Online Computer Science Degrees
Computer technology fuels the growth of diverse businesses and industries nationwide. Graduates of accredited computer science programs often choose from well-paying career opportunities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists earn a median salary of $145,080 per year, which is much higher than the median salary of $48,060 for all occupations. Computer and information research scientist represents one of the many positions available to computer science degree-holders.
The BLS projects employment for computer scientists to increase 23% from 2022-2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This guide explores common requirements and benefits of earning a computer science bachelor’s degree online.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Questions for Computer Science Students
Is a computer science degree worth it?
A bachelor’s degree in computer science often leads to high-paying careers with ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Graduates can pursue roles in various professional arenas.
What kinds of jobs can you get with a computer science degree?
Professionals with a computer science degree can pursue roles including systems analyst, web developer, software tester, and database administrator.
Does computer science pay well?
According to BLS data, computer and technology professionals earn a median annual salary of $104,420 as of May 2023, which is much higher than the median salary for all occupations.
What is the difference between computer science and information technology?
Computer scientists develop and design the software programs and hardware configurations that information technology professionals use and maintain.
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Programs
The University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top-ranked program, the online computer science degree is offered by the University of Illinois Springfield. To meet the needs of a variety of students, the public institution offers in-person and online courses. With a computer science degree, professionals pursue entry-level roles in diverse fields.
The virtual learning format of the bachelor of science in computer science helps working professionals and busy students make time for their coursework. Online computer science courses build communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Enrollees work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. The school supports distance learners with academic advising, career services, and other student services.
Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant. Applicants should meet with the financial aid office to learn about different funding options for their degree.
The University of Illinois Springfield Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,006
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Online Master's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
- In-State$9,520
- Out-of-state$15,948
- In-State$8,270
- Out-of-state$15,240
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled4,275
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University has one of the best online offerings in the country. The school's virtual programs allow distance learners from all over the United States to earn a degree without having to relocate. Among the many options offered remotely is a bachelor of science in computer science cybersecurity.
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's degree in four years. The institution may award credit for internships and service-learning experiences. Working professionals transfer credits to finish degrees faster. The school features a 51% admissions rate, along with a 24% admissions yield rate. The college has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University Fast Facts:
Average Per-Credit Fee: $750
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 99%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 51%
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Park University
Parkville, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Missouri, Park University is a leader in online learning. The school's many virtual programs in its academic catalog allow degree-seekers across the nation to study from where they already live. One of these options is the associate of science in information and computer science. During the program, distance learners study core topics and get specialized training in computer science.
Students at the institution transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18–36 months. Degree-seekers pay the in-state tuition rate of $7,999 for bachelor’s degrees. Schools and private institutions award scholarships to help enrollees pay for their education.
Learners at the school enroll in affordable and high-quality bachelor's programs. Students can access support services online and in person. Degree-seekers can use peer tutoring sessions to improve their grades. Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$7,999
- Out-of-state$7,999
- In-State$6,012
- Out-of-state$6,012
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,415
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top-ranked program, the online computer science degree is offered by Davenport University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Students choose between in-person and online course options at the private institution. The bachelor of science in computer science provides a flexible pathway to entry-level computer science careers.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. During an online computer science degree, enrollees take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online students can pay for school with scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Applicants should meet with a financial aid counseling to learn more about the different funding options available.
Davenport University Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,707
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Online Master's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 49%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$18,408
- Out-of-state$18,408
- In-State$14,958
- Out-of-state$14,958
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled6,429
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Dakota State University
Madison, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its Madison, South Dakota campus, Dakota State University enrolls students in several virtual programs, including an online master of science in computer science degree. The public institution offers a variety of enrollment options, including remote and in-person programs. The master of science in computer science prepares professionals for entry-level computer science careers.
Designed around the needs of working professionals, the program's flexible format helps students balance school with other responsibilities. During an online degree, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Enrollees work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. The school's online student services include experiential learning opportunities, academic advising, and career counseling.
Applicants should talk to the financial aid office to learn more about different options for funding their education at the school. In addition to scholarships, distance learners may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.
Dakota State University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,206
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Online Master's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 43%
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$7,541
- Out-of-state$10,611
- In-State$5,939
- Out-of-state$11,088
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled3,268
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Northern Kentucky University features a comprehensive catalog of 137 academic programs. Among these are several virtual options so people all around the country can earn a degree without relocating for their education. For those interested in computer science, the school offers an online bachelor of science in computer science. In the remote program, distance learners receive specialized training and take core courses.
Students transfer credits to finish bachelor’s degrees in 18–36 months. Undergraduates pay $9,912 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Degree-seekers complete master's programs in about two years. Learners pay an $11,034 in-state tuition rate for graduate degrees. Enrollees use an average of $8,167 in aid to pay for their education.
The school offers some of the most affordable and high-quality bachelor's programs in the country. Online and on-campus learners can access support services. Enrollees can take advantage of peer and professional tutoring. Northern Kentucky University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$9,912
- Out-of-state$19,872
- In-State$11,034
- Out-of-state$16,974
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled15,664
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
National University
La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With a bachelor's degree from National University, graduates move into new fields and advance their careers. The online computer science programs feature a flexible learning environment. During the bachelor of science in computer science, students learn core computer science topics and receive specialized training.
The school’s generous transfer policy facilitates faster degree completion. Undergraduates pay $13,320 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. The school offers master's programs that students typically complete in two years. A doctorate often takes more than four years to complete. Students enrolled in a graduate program pay $15,480 for in-state tuition.
The school offers several enrollment terms. Online students can expect an 89% admission rate. Virtual learners submit school transcripts for admission. Applicants can use test scores to bolster their application. The school has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- In-State$15,480
- Out-of-state$15,480
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled16,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
Western Governors University provides a comprehensive catalog of 65 academic programs, including virtual options. An online computer science program provides students with a flexible learning environment. The remote bachelor of science in computer science prepares graduates for entry-level positions in the field.
Degree-seekers can complete a bachelor’s in 18–36 months with enough transfer credits. Online learners pay $6,380 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. The school also offers master's programs that students typically complete in two years. Students enrolled in a graduate program pay $7,500 for in-state tuition. Services such as tutoring and career advising give online enrollees invaluable support.
The application process requires school transcripts. The school offers student support services including tutoring and career counseling. Students can explore the school’s website to learn how to earn credit for internships and service learning. The school holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
- In-State$6,380
- Out-of-state$6,380
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled136,139
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- Online
Located in Adelphi, University of Maryland Global Campus offers a top-ranked remote computer science program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the public institution. The bachelor of science in computer science emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills.
The virtual learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. During an online degree, learners build career-ready knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help enrollees build a degree plan to customize their course of study. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Applicants should meet with the financial aid office to learn more about different options for funding their education. Learners often finance their degree through scholarships, grants, and loans. With the school's accreditation, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 52,298
Online Bachelor's Programs: 31
Online Master's Programs: 17
Graduation Rate: 15%
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$7,200
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$8,640
- Out-of-state$11,862
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled58,281
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students at George Mason University can pursue 272 academic programs, including online options. The master of science in computer science major delves into advanced concepts students can apply in real-world contexts.
The institution offers some of the country's most affordable and high-quality online bachelor's programs. The school offers support services for online and on-campus students. Support services include peer and professional tutoring. George Mason University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
George Mason University at a Glance:
Average Cost Per Credit: $862
Tuition for Undergrads: $9,060/year in-state, $32,520/year out-of-state
Average Price After Aid: $20,157
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 74%
Percentage of Learners Receiving Student Loans: 43%
- In-State$9,060
- Out-of-state$32,520
- In-State$12,144
- Out-of-state$33,456
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled37,863
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive catalog of 79 online and on-campus programs, including bachelor's programs. Among these options is the virtual bachelor of science in computer science. During the program, students learn core topics and receive specialized training. While earning major credits, enrollees learn about subjects relevant to their field.
Program participants gain knowledge and skills to impress employers. Degree-seekers can use elective credits to earn a minor in a specialized area. Students watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Learners typically complete 120 credits in a bachelor’s program. Fort Hays State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Undergraduate School Tuition Rate: $3,990 in-state; $14,070 out-of-state
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $5,162
Average Cost With Financial Aid: $12,108
Percent of Undergrads Who Graduate: 43%
Awards Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$3,990
- Out-of-state$14,070
- In-State$3,582
- Out-of-state$10,206
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled15,908
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southwestern State University
Americus, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A degree from Georgia Southwestern State University leads to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. Graduate programs give enrollees more in-depth knowledge to build upon the foundation of a bachelor's degree. The master of science in computer science provides advanced training in the field. Online students complete computer science coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school admits 58% of student applicants.
Online degree-seekers complete a bachelor’s in 18–36 months with enough transfer credits. Learners pay the in-state tuition rate of $4,064 for bachelor’s degrees. Enrollees complete master's programs in about two years. Students pursuing a graduate program pay $3,492 for in-state tuition. An average aid package of $7,357 helps degree-seekers pay for tuition.
Admission requires school transcripts. Learners can access the institution's student support services, including tutoring, online and in person. The school’s website provides details about internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Georgia Southwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,786
- In-State$3,492
- Out-of-state$13,806
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled2,950
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The programs at Saint Leo University help professionals move into new careers or advance in their current field. Among the many degree options at the school is a virtual bachelor of science in computer science. In an online computer science program, participants complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Applicants can expect a 72% admissions rate.
Students use the college’s generous transfer policy to finish degrees faster. In-state tuition costs $23,100 for bachelor’s degrees. Enrollees complete online master’s degrees in two years on average. Degree-seekers pay a $7,296 graduate in-state tuition rate.
Distance learners can pursue affordable and high-quality bachelor's programs without relocating. Enrollees receive access to support services to help them succeed. This often means peer or professional tutoring in various subjects. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$23,100
- Out-of-state$23,100
- In-State$7,296
- Out-of-state$7,296
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled10,912
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online computer science degree, offered by Old Dominion University from its Norfolk, Virginia, campus, ranks among the best programs in the country. The public institution offers both in-person and remote courses for degree-seekers. The bachelor of science in computer science prepares graduates for careers in computer science.
Designed around the needs of working professionals, the program's flexible format helps students balance school with other responsibilities. Online courses strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Faculty advisors work with enrollees to choose electives and customize the degree. Student support services like academic advising and career counseling help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.
Learners attending the accredited institution pay an average rate of $492 per credit. Remote students rely on scholarships, grants, and loans to cover their college costs.
Old Dominion University Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 12,854
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Online Master's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$7,029
- Out-of-state$26,664
- In-State$10,207
- Out-of-state$29,851
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled23,675
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, Monterey Bay
Seaside, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A degree from California State University, Monterey Bay leads to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. In a computer science program, online learners complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. The bachelor of science in computer science curriculum covers core computer science topics and specialized training.
Degree-seekers can pursue affordable and high-quality bachelor's programs from the school. Learners can access the institution's student support services online and in person. The university provides peer and professional tutoring. California State University-Monterey Bay holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
California State University, Monterey Bay Statistics:
Tuition for In-State Undergrad Students: $5,742
Tuition for Out-of-State Undergrad Students: $17,622
Average Student Aid: $9,505
Average Net Price: $12,468
Percent of Students Who Graduate: 63%
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled7,650
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Oregon State University delivers 265 virtual and on-campus programs, including bachelor's programs. Among these options is the remote bachelor of science in computer science. Students complete online computer science coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school's admissions rate is 82%, and its admissions yield rate is 26%.
Programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills they need to impress employers. Students can typically pursue a minor. Enrollees watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Degree-seekers complete at least 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. Oregon State University has received accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, an independent accrediting agency.
Oregon State University Facts:
Learners Receiving Financial Aid: 85%
Average Net Price With Aid: $19,273
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Percent of Applicants Accepted: 82%
- In-State$9,846
- Out-of-state$29,445
- In-State$12,933
- Out-of-state$24,975
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled31,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in New Castle, Delaware, Wilmington University offers an online computer science degree that ranks among the best programs in the country. Degree-seekers take classes online and in-person at the private institution. In the bachelor of science in computer science, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for computer science careers.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in the student's hands. General education and major requirements emphasize critical thinking and analytical skills. Faculty advisors recommend electives and specializations based on each individual's interests and career goals. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Applicants should meet with a financial aid advisor to learn more about different options for funding their education at the school. Online students use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant to cover costs.
Wilmington University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 10,989
Online Bachelor's Programs: 26
Online Master's Programs: 35
Graduation Rate: 21%
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
- In-State$11,430
- Out-of-state$11,430
- In-State$8,784
- Out-of-state$8,784
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled14,730
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment75%
- AccreditationYes
Baker College
Owosso, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A bachelor's degree from Baker College leads to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. Among the options available to distance learners is the remote bachelor of science in computer science. Computer science programs provides online degree-seekers with a flexible learning environment. Graduates leave the program prepared for entry-level computer science positions.
Multiple start terms allow enrollment flexibility. Students can expect a 73% admission rate and and an admissions yield rate of 40%. The admissions department requires school transcripts. Applicants may need to submit GRE or SAT scores. Baker College has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Baker College at a Glance:
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 89%
Learners Receiving Student Loans: 58%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
- In-State$9,720
- Out-of-state$9,720
- In-State$12,510
- Out-of-state$12,510
- Retention Rate49%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled7,606
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its Dobbs Ferry campus in New York, Mercy College enrolls students in several remote programs, including an online computer science degree. Students enroll in on-campus and virtual programs at the private institution. The bachelor of science in computer science program offers a flexible route to a college degree.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. During online classes, participants strengthen their communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Faculty advisors work with enrollees to choose electives and customize the degree. The school supports online degree-seekers through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Applicants should meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss what kinds of funding options are available to them. Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.
Mercy College Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,814
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 25
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Permits Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$18,934
- Out-of-state$18,934
- In-State$16,146
- Out-of-state$16,146
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled10,557
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee can pursue 243 academic programs, including in-person and virtual programs. Among these options is the online master of science in computer science. In a remote computer science program, degree-seekers complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. For prospective applicants, the school's admissions rate is 77% and its admissions yield rate is 44%.
Curricula help program participants gain the transferable knowledge and skills that employers value. Enrollees watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Students typically take two years to earn a master's degree. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Fast Facts:
In-State Undergraduate School Tuition Rate: $8,091
Out-of-State Undergraduate School Tuition Rate: $19,661
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $6,491
Average Price With Aid: $14,822
Percent of Students Who Graduate: 44%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
- In-State$8,091
- Out-of-state$19,661
- In-State$10,543
- Out-of-state$23,775
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled25,731
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Computer Science Programs
Why Get a Degree in Computer Science?
Students can earn a computer science bachelor’s degree online from some of the most prestigious private and public institutions in the nation. Online learning can offer many advantages, including flexibility and affordability.
Computer science majors often secure financial assistance from sources including their college or university, software and technology companies, nonprofits, and state and federal agencies. Financial aid helps make earning a computer science degree more affordable and allows learners to minimize debt.
How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?
Several factors influence the cost of earning an online computer science degree. Although many schools charge online and on-campus students the same tuition rates, distance learners often save money on costs associated with housing and transportation.
Many online computer science programs follow an accelerated format, offering courses in six-week or eight-week terms. Students in these accelerated programs typically graduate faster than their on-campus peers, allowing them to quickly enter the workforce and begin earning an income.
In addition to tuition costs, online students should consider the cost of a computer and internet service when budgeting for school. Some institutions provide online learners with a laptop, the cost of which is typically included in the tuition rate.
How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?
Computer and mathematical occupations include software developers, network security analysts, database administrators, and user support specialists. According to BLS data, computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing employers paid computer professionals the most as of May 2023. These companies paid these professionals the highest annual mean wage of $158,230 per year.
The highest-paying states for computer and mathematical professionals include Delaware, Colorado, and Maryland. Professionals in the field can improve their career prospects and earning potential by earning an advanced degree and receiving specialized training.
Courses in Computer Science
A bachelor’s degree in computer science typically requires about 120 credits, including approximately 60 credits of major coursework. Foundational courses cover topics such as human-computer interaction design, programming languages, operating systems, and algorithms and data structures. Many computer science programs offer concentrations in areas such as computer networking, health informatics, and software development.
Online computer science degrees usually feature the same curricula and requirements as on-campus programs in the field. Colleges and universities develop curricula based on specific academic goals, so available courses vary by computer science program. However, most students in the field take the following classes.
This course explores topics such as algorithmic complexity analysis, graph algorithms, and recurrence relations. Degree-seekers become familiar with analytics tools they can use to parse data structures and algorithms. Students learn how to create different types of algorithms in order to solve computer and programming problems.Data Structures and Algorithms
The course introduces fundamental programming concepts such as operating systems, web applications, software engineering techniques, and data abstractions. Students learn programming languages, such as Java and C++. Learners develop skills in database design through hands-on training, individual and group projects, and classroom instruction.Computer Programming
Students learn how to conduct thorough computer forensic investigations. Coursework covers topics including data recovery techniques, operating and file systems, types of computer crimes, and criminal techniques. Students develop analytical and investigative skills they can use to detect and counter unwanted digital intrusions.Computer Forensics
Certifications and Licensure for Computer Science
Computer science and information technology professionals do not need a state license to practice. However, professionals in the field can earn industry-recognized certifications to demonstrate expertise with specific products and niche areas.
Systems Security Certified Practitioner
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium administers this certification. The credential is ideal for security analysts, systems administrators, and network security engineers. Candidates must pass an exam covering seven security domains, including cryptography, network and communications security, and access controls.
CompTIA Network+
This credential demonstrates that the holder can design, maintain, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. Candidates need at least nine months of networking experience and CompTIA A+ certification. Candidates must pass a test evaluating their knowledge of cloud computing best practices, hardware and visualization techniques, and critical security concepts.
Professional Software Developer Certification
Candidates for this certification from the IEEE Computer Society must have completed at least two years of college coursework in computer science or a related field and two years of relevant work experience. The certification exam tests knowledge in software design, testing, construction, and requirements.
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