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Computer Science Associate Degree Jobs in Columbia, SC

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... associate's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or other job-related degree Minimum Required Work Experience: · 6 years of application development, systems testing, or other job ...

In lieu of the educational and experience requirements noted above, an Associate's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a closely related field and 6 years Server experience to ...

In lieu of the educational and experience requirements noted above, an Associate's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a closely related field and 6 years Server experience to ...

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Computer Science Associate Degree information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$14

$17

How much do computer science associate degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer science associate degree in Columbia, SC is $14.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $14.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer science associate degree?

A Computer Science Associate Degree is a two-year undergraduate program that provides foundational knowledge in computer programming, software development, algorithms, and information technology. This degree is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the tech industry or to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a bachelor's degree. Coursework typically includes programming languages, data structures, computer systems, and mathematics. Graduates often find jobs as computer support specialists, web developers, or junior programmers, or continue their education for advanced opportunities.

What types of entry-level positions are typically available to graduates with a computer science associate degree, and how do these roles contribute to career growth?

Graduates with a Computer Science Associate Degree often find entry-level positions such as technical support specialist, junior web developer, IT technician, or help desk analyst. These roles offer hands-on experience with troubleshooting, coding, and system maintenance, providing a strong foundation in both technical and workplace skills. By collaborating with more experienced IT professionals and engaging in real-world projects, employees can build their expertise and position themselves for advancement into roles like systems administrator, software developer, or network engineer. Many employers also encourage continued learning and may offer tuition assistance for further education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a computer science associate degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Computer Science Associate Degree, you need a solid grasp of programming fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and basic knowledge of computer systems and networks, typically supported by coursework in languages like Python, Java, or C++. Familiarity with version control systems (such as Git), database management tools, and foundational certifications like CompTIA A+ can enhance employability. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help individuals stand out when working on collaborative projects or technical support roles. These combined skills are crucial for adapting to diverse technology environments and contributing effectively to IT or software development teams.

What is the difference between Computer Science Associate Degree vs Computer Support Specialist?

AspectComputer Science Associate DegreeComputer Support Specialist
CredentialsAssociate degree in computer science or related fieldCertifications like CompTIA A+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentClassroom, labs, or entry-level office settingsHelp desks, technical support centers, client sites
Industry UsageFoundational education for various IT rolesTechnical support, troubleshooting, customer service
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding educational pathways and entry-level rolesJob responsibilities and certifications needed

The Computer Science Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge in programming, algorithms, and systems, preparing graduates for various IT roles. In contrast, a Computer Support Specialist focuses on troubleshooting, customer support, and technical assistance, often requiring specific certifications. Both roles are essential in the tech industry, but they serve different functions and career paths.

Are computer science associate degree majors still in demand?

Computer science associate degree majors are still in demand as many employers seek entry-level professionals with foundational programming, networking, and problem-solving skills. These degrees can lead to roles in IT support, software testing, and technical support, especially when combined with certifications like CompTIA or Cisco. The demand is driven by ongoing growth in technology sectors and digital transformation across industries.

Is IT worth getting an associate's degree in computer science?

An associate's degree in computer science can provide foundational skills for entry-level IT roles such as support specialist or technician, often requiring knowledge of operating systems, networking, and basic programming. It can lead to job opportunities with less time and cost compared to a bachelor's degree, but career advancement may require further education or certifications like CompTIA or Cisco certifications.

What can you do with a computer science associate degree?

A computer science associate degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as software support specialist, web developer, or IT technician. It provides foundational skills in programming, troubleshooting, and computer systems, which can lead to further certifications or education for advanced positions.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Associate Degree jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Computer Science Associate Degree jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Science Associate Degree jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Science Associate Degree jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Computer Science Associate Degree jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Computer Science Associate Degree job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Science Associate Degree job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,187 per year, or $12.6 per hour.

Developer IV - Palmetto GBA

Palmetto GBA, LLC

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Palmetto GBA rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 500 rated business services


Job description

Summary
Palmetto GBA is one of the nation's largest providers of high-volume claims and transaction processing, contact center operations, and technical services to the federal government and other commercial customers. Our core business is providing services to CMS Medicare beneficiaries, providers, and health plans. Palmetto GBA is one of the few Medicare contractors with experience in all Medicare business segments - Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, Durable Medical Equipment (DME), Home Health and Hospice (HHH), and Medicare Advantage (MA) Part C and Part D. This broad experience base offers CMS a contractor with unique expertise and the ability to offer customized, creative, and proven solutions to complex problems.
Description
Position Purpose:
Responsible for designing, developing, testing, implementing, and supporting complex technology solutions aligned with business and IT needs. Partners with business and technical teams throughout the full development life cycle, provides technical guidance to other developers, and helps resolve complex system and application issues. Strong mainframe development experience is preferred, particularly with COBOL, JCL, and NDM, while supporting knowledge continuity across the team.
Location: This position is full-time hybrid (40 hours/week), Monday - Friday, with three mandatory days onsite Monday-Wednesday and two remote days Thursday and Friday. This role is located at 17 Technology Circle, Columbia, South Carolina.
Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for sponsorship now or in the future.
What You Will Do:
  • Produce deliverables related to the assigned project. Perform analysis, design, programming, and implementation of systems and procedures to solve complex business or scientific problems. Evaluate interrelationships in immediate programming area to determine how changes in one program will affect another related area. Apply conversions and enhancements to business systems. May lead or provide expertise on assigned projects.

  • Work closely with customers, business analysts, and team members to understand business requirements that drive the analysis and design of quality technical solutions. Ensure solutions are aligned with business and IT strategies and comply with the organization's architectural standards. Assist in post-implementation support and system enhancements.
  • Test modified programs, create necessary test files and data, verify logic, debug, and write relevant documentation.
  • Design and develop IT systems. Devise new sources of data and develop new approaches and techniques. Involved in the full systems life cycle and is responsible for designing, coding, testing, implementing, maintaining and supporting complex application software that is delivered on time and within budget.
  • Provide guidance to lower-level programmers/analysts. Act as an internal consultant by providing technical guidance on complex projects. Determine and resolve problems with other systems analysts, programmers, and systems users.
  • Test designed programs, verify logic, perform any necessary "debugging," and write the documentation.

To Qualify For This Position:
Required Education:
  • Bachelor's degree-in Computer Science, Information Technology or other job-related degree.

Degree Equivalency:
  • Or an additional 4 years of job-related work experience.
    Or an additional 2 years of job-related work experience plus an associate's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or other job-related degree.

Required Work Experience:
  • 6 years-of application development, systems testing or other job-related experience.

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Comprehensive understanding of applications/development, quality assurance and integration methodologies, concepts and facilities in a mainframe, midrange, and/or PC/LAN environment.
  • Demonstrates a high level of technical proficiency in the areas of programming languages, platform capabilities, and methods of systems analysis and program design.
  • Excellent analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrates logical abstract thinking and assimilating/adhering to project goals and deadlines.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Able to work well under pressure and as part of a team.
  • Strong knowledge of interpersonal skills/team building.
  • Familiar with project management concepts.
  • Ability to assess requirements, alternatives, and risks/benefits for low- to high-impact projects.
  • Pays attention to detail.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, clients, vendors etc.
  • In-depth understanding of organizational functions, behavior, and inter-relationships.

We Prefer That You Have The Following:
  • Comprehensive knowledge of relevant operating systems, programming languages, and development tools and their usage in the company.
  • 5 years of JCLs, COBOL, Easytrieve, and NDM.
  • Experience working within an Agile/Scrum development environment.
  • Prior experience with Medicare claims processing.
  • Experience within the healthcare industry, preferably supporting healthcare claims processing.

Work Environment:
  • Customer-focused, project-oriented programming environment.
  • Fast paced, multi-platformed environment which may require action and response 24X7 to support the technical business needs of the customer.

What We Can Do for You:
We offer our employees great benefits and rewards. You will be eligible to participate in our benefits program the first of the month following 28 days of employment.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Subsidized health plans, dental and vision coverage
  • 401K retirement savings plan with company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Nine paid holidays
  • On-site cafeterias and fitness centers in major locations
  • Education Assistance
  • Service recognition
  • National discounts to movies, theaters, zoos, theme parks and more

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and our subsidiary companies maintain a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in employment to promote employment opportunities for persons regardless of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, veteran status, disability, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other legally protected status. Additionally, as a federal contractor, the company maintains affirmative action programs to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. It is our policy to provide equal opportunities in all phases of the employment process and to comply with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, pregnant individuals, individuals with pregnancy-related conditions, and individuals needing accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, provided that those accommodations do not impose an undue hardship on the Company.
If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please email mycareer.help@bcbssc.com or call 800-288-2227, ext. 47480 with the nature of your request. We will make a determination regarding your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
We participate in E-Verify and comply with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Here's more information.
Some states have required notifications. Here's more information.

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