Embark on one of today's most in-demand careers with a computer science degree. As a computer science (CS) expert, you could be a data scientist, computer engineer, or computer science researcher. You might work in healthcare, manufacturing, software development, national security, or nearly any other industry.
Whether you're considering a career change or just now graduating high school, this degree could be your pathway to an engaging and lucrative future.
Learn more about the best online computer science degrees in our guide below.
10 Best Computer Science Bachelor's Degrees Online
Reality Check: Will AI Take Over Computer Science Jobs?
With the rapid development of AI, you may be wondering, "Is a computer science degree bad now?" No, a computer science degree is anything but obsolete. AI is opening up new areas within CS, such as robotics, machine learning, and natural language processing. An online CS degree is a versatile and valuable qualification for this rapidly expanding field.
What You Can Expect from an Online Computer Science Program
Online computer science bachelor's degree programs typically require 120 credits and four years of full-time study to complete. As an online CS student, you'll dive deep into the algorithms, software, networks, security systems, and cloud data centers that make up modern computer systems.
You'll also engage with computer science theory, debate the ethics of technology, and explore the complexities of calculus and discrete mathematics. In some programs, you can choose a concentration, such as cybersecurity, data science, or artificial intelligence. Typically, you will conclude your degree with a capstone project demonstrating your engineering design and program management skills.
Differences Between an Online and Campus-Based CS Degree Program
Your online CS degree requires the same courses as the on-campus program, but how you study can be quite different. As an online student, you will use a virtual learning platform to respond to discussion posts, submit assignments, and interact with your professor and classmates.
Some students find that programming courses align nicely with online learning platforms, but studying CS theory or discrete mathematics online can be tricky. You get to decide which approach is best for you.
Why Get Your Computer Science Degree Online?
Flexible scheduling lets you study when it's convenient for you — morning, afternoon, evening, or weekends.
Work-school balance is often more straightforward when you study online, and you can accommodate community and family responsibilities more easily, too.
Many online degree programs have lower tuition than campus-based programs.
Online learning allows you to enroll in a program in another state without relocating (though there may be additional fees for nonresidents).
Choosing an Online Computer Science Program: 4 Key Factors
Computer science is a diverse field — different programs give you different career options. Before choosing an online computer science degree, think about these five steps.
1. Outline Your Program and Career Goals
Before narrowing down your program options, consider what you want to get from your computer science degree. You may have a specific career or salary level in mind or a particular timeline to earn your degree.
Alternatively, you may want a program that gives you the freedom to explore different areas of study before fully committing yourself to a specialization.
2. Determine Your Budget
If you're like most students, the cost of tuition is a primary concern when choosing an online computer science bachelor's degree. Outside of tuition, online programs can often create a different set of budget considerations. You may be able to save on some expenses, such as parking and transportation, while spending more on others, such as online student fees and specific technology or software.
3. Compare Online Programs
Even if they cover similar course topics, online computer science degrees can vary widely in terms of program format, length, and graduate outcomes. Consider which factors are most important to you when you start looking at programs. Careful research and comparison can help you choose the best online computer science degree that meets your needs.
4. Confirm Accreditation
Institutional accreditation helps ensure that you can receive federal financial aid to pay for college. It also legitimizes your degree in the marketplace, making it easier to transfer credits, pursue a graduate degree, or land a job after graduation.
Although not required, accreditation from ABET, the programmatic accreditor for technology and engineering programs, demonstrates a school's commitment to the department and the discipline. ABET accredits only bachelor's programs and does not apply to graduate degrees.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Degree?
A computer science degree is one of the most marketable credentials in today's digital landscape. With a computer science degree, you can work as a software engineer, data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, or IT project manager, among many other high-demand careers.
Even with no experience, you can compete for entry-level or support roles in cybersecurity, technical support, or computer programming. A master's degree can set you up for leadership positions or advanced technical careers in CS.
Computer Science Salary and Career Outlook
A computer science bachelor's degree prepares you to pursue a high-paying career with strong job growth potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the annual median salary in the computer and IT field was $105,990 as of May 2024, which means many jobs have six-figure salaries.
The BLS projects that all the following information technology jobs will grow much faster than average between 2023-2033.
| 8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree | Median Annual Wage (May 2024) | Job Outlook (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $171,200 | 15% |
| Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers | $131,450 | 15% |
| Computer Network Architects | $130,390 | 12% |
| Information Security Analysts | $124,910 | 29% |
| Database Administrators and Architects | $123,100 | 4% |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,790 | 9% |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers | $95,380 | 7% |
| Computer Support Specialists | $61,550 | -3% |
How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?
The average annual cost of an online computer science degree is $11,480, but remember that your experience will vary. Some colleges offer in-state tuition rates to out-of-state online students. Others provide CS scholarships, partner with local employers, or offer generous transfer policies to help you save money.
Below, we compare the average cost of an online CS degree to a traditional, campus-based CS degree.
Average Annual Cost of an Online CS Degree
Online CS Degree
$11,480
Traditional, Campus-Based CS Degree
$19,746
Computer Science Programs: Bachelor's Degree vs. Certificate vs. Bootcamp
Choosing the right path to start your career in computer science depends on your goals, time commitment, and budget. The table below can help you decide which option best suits your needs.
Bachelor's Degree
Takes four years to complete
Costs can total over $80,000
Includes general education coursework
Comes with a higher salary potential
Qualifies graduates to apply for a master's degree or doctorate in computer science
May offer job search support
Usually offered by an accredited school
Qualifies graduates for many CS jobs that require a four-year degree
Certificate Program
Takes 4-18 months to complete
Can cost over $6,000 annually
Offers only specialized courses
Results in limited employment opportunities
Is not the same as a certification
Often requires 9-36 credits
Usually offered by an accredited school
Coding Bootcamp
Takes six months or less to complete
Costs an average of $13,579
Does not qualify for federal financial aid
Provides career-oriented training
May offer an income share agreement or other deferred tuition options
Often includes a professional portfolio and job search support
Is usually unaccredited
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Computer Science Degrees
The best major will help you get a job doing work you enjoy, and indeed, computer science can lead to an engaging, rewarding, and lucrative career. However, it's not an easy major to pursue.
If you're considering a computer science degree, set yourself up for success by practicing coding skills, learning new computer languages, and brushing up on your calculus and electrical engineering knowledge.
