Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Programs of 2024
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Computer science can cover a variety of topics including data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Almost all industries require computer science to help employees track data and communicate.
An online master's in computer science program can teach you essential skills to pursue a career in the field. If you are interested in a career in computer science, the following page discusses the top master's programs, the benefits of earning a degree, and prospective career paths.
Featured Master's in Computer Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Computer Science Master’s Programs 2024
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
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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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $686
Out-of-State | $686
Credits to Graduate: 32
U of I's master in computer science program, offered through Coursera, provides a flexible time frame, letting you graduate in 1-5 years. This program requires eight courses.
You'll study database and information systems, software engineering, scientific computing, and artificial intelligence. To graduate, you must complete a capstone in cloud computing or data mining.
Applicants with any bachelor's degree can apply, if they complete undergraduate coursework that includes linear algebra, object-oriented programming, and statistics. A GPA of at least 3.2 is advised.
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $180
Out-of-State | $180
Credits to Graduate: 30
The Georgia Tech online master's in computer science, offered in partnership with Udacity and AT&T, provides five specializations. Areas of focus include computational perception and robotics, computing systems, human computer interaction, interactive intelligence, and machine learning. Most students graduate within a three-year timeframe.
New students start in the fall and spring. For admission, the college looks for students with a bachelor's degree in computer science or a similar field and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $525
Out-of-State | $525
Credits to Graduate: 31
NC State's master's in computer science is taught by tenured faculty members, many of whom have won awards. Streaming courses combine theory, systems principles, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and networks. There is no comprehensive exam.
After completing your second semester with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, you can apply for assistantships. The college admits students on a rolling basis. Applicants need to show proof of U.S. citizenship and submit GRE scores.
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,864
Out-of-State | $1,864
Credits to Graduate: 30
Enroll in Stevens master's in computer science program and you can graduate within two years. The 10 virtual courses explore algorithm design, machine learning, agile development skills, mobile application development, software design, and programming languages like Java, C++, and Python.
You do not need a computer science background to apply, but candidates must hold a bachelor's degree and a minimum of 3.0 a GPA. Your application also must include a statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation.
Stanford University
Stanford, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,304
Out-of-State | $1,304
Credits to Graduate: 45
At Stanford's computer science department, you can complete Stanford's online master's in computer science program and specialize in artificial intelligence, systems specializations, or information management and analytics.
To complete the required 45 credits takes 3-5 years on a part time schedule and 1-2 years if you study full time. The coursework combines operating systems and systems programming, networking, databases, and computer graphics and imaging.
Qualified applicants need solid quantitative and analytical skills and a bachelor's degree from an accredited college.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,610
Out-of-State | $1,610
Credits to Graduate: 30
At WPI's master of computer science program, you have the opportunity to customize your master's with electives and four specializations. You can specialize in artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, data analytics and management, or business intelligence. The courses emphasize the use of programming languages such as Python and Javascript, culminating in a final capstone project to exhibit your learning.
WPI's program doesn't ask for GRE scores or an application fee. Applicants do not need a bachelor's in computer science, but they need completed calculus, statistics, or probability prerequisites.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,424
Out-of-State | $2,424
Credits to Graduate: 28
The USC master's in computer science degree, run through the Viterbi School of Engineering, blends computer systems applications, design, and programming. As a student, you can concentrate your studies in applied data science or cybersecurity engineering and graduate in 1.5-3 years.
Candidates need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Otherwise, applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in computer science courses such as database systems and organization, operating systems, and numerical computation.
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $985
Out-of-State | $985
Credits to Graduate: 33
OU's online M.S. in computer science offers areas of emphasis in algorithm design, neural networks, security software, and more. The program consists of 11 courses covering concepts and theories in computer science, such as artificial intelligence, computer security, and data mining.
To apply, you need a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, information technology, or a related discipline. You also need a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 during your undergraduate studies. The program takes 21 months or more to complete.
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $405
Out-of-State | $405
Credits to Graduate: 33
Fitchburg State's M.S. in computer science prepares students to adapt to the fast-changing industry. The 33-credit program offers a variety of fundamental and advanced concepts. Core courses include theory of computation, advanced mathematics, and computer programming. Electives branch out to topics like data communications and embedded systems.
Candidates need the equivalent of a four-year bachelor's degree to apply. Admitted students must take a placement test for programming languages. Candidates may need to complete prerequisite courses depending on their test results. The program carries an online fee of $58 per credit.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,712
Out-of-State | $1,712
Credits to Graduate: 30-32
The College of Computing offers IIT's master's in computer science that lets you pick from a coursework-only, thesis, or culminating project format. The hybrid and online programs take two years to complete. Courses cover database organization, computer graphics, computation theory, and computer architecture. You can get hands-on experience through the Illinois Tech's Elevate program which offers studying abroad options and internships.
This STEM-designated program meets F-1 visa requirements. Admissions requirements include a bachelor's degree in any field and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
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Ranking Methodology Summary
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.
How to Find the Right Online Computer Science Master’s Programs
You will spend significant time, energy and money to study an online master's in computer science.
Because institutions may vary in their cost, curriculums, and accreditation, you should consider all these variables when finding the master's in computer science programs that suit you best. The section below highlights some important factors to compare between schools.
Cost
Computer science master's online programs have a median cost of $8,464, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
You can reduce the cost of a master's degree by applying for financial aid. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, scholarships, or loans. You can start the financial aid process by applying to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Program Format
An online computer science master's degree takes approximately two years to complete, or 12-18 months for accelerated programs. You will take 30-45 course credits, depending on the program. These courses may teach you programming, algorithms, and data mining.
Location
Institutions may receive tax dollars from in-state residents. Since residents have contributed to funding the institution, they often receive a reduced in-state tuition. Out-of-state tuition can thus be significantly higher than in-state tuition.
Accreditation
Accrediting bodies and agencies provide accreditation to schools. Institutions that receive accreditation have proven that they meet a certain standard of learning.
All programs within an accredited institution receive accreditation by association. Individual programs can also receive accreditation. Future schools and employers may check if your school holds accreditation.
Why Should You Get an Online Computer Science Master's Degree?
When you consider all the positives, getting a master's in computer science seems like a no-brainer.
Computer science is a rapidly growing field that pays extremely well. Professionals with master's degrees in the subject are in high demand because companies need workers with tech skills.
A master's in computer science also qualifies you for numerous computer science jobs, including in software development and database administration. These positions have high projected job growth and median salaries compared to other fields.
"As computers become more powerful and widespread, there is never a better time to be involved in this rapidly growing field. These days, computer science has indeed come into its own as an indispensable profession."
— Abdul Rahim, MCA in Computer Science
Benefits of Getting a Computer Science Master's Degree Online
- Rapid job growth caused by increased demand for computer software
- Access to many high-paying jobs
- Nearly recession-proof due to reliance on computer science experts
- Wide variety of specializations based on your preference and experience
- Opportunities for creativity and innovation
Reasons for Getting Your Master's in Computer Science Online
- Balance work and school
- Flexible class schedule
- Learn from anywhere
- More free time
- Better for neurodivergent learning needs
What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Computer Science Master's Degree?
Almost every industry requires computer science experts to build products, maintain websites, and optimize solutions. You can follow your topics of interest in a master's in computer science program. You can pursue computer science roles including computer programmer, software engineer, or database administrator.
Experts expect available roles in the computer science industry to grow rapidly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects some careers, including data scientists, to grow 35% between 2022-2032.
This growth rate outpaces the average career growth rate. Several computer science careers, including software developers, had a median salary exceeding $100,000 per year, according to the BLS.
Computer Science Career Paths
*May require additional certification or licensure
Salaries With a Master’s in Computer Science
Source: Payscale
What Else Do I Need to Know About Online Computer Science Master’s Degrees?
What is the best online master's in computer science?
The best online master's in computer science program is subjective. You may have different considerations -- program concentrations, student-to-faculty ratio, cost -- than other students on the same journey.
Are online masters in CS worth it?
If you are interested in computer science, then an online master's in computer science program can be worth it. During your studies, you will learn valuable skills that can help you pursue additional computer science career paths.
Is getting a master's in computer science hard?
A master's in computer science can be considered difficult due to the technical topics and strict nature of coding. If you already have a technical background and relevant experience, the curriculum may not be hard.
Do people with master's in CS get paid more?
Graduates of an online computer science master's program can pursue careers that pay a median salary of over $100,000. Master's degree holders may also earn more than their bachelor's degree-holding counterparts.
What does a computer scientist do?
Computer scientists, a broad term, refer to anybody that uses technical expertise to solve problems. Computer scientists may specialize in creating algorithms, writing code, or conducting research experiments.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 14, 2023