Associate's degree. These can significantly enhance your marketability and earning potential.
  2. Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, part-time IT jobs, or volunteer opportunities to build a portfolio of real-world experience. This is invaluable for entry-level roles.
  3. Network Actively: Connect with professionals in the IT field, attend local tech meetups, and leverage LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship.
  4. Consider Further Education: If your career aspirations include higher-paying, specialized roles (e.g., software development, advanced cybersecurity), plan to transfer your Associate's credits towards a Bachelor's degree. This program can serve as an excellent foundation.
  5. Evaluate Local Job Market: Research the specific demand and salary ranges for entry-level IT roles in the Chicago metropolitan area (or wherever you plan to work) to align your expectations with local realities.
  6. Focus on Soft Skills: While technical skills are crucial, strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities are equally important for career advancement in IT.

In conclusion, the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program at St. Augustine College offers a broad introduction to the IT field, equipping students with fundamental skills. However, the reported median earnings suggest that graduates may need to proactively pursue additional certifications, experience, or further education to maximize their career potential and achieve a strong return on their educational investment. It serves as a solid starting point, but continuous learning and strategic career planning are essential for long-term success in the dynamic tech industry.

ROI Verdict

With median earnings of $30,889 one year post-graduation, this program at St. Augustine College offers a modest initial return on investment, falling below national averages for similar degrees and entry-level IT roles. Students should anticipate needing further certifications or education to significantly boost their earning potential beyond this figure.

Career Paths

Graduates of Computer and Information Sciences at St. Augustine College can pursue the following career paths:

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

Industry Outlook

The demand for IT professionals remains strong across all sectors, driven by ongoing digital transformation, the increasing complexity of cybersecurity threats, and the widespread adoption of cloud computing. Graduates with foundational IT skills are essential for maintaining and supporting these critical technologies, ensuring a steady need for entry-level support and technical roles.

Frequently Asked Questions about Computer and Information Sciences at St. Augustine College

Is Computer and Information Sciences, General. at St. Augustine College worth it?

Evaluating the worth of the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program at St. Augustine College requires a close look at its outcomes. The median earnings one year post-graduation are reported at $30,889. This figure is notably lower than the national median for all Associate's degree holders (around $49,000) and significantly below the national median for Computer Support Specialists ($57,910), a common entry-level role for this degree. While an Associate's degree typically offers a quicker entry into the workforce than a Bachelor's, the initial salary suggests a modest return on investment, especially if tuition costs are substantial. For example, if the program costs $15,000, it would take approximately half a year's gross income to cover tuition, assuming no living expenses. However, the value can be enhanced by immediately pursuing industry certifications (like CompTIA A+ or Network+) and gaining practical experience through internships. For students seeking a foundational understanding of IT and a stepping stone into the field, it can be a starting point, but a clear strategy for career progression and further skill development is crucial to maximize its long-term value and achieve higher earning potential.

What jobs can I get with a Computer and Information Sciences, General. degree?

An Associate's degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, prepares graduates for a range of entry-level technical support and operational roles across various industries. Common job titles include **Computer Support Specialist**, where you'd provide technical assistance to users, troubleshoot hardware and software, and resolve IT issues. The median salary for this role nationally is around $57,910, though entry-level Associate's graduates might start lower. Another common path is a **Help Desk Technician**, earning a median of approximately $48,000, focusing on remote problem-solving and user support. You could also work as an **IT Assistant/Associate** (median around $45,000), performing diverse tasks like system monitoring, data entry, and basic administration. For those interested in networks, a **Junior Network Support Technician** role (median around $55,000) involves assisting with network installation and maintenance. These roles are found in virtually every sector, including healthcare, education, finance, government, and small to medium-sized businesses, as all rely heavily on functional IT systems. The 'General' nature of the degree provides flexibility to explore different facets of IT before specializing.

How much do Computer and Information Sciences, General. graduates earn?

For graduates of the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program at St. Augustine College, the reported median earnings one year post-graduation are $30,889. This figure represents an entry-level salary. Nationally, entry-level roles for Associate's degree holders in IT support or similar fields typically range from $35,000 to $45,000, depending on location, specific job responsibilities, and additional certifications. As graduates gain experience and potentially acquire further certifications or a Bachelor's degree, their earning potential increases. Mid-career professionals (3-7 years experience) in roles like Network Administrator or Systems Administrator can expect to earn between $50,000 and $70,000. For senior-level positions (8+ years experience) or specialized roles such as IT Manager or Cybersecurity Analyst, salaries can range from $75,000 to over $100,000. However, reaching these higher salary brackets often necessitates continuous learning, advanced certifications, and often, a four-year degree or higher. The initial earnings from this specific program suggest that proactive career development is key to significant salary growth.

What skills will I learn in Computer and Information Sciences, General.?

In the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program, students acquire a broad set of foundational technical and essential soft skills crucial for entry-level IT roles. Technically, you'll develop strong **troubleshooting skills** to diagnose and resolve common hardware, software, and network issues. Proficiency in various **operating systems** like Windows and Linux is typically covered, along with an understanding of **networking fundamentals**, including TCP/IP protocols and basic network configuration. You'll also gain an introduction to **database management**, often including practical experience with SQL for querying and manipulating data. Basic **programming logic** and an introduction to languages like Python or Java might be included, providing a foundation for scripting and automation. Beyond technical expertise, the program emphasizes critical soft skills. **Customer service and communication** are paramount for help desk and support roles, enabling you to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical users. **Problem-solving and analytical thinking** are honed as you learn to approach and resolve complex IT challenges systematically. These combined skills prepare you to be a versatile and effective contributor in various IT support and operational environments.

Is there demand for Computer and Information Sciences, General. graduates?

Yes, there is a consistent demand for graduates with foundational IT skills, particularly for roles that an Associate's degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, prepares you for. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a moderate growth outlook for many entry-level IT positions. For example, employment of Computer Support Specialists is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations, adding approximately 50,000 new jobs. This demand is fueled by several ongoing industry trends: the pervasive **digital transformation** across all sectors, which increases reliance on technology; the escalating need for **cybersecurity** measures, requiring individuals to monitor and respond to threats; and the widespread adoption of **cloud computing**, which necessitates support for cloud-based infrastructure. The shift towards **remote and hybrid work models** also creates a continuous need for robust IT support. While highly specialized roles might require advanced degrees, the generalist nature of this Associate's program provides a versatile skill set that allows graduates to fill critical support and operational gaps in a technology-dependent economy, ensuring a steady, albeit competitive, job market.

How does St. Augustine College's Computer and Information Sciences, General. program compare to others?

St. Augustine College's Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program, with its broad curriculum, aligns with the typical offerings of many community colleges and two-year institutions. These programs generally aim to provide foundational IT knowledge and practical skills for immediate workforce entry or transfer to a four-year degree. However, a key differentiator is the reported median earnings of $30,889 one year post-graduation, which is lower than the national average for similar Associate's degrees in Computer and Information Sciences, often ranging from $40,000 to $50,000. It's also below the national median for common entry-level roles like Computer Support Specialist ($57,910). The program's annual completions are also very low (2), suggesting a small program size or low graduation rate, which could impact networking opportunities or program resources compared to larger programs. While St. Augustine College may offer advantages like smaller class sizes and personalized attention, prospective students should compare the curriculum, faculty expertise, career services, and, critically, the post-graduation earnings and completion rates with other local community colleges or technical schools in Illinois. Programs with higher completion rates and stronger post-graduation earnings might indicate more robust career support or better alignment with local employer needs.

What are the admission requirements for Computer and Information Sciences, General. at St. Augustine College?

While specific admission requirements for the Computer and Information Sciences, General Associate's program at St. Augustine College should always be verified directly with the college's admissions office, typical prerequisites for an Associate's degree at a private, non-profit institution like St. Augustine College generally include: a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Applicants may also be required to submit official transcripts from all previously attended high schools or colleges. Some programs might have specific math or English proficiency requirements, often assessed through placement tests or by reviewing prior coursework. For a computer science program, a solid foundation in high school mathematics (Algebra I and II) is usually beneficial, though not always a strict prerequisite for an Associate's. International students will likely need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. It's advisable for prospective students to contact the admissions department early, inquire about any program-specific requirements, and ask about financial aid options. Attending an information session or speaking with an academic advisor can also provide valuable insights into the application process and program expectations.

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AI-generated analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.