Most Affordable Online Computer Science Programs

Q: What can I do with a bachelor's in computer science?

Bachelor's in computer science degrees offer versatile curricula that qualify graduates for a variety of roles. Some students may feel drawn to software engineering and development, while others prefer to work in cybersecurity and information security management.Regardless of graduates' chosen path, this degree signals to hiring managers that candidates have the foundational knowledge to perform well in entry-level positions. Over time, students can use their experience to move into more senior and/or managerial positions.

Q: Are computer science majors in demand?

As discussed throughout this guide, pursuing a bachelor's in computer science makes sense for students who want in-demand professional skills that can lead to stable jobs. Demand can vary based on each student's path. All major roles are projected to grow from 2022-2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected to grow by an impressive 25% in the coming decade. This growth will create more than 153,900 roles.

Q: How much money can I make with a bachelor's in computer science?

Computer science bachelor's graduates routinely earn around six figures, depending on where they work and how much experience they possess. Software developers, for instance, earned a median annual salary of $132,270 as of May 2023. Those in the top 10% of earners commanded salaries of more than $208,000. Computer hardware engineers earned a median annual salary of $138,080 during that same time frame. The top 10% of these professionals made over $212,000 annually.

Q: What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor's in computer science?

Most computer science positions pay substantially more than the national average wage for all occupations. Still, some roles offer higher salaries than others. Professionals working as computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $169,510 as of May 2023. Those in the top 10% can expect to earn salaries over $214,000. To compete for these types of jobs, professionals typically need field experience. For computer and information systems managers, for example, most employers seek candidates with at least five years of relevant experience.

Learn how an online bachelor’s in computer science can set up graduates for success in the tech field.

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Updated April 16, 2024

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An online bachelor’s in computer science offers a great educational and professional pathway to students interested in how technology, data, and people interact with each other. Graduates go on to help individuals, businesses, and governments improve their systems and networks.

Students can look forward to a secure and robust job market, since so many companies rely on computer science professionals. Graduates tend to earn above-average salaries, often in the six figures.

Read on to learn about the top online schools for computer science, common classes, available career paths, and opportunities for financial assistance.

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Most Affordable Online Computer Programming Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

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.

To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

Affordability (30%)
Student outcomes (30%)
Reputation (20%)
Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT2 yearOnline

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

Salt Lake City-based WGU offers an online bachelor of science in software development degree. Instead of paying per credit, students pay per term and progress through classes at their own pace. This policy gives students enhanced control over the cost of their education and rewards motivated learners who proceed at an accelerated pace.

This affordable computer programming degree builds two computing certifications into its curriculum: CompTIA and CIW. Degree-seekers can specialize in Java or C#, and WGU maintains generous transfer policies that provide credit for existing proficiencies and professional experiences. On average, students receive transfer credit for about 25% of the program's total requirements. About two-thirds of participants graduate in 30 months (five terms) or less.

WGU strives to help students complete their studies with little to no debt. In 2019, the average debt load of a WGU graduate was less than half the nationwide average.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$7,500

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,765

Retention Rate

73%

Students Enrolled

150,116

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,162

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT2 yearOnline

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,162

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$7,500

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,765

Retention Rate

73%

Students Enrolled

150,116

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

WGU strives to help students complete their studies with little to no debt. In 2019, the average debt load of a WGU graduate was less than half the nationwide average.

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE4 yearCampus + Online

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

95%

Online Enrollment

Students pursuing BU's online bachelor of science in software development join a cohort and progress through classes with a group of their peers. The 127-credit curriculum develops in-demand proficiencies, focusing on topics like Java, Ruby on Rails, SQL, and web applications.

Learners supplement these core topics by mastering networking, information security, testing, user analysis, and business communication skills. The curriculum integrates theory and practice, and applicants should already hold a two-year degree or at least one year of programming experience.

Online learners all pay the same tuition, regardless of their physical location. However, active-duty military members and their spouses qualify for significant tuition discounts.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,980

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,980

Retention Rate

72%

Students Enrolled

11,902

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,560

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,560

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

95%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,980

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,980

Retention Rate

72%

Students Enrolled

11,902

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Online learners all pay the same tuition, regardless of their physical location. However, active-duty military members and their spouses qualify for significant tuition discounts.

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS4 yearCampus + Online

$4,140

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,580

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

90%

Acceptance Rate

57%

Online Enrollment

At FHSU, degree-seekers in the online bachelor of science in computer science program learn to manage information security, networking, and software development needs. The program covers 120 credits, including 65 major credits and 55 general education credits.

Required core courses cover subjects like object-oriented programming, data structures, operating systems, assembly languages, programming languages, and software engineering. Graduates can pursue many professional roles, such as information systems security engineers, system center operations managers, and capacity analysts.

Distance learners can talk to academic advisors to plan out their course schedules and stay on track to graduate. Online students at FHSU all pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$3,726

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,602

Retention Rate

73%

Students Enrolled

14,102

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,140

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,580

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,140

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,580

Acceptance Rate

90%

Online Enrollment

57%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$3,726

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,602

Retention Rate

73%

Students Enrolled

14,102

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Distance learners can talk to academic advisors to plan out their course schedules and stay on track to graduate. Online students at FHSU all pay the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.

Champlain College

Burlington, VT2 yearCampus + Online

$42,564

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$42,564

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

56%

Acceptance Rate

54%

Online Enrollment

Champlain offers a software development degree that students can earn over a compact timeframe. Degree-seekers enroll in three semesters per calendar year, with each semester comprising two seven-week terms. Compared to standard four-year programs, this can expedite graduation by one year or more.

The curriculum of this BS program prioritizes practical, hands-on learning. Requirements and electives cover 23 widely used applications, programming languages, and computing platforms. Students can also customize their degrees by earning certificates in C++, Java, and Visual C#.

Champlain allows eligible learners to transfer in up to 90 credits, including experience-based learning. Out-of-state students do not pay more for tuition, and active-duty military personnel qualify for tuition discounts.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,310

Retention Rate

76%

Students Enrolled

2,406

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$42,564

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,564

Champlain College

Burlington, VT2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$42,564

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,564

Acceptance Rate

56%

Online Enrollment

54%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,310

Retention Rate

76%

Students Enrolled

2,406

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Davenport University

Grand Rapids, MI4 yearCampus + Online

$20,064

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$20,064

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

98%

Acceptance Rate

81%

Online Enrollment

Available through Davenport's Global Campus, the school's bachelor of science in computer science program appeals to learners who want to learn about emerging technologies. After completing core program requirements, degree-seekers can specialize in one of three areas: artificial intelligence, gaming and simulation, or computer architecture and algorithms.

All three specializations reflect fast-growing areas of computer science where experts believe future job growth will concentrate. Learners can supplement their expertise with an applied mathematics minor, further enhancing the degree's value and versatility.

Incoming learners with professional experience and industry-standard certifications qualify for advanced standing. The program prepares students for success on dozens of certification exams, which can help them stand out on the job market.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,308

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,308

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

5,384

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$20,064

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$20,064

Davenport University

Grand Rapids, MI4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$20,064

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$20,064

Acceptance Rate

98%

Online Enrollment

81%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,308

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,308

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

5,384

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Husson University

Bangor, ME2 yearCampus + Online

$18,890

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$18,890

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

91%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Online Enrollment

Focused on career training since its founding in 1898, Husson emphasizes experiential learning, taking a hands-on approach that applies theory to practical situations. The university's online campus offers a bachelor of science in integrated technology with a specialization in software development.

Online, asynchronous courses focus on topics like enterprise software development and utility program proficiencies. Students also gain supplementary competencies, including project management and client communication skills. In addition to 33 credits of major-related classes, students take 30 credits of electives.

Husson accepts up to 90 transfer credits, which can greatly reduce completion timelines for experienced students. The university holds regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,780

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,780

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

3,071

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$18,890

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,890

Husson University

Bangor, ME2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$18,890

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,890

Acceptance Rate

91%

Online Enrollment

69%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,780

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,780

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

3,071

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Southwestern College

Winfield, KS4 yearCampus + Online

$34,750

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$34,750

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

70%

Acceptance Rate

52%

Online Enrollment

Based in Wichita, Kansas, Southwestern offers an entirely online bachelor's degree in computer programming. Graduates can pursue job opportunities in areas like web development, computer systems analysis, and database development. This regionally accredited institution is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

Students pursuing a computer programming degree learn about programming languages like Java, HTML, XHTML, SQL, and CSS. Degree-seekers also develop professional VBA and object-oriented programming proficiencies while honing their critical thinking, logical, and deductive reasoning skills.

Inclusive admission policies extend consideration to all applicants with a high school diploma and at least six postsecondary credits completed with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Military students qualify for tuition discounts of more than 50%.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,528

Retention Rate

49%

Students Enrolled

1,195

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$34,750

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,750

Southwestern College

Winfield, KS4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$34,750

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,750

Acceptance Rate

70%

Online Enrollment

52%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,528

Retention Rate

49%

Students Enrolled

1,195

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hodges University

Fort Myers, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$14,280

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,280

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

61%

Acceptance Rate

93%

Online Enrollment

Florida-based Hodges offers a trio of online computer science programs. Learners can earn a degree in computer information technology, cybersecurity and networking, or software development.

Each of these study paths awards a bachelor of science degree and provides the knowledge needed to pass industry-standard certification exams. For example, graduates can earn credentials like the Cisco-certified network associate and Cisco-certified entry network technician certificates. They can also pursue A+, security+, network+, and Linux+ designations.

Out-of-state students do not pay higher tuition rates. Additionally, as a military-friendly school, Hodges offers discounts to active-duty service members and their spouses.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,940

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,940

Retention Rate

50%

Students Enrolled

551

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,280

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,280

Hodges University

Fort Myers, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,280

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,280

Acceptance Rate

61%

Online Enrollment

93%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,940

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,940

Retention Rate

50%

Students Enrolled

551

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Florida-based Hodges offers a trio of online computer science programs. Learners can earn a degree in computer information technology, cybersecurity and networking, or software development.

Out-of-state students do not pay higher tuition rates. Additionally, as a military-friendly school, Hodges offers discounts to active-duty service members and their spouses.

Baker College - Flint

Flint, MICampus + Online

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

Based in Flint, Michigan, Baker delivers an affordable and comprehensive 121-credit computer science degree with a computer programming concentration. Three-quarters of the requirements for this online program cover major-related cores.

Emphasizing advanced techniques and a variety of applications, coursework prepares degree-seekers for careers in healthcare, financial services, education, aviation and aerospace, automobile design and manufacturing, and many other areas. As part of the program, participants also complete 300 hours of on-site learning experiences.

As a private institution, Baker charges in-state and out-of-state learners the same tuition rates. The school's generous transfer credit policies can greatly reduce many students' financial burdens while also expediting graduation.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Baker College - Flint

Flint, MICampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

#10

Limestone University

Gaffney, SC4 yearCampus + Online

$25,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$25,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

87%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Online Enrollment

A regionally accredited, nondenominational Christian college that was founded in 1845, Limestone was South Carolina's first institute of higher education for women. Today, learners of all backgrounds and genders pursue postsecondary coursework at Limestone.

Prioritizing distance-based learning and career training, Limestone offers a bachelor of science in computer science with a programming concentration. Designed to build a strong knowledge base in information security, network architecture, and systems administration, degree-seekers also master object-oriented programming skills.

Instructors encourage students to seek creative, efficient solutions to programming problems, improving their long-term professional performance and advancement prospects. Semester-based tuition fees make this one of the region's most affordable computer programming degrees. All qualified online students receive automatic consideration for Limestone's grant and scholarship programs.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,350

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

1,840

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$25,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,200

Limestone University

Gaffney, SC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$25,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,200

Acceptance Rate

87%

Online Enrollment

75%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,350

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

1,840

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Cost?

The cost of a bachelor’s in computer science depends on where a student decides to attend. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in-state public schools cost an average of $9,349 for tuition and fees in the 2019-20 academic year. Private schools, on the other hand, cost an average of $32,769.Out-of-state students typically pay higher tuition rates for public schools. However, in some cases, public schools may charge in-state tuition to all students regardless of where they live.

Before making any decisions, degree-seekers must make sure they understand the true program cost — including tuition, fees, and related costs.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Program?

When considering an online bachelor’s in computer science, students should think about whether they would like working in computer science jobs. Most individuals who choose this path enjoy learning about the latest technologies. They also enjoy troubleshooting issues and looking for ways to maximize efficiency.

Some computer science programs offer concentrations to help students focus their knowledge in particular areas of the discipline. Concentration offerings vary among programs. Common options include video game design and development, software engineering, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

Most computer science students must participate in a semester-long internship. Internships provide opportunities for learners to network with professionals and gain hands-on skills.

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What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Program?

Introduction to Computer Programming: This course covers the design, implementation, testing, debugging, maintenance, and documentation of algorithms, programming concepts, and data types. Learners study concepts of object-oriented programming. They also learn about numerical and non-numerical problems.
Data Structures: In this course, students explore linear and nonlinear data structures such as lists, stacks, queues, trees, tables, and graphs. They learn about recursion, iteration over collections, sorting, searching, Big O notation, and hash tables.
Introduction to Computer Science: Typically taken in the first semester, this course lays the foundation for future study by introducing learners to programming languages, memory management, program control, and data abstraction.
Computer Science with Applications: This course moves students from theory to application. It teaches students to build practical, applicable programs using programming languages such as Python and JavaScript. Students conduct hands-on programming exercises and learn to use basic software development tools.
Computer Security: With focus on how to keep systems and networkers secured from hackers, this course looks at the variety of defense systems available and how to handle sensitive and private data in a secure way.
Software Construction: Often provided as an elective, this course supports students looking to go into software development. It explores software architecture and testing, user access, and addressing bugs and security threats.
Computer Architecture: This course focuses on the development and design principles associated with computer hardware. These include multi-core designs, memory hierarchies, and instruction set architecture functions.

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What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Program?

Admission requirements for bachelor’s in computer science programs vary among schools. Still, most look somewhat similar. Schools usually maintain the same protocols for both online and campus-based students. In addition to teh components highlighted below, some programs may ask for a portfolio of computer science-related projects.

Application: Applications are the first step in the undergraduate admissions process, providing the university with basic demographic information about candidates. Students can typically complete their applications online. They must provide details such as their full name, mailing address, basic educational information, date of birth, and citizenship status.
Test Scores: In recent years, many schools dropped their requirement for students to submit college entrance exam scores with their applications. However, many schools still recommend that applicants take the ACT or SAT. Review your prospective schools’ recommendations and requirements before applying.
Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation come from applicants’ mentors, who recommend students based on their character, accomplishments, and preparedness for college. Current or former teachers, job/volunteer supervisors, or faith leaders may write letters of recommendation.
Essays: College application essays allow students to tell the admissions committee about a unique, character-forming experience in their life why they are a great candidate. Essays also provide the space for applicants to discuss why they want to study computer science and attend that particular college.
Official Transcripts: Official transcripts help admissions officers confirm a student’s GPA and ensure they meet all high school prerequisite requirements. In the case of students transferring from community college to university, transcripts also help admissions officers calculate credit transfers.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degree?

Career Outlook

Before committing to an online bachelor’s in computer science, prospective students must do their research to understand whether the program aligns with their career goals. Students looking for secure, well-paying jobs often gravitate toward this path.

Nearly every individual, company, nonprofit, and even government agency relies on computer science professionals. For this reason, jobs in the field continue to expand. Many graduates hover just below or above the six-figure mark, while those with more experience can earn more.

Graduates may find themselves working in industries including software development, network architecture, cybersecurity, and hardware design.

See where a bachelor’s in computer science degree can take you. Learn more about computer science careers.

Career Paths

Possible Salaries and Career Outlook With a Computer Science Degree
Jobs	Median Annual Wage (May 2023)	Projected Outlook (2022-2032)
Computer Network Architects	$129,840	4%
Computer Systems Analyst	$103,800	10%
Data Scientist	$108,020	35%
Information Security Analyst	$120,360	32%
Network and Computer Systems Administrator	$95,360	2%
Software Developer	$132,270	26%

Source: BLS

Computer Systems Analyst

Also known as systems architects, these professionals analyze companies’ computer and network systems and suggest ways to improve for greater efficiency and effectiveness. Computer systems analysts look for ways to boost functionality while managing costs. They keep their finger on the pulse of new technologies that can prove beneficial.

Data Scientist

These professionals use data to understand and explain the phenomena occurring around them. Data scientists help their organizations make better business decisions.

Information Security Analyst

These professionals keep their organizations’ systems and networks safe. Information security analysts continually monitor for signs of security breaches while installing and updating firewalls and encryption software. They may also work with ethical hackers to find weak points of entry in the system.

Network and Computer Systems Administrator

Given networks’ important role in nearly every business, network and computer systems administrators are critical to most companies. These professionals install new hardware and software based on company needs. They also optimize existing systems’ performance, create accounts, and train new users on system functionality.

Software Developer

Software developers may work in house or in freelance or consulting roles. After understanding their clients’ needs, these professionals design apps and other systems to meet those demands. They write code, test program functionality, and make ongoing tweaks and upgrades as needed.

Continuing Education

Graduates of an online bachelor’s in computer science may return to school to upgrade their credentials and compete for more senior positions. Depending on their end goal, students can pursue a master’s in computer science and/or a doctorate in computer science programs.

These programs vary in terms of length. Some schools offer specializations in areas such as human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and machine learning. Some positions, such as those for computer and information research scientists, require candidates to possess at least a master’s degree.

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How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Program?

Cost: The cost of an online bachelor’s in computer science can vary based on school type. In-state public schools typically offer the cheapest tuition rates. Private schools cost much more. Students should make sure they understand the true cost of a program. They should also compare online and campus-based learning costs before enrolling.
Program Format: Students considering an online bachelor’s in computer science can typically choose whether to study in a synchronous or an asynchronous format. Those seeking flexibility usually go with the second option. Learners can also decide whether full-time or part-time learning meets their needs, and whether an accelerated program may work best.
Location: When considering whether to attend college online or on campus, students must factor in location. Distance learners can study thousands of miles from their home. That said, some schools may require in-person components. In this case, learners may want to attend school within driving distance.
Accreditation: Understanding online college accreditation is important. Attending a non-accredited school can create problems with transferring credits, finding work, and applying to grad school. Learners should look for both regional and programmatic accreditation. Within computer science, ABET is the program-specific accreditor to know.
Student Support: Finding a program with adequate student support services can turn a good college experience into a great one. Services to look for in a top program include internship assistance and mentorship opportunities. Online students can also ask about distance learning services.

How Do I Pay for an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The FAFSA is administered by the U.S. Department of Education. This application determines whether students can receive federal grants, work-study funds, and/or loans. Many schools also require FAFSA documentation for institutional awards.
Loans: Many students turn to college loans to further aid their studies. The U.S. Department of Education offers fixed-rate loans to help bridge the gap and make college possible.
Grants: Grants are similar to scholarships in that recipients do not have to repay the funding, as long as they meet the reward’s requirements. Some grants are based on academic merit. Others focus on financial need.
Work-Study Programs: Students who qualify based on the FAFSA can apply to work-study jobs at their university. These jobs pay at least minimum wage. The types of jobs available vary among institutions. Students can work part time and use this pay to help cover education expenses.
Scholarships: Students should first exhaust their options in terms of scholarship aid, since scholarships don’t require repayment. Scholarships are available through professional associations, nonprofit foundations, local and state governments, businesses and corporations, and colleges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Computer Science Programs

Is a bachelor’s in computer science worth it?

A bachelor’s in computer science offers a great foundational education and can lead to a variety of entry-level positions. If considering whether an online degree is worth it, remember that computer science particularly suits distance learning, since the subject focuses so much on new technology.

Students who pursue computer science degrees often appreciate that they can work in a variety of fields and industries. Many companies rely on computer science professionals to keep their systems and networks running smoothly, so these experts will always be in demand.

What can I do with a bachelor’s in computer science?

Are computer science majors in demand?

How much money can I make with a bachelor’s in computer science?

What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor’s in computer science?

Explore More College Resources

Is Computer Science a Good Major?

Is computer science a good major? Yes, if students account for a changing employment landscape. This degree guide provides insights to help student decisions.