Testing out of a Computer Science degree?

[SirTeacherGuy]

I was wondering if anyone here would be able to help me figure out how to test out of a Computer Science degree at one of the Big Three schools? A friend of mine has a very busy schedule and going to a traditional school full time would not fit into his life very well, so I am seeking help here. A plan for testing out of a bachelor's degree in Computer Science would be ideal, but even advice for testing out of an associate's degree in Computer Science would be great. If complete testing out is not possible, I would at least appreciate help in planning to test out of the maximum number of courses possible. Thanks in advance for any and all help provided.

[ryoder]

There are a few topics on this in this forum. You cannot completely test out of this degree I am afraid.
Here are your testing options as far as I know:
CLEP Information Systems - Lower level
DSST MIIS - Upper level
TESC Network Technology TECEP - Upper level

It is easier to get a BSBA CIS than a BA CS at TESC and the business CLEP/DSST tests you take for that degree will fulfill requirements for an MBA later in life.

You can also get some credit for certifications.
MCSE = about 11 credits
MCSD = 7 credits upper level CIS
Network+ and A+ = 2credits lower level computer applications which does NOT work for a CS or CIS major unfortunately

[skyfall123]

What Ryan said is true...the BSBA CIS is easier to test out of and it does have excellent value in terms of introducing the student to business.
The other side of the coin is that the Computer Science curriculum is more challenging, it can be argued that the student will "learn more", and it prepares the student for more Graduate school options.

When you break it down I think that a CS degree would require one or two semesters of intensive course work combined with testing out of GenEd studies.
The intensive coursework would include at the minimum: Discrete Math, Calc I & II, Data Structures, Computer Architecture, Operating Systems
The course work that can be applied to either the BA CS or BSBA CIS are MIS (DSST exam), Intro to Computers (CLEP exam), Network Technology (TECEP), Systems Analysis & Design (Adams State College or TESC course).

While Ryan's statement is true, a BSBA CIS does prepare you for a management position and is DEFINITELY provides better value better than a Liberal Arts degree, I would argue that the Computer Science degree provides more technical training and gives you more options. Those options include a fully funded Masters or PhD, the prospect of a Research position, the prospect of teaching CS and the very real possibility of working for the NSA or other govt agency. A BSBA CIS does not easily open any of those doors.

If you have a CS degree you can always pick up an MBA. If you have a BSBA CIS you can’t get into just any technical Masters program.
The other consideration is your age. If you are older, then a BSBA CIS might be the perfect choice, especially if you have a lot of work experience are looking to move into management. If you are in your 20’s however, I would really consider a CS degree, since that would open up the opportunity to pursue a fully funded Masters degree at a B&M university.

You can pick up an undergrad business degree or an MBA at anytime. You might however only get one real chance at pursuing a CS degree. In the long run I think the BSBA CIS or BA CS will require the same amount of effort, so choose wisely depending on your LONG term goals. As a practical matter, if you do choose CS then start with the Calc I&II, Discrete Math and Data Structures. If you can make it through them, then you can handle anything else. If you can’t then switch to the BSBA CIS. Both degrees are excellent. My oldest son has a BSBA CIS and youngest BA CS (both from TESC), so I appreciate the unique value each one offers. There is no one BEST choice that fits everyone's situation. Both are great options.

Good luck whatever you decide!

[ryoder]

I agree with Geezer's comments but want to add a little more of my own 2c.

My point about the MBA was that a LOT of people go into an MBA without first taking the required undergrad entrance courses. This puts those students at a 1 year disadvantage in that they have to take a bunch of "foundation" courses prior to enrolling in the real MBA courses.

Geezer is right that a CS degree has more utility that a BSBA CIS in certain areas, however there are masters level information systems degrees and PhD level MIS and CIS degrees as well.

Here is a way to have it both ways if you are interested...
Everyone needs so many social science, math and general electives.
So take the business core courses such as macro, micro, statistics, information systems, accounting, marketing and management as your social science (macro & micro), science (information systems), math with stats and general electives for the rest.
This way you can get into an MBA or MS MIS program without all of the foundation courses.

If you have a computer science degree without these undergrad courses you will not be admitted to most MIS degree programs without foundation courses.