One of the most worthwhile college degrees you may obtain is a bachelor’s degree in computer science. You can learn the skills necessary for a range of vocations in the industry, including web development, programming, and security systems analysis, by enrolling in a top-notch program. Most large organizations rely to some extent on computer scientists and administrators, allowing graduates the flexibility to work in any industry.
With the help of an online computer science degree, you can pursue a lucrative profession in information technology. This degree increases general understanding in disciplines including software engineering, cyber security, and programming. Students search for the best online colleges for computer science to enroll and build their career as computer scientists.
You have a lot of freedom when earning your bachelor’s in computer science online since you can take classes whenever it works best for your schedule. Even while you are attending classes, you might be able to work full-time. The best online colleges for computer science offer a winning combination of convenience, top-notch professional outcomes, and solid academics.
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Why Earn an Online Degree in Computer Science?
- With a degree in computer science, you can pursue a wide range of tech-related career routes and job prospects.
- With an online program, you may arrange your classes around your schedule and possibly continue working while pursuing your degree.
- You’ll get the chance to interact with professors, students, and other computer science experts.
- A computer science bachelor’s degree can also help you become ready for higher study, such as a master’s or doctoral degree.
Find a list of some of the best online colleges for computer science in the United States.
1. Southern New Hampshire University
Visit Website: www.snhu.edu
Address: 2500 N River Rd, Manchester, NH 03106
Average Tuition
In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 134,345
Avg. Cost per Credit: $320
Credits to Graduate: 120
Data analysis, information security, software engineering, and STEM project management are the four 12-credit concentrations available for the online BS in computer science from SNHU.
Regardless of your area of emphasis, you will study the fundamentals of programming, software security, and full-stack development. Instead of a concentration, you can decide to use your 12 credits for major electives. A software engineering internship or a capstone project are further options. Up to 90 credits can be transferred into this bachelor’s program. You must submit all of your transcripts and have a high school diploma or its equivalent to be eligible to apply.
Visit Program: Online BS in Computer Science
2. Colorado State University-Global Campus
Visit Website: csuglobal.edu
Address: 585 Salida Way, Aurora, CO 80011
Average Tuition
In-state: $8,400
Out-of-state: $8,400
Retention Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 98%
Students Enrolled: 12,578
Avg. Cost per Credit: $350
Credits to Graduate: 120
Both seasoned professionals and students with no prior computer science expertise are targeted by the online bachelor’s in computer science program at CSU Global. This program’s classes all operate in an asynchronous manner.
The fundamentals of computer science, such as programming, software engineering, and database management, will be taught to you. To create your degree plan, you can also employ certifications and specializations. Project management and organizational leadership are popular specializations. Healthcare management is one of the program’s interdisciplinary concentrations.
Up to 90 credits can be transferred towards this degree. CSU Global fixes the cost of tuition for students to ensure affordability. A high school diploma or GED is required for admission.
Visit Program: Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science
3. Central Methodist University
Visit Website: www.centralmethodist.edu
Address: 411 Central Methodist Square, Fayette, Missouri 65248
Average Tuition
In-state: $5,950
Out-of-state: $5,950
Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 100%
Students Enrolled: 3,429
Avg. Cost per Credit: $270
Credits to Graduate: 120
A private liberal arts college called CMU provides an online bachelor’s degree in computer science that combines academic study with practical work experience. You will learn about important topics including networking, database systems and SQL, as well as data structures and algorithms, in this program. Additionally, you’ll learn how to program in Python or Java. It is of the best online colleges for computer science in the United States.
In related industries like web design and mobile app development, you can pursue specialized training. The internship component of the program offers practical experience with local firms or on a Missouri campus. A least 2.5-2.75 GPA and, in some cases, SAT or ACT scores are required for admission.
Visit Program: Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
4. Western Governors University
Visit Website: www.wgu.edu
Address: 4001 S 700 E #300, Millcreek, UT 84107
Average Tuition
In-state: $6,380
Out-of-state: $6,380
Retention Rate: 75%
Students Enrolled: 147,866
Institution Type: Private
Accreditation: Yes
Avg. Cost per 6-Month Term: $3,625
Credits to Graduate: 120 competency units
The online BS in computer science program at WGU employs a teaching strategy that prioritizes flexible scheduling and low costs. Students having prior computer science knowledge can demonstrate what they know to achieve their degree even more quickly; nevertheless, they must still complete 35 courses.
Core competencies like network security, web development, and software engineering are taught in the program. Through a capstone project, you’ll also demonstrate your technical proficiency. This program also equips you to pursue professional certifications like CompTIA.
Approximately 71% of students in this program complete their BS in less than two years by transferring credits and/or use existing experience. A high school diploma (or its equivalent) and transcripts are required for admission.
Visit Program: Online BS in Computer Science
5. Auburn University
Visit Website: www.auburn.edu
Address: Auburn, AL 36849
Average Tuition
In-state: $10,080
Out-of-state: $30,240
Retention Rate: 92%
Admission Rate: 85%
Students Enrolled: 30,737
Avg. Cost per Credit: $541
Credits to Graduate: 120
Students who have already received college credit are the target audience for Auburn’s online computer science program. Your credits can be used to satisfy general education and other program requirements.
The computer science major offers instruction in topics including mobile app development, operating systems, and algorithms. Additionally, you’ll finish an ethics course that addresses concerns with property rights and privacy.
All kids are eligible for free peer tutoring. In order to create a degree plan, students who don’t have enough transfer credits might meet with an advisor. All undergraduate transcripts and at least 30 college credits are requirements for applicants.
Visit Program: Online Computer Science Program
6. Maryville University of Saint Louis
Visit Website: www.maryville.edu
Address: 650 Maryville University Dr, Town and Country, MO 63141
Average Tuition
In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 95%
Students Enrolled: 10,979
Avg. Cost per Credit: $525
Credits to Graduate: 128
Customization is a significant aspect of Maryville’s online BS in computer science. You will gain knowledge of fundamental concepts like programming and database applications, as well as how to use cutting-edge tools like IBM Watson and Amazon Web Services. Additionally, you can pursue in-demand qualifications in disciplines like data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. It is of the best online colleges for computer science in the United States.
24/7 academic support is offered through the Smarthinking tutoring service. Additionally, you’ll get access to a team of life coaches and private counseling. Maryville University welcomes transfers. You need a GED or high school diploma to be eligible to apply.
Visit Program: Online BS in Computer Science
7. National University
Visit Website: www.nu.edu
Address: 9388 Lightwave Ave, San Diego, CA 92123
Average Tuition
In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
Retention Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 89%
Students Enrolled: 18,070
Avg. Cost per Credit: $442
Credits to Graduate: 180
The emphasis of NU’s online bachelor’s in computer science is on job readiness. The course instructs you on Java and C++ programming. Additionally, you’ll gain expertise in designing databases, algorithms, and digital logic.
You may create, test, and manage safe software systems with a focus in software development. Through a senior project, you’ll also get the chance to demonstrate your knowledge of software engineering.
NU has four-week courses, a welcoming transfer credit policy, and is an institution that welcomes military students. For some first-year applicants, admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate in addition to placement exams.
Visit Program: Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science
8. University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Visit Website: www.uwplatt.edu
Address:1200 US-14, Richland Center, WI 53581
Average Tuition
In-state: $6,418
Out-of-state: $14,693
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 81%
Students Enrolled: 7,547
Avg. Cost per Credit: $525
Credits to Graduate: 120
The online BS in applied computing program offered by UW-Platteville includes programming, database administration, and web development courses. To assist in achieving an organization’s objectives, you’ll learn how to create an information systems plan. Additionally, you’ll study the obligations of IT professionals in terms of law and ethics. Every student gets to put their knowledge to use on a project for a client.
Up to 72 transfer credits are accepted by the university. First-year applicants must have a high school diploma or HSED/GED certificate, while transfer applicants must have a least 2.0 GPA.
Visit Program: Online BS in Applied Computing Program
9. Oregon State University
Visit Website: oregonstate.edu
Address: Corvallis, OR 97331
Average Tuition
In-state: $9,846
Out-of-state: $29,445
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 82%
Students Enrolled: 32,312
Avg. Cost per Credit: $403
Credits to Graduate: 180
You’ll acquire core technical skills including programming and software engineering in Oregon State’s online computer science program. To get ready for a career in cyber security, you might elect to finish an optional applied computer science specialization. It is of the best online colleges for computer science in the United States.
The institution provides a wide range of majors, including ones in user experience research, innovation and entrepreneurship, and computer science. Through a senior project, students can demonstrate their engineering design and project management skills. You might choose a mixed learning format or an all online one. A high school diploma or GED is required for admission.
Visit Program: Online Computer Science Program
10. Johnson & Wales University-Online
Visit Website: online.jwu.edu
Address: 115 Cedar St. Providence, RI 02903
Average Tuition
In-state: $13,365
Out-of-state: $13,365
Retention Rate: 50%
Admission Rate: 36%
Students Enrolled: 2,152
Avg. Cost per Credit: $495
Credits to Graduate: 121
JWU, a Rhode Island-based institution, provides an online BS in computer science that teaches technical abilities while assisting students in honing their problem-solving and project management skills. Important topics including programming, network protocols, and system modelling and simulation are covered in technical training. You’ll use your knowledge of software development to tackle a design assignment in this program. By doing an internship or project for a partner organization, you’ll also gain practical experience.
In certain cases, accelerated courses only last eight weeks. No matter where they live, all online computer science students pay the same tuition. For admittance, you must have completed two years of paid employment or have some college credit.
Visit Program: Online BS in Computer Science
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who ought to pursue computer science?
For pupils who appreciate maths and problem-solving, computer science is a great option. A job in this industry can be financially rewarding and in high demand.
2. How much time is required to become a computer scientist?
Depending on the accreditation, the length of an online computer science degree will vary. Typically, it takes two years to complete an associate degree, four years to get a bachelor’s degree, two years to complete a master’s degree, and five years to complete a PhD. Online courses with accelerated schedules could provide shorter times.
3. Is CS more difficult than engineering?
No, it is not more difficult than engineering.
4. In 2023, will a computer science degree be worthwhile?
Is a computer science degree worthwhile? According to BLS statistics, positions requiring a computer science degree will continue to be in high demand. Additionally, these positions are in industries with greater pay, like software engineering, information technology, web development, and computer and information research.
5. What level of education is required for computer science?
You might believe that a master’s degree is necessary for landing a good career. With just a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you can still find employment in the field. In fact, a degree in this area can be used to pursue many of the highest-paying, in-demand occupations.
6. Is it legal to get an online computer science degree?
Online degrees are more practical than traditional ones. Since you can study whenever you choose and from any location that has access to digital course materials, online computer science programs tend to be far more flexible and forgiving than campus-based programs.
7. Is a degree in computer science still worthwhile?
Yes, it is still worthwhile to earn a master’s degree in computer science. Although amazing capabilities of AI tools have been sensationalized by the media, human expertise are still needed to design, create, and maintain these systems.
8. Is computer science the most difficult major to earn?
Computer science is a challenging major for college students. Students who earn a degree in computer science are given a solid understanding of computing, information technology, and related ideas. These programs’ curriculum are designed to test a student’s mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
9. Are computer science majors paid well?
You can demonstrate your knowledge in the field by earning a computer science degree from a university or technical institute. The yearly wage for a generic computer scientist in the United States is approximately $104,610. However, pay can differ depending on the degree type and particular job role.
10. What percentage of CS students drop out?
According to the report’s findings, 22% of all students who started degree programs in computer science did not complete them and left school.
11. How difficult is computer science as a major?
Majors may pursue advanced studies in algorithm creation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Due to the combination of theoretical and technological content, computer science is one of the most challenging college degrees. Operating systems, computational concepts, and data structures must be mastered by majors.
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