Online Computer Science Degree
Shilpee Singh
Shilpee Singh is an English Literature graduate and a Linguistics postgraduate from Delhi University. She believes in sustainable living and tries to lead a holistic life. She has a knack for writing and puts together the best facts for the reader’s benefit.
Degrees
BA. Hons. English Literature // MA in Linguistics // Batchelor in Education (Gold Medalist)
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
I have been in the domain for about a decade
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Computing technology is used in almost every aspect of life. Graduates of an online computer science degree will have the foundation they need to work as software developers, operators, managers, network engineers, database engineers, systems integrators, and information security analysts in a variety of industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in the computer and information technology industry will rise at a rate of 13% between 2020 and 2030, substantially faster than the average for all occupations. This guide will outline what prospective students may expect from an online bachelor’s in computer science program, including how much it will cost, how long it will take, the types of classes that make up the curriculum, and the careers one can pursue after graduation.
Best Online Computer Science
Degrees Programs
Computer science bachelor programs are available online and in-person at dozens of universities across the United States. Finding the right college that matches a student’s interests and goals might be difficult. The integrity and infrastructure of the college, the qualifications and expertise of the teachers, the availability of computer-related facilities, student support services, accreditation, and other factors must all be considered. Find Best Degrees (FBD) has reviewed a number of universities and programs that provide undergraduate degrees in computer science to make this process easier for potential students. The following is a list of the best online bachelor’s degrees in computer science: *
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from Online Computer Science
Degree Programs
Degree Types for Online Computer Science
Degree Programs
Areas of Specialization for Online
Computer Science Degree Programs
Why should I do an Online
Computer Science Degree?
Free Courses for Online Computer
Science Degree Students
Free courses are a great way to learn something new or brush up on skills in a certain field of computer science. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science online could take free courses to help with assignments and projects or prepare for tests. Here are a few websites that provide free courses for online degree in computer science students:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Various Topics Related to Computer Science | Coursera offers almost 850 courses in computer science-related topics at the beginner and intermediate levels (suitable for bachelor’s degree students). While not all these courses come free, some free ones include Computer Science: Algorithms, Theory, and Machines, Problem Solving, Python Programming, and Video Games, Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose, etc. | Coursera |
| Various Topics Related to Computer Science | MIT OpenCourseWare offers undergraduate courses on a host of computer science topics. Courses include Computational Science and Engineering, Cultures of Computing, Introduction to Design Computing, Automata, Computability and Complexity, Principles and Practice of Science Communication, and many more. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Various Topics Related to Computer Science | Popular learning site Udemy has about 300 offerings related to computer science at the beginner and intermediate levels, from Computer Science Principles, Fundamentals of Computer Hacking, and ASP.NET Zero: Development with ASP.NET Core & Angular, to Computer Fundamentals, Introduction to Data Science using Python, Artificial Neural Network for Regression, and more. | Udemy |
How to get into Online Computer
Science Degree Programs?
Although usually straightforward, a university admission can be a relatively complicated procedure that necessitates careful thinking, especially if one has not yet completed high school. Colleges are selective, and each one has its unique set of criteria for admission. A high Grade Point Average (GPA) and good test scores are generally useful; extracurricular activities are a plus. The college of choice’s precise prerequisites may differ, so it is always a good idea to check with the admissions office for exact and specific requirements. Apart from the basic requirements, some of the other bachelors in computer science requirements are:
- Admission or Application Form with its prescribed fee.
- Official Academic Transcripts.
- A High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate.
- Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or more.
- American College Testing (ACT) / Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) Test Scores
- Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (varies by school)
- Proof of English Proficiency (if the native tongue is or education was not in English)
How long does it take to complete Online
Computer Science Degree
Accelerated Online Computer
Science Degree Programs
Accelerated tracks are available in some schools, allowing students to graduate in less time. Some programs recognize transfer credits for general education requirements if one transfers from another school, such as a community college, and this can help a student finish their online degree faster. In most cases, online accelerated bachelor’s in computer science programs combine a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in 4 years + 1 year, rather than the standard 4 years + 2 years. Some schools even permit combining a bachelor’s degree in one discipline with a master’s in another discipline. Here are some examples of online accelerated computer science degrees:
Regis University
Regis University allows students to accelerate their graduation by clubbing a 4-year bachelor’s program and a 2-year master’s program into a 5-year fast-track program. Additionally, Regis also offers program combinations for students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in one discipline and a master’s in another discipline.
Saint Louis University
The BS to MS computer science accelerated program at Saint Louis University allows students to finish both the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and the Master of Science in Computer Science in less time than if they pursued both degrees separately. As with other such programs, this combination would typically require 5 years to complete instead of the usual 6 years.
New York Tech University
The New York Tech University offers an undergraduate program in computer science that provides a fast track to a master’s degree by allowing qualified students to take graduate-level courses while completing their bachelor’s degree requirements.
Accreditations for Online Computer
Science Degree Programs
For students considering online or distance study, it is critical to know about college accreditation; they must read the Guide to College Accreditation. Understanding accreditation will help students make informed decisions on which college and program are best suited for them and whether it will be of value to potential employers. Those interested in pursuing a degree in computer science must pay attention to the accreditation status of the programs and schools they are considering. Schools can be nationally or regionally accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE), the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or both. Here are the six authorized regional accrediting bodies in the United States:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education(MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To check the accreditation status of a college, students can visit the official USDE or CHEA websites.
Bachelor in computer science students can also enroll in programs that have been programmatically accredited. Programmatic accreditation means that the program is accredited rather than the institution offering it. Computer science bachelor’s programs may be accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
How to Pay for Online
Computer Science Degree Programs?
Scholarships for Online Computer Science
Degree
Scholarships are an excellent choice for students seeking external sources of money to cover some of their educational costs. Given the high cost of obtaining a bachelor’s degree, this is an essential consideration for students. The following are a few of them that are designed specifically for students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in computer science:
| Occupation | Job Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Presidents’ Scholarship | The IEEE Presidents’ Scholarship honors a deserving student who has completed an outstanding project that exhibits knowledge of electronics engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or other IEEE subjects. Students who present projects at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair are chosen each year as the winner. | $10,000 payable over 4 years | TBA |
| Richard E. Merwin Student Scholarship | The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society awards $36,000 in student scholarships to recognize and reward active student volunteer leaders in IEEE Student Branches or IEEE Computer Society Student Branch Chapters who demonstrate academic and professional promise. This scholarship was established to celebrate and promote student leadership in memory of the late Richard E. Merwin, previous president of the IEEE Computer Society. | $1,000 to $5,000 | 30 April & 30 September each year |
| Microsoft Tuition Scholarship | Microsoft offers tuition and conference scholarships to deserving students interested in Computer Science and associated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields. Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on their demonstrated enthusiasm for technology, academic excellence, and leadership while working to advance the software industry. | Varies | TBA |
| Generation Google Scholarship (North America) | The Generation Google Scholarship was created to assist students seeking computer science degrees to excel in the area and become leaders. The Scholarship is awarded based on each candidate’s demonstrated leadership, academic performance, and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. | $10,000 | Closed for 2021 | TBA for 2023 |
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online
Computer Science Degrees
The field of computer science is expanding by the year. A bachelor’s degree in computer science will help you prepare for work in a variety of businesses and organizations. For example, a computer scientist can work for any company anywhere on the planet. They can work as programmers, software analysts, database administrators, or even teach or create their own. Graduates of this degree can start as programmers and work their way up to becoming system analysts, general managers, or project managers, working on any project’s software development life cycle.
An online computer science degree can help students prepare for jobs such as:
- Computer Network Architects
- Computer Systems Administrator
- Software Quality Assurance Analyst
- Software Developer
- Applications Analyst
- Back-End Web Developer
- Computer Programmer
- Programmer Analyst
- Full-Stack Web Developer
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Front-End Web Developer
- Network Technician
- Data Scientist
- Web Designer or Developer
- Information Security Analysts
- Computer Science Teacher
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Network Administrator
- Applications Developer
Computer Science-related jobs appear to have a bright future in the coming years. This increased demand is due to a growing need for new mobile-friendly applications as well as creative software in the health and medical insurance industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers will grow faster than the national average – 22% by 2030. To break into the field, most individuals will need a bachelor’s degree at the entry-level. Here are a few careers related to computer science, their median annual salary, estimated job growth, and skills required:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers | The entire process of developing a software application involves software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers. They examine how customers intend to use software to determine the primary functionality required, as well as other requirements such as security. They design the program and collaborate closely with programmers who produce computer code. Software quality assurance analysts and testers create and run product tests to find flaws and analyze how the software runs and works. | Interpersonal skills, communication skills, analytical skills, problem-solving skills, creativity, detail-oriented | $110,140 | 22% (much fast than average) |
| Computer Systems Analysts | Computer systems analysts investigate and create improvements to a company’s existing computer systems and processes. As a result, these analysts help the company become more productive. Computer systems analysts work with other members of the IT team to assist business leaders in understanding how computer systems may best serve their organization. They also oversee the setup and deployment of new systems, as well as the customization of such systems for the firm. | Communication skills, business skills, organizational skills, detail-oriented, creativity, analytical skills | $99,270 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Computer Network Architects | Computer network architects manage networks such as remote connections between two offices to next-generation networking features like cloud infrastructure. They design networks by understanding the company’s requirements and business plan and assisting in achieving the organization’s goals. By examining existing data traffic and forecasting how expansion would affect the network, network architects may also forecast future network requirements. | Leadership skills, interpersonal skills, organizational skills, detail-oriented, analytical skills | $120,520 | 5% (slower than average) |
| Information Security Analysts | Information security analysts oversee the creation and implementation of security policies to protect a company’s computer networks and systems. They play a key role in the creation of their company’s disaster recovery plan, which is a procedure that IT experts undertake in the case of a disaster. They look for holes in computer and network systems, establish company-wide security standards and best practices, and make security recommendations to management or senior IT staff. | Creative skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, detail-oriented | $102,600 | 33% (much faster than average) |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | Network and computer systems administrators are in charge of the day-to-day operation of computer networks, which are critical components of almost any company. They organize, install, and support network segments, intranets, LANs, WANs, and other data communication systems, as well as network segments and intranets. They also ensure the appropriate operation of email and data storage networks, as well as the proper operation of employees’ workstations by keeping them connected to the central computer network. | Multitasking skills, communication skills, analytical skills, problem-solving skills | $80,600 | 5% (slower than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online
Computer Science Degree Students
Additional Resources for Online
Computer Science Degree Students
Author Bio:
Shilpee Singh
Shilpee Singh is an English Literature graduate and a Linguistics postgraduate from Delhi University. She believes in sustainable living and tries to lead a holistic life. She has a knack for writing and puts together the best facts for the reader’s benefit.
Degrees
BA. Hons. English Literature // MA in Linguistics // Batchelor in Education (Gold Medalist)
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
I have been in the domain for about a decade
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.