10 answers
6
Questions
Updated
6907 views
I'm confused, as a running start student completing their AA in Arts but wanting to be a Software Engineer, and now noticing that there is an AA for CS, I don't know what is the best plan for me?
Hello, my name is Daniel, I do running start as a junior and am completing my AA arts this upcoming year. I want to be a Software Engineer in my future but now I'm worried if I'm perusing the right degree, there is a CS-AA in the college I attend and a friend of mine is trying to persue it, so that when she finishes it, she can get a beginner job (like analyst) and going into internships - which does not seem like a bad plan to me. I'm doing my AA in arts degree and almost done but if I want to get into CS-AA then I might not have enough time to be able to complete it before I graduate high school. I contacted the University of Washington which is mainly where I want to go, the admission office said that my AA is good and to just focus on advancing in my core classes (English, science, math) and that CS-AA does not really give me an advantage. Can anyone help me on what my best options are now?
Thank you a lot.
Login to comment
10 answers
Updated
Mia’s Answer
Hi Dani!
I also got my AA through running start and then went to Western Washington University and got my degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) which is also a STEM degree so I totally relate to your situation!
The curriculum is different at WWU vs UW, but - I can say that most universities especially in Washington require pretty general courses for the first two years to meet basic requirements (e.g., science, math, history classes). And the two years that you'll spend at university (if you're pursuing your bachelors) will be more major-focused. So as far as getting your AA, you should be fine starting at UW with those more general courses completed.
If there are extra courses required, you may just need to have a heavier class load for a quarter or two, but in my experience - I was able to graduate with my bachelors after two years at university.
I also got my AA through running start and then went to Western Washington University and got my degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) which is also a STEM degree so I totally relate to your situation!
The curriculum is different at WWU vs UW, but - I can say that most universities especially in Washington require pretty general courses for the first two years to meet basic requirements (e.g., science, math, history classes). And the two years that you'll spend at university (if you're pursuing your bachelors) will be more major-focused. So as far as getting your AA, you should be fine starting at UW with those more general courses completed.
If there are extra courses required, you may just need to have a heavier class load for a quarter or two, but in my experience - I was able to graduate with my bachelors after two years at university.
Hello Mia, thank you for your comment, it's great to hear other people that were in my position because I'm pretty alone here :) Do you think that Western Washington is a great university especially for what I want/how was your experience? and what about Washington State University, why did you not go there if I may ask because there it seem to be great.
Dani
Updated
Lixia’s Answer
Hi Dani,
If you can join CS program , that will be good, or you can study some courses relate to CS. At the same time, you can pursue other degree like AA.
If you can join CS program , that will be good, or you can study some courses relate to CS. At the same time, you can pursue other degree like AA.
Hello Lixia, thank you for your comment!
Dani
Updated
Lily’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
I agree with what UW said about. No need to worry about transferring AA major as of now. You will have a plenty of time to think about it later after you are admitted to UW. And once you are in college, you will gain more exposure on computer science major and take some elective courses during your leisure time to see if you really like the CS job in the future. In conclusion, no worry now, just focus on your GPA with AA art.
I agree with what UW said about. No need to worry about transferring AA major as of now. You will have a plenty of time to think about it later after you are admitted to UW. And once you are in college, you will gain more exposure on computer science major and take some elective courses during your leisure time to see if you really like the CS job in the future. In conclusion, no worry now, just focus on your GPA with AA art.
Hello Lily, thank you so much for your advice!
Dani
Updated
Bryce’s Answer
Hello Daniel!
I'm happy to report I actually went through the exact same situation as you, in high school I was in a program called HSCA (Health Science Collegiate Academy) so for my junior and senior year, I didn't go to high school at all and was full time at college earning my AA (Associates in Arts). When I heard about an associates in science and I was intrigued and wanted to pursue that. Luckily, I was advised against it. Experience is what matters most, when you get your first job all they're going to look at is your major in college, likely not even your focus all that much, so the details about that stuff usually gets lost. In fact, if you were to pursue your AA in CS, you would likely just be repeating classes when you go off to college and would be less rounded. My advice is, if you're going for computer science, put in a lot of effort into your English classes, cause almost no one interested in computer science is going to enjoy English classes, if you put a lot of effort into those classes you'll be more well-spoken and well-written than the people you're competing for jobs with when it does come time to apply for jobs.
Hope this helped!
I'm happy to report I actually went through the exact same situation as you, in high school I was in a program called HSCA (Health Science Collegiate Academy) so for my junior and senior year, I didn't go to high school at all and was full time at college earning my AA (Associates in Arts). When I heard about an associates in science and I was intrigued and wanted to pursue that. Luckily, I was advised against it. Experience is what matters most, when you get your first job all they're going to look at is your major in college, likely not even your focus all that much, so the details about that stuff usually gets lost. In fact, if you were to pursue your AA in CS, you would likely just be repeating classes when you go off to college and would be less rounded. My advice is, if you're going for computer science, put in a lot of effort into your English classes, cause almost no one interested in computer science is going to enjoy English classes, if you put a lot of effort into those classes you'll be more well-spoken and well-written than the people you're competing for jobs with when it does come time to apply for jobs.
Hope this helped!
Hello Bryce, thank you for your comment. It's great knowing that I'm not alone being in this situation so I very much appreciate your comment!
Dani
Updated
Vijay’s Answer
Daniel, since University of Washington accepts your AA in Arts and recommends focusing on core classes, you’re on a good path. The CS-AA can help with entry-level jobs or internships earlier, but it’s not necessary if you plan to transfer to a strong CS program later.
Focus on:
Completing your AA on time.
Excelling in math and science courses.
Building coding skills through self-study or projects.
Seeking internships or volunteer opportunities to gain experience.
You can always pursue specialized CS courses or certifications after transferring. Your current plan is solid—keep building skills and stay flexible.
Focus on:
Completing your AA on time.
Excelling in math and science courses.
Building coding skills through self-study or projects.
Seeking internships or volunteer opportunities to gain experience.
You can always pursue specialized CS courses or certifications after transferring. Your current plan is solid—keep building skills and stay flexible.
Hello Vijay, thank you for your comment and advice!
Dani
Updated
Elliot’s Answer
Hi Dani,
Don't worry too much about the titles and degrees for now - I agree with U Wash and to focus on core classes in English, Sci, Math makes sense. Finish up where you are. U of Washington is a fine school and a good place to further SPECIALIZE in a specific area. Try to determine WHAT that area is. What do you enjoy, and what brings out your passion and purpose? So wherever you go, and whatever you study in the next program, maybe in graduate study, you should be sure that it is in the direction you really really want to go full speed ahead in.
One thing to note, Dani, is that in only less than the past 8 months or so, AI has entered the software engineering domain by STORM!! It has literally changed the job and you need to understand the new reality of this job is that AI will be an essential new tool that does a lot of coding for you but this also relieves you to be more productive and able to think more about strategy and direction instead of focusing on code as much as before.
It is also definitely impacting the job and internship market so be aware of these developments and I think AI is a great exciting area, but it also competes with you on a certain level - this is new territory! Nobody knows for sure how this will play out but bottom line is no matter what, figure out what interests you and what your favorite passion is - then work hard to develop key skills in that area.
Good luck!
Don't worry too much about the titles and degrees for now - I agree with U Wash and to focus on core classes in English, Sci, Math makes sense. Finish up where you are. U of Washington is a fine school and a good place to further SPECIALIZE in a specific area. Try to determine WHAT that area is. What do you enjoy, and what brings out your passion and purpose? So wherever you go, and whatever you study in the next program, maybe in graduate study, you should be sure that it is in the direction you really really want to go full speed ahead in.
One thing to note, Dani, is that in only less than the past 8 months or so, AI has entered the software engineering domain by STORM!! It has literally changed the job and you need to understand the new reality of this job is that AI will be an essential new tool that does a lot of coding for you but this also relieves you to be more productive and able to think more about strategy and direction instead of focusing on code as much as before.
It is also definitely impacting the job and internship market so be aware of these developments and I think AI is a great exciting area, but it also competes with you on a certain level - this is new territory! Nobody knows for sure how this will play out but bottom line is no matter what, figure out what interests you and what your favorite passion is - then work hard to develop key skills in that area.
Good luck!
Thank you Elliot for your comment and advice!
Dani
Updated
Dima’s Answer
Hey Daniel, you're doing great, so try not to worry too much. Completing your AA in Arts is a solid step towards transferring and pursuing software engineering.
Since UW said your AA is acceptable and emphasized the importance of excelling in core classes like math, science, and English, you're on the right track. Most computer science programs value your performance in these key courses more than the specific title of your AA.
If possible, take a few computer science classes, even if they're not part of your degree. This will show your interest and help you gain experience.
Your friend's plan is good, but you don't have to follow it exactly. Everyone's journey is unique. Once you're in university, you can still major in computer science or related fields with your AA in Arts.
Overall, you're doing well. Just focus on finishing strong, continue building your skills, and take some computer science classes if you can. You're in a good position for a future in software engineering.
Since UW said your AA is acceptable and emphasized the importance of excelling in core classes like math, science, and English, you're on the right track. Most computer science programs value your performance in these key courses more than the specific title of your AA.
If possible, take a few computer science classes, even if they're not part of your degree. This will show your interest and help you gain experience.
Your friend's plan is good, but you don't have to follow it exactly. Everyone's journey is unique. Once you're in university, you can still major in computer science or related fields with your AA in Arts.
Overall, you're doing well. Just focus on finishing strong, continue building your skills, and take some computer science classes if you can. You're in a good position for a future in software engineering.
Okay, thank you for your comment Dima, I appreciate it!
Dani
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Hi Dani,
If the university you want to go to told you to not worry about switching AAs, I don't think it would be worth the hassle for you, especially if you may not be able to complete the program on time. Once you get to the University you could choose to major in Computer Science if you want to get a job as a software engineer, and you will learn necessary skills there. I would instead put your effort into making sure your grades in the classes you take now are very high to give yourself the best chance to being accepted, and then once you are in university worry about finding a summer internship in a related field.
Make sure your grades are high in your current program
Learn coding in your free time from places like YouTube, Udemy, etc. to help prepare for university courses
If the university you want to go to told you to not worry about switching AAs, I don't think it would be worth the hassle for you, especially if you may not be able to complete the program on time. Once you get to the University you could choose to major in Computer Science if you want to get a job as a software engineer, and you will learn necessary skills there. I would instead put your effort into making sure your grades in the classes you take now are very high to give yourself the best chance to being accepted, and then once you are in university worry about finding a summer internship in a related field.
Sean recommends the following next steps:
Hello Sean, thank you for your comment, yours along with others give me a relief that the AA I'm getting can actually help me for what I want. Thanks!
Dani
Updated
William’s Answer
Try to get an internship, it should pay a little, but give you experience & a reference to put on your resume. If you can find enough money to get a Bachelor's degree, that is better than an AA. Also, if you have an option to be a "Software Engineering" major, that is more respected than a "Computer Information Science" major, even though they take mostly the same classes. As for what to study specifically, full stack JavaScript platforms like MERN (Mongo ExpressJS React NodeJS) are very popular & their market share is increasing.
Hello William, thank you for your comment. Could you explain more about why the "Software Engineering" major is more respected than the other? what is the difference if they mostly take the same classes?
Dani
Updated
Ram’s Answer
Hello Dani,
If you really want to be a software engineer, then don't worry about your Arts degree. What you really need is 3 things 1) a computer with internet access 2) Time to do focused learning 3) ideas that you can start to program out. Most of the top level programmers of our time are self-taught and they are so because they spent quality time away from distractions to block out all the noise to learn and code- eg the legend of Pierre Omidyar who cranked out the first version of eBay over a weekend sitting in his room!. All the material is out there on the internet. If you pick up any single language, there are tons of documentation from simple hello world programs to more advanced ones. Github itself has so many open source projects that you can look up code and learn. We are in 2025 and now we have a fleet of AI code generator applications to help you even more. But the core principles of how you write good and secure code, how you test review/deploy the code in teams don't change and these are things that you can pick up along the way.
Doing the CS-AA certainly can help, but it won't get you totally to the place you want to be- which is be a proficient programmer skilled at your craft. That can only come through practice, hard work and focus.
Good luck in your career journey!
If you really want to be a software engineer, then don't worry about your Arts degree. What you really need is 3 things 1) a computer with internet access 2) Time to do focused learning 3) ideas that you can start to program out. Most of the top level programmers of our time are self-taught and they are so because they spent quality time away from distractions to block out all the noise to learn and code- eg the legend of Pierre Omidyar who cranked out the first version of eBay over a weekend sitting in his room!. All the material is out there on the internet. If you pick up any single language, there are tons of documentation from simple hello world programs to more advanced ones. Github itself has so many open source projects that you can look up code and learn. We are in 2025 and now we have a fleet of AI code generator applications to help you even more. But the core principles of how you write good and secure code, how you test review/deploy the code in teams don't change and these are things that you can pick up along the way.
Doing the CS-AA certainly can help, but it won't get you totally to the place you want to be- which is be a proficient programmer skilled at your craft. That can only come through practice, hard work and focus.
Good luck in your career journey!
Hello Ram, I appreciate your advice and the information you provided in the comment, Thank you!
Dani