Best Online Computer Science Degrees
The computer science field features many well-paying positions with advancement opportunities. A degree can help professionals qualify for these jobs. Learners pursuing an online computer science degree typically need a high school diploma or GED. Applicants may need to submit standardized test scores and recommendation letters.
Career opportunities for graduates vary by specialization. Popular entry-level jobs include software developer, information security analyst, and web developer. This guide explores online computer science programs' typical cost and classes, along with salary potential for graduates.
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Why Get a Degree in Computer Science?
An online computer science degree prepares students for many in-demand roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for computer and information systems managers to increase 11% from 2020-2030. Academic and career advisors help students choose specializations aligned with financially rewarding jobs.
Online education features benefits for recent high school graduates and working professionals. Distance learners do not need to relocate to earn an online computer science degree. Other advantages often include asynchronous curricula, which allow students to view recorded lectures and complete assignments at convenient times.
How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?
According to 2022 data from the Education Data Initiative, annual tuition at four-year, in-state schools costs an average of $9,349. Out-of-state tuition averages $27,023 per year. Some public institutions charge all online learners in-state tuition rates. Degree-seekers should also budget for fees and expenses.
Learners often pursuing online computer science degrees often save money on housing and transportation costs. Students with an associate in computer science can reduce costs by transferring credits into their bachelor's program. Degree-seekers can also apply for institutional and private scholarships.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online programs may require additional fees. Schools often charge a technology fee per semester, credit, or class. Other typical expenses include a one-time graduation fee and textbooks. Computer science majors should also budget for required software and a new computer. Many hardware and software companies offer student discounts.
Graduates often pursue professional certifications to improve their career prospects. Private organizations awarding these credentials typically charge certification and renewal fees.
How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?
The BLS reports that computer and information systems managers earn a median $159,010 annual salary. Computer and information research scientists earn a median of $131,490 per year. Earning potential varies by employer. Computer managers working in the information, finance, and insurance fields earn the highest median salaries.
After earning a computer science degree online, graduates can increase their salary potential by pursuing a master's in computer science. Many schools offer fully online master's programs. Some students graduate in 18 months while maintaining employment.
Online Computer Science Degree Courses
An online computer science degree prepares students for entry-level careers. Coursework covers programming languages including HTML and C++. Undergraduate students take general education classes and electives. Many schools require degree-seekers to maintain a minimum GPA to remain in good academic standing.
Many online computer science programs require the following core classes. Available courses and specializations vary by program. Prospective students should compare curricula before selecting a school. Program websites and admissions advisors can help applicants ensure the program aligns with their career goals.
Computer Science: No Prior Programming Experience
Many online computer science programs admit learners without a programming background. This course introduces expressions, interfaces, and arrays. Learners may need prerequisites in introductory coding and advanced algebra. Participants gain the foundational skills necessary for advanced coding classes.Software Development with C++
Online computer science programs feature classes in common programming languages. This course explores efficient programming techniques, programming standards, and testing procedures. Degree-seekers learn to write complex code and use professional programming tools. Students may also take upper-division C++ classes.Software Engineering
After earning a computer science degree online, graduates often become software engineers. This class introduces the profession through group and individual projects. Learners analyze configuration management techniques and teamwork fundamentals. Degree-seekers practice using software engineering tools, such as Piazza and Webpack. This online class often requires some synchronous coursework.
Popular Computer Science Bachelor's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Become a Computer and Information Research Scientists
Most computer and information research scientists hold a master's degree. Master's degree-seekers learn to develop new programming languages, conduct experiments, and publish research articles. These scientists also analyze their employer's computing needs. Some professionals in this field specialize in robotics.
Computer and information research scientists can work in many fields. Top employers include the federal government, research institutions, and computer systems design companies. Research scientists can advance professionally by earning certifications.
Best Online Computer Science Degrees
#1 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per 6-Month Term: $3,625
Credits to Graduate: 120 competency units
WGU's online BS in computer science uses an educational model emphasizing personalized learning and affordability. You must complete 35 courses to earn your degree, but students with prior computer science experience can demonstrate what they know to earn their degree even faster.
The curriculum teaches core skills such as network security, web development, and software engineering. You'll also showcase your technical expertise through a capstone project. Additionally, this program prepares you to pursue industry certifications like CompTIA.
About 71% of students in this program earn their BS in just over two years by using prior experience and/or transferring credits. Admission requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and transcripts.
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
147,866
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $320
Credits to Graduate: 120
SNHU's online BS in computer science offers four 12-credit concentrations: data analysis, information security, software engineering, and STEM project management.
You'll learn core skills in programming, software security, and full-stack development regardless of your concentration. You may opt to use your 12 credits for major electives rather than a concentration. You can also choose between a capstone project and a software engineering internship.
Students can transfer up to 90 credits into this bachelor's program. To apply, you must submit all transcripts and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Students Enrolled
134,345
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $350
Credits to Graduate: 120
CSU Global's online bachelor's in computer science program targets both seasoned professionals and students with no prior computer science experience. All classes in this program use an asynchronous format.
You'll learn core computer science skills like programming, software engineering, and database management. You can also use certificates and specializations to build your degree plan. Popular specializations include organizational leadership and project management. The program also offers interdisciplinary concentrations, like healthcare management.
You may transfer up to 90 credits toward this degree. CSU Global locks in student tuition to ensure affordability. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
- Fayette, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $270
Credits to Graduate: 120
CMU is a private liberal arts college that offers an online bachelor's in computer science, blending classroom learning with real-world experience. In this program, you'll study key subjects like networking, database systems and SQL, and data structures and algorithms. You'll also learn how to program with Java or Python.
You can pursue specialized training in subfields like web design and mobile app development. The program's internship component provides hands-on experience on campus in Missouri or with local employers. Admission requires a minimum 2.5-2.75 GPA and, for some applicants, SAT or ACT scores.
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $541
Credits to Graduate: 120
Auburn's online computer science degree is geared toward students who've already earned some college credit. You can apply your credits to fulfill the program's general education and other requirements.
The computer science major provides training in areas such as algorithms, operating systems, and mobile app development. You'll also complete a course on ethics that covers privacy and property rights issues.
All students can receive free tutoring from peers. Students without enough transfer credits can meet with an advisor to develop a degree plan. Applicants must have at least 30 college credits and submit all undergraduate transcripts.
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Maryville University of Saint Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $525
Credits to Graduate: 128
A key feature of Maryville's online BS in computer science is customization. You'll learn core skills like programming and database applications, as well as how to deploy state-of-the-art technology like Amazon Web Services and IBM Watson. You can also pursue in-demand certifications in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science.
The Smarthinking tutoring service provides 24/7 academic support. You'll also have access to personal counseling and a life coach team. Maryville is a transfer-friendly institution. To apply, you must have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $403
Credits to Graduate: 180
In Oregon State's online computer science program, you'll learn fundamental technical skills like programming and software engineering. You can choose to complete an optional applied computer science specialization to prepare you for cybersecurity work.
The university offers a comprehensive catalog of minors that may interest computer science students, such as innovation and entrepreneurship and user experience research.
Students can showcase their engineering design and project management expertise through a senior project. You may opt for a 100% online or hybrid learning format. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
Johnson & Wales University-Online
- Providence, RI
- 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $495
Credits to Graduate: 121
Based in Rhode Island, JWU offers an online BS in computer science that teaches technical skills while helping students hone their problem-solving and project management proficiencies.
Technical training covers key areas like programming, network protocols, and systems modeling and simulation. In this program, you'll apply your software development expertise to a design project. You'll also get hands-on experience by completing an internship or a project for a partnering organization.
Some courses last just eight weeks in an accelerated format. All online computer science students pay the same tuition, regardless of where they live. You must have some college credit or at least two years of work experience for admission.
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $442
Credits to Graduate: 180
NU's online bachelor's in computer science emphasizes workplace preparation. The program teaches you how to program using Java and C++. You'll also develop database, algorithm, and digital logic design proficiency.
A software development concentration prepares you to design, test, and manage secure software systems. You'll also get to showcase your software engineering expertise through a senior project.
NU is a military-friendly school with four-week courses and a generous transfer credit policy. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and placement testing for some first-year applicants.
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Best Online Computer Science Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Platteville, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $525
Credits to Graduate: 120
UW-Platteville's online BS in applied computing entails coursework in programming, database management, and web development. You'll learn how to develop an information systems strategy to help achieve an organization's goals. You'll also explore the legal and ethical responsibilities of IT professionals. All students get to apply what they learn to a project for a client.
The university accepts up to 72 transfer credits. Admission requires a high school diploma or HSED/GED certificate for first-year students, while transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees
What kind of jobs do you get with a computer science degree?
After earning an online computer science degree, graduates can become computer systems analysts, IT project managers, and database administrators.
What is the highest-paying job with a computer science degree?
Mid-career software development directors earn a median $163,000 salary, according to May 2022 Payscale data. Other well-paying jobs include principal software engineer and security architect. Individuals with advanced degrees and professional experience may qualify for higher salaries.
Can you earn a computer science degree online?
Students can earn a computer science degree online at many top schools. Online degree-seekers complete the same academic requirements as on-campus learners.
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