Courses that teach algorithms help students refine their critical thinking skills and create a logical framework for problem-solving. Once students have extensive experience in creating an algorithm, they can apply this standard approach to most areas of technology, making the study valuable even outside of computer sciences.

Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.