The Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science 2020

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.