I am in community college and going for AS in Computer Network Specialist. I am half way done with the degree. There is a certificate called Designing and Installing Network Systems. I am thinking of just doing the computer classes in the degree than switch to the certificate and only have to take Intro to Business and Principles of Management. Your opinion? Etc?

Go with a degree.
If you want to get certifications they are great, however you need real certifications such as CCNA, Net+, MCSE ect. I would run far far away from the certificate called "Designing and Installing Network Systems"

Net+ & A+ Certified
BS Networking Security