The Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science 2020
Jul 08, 2020
TBS Staff
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Computer scientists create mobile apps, protect data from cyberattacks, and use computer technology to solve problems.
A bachelor's degree in computer science meets the entry-level education requirement for many in-demand computer science jobs. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% job growth for computer information systems managers and 21% job growth for software developers between 2018 and 2028. These careers offer average salaries of over $105,000 per year.
The flexibility of an online computer science degree program allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Additionally, online programs let students attend the best programs in the country without relocating.
The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A public land-, sea-, and space-grant institution, the University of Florida offers more than 25 fully online four-year programs. Among these, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers an online BS in computer science that explores mathematics, programming languages, physical science, software engineering, and the theory of computer science.
The 120-credit degree includes core courses like data structure and algorithms, applications of discrete structures, and digital logic and computer systems. In addition to courses, students must complete a major design experience. Students who earn this computer science BS can pursue careers as computer programmers, network system administrators, and information security analysts in fields like healthcare, insurance, and security.
Competitive transfer applicants should hold at least a 2.5 GPA. Prospective students with 15-29 transferable credits need prerequisite courses in analytic geometry and calculus. Upper-division applicants (i.e., students who hold 60 or more transferable credits) need four prerequisite courses in geometry, calculus, and physics, completed with a "C" or better.
Florida State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A top research university, Florida State University holds the highest designation for research activity from the Carnegie Commission. Founded in 1851, FSU serves more than 41,000 students from around the world each year. The Department of Computer Science offers an online BS in computer science that includes embedded minors in mathematics and physical sciences. The program focuses on object orientation, the interdependence of design, and distributed systems and networks.
The 120-credit degree includes 60 major credits. Computer science majors take classes like ethics in computer science, complexities and analysis of data structures and algorithms, and introduction to probability. Students must complete at least 60 credits (including their final 30) through FSU. The program prepares graduates for a variety of computer science jobs, like computer programmer, systems analyst, and software engineer.
Applicants must hold at least 52 credits (including at least half of the required liberal arts credits) or an associate degree. Prior to admission, online learners must also complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' foreign language and oral competency requirements.
The University of Colorado Boulder is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Colorado's flagship research university, the University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and offers more than 150 fields of study. Established in 1970, the school's Department of Computer Science offers multiple undergraduate and graduate programs, including a fully online bachelor's degree in applied computer science.
This post-baccalaureate applied computer science program only accepts students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another subject. Learners must complete 45 major credits. Core classes include discrete structures, principles of programming languages, and software development methods and tools. Learners also take electives on topics like design and analysis of data systems and introduction to artificial intelligence.
Learners can begin on one of three start dates per year. Students who previously completed computer science courses may transfer in up to 15 credits toward this degree. CU Boulder offers three pathways to complete the applied computer science degree: two-year, three-year, and accelerated pathways. The accelerated option requires a significant time commitment and program approval but lets students finish in as little as 1.5 years.
Auburn University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
One of the largest universities in the South, Auburn University hosts about 30,000 students each year. The school offers 140 majors across 13 colleges and schools, including a fully online bachelor of computer science degree completion program through its Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering.
Computer science majors develop skills in information technology, database management, computer network design, and network platforms. The program features 20 computer science courses, including 18 core and two elective classes. Required classes include web application development, software construction fundamentals, and mobile applications development.
Students can choose from electives on topics like computer architecture and parallel systems. Depending on their prior coursework, students may need to complete additional core courses in subjects other than computer science. The degree takes about two years to complete, with students typically taking two courses per term.
Applicants need 60 credits of prerequisite courses earned with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Prospective learners with a bachelor's degree in another field — completed with a minimum 2.5 GPA — can fast track the program. Applicants must submit official college transcripts.
Oregon State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
About this school
One of only two land-, sea-, space-, and sun-grant universities in the U.S., Oregon State University receives more research funding than any other school in the state. OSU hosts students from around the world through over 200 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs.
The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences offers a fully online post-baccalaureate BS in computer science program, which has four start dates per year. Designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in any subject, the 60-credit program only requires computer science coursework.
The curriculum covers computer programming, mobile and web development, user interfaces, computer systems and networking, and software engineering. Students take courses like discrete structures in computer science, introduction to databases, and computer architecture and assembly language.
The curriculum also includes one required mathematics course, exploring Boolean and relational algebra, inductive proofs, and graph theory. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.
DePaul University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A Roman Catholic school, DePaul University offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate programs, including an online bachelor's degree in computer science that is delivered by its College of Computing and Digital Media.
This online BS in computer science degree completion program explores topics such as mobile application development, artificial intelligence, database programming, and operating systems. Courses include discrete mathematics, data structures in Java, and design and analysis of algorithms. Depending on their academic background, some students may need to take general education classes. All computer science majors complete a software capstone project during their senior year.
Applicants must hold at least 30 semester or 45 quarter transfer credits, earned with a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA. Admission criteria also include the completion of C++ or Java courses. Advisors at DePaul's Academic Success Center help students set up a personalized degree completion plan. Distance learners benefit from 24/7 access to course materials and online exam proctoring. Graduates can qualify for computer science jobs like computer programmer, software engineer, and systems analyst.
Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A top public research university, Florida International University offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Distance learners can earn an online computer science degree from FIU's School of Computing and Information Sciences. This fully online, four-year degree provides a foundation in computer science without the heavy emphasis on mathematics and science common among other computer science programs.
The 120-credit curriculum prepares students to apply advanced computing skills in fields like healthcare, research, and science. The program offers interactive technology, collaboration opportunities with fellow classmates, and real-time feedback from instructors. Students learn how to find solutions and strategize new approaches for using computing technology.
Core courses include software engineering, operating systems principles, and professional and technical writing for computer science. Computer science majors also take three electives and three interdisciplinary credits outside of the department. Before taking core computer science classes, students must complete prerequisites in pre-calculus and statistics for business and economics.
Applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores and official high school and/or college transcripts. Transfer students with 60 or more credits do not need to submit ACT or SAT scores or high school transcripts.
Old Dominion University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A public research university, Old Dominion University offers more than 120 undergraduate and 130 graduate programs. The school's Department of Computer Science offers a fully online bachelor's in computer science. The program is offered as a full program and as a degree completion track.
Both pathways explore engineering methodology, experimental techniques, and fundamental computer science principles and practices. Students take classes like introduction to computer architecture, data structures and algorithms, and computational methods and software. The program also includes hands-on laboratory work.
Transfer students from schools in the Virginia Community College System and some other institutions receive guaranteed admission to ODU through a statewide agreement. Eligibility requirements for guaranteed admission include a minimum 2.5 GPA and at least 15 transferable credits.
Graduates can find jobs in professional software development, information security analysis, and network and database administration. They can also pursue graduate study in computer science and related fields.
Regent University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
As a Christian school, Regent University offers Christ-centered, on-campus and online degrees in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1978, Regent emphasizes a biblical perspective and strives to create future Christian leaders. Its College of Arts and Sciences offers a fully online BS in computer science that incorporates fundamental computer science principles grounded in Christian values.
The 120-credit program includes general education and major requirements. Courses include ethics for computer science, mobile and smart computing, and data structures and algorithms. All students must also take biblical worldview courses, including the making of the Christian mind and introduction to the Bible.
Students learn how to design and evaluate computing systems and network infrastructures, use mathematics and logic to find secure solutions, and understand database management and computer programming languages. Graduates qualify for careers in software development and engineering, data mining, and systems analysis and engineering.
This online computer science program offers eight-week courses and employs expert faculty with practical experience in the field. All online learners pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.
Concordia University Saint Paul is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Established in 1893 as a Christian liberal arts university, Concordia University Saint Paul offers career-focused degrees that combine a liberal arts foundation with marketable job skills. The school offers three undergraduate degrees focused on information technology and computing, including an online BS in computer science.
During seven-week courses, students learn how to use computer science to solve computing problems and design solutions. They also gain interpersonal, communication, project management, and teamwork skills. The curriculum explores data structures, virtual machines, computing practice, and software development.
The 120-credit program includes major, general education, and elective courses. Computer science majors must complete an introduction to probability and statistics course before taking major courses. Major classes include language design and implementation, computer architecture and operating systems, and introductory programming with Java.
Applicants must submit official transcripts indicating a minimum 2.0 GPA. Prospective students without any college credit who graduated from high school within the last three years must also submit ACT or SAT scores. All students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live. Graduates can assume roles such as software developer, computer systems analyst, and web developer. They can also pursue graduate study.
California University of Pennsylvania is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Its online BS in computer information systems program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering Technology (ABET).
About this school
California University of Pennsylvania offers career-focused academic programs on campus and online. The university emphasizes applied and active learning, offering students opportunities for internships, research, fieldwork, and other types of hands-on learning.
The fully online, business-focused bachelor's in computer information systems is well suited for students who want to use technology to find solutions to business problems. The 120-credit degree includes classes like database management systems and design, systems project management, and concepts in enterprise resource planning. The program also offers internship and co-op job opportunities.
Learners progress through courses with the same cohort of peers throughout the program. Applicants must submit official transcripts. Prospective students who graduated from high school within the past two years must also submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants may submit letters of recommendation and a personal essay to bolster their application.
Southeast Missouri State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The BS in computer information systems program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering Technology (ABET).
About this school
Established in 1873, Southeast Missouri State University emphasizes experiential learning, offering internship and study abroad opportunities to all majors. The university hosts more than 145 undergraduate and 75 graduate degree tracks.
The Department of Computer Science offers a fully online BS in computer information systems that prepares students for careers in IT, development, and networking. The National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security recognize the computer science department as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. This program's curriculum covers foundational computer science and information systems, business, and mathematics principles.
The 120-credit degree requires general education and major classes, including 78 credits of major core classes and 12 credits in one of the following concentrations:
Artificial Intelligence
Business Administration
Cybersecurity
All students take core courses like security in data protocols, management and support systems, and ethics in the cyberworld. Students typically complete the degree in four years, but year-round classes allow students to expedite graduation. Learners may need to complete prerequisite courses in trigonometry, calculus, and English before enrolling in major classes.
Regis University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The BS in computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering Technology (ABET).
About this school
Regis University offers more than 130 undergraduate and graduate programs guided by the Jesuit faith, reason, and culture. The College of Computer and Information Sciences offers an accredited BS in computer science that emphasizes social responsibility.
This online computer science degree requires 128-133 credits. Students learn to analyze complex computing problems, design computing solutions, and apply computer science theory. They also gain communication, teamwork, and ethical decision-making skills. Classes include principles of programming languages, computation theory, and linear algebra.
Each online class spans eight weeks, and most full-time students graduate within 3.5 years. Learners can begin on one of six start dates each year. Regis also allows computer science majors to complete bachelor's and master's degrees simultaneously, saving time and money. All online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a resume, and an essay.
Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A top-ranked institution in the Midwest, Fort Hays State University offers more than 200 online undergraduate and graduate degrees. The school's Department of Computer Science offers an online BS in computer science that prepares students to manage complex computing systems and information. Students benefit from strong faculty mentorship and individualized attention.
The 120-credit degree includes 55 general education credits and 65 major credits. Computer science courses include software engineering, introduction to web development, and database design and programming. General education requirements include courses in international studies, communication, and the humanities.
FHSU offers the most affordable four-year tuition in Kansas. The university charges all distance learners the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live, and online learners qualify for the same types of financial aid opportunities as on-campus students. Online students also receive access to academic advising, library resources, and career services.
Admission requirements include a minimum 2.0 GPA for Kansas residents or a minimum 2.5 GPA for out-of-state learners. Applicants should also have a minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 980. Alternatively, applicants may meet admission requirements by ranking in the top third of their high school class. Transfer students with at least 24 credits need a minimum 2.0 GPA in previous college coursework.
Davenport University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Davenport University offers career-relevant degrees in areas like business, urban education, the health professions, and technology. The first university to offer online education in Michigan, Davenport awards an online BS in computer science. This program boasts small classes with high levels of interaction. Full-time students can complete their degree in four years.
The 120-credit degree includes general education, major core, specialty area, and elective requirements. Students receive hands-on experience using state-of-the-art technology to solve practical problems. Required core classes include object-oriented programming with C+, data communications and networks, and database design. After completing core courses, computer science majors can pursue an optional specialization in one of the following areas:
Artificial Intelligence
Computer Architecture and Algorithms
Gaming and Simulation
Students can also add a 23-credit mathematics minor to their degree.
A transfer-friendly school, Davenport offers academic credit for prior learning, including some technology certifications if students pass competency exams at Davenport's testing center.
Florida Atlantic University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Florida Atlantic University offers online programs taught by the same expert faculty who teach on-campus classes. The school's College of Engineering and Computer Science offers an online BS in computer science that covers foundational concepts in computing, mathematics, psychology, and engineering.
The 120-credit online computer science degree includes general education, major core, and elective requirements. Students must complete 29 computer science prerequisite credits in subjects like calculus, physics, and discrete mathematics before enrolling in major core classes. Core courses include introduction to programming in C+, introduction to microprocessor systems, and formal languages and automata. Graduates can find careers related to software development, internet and web programming, and mobile systems development.
An associate degree from a regionally accredited institution fulfills the program's general education requirements. Individuals who start the program as first-year college students may need to complete some general education requirements on campus. Online students gain access to support like career services, online tutoring, and library resources.
Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A private university founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University offers more than 200 career-focused academic programs on campus and online. SNHU's distance education programs feature flexible schedules and expert instruction. All distance learners at SNHU pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.
SNHU's fully online bachelor's in computer science covers software development and testing tools and programming languages like C++, Java, and Python. The curriculum includes courses in mobile architecture and programming, advanced programming concepts, and full stack development. Students can customize the degree to match their interests and goals by choosing from a variety of concentrations:
Data Analysis
Project Management for STEM
Information Security
Software Engineering
This transfer-friendly program accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward the 121-credit degree. Students may also receive credit for certifications awarded by organizations like Cisco, Oracle, and CompTia. The university offers computer science-related extracurricular activities and events, including the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing and National Cyber League competitions.
Dakota State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1881 as a teacher training school, Dakota State University now offers diverse undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university is designated as a Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The school's College of Computer and Cyber Sciences offers 19 certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs.
Distance learners can earn a fully online bachelor's in computer science that emphasizes the conceptual and technical design of computer systems and programs. Students learn about computer systems, programming techniques, data structures, and computer architectures. Computer science majors can choose from the following specializations to tailor the degree to match their goals and interests:
Software Engineering
Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
The program also lets learners complete additional electives in lieu of a specialization. Students complete general education, major core, major support, specialization, and elective courses. Core courses include object-oriented design, advanced data structures, and information security management. Some computer science majors may qualify for DSU's 4+1 program, which allows students to earn a bachelor's and master's in computer science in just five years.
Troy University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Troy University started as a teacher training school in 1887. Today, the university boasts more than 260 undergraduate and graduate programs, including 71 online degree tracks hosted by Troy Online. The fully online BS in applied computer science offers five start dates per year and includes nine-week terms.
The 120-credit program includes general education, major, major elective, free elective, and minor courses. The program requires students to complete at least one 18-credit minor. Computer science classes include data structures and algorithms, web-based software development, and data communications and networking.
Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and a score of at least 20 on the ACT or 1030 on the SAT for unconditional admission. Applicants can receive conditional admission with a minimum 2.0 GPA and a score of at least 17 on the ACT or 910 on the SAT. Prospective students over the age of 25 do not need to submit ACT or SAT scores.
All distance learners pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency. Online students gain access to library services, online tutoring, 24/7 technical support, online proctoring services, academic advising, and career services. Online learners also receive access to Microsoft Office 365 at no extra cost.
Lewis University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A comprehensive Catholic institution, Lewis University serves about 6,500 students each year. The school's Lasallian heritage contributes to its values-centered curriculum and emphasis on community in teaching and learning. Lewis offers a fully online, accelerated bachelor's in computer science that prepares students for careers as software developers, network engineers, and security engineers.
The 128-credit degree includes 49 major credits. Students learn to use programming languages like Javascript, Python, and Ruby; design reliable computer networks; and use machine learning and artificial intelligence to understand big data. Core computer science classes include discrete mathematics, legal and ethical issues in computing, and algorithms and data structures. Students also complete a six-credit capstone sequence to explore software engineering, enterprise networking, and research in computer science.
This flexible, asynchronous program gives learners 24/7 access to course materials. Individuals can also participate in student organizations like the Prometheon Technology Club and a student chapter of the Association of Computing Machinery. Students with a minimum 3.5 GPA and at least 64 credits can join the Upsilon Pi Epsilon National Honors Society.
Graduation Rate
64%
Percent Receiving Loans
68%
Online Enrollment
29%
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End of list, bravo!
Ranking Methodology
Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following programs based on quality, curricula, faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation — including the school's reputation for effectively providing online degrees.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science involves the study of computers, computer technology, and computational systems. Computer scientists work in diverse fields, including technology, business, healthcare, and academia.
Computer science involves the study of computers, computer technology, and computational systems. Computer scientists work in diverse fields, including technology, business, healthcare, and academia.
Computer scientists may write software and hardware code, design algorithms that analyze data, and solve computing problems. Computer science professionals can specialize in areas like computer systems, programming languages, and software engineering. Newer specialties include artificial intelligence and human-computer interactions, which rely on cutting-edge technology.
Common computer science jobs include software developer, computer systems analyst, information security analyst, and web developer. In these roles, professionals may create new software programs, design computing systems for businesses, and create websites. Computer science jobs require strong analytical and critical thinking skills, which students strengthen by earning a bachelor's in computer science degree.
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree?
An online bachelor's in computer science program trains students about fundamental computing and programming concepts. Students learn programming languages, software engineering techniques, and computer science algorithms. Many computer science programs offer concentrations that allow students to tailor their degree to match their interests and goals. Common concentrations include data science, information security, and information management systems.
In addition to computer science classes, online bachelor's in computer science programs include general education and elective courses. General education requirements often include humanities, social science, and natural science classes that help build critical thinking skills.
The flexibility of an online computer science degree track may appeal to students balancing their studies with work and family obligations. Online learners typically complete the same coursework and requirements as students in on-campus programs.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Degree in Computer Science Online?
Earning an online bachelor's in computer science degree generally takes four years of full-time study. However, several factors can affect the length of a computer science degree track, including the type of program and a student's transfer credits. For example, some programs offer accelerated timelines. Additionally, incoming students with prior college experience can often transfer credits toward their bachelor's degree, which expedites graduation.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Computer Science?
Bachelor's in computer science programs prepare graduates for lucrative careers with strong job growth potential. Graduates may work in roles such as computer information systems manager, data scientist, and computer systems analyst.
Computer and information systems managers — also known as IT managers — oversee an organization's computer-related activities. They determine the organization's IT goals and implement computer systems to meet those goals. These professionals also oversee IT employees, ensure the security of an organization's network, and analyze the costs and benefits of system upgrades. They may make recommendations to top executives. A bachelor's degree in computer science and work experience meet the requirements for computer information systems manager jobs.
Data scientists create algorithms that analyze large datasets to detect patterns. They develop tools to sort, manage, and display data. These professionals work in diverse fields, including business, healthcare, and science. The position demands strong programming and computing skills, in addition to analytical and critical thinking abilities. Many data scientist jobs require a master's degree, though employers may hire candidates with a bachelor's in computer science.
Computer systems analysts — also known as systems architects — help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization's computing systems. They work with managers to understand an organization's IT needs, research new technologies, and conduct cost-benefit analyses for IT systems and computing upgrades. These professionals also install and configure new systems and conduct testing on their performance. A bachelor's degree in computer science meets the entry-level education requirements for computer systems analyst jobs.
Computer information scientists
create new technological approaches and develop applications for existing technologies. They solve computing problems by conducting research, developing theories, and creating new computing languages or methods. Some computer information scientists specialize in areas like programming or robotics. These professionals work in several industries, including business, science, and medicine. Many positions require a master's degree, though some entry-level and government positions only require a bachelor's in computer science.
The world's largest computing society, ACM represents computing professionals, researchers, and educators. Members benefit from access to career development resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education resources. The association also hosts local and student chapters worldwide and provides industry publications.
The IEEE Computer Society supports computer science and engineering professionals. The society provides resources for members at different stages of their careers, including peer-reviewed publications, continuing education opportunities, and a digital library. The society also offers courses and certifications for computer science professionals.
Established in 1972, CRA represents computing research organizations, including computer science departments, laboratories, and professional societies. The association provides research on the employment of computer science doctorate-holders, hosts a computing research blog, and publishes scholarly research.
A professional association dedicated to engineering and technology, IET offers tools and resources for computer science and engineering professionals. The institution provides professional development resources, career mentoring services, and training resources. Students and young professionals can also access specialized resources through IET.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is computer science?
Computer science is the study of computers, computer technology, and computational systems. Computer scientists may work in roles such as software developer, computer systems analyst, and information security analyst.
What can you do with a computer science degree?
An undergraduate computer science degree prepares graduates for many computer science jobs, such as web developer, systems architect, data scientist, and software engineer.
What is an online bachelor's in computer science degree?
An online bachelor's in computer science program prepares graduates for computer science careers by covering topics like data structures and algorithms, operating systems, and software engineering.
Is computer science a BS or BA?
Most schools offer a BS in computer science, though some schools offer the degree as a BA.
What is required for a degree in computer science?
While earning a bachelor's in computer science, students complete a mix of general education and computer science courses.
What can I do with a degree in computer science?
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science can work as software developers, computer hardware engineers, and computer information systems managers.
How long does it take to get a computer science degree online?
An online bachelor's in computer science degree generally takes four years of full-time study to complete, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.
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