Best Accelerated Computer Science Degree Online Programs 2024
If you’re looking for a top-notch accelerated degree program in computer science, you’ve come to the right place.
The research team at BestColleges looked at thousands of schools to assess their affordability, student outcomes, reputation, and diversity and social mobility and compiled a list of some of the best accelerated computer science degree programs in 2024.
Earning the top spot on this year’s list is Western Governors University (WGU), thanks to its low net price and impressive number of student completions.
- WGU’s average net price — the total students pay after receiving financial aid — is just under $12,000.
- According to the most recently available data, WGU boasts a 64% graduation rate and graduated nearly 460 students in the recent program year.
Explore the guide below to see what other schools round out the top three and learn how to choose the right program for you.
Accelerated Computer Science Degree Programs 2024
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$7,162
- Out-of-state$7,162
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled150,116
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment0%
- AccreditationYes
Regis University
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$39,260
- Out-of-state$39,260
- In-State$14,063
- Out-of-state$14,063
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled5,566
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$35,262
- Out-of-state$35,262
- In-State$14,760
- Out-of-state$14,760
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled6,183
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
Accelerated Computer Science Degree Concentrations
Choose a computer science concentration to focus your coursework and prepare for different career paths. Here are some of the most popular options:
Computer Engineering
A concentration in computer engineering will add hardware skills to your CS degree. You’ll learn how to engineer devices and program them using your software knowledge. After graduation, you’ll qualify for roles like software developer, hardware engineer, and software engineer.
If you’re fascinated by engineering, this concentration is a great addition to your computer science training.
Computer Forensics
Hone your investigative skills with a computer forensics focus. You’ll learn how to pull evidence from devices and solve cybercrimes. You’ll be able to apply your skills in roles like information security analyst, computer forensics investigator, or computer forensics tech.
Interested in law enforcement or national security careers? Computer forensics is a great option.
Computer Programming
Take your coding skills to the next level with a computer programming concentration. You’ll study in-demand programming languages like Java and C# along with applications in computer architecture and AI. You can land programming jobs as a web developer, app developer, or computer programmer.
Pro Tip
When researching your accelerated CS degree, check the course catalog to see what the program offers.
Data Analytics
Data analytics is an in-demand skill in tech and business. Explore data science, analytics models, and data management during your accelerated computer science degree. You can qualify for data analytics careers like data scientist, data analyst, or machine learning engineer.
If you’re looking to break into the business field, data analytics is a great option for business intelligence analysts and similar roles.
Database Management
You’ll learn how to design and maintain databases with a database management concentration. Dig into topics like information security, data management, and analytics. You can become a database administrator, data engineer, or database architect after earning your accelerated computer science degree online.
Database administrators manage databases, while database architects design and build databases — and a bachelor’s in CS lets you do either (or both).
Information Systems Security
Cybersecurity is a huge focus of the tech field. With an information systems security concentration, you’ll learn how to secure systems and prevent data breaches. After taking courses in information security and network systems, you can become an information security analyst.
Information security analysts are in high demand. In fact, the field is projected to grow by 33% from 2023-2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Information Technology
Computer science emphasizes theory, while information technology focuses on applications. With an IT concentration, you’ll learn how to use CS skills in workplace settings. This concentration can lead to IT careers like network and computer systems administrator or database administrator.
An accelerated computer science degree with an IT focus emphasizes practical, career-focused skills.
Internet Security
Learn how to protect sensitive internet data with an internet security focus. You’ll study cybersecurity, information assurance, and internet security infrastructure. After graduation, you can use your knowledge of VPNs, intrusion detection methods, and firewalls to work as an information security analyst.
Internet security is a great option if you’re interested in web development careers, including as a back-end developer.
Mobile Development
Want to make mobile apps? Then a mobile development concentration might be the perfect fit. You’ll learn how to create software for mobile devices by studying UI design and front-end development. After earning your degree, you can qualify for jobs as a mobile developer or app developer.
A mobile development accelerated computer science degree will give you cutting-edge skills for the job market.
Network Administration
Specialize your accelerated CS degree in network administration to learn how to manage web servers and design network systems. You’ll gain data management and analytical skills as you prepare for a career as a network administrator.
How much can you earn as a network administrator? The career path reports a median pay of over $95,360 per year (BLS, May 2023).
Network Security
Corporations and government agencies rely on network security specialists to keep their systems private. With a network security concentration, you’ll study defense and detection methods. You can work as a cybersecurity specialist or information security analyst with your accelerated computer science degree.
Interested in cybersecurity? Look for concentrations in information security, network security, cybersecurity, and internet security.
Software Engineering
If you’re interested in managing software for a variety of technologies, consider pursuing a software engineering concentration. You’ll learn how to build software systems and manage complex projects with engineering approaches. After finishing your accelerated CS degree, you’ll qualify for high-paying software engineering careers.
Bulk up your resume by pursuing a software engineering internship while earning your accelerated computer science degree online.
UX / UI
With a concentration in UX/UI — also known as user experience and user interface — you’ll learn how to create interactive, compelling interfaces. You can work as a UX developer or UI engineer after finishing your degree, or cultivate your creative side with UX design careers.
Prepare for the job market by building your portfolio as you study information architecture and usability testing.
Web Development
Learn how to build and maintain websites and web apps with a web development concentration. You’ll study user interfaces and front-end development while also strengthening back-end developer skills. After graduation, you’ll qualify for web development careers, including digital design roles.
An accelerated CS degree can give you an edge over job candidates who attend web development bootcamps.
What Can I Expect From an Accelerated Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Program?
Earning an accelerated computer science degree requires commitment and dedication. With accelerated courses, you’ll move through course material quickly. Strong organizational and time management skills will help you succeed. Expect to spend several hours outside of class on coursework for every hour you spend in class.
How Fast Can I Get an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?
You can earn an accelerated CS degree online in as little as one year if you have enough transfer credits. However, most accelerated bachelor’s programs take closer to three years to complete, instead of the four years it takes to complete a traditional program. Degree completion programs typically require two years of study.
Popular Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Do With an Accelerated Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degree?
Fast-track your CS degree to enter the job market sooner. After earning your accelerated computer science degree online, you’ll qualify for high-paying careers as a software developer, information security analyst, or database administrator.
Career Outlook and Salary
Career Outlook* (2023-2033):
26%
Median Annual Salary* (May 2023):
$145,080
The chart below includes median salaries from some of the most in-demand tech careers. An accelerated CS degree meets the minimum educational requirement for each of these roles.
Jobs | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) |
---|---|
Computer Network Architect | $129,840 |
Software Developer | $130,160 |
Information Security Analyst | $120,360 |
Database Administrator | $117,450 |
Computer Systems Analyst | $103,800 |
Continuing Education
While you can enter the workforce after graduation, you can continue your education in various ways. The most direct path is to pursue a master’s in computer science or a master’s in information technology. These degrees might lead to more management opportunities.
You can also pursue a master’s degree in a specialized field, such as a master’s in computer forensics or a master’s in web development. The information technology field also offers many graduate certificates and industry certifications — credentials that professionals can use to specialize or advance their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fastest Online Computer Science Programs
If you transfer enough credits, you may be able to finish your bachelor’s degree in 12 months. However, you need the right mix of transferable courses and a program dedicated to helping you earn credits quickly. Most accelerated degrees require 90 transfer credits to finish in one year.
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