Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Discover what online programming degrees have to offer and what careers this training can lead to.
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Updated on September 28, 2023
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Information technology has become integral to the success of nearly every organization and industry. While the demand for some traditional coding careers has declined, computer programming is still one of the most in-demand tech skills around.

Programming has worked its way into many computer-related disciplines and professions, making it a requirement for many professionals in this sector.

Popular Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees

Throughout this page, you can explore the different types of online programming degrees and related disciplines.

Accelerated Online Degree Programs for Working Adults

Schools with online programming degrees may offer several delivery formats — such as part-time, evening, or other flexible options — helping you maintain employment while furthering your education. Additionally, many programs offer a variety of concentrations, allowing you to take greater control over your studies and target career.

Here are some common specializations in the industry:

The following sections examine these concentrations in more detail.

1. Computer Forensics

Computer forensics programs teach you to monitor and investigate cyberattacks and collect and report evidence. After graduation, you can work as a forensic science technician. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for these professionals was $61,930 in May 2021.

Featured Computer Forensics Programs

By earning an accelerated degree in this field, you can enter the workforce in as little as two years.

2. Computer Programming

In a computer programming program, you'll learn how to work with different programming languages and applications. These programs teach students to develop secure and effective software and apps and solve problems for organizations and users.

Many graduates who earn a degree in programming pursue a computer programming career, which offers a median annual wage of $93,000 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Computer Programming Programs

An accelerated degree in programming allows you to advance your credentials without the same time commitment as a traditional degree.

3. Computer Science

In a computer science bachelor's program, you'll cover a breadth of computer topics, including programming, systems, and software. You'll also learn how to use computers to solve various business problems.

Graduates can qualify for many computer science roles, including computer systems analysts, who make a median annual wage of $99,270 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Computer Science Programs

Graduating from an accelerated program in this field allows students to enter the workforce quickly.

4. Data Analytics

Data analytics programs teach you to use data to solve problems and make informed decisions. This type of training can lead to many data analytics careers, such as data scientists, who make a median annual wage of $100,910 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Data Analytics Programs

Accelerated program options can help you quickly add a new skill set and adapt to the latest industry developments.

5. Database Management

In a database management program, you'll learn to create and manage databases to store, organize, and protect information. The growing importance of organizational data makes this an in-demand program.

A degree in this field can lead to a database administrator career. These professionals earn a median annual wage of $101,000 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Database Management Programs

Accelerated degrees are an attractive option for many working professionals looking to upgrade their skills and knowledge in a relatively short period.

6. Information Systems Security

Information systems security programs explore the latest technologies and techniques in cybersecurity. Participants study the motivations and methods of cyberattackers and learn about effective preventative measures.

This type of degree prepares you for information systems careers, such as security analysts, who make a median annual wage of $102,600 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Information Systems Security Programs

Earning an accelerated degree gives you the chance to take advantage of the above-average demand in this field quickly.

7. Information Technology

Information technology (IT) programs cover a wide study area, including topics in hardware, software, management, and design and development. The training builds a foundation for further study and careers in many fields.

Available IT jobs include computer and information systems managers; these professionals earn a median annual wage of $159,010 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Information Technology Programs

Consider an accelerated degree in this field to help you enter the computer industry in a shorter time frame.

8. Network Administration

A degree in network administration can equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to manage and maintain networks for organizations of various sizes.

You'll learn to secure and upgrade these systems — a necessity for network and computer administrator careers. Workers in this field make a median annual salary of $80,600 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Network Administration Programs

Along with saving time, students with previous academic or career experience can also save money by pursuing an accelerated degree.

9. Network Security

A network security degree teaches students how to protect and monitor network systems. If you enroll, you'll learn to design, develop, implement, and manage network security technologies.

Your degree could give you access to a career as a computer network architect. Workers in this field make a median annual salary of $120,520 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Network Security Programs

Accelerated degrees are an attractive option for working professionals looking to upgrade their skills quickly.

10. Software Engineering

A software engineering program teaches you the skills required to design and develop software using engineering principles. These programs explore the entire lifecycle of software development and delivery.

As a graduate, you can apply for various software developer roles. Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers make a median annual salary of $109,020 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Software Engineering Programs

Accelerated programs in this field can help you qualify for promotions and higher salaries quickly.

11. UX / UI (Graphic Design)

A graphic design program shows you how professionals in this field use design for various purposes and mediums.

Programs focus on different techniques and technologies and can prepare you for many graphic design careers. Graphic designers make a median annual salary of $50,710 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured UI / UX Programs

Pursuing an accelerated degree in graphic design helps you develop a new skill set and learn about cutting-edge techniques in the field.

12. Web Development

In a web development program, you'll learn how to create websites for individual clients and organizations. You may study web design, programming, and user behavior. Web developers make a median annual wage of $78,300 (BLS, May 2021).

Featured Web Development Programs

Accelerated web development programs can help you get into the workforce quickly while your training is still fresh in your mind.

Popular Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Program?

The courses in a computer programming program vary by school and concentration. However, the following section covers popular courses you may encounter.

Computer Programming With Java

In this course, you'll learn about Java syntax and concepts, which professionals regularly use in software engineering and programming projects.

Algorithms and Data Structures

In this course, you'll learn the basics of the design and analysis of algorithms. Hands-on coursework covers how to use algorithm implementation techniques when solving practical computational problems.

Specific topics may include algorithms for sorting, string processing, searching, and graphing. The course also covers recursive backtracking and algorithm efficiency.

Cybersecurity

This course covers core issues in information security. Common topics include data encryption, digital forensics, and vulnerability assessment.

The course may culminate in a collaborative or solo project, such as a penetration test of a system accompanied by a written report.

Cloud Computing

In this course, you'll investigate cloud computing and its influence on the IT industry. Topics include application programming interfaces used by cloud service providers, application development using a software-as-a-service model, and security testing for cloud applications. You'll exit the course able to use the cloud as an infrastructure for different services.

Operating Systems Foundations

This course examines the foundational concepts, techniques, and skills needed to manage operating systems. Some courses may work with an open-source operating system derived from UNIX/LINUX rather than a conventional operating system such as Windows. Concepts covered include user commands and utilities, graphical user interfaces, editors, and shells.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Program?

Each program has its own unique admission requirements, but you can expect to see some, if not all, of the following.

Minimum GPA

Many schools require a minimum GPA — usually between 2.0 and 3.0. However, some programs may award you probationary admission with a lower GPA if you have high SAT or ACT scores.

Test Scores

Many schools will require prospective undergraduates to submit SAT or ACT scores for consideration. However, some programs may prefer placement assessments, such as the ALEKS online program.

Letters of Recommendation

Schools often ask you to submit up to three letters of recommendation. Letter-writers should be teachers, supervisors, and/or mentors who can speak to your academic strengths.

Transcripts

You'll likely be asked to submit transcripts from any previously attended schools. This usually entails filling out a transcript request application and paying a small fee. This process can take a few weeks.

Application

Once you have gathered all relevant materials, fill out your application to the program. Generally, you'll need to submit a fee — usually $40-$80 — with your application. However, some schools do not require an application fee.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degree?

The broad applicability of computer programming makes it an effective foundational program for many areas of study. You can develop skills in several important areas, which can prepare you for analyst, development, or management positions. The following section offers more details about popular computer programming careers.

Career Outlook and Salary

Based on computer programming occupations, as reported by the BLS.

In the following table, you can find salary information for several computer programming jobs.

5 Popular Computer Programming Jobs
Computer Programming Jobs Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
Computer Programmers $93,000
Computer Systems Analysts $99,270
Information Security Analysts $102,600
Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers $109,120
Web Developers and Digital Designers $78,300
Source: BLS

Continuing Education

If you already have a bachelor's in computer programming, you might opt to continue your education at the master's level. Common master's programs for computer programming graduates are computer science, computer engineering, and computer forensics.

  • Computer Science: A computer science master's degree is a popular choice if you have a bachelor's in computer programming. Available concentrations include artificial intelligence, computer networks, and software engineering.
  • Computer Engineering: Computer engineering builds on foundational computer science knowledge, incorporating elements of electrical engineering. Once you have a master's in computer engineering, you may pursue a position as a computer systems analyst or database administrator.
  • Computer Forensics: Computer forensics teaches you how to use your knowledge of computers to help solve crimes. You can learn how to become an effective criminal investigator and protect computer systems from cyberattacks.

Popular Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Programs

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#1 Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Fort Hays State University

  • Hays, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Hays, Kansas, FHSU educates about 16,000 learners annually. In addition to its on-campus programs, the university offers dozens of degree and certificate programs to distance learners, including an online bachelor of science in computer science.

Computer science students complete 55 credits of general education requirements, as well as 65 credits dedicated to their major. Coursework covers topics like foundations of computing, front-end and back-end web development, and analytic geometry and calculus. Students also complete a seminar course towards the end of their program.

Graduates can pursue roles like system center operations manager, capacity analyst, and information systems security engineer. Students can transfer up to 90 credits into this program.

FHSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$14,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,726
Out-of-state
$10,602
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
15,033
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Baker College

  • Owosso, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Owosso, Michigan, Baker offers a bachelor of science in computer science with a concentration in computer programming.

In addition to general education requirements, students take courses such as emerging programming languages, computer architecture, computer operating systems and maintenance, and data structures and algorithms. Learners receive a comprehensive introduction to several different programming languages, and computer programming concentration courses cover in-demand topics such as IoT or artificial intelligence. Students also complete a year-long senior project and 150 hours of work experience with an approved company.

Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent to qualify for admission. However, students do not need to submit standardized test scores. Baker is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,960
Out-of-state
$9,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,510
Out-of-state
$12,510
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
6,028
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Davenport University

  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Davenport offers an online bachelor of science in computer science. Students choose one of three concentrations: artificial intelligence, computer theory and algorithms, or gaming and simulation.

The program features general education courses as well as computer science foundation courses. Notable class requirements include object-oriented programming with C#, database design, data structures and algorithms, and software engineering. After completing foundational requirements, students take specific courses in their concentration and complete a computer science capstone experience to demonstrate skills mastery in key development areas.

Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent to qualify for admission, but they do not need to submit standardized test scores. Davenport is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,320
Out-of-state
$19,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,696
Out-of-state
$15,696
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
6,127
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Limestone University

  • Gaffney, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Gaffney, South Carolina, Limestone offers an online bachelor of science in computer science with a concentration in programming. Students complete courses on an asynchronous schedule and focus on just two classes per eight-week term.

Course requirements cover basic concepts of the internet and the world wild web, information systems analysis and design, and internet programming. A capstone project allows students to plan, research, and execute a computer science project and produce a formal research paper.

Applicants must hold a high school diploma (or the equivalent) and submit SAT or ACT scores. The program does not require students to possess any previous training in computer science.

Limestone is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,200
Out-of-state
$25,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,350
Out-of-state
$12,350
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
1,943
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Computer Programming Degrees Online

Bellevue University

  • Bellevue, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in eastern Nebraska, BU offers an online bachelor of science in software development. This program operates as a degree completion program. Participants join a cohort and prepare to earn CompTIA certification.

Required courses include the foundation of software development, database development and use, programming with Java, and interactive development with Javascript. Students also complete a capstone project in software development where they plan and execute a project that addresses a real-world challenge.

Applicants must transfer in an associate degree or at least 60 previously earned credits. BU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$7,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,710
Retention Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,059
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Popular Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fastest Online Computer Science Programs

What can you do with a degree in computer programming?

A degree in computer programming can qualify you for several entry-level positions in the field. In addition to working as a programmer or software developer, you can pursue work as a network architect, information system manager, or information security analyst.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in computer programming?

It typically takes four years to earn an online bachelor's degree in computer programming. However, this timeline can vary depending on several factors, including whether you take courses part time or full time, pursue an accelerated option, or transfer credit from previous college courses.

Do you need a degree in computer science to be a programmer?

Some employers looking for programmers and developers do not necessarily require you to possess a degree in computer science. In the computer and IT services industry, practical skills related to programming languages and information systems may count as much as a degree.

How much does it cost to get a degree in computer programming?

The cost of a computer programming degree depends on your school, location, and degree level. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual undergraduate tuition at four-year public schools was $9,400 in 2020-21.

At private nonprofit schools, the average tuition was $37,600 a year. Associate degrees — often offered by community colleges — typically have lower rates than four-year schools. Many students earn an associate degree and then transfer into a four-year program to complete a bachelor's.

In-state students at public schools also tend to pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students. However, some online schools charge all distance learners the same tuition, regardless of where they live.

How much can you make with a bachelor's in computer programming?

With an online bachelor's in computer programming, you have the potential to make a very comfortable living after graduation. For example, the BLS reports that the top 10% of computer programmers earned around $155,240 per year in May 2021.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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