Computer Science Degree Guide
Computer science is a popular tech field — not to mention one of the highest-paying majors. In an undergraduate program, you’ll study topics like discrete mathematics, statistical methods, and data structures.
With a graduate degree in computer science, you can further specialize, choosing among areas such as data visualization, security and privacy, and knowledge mining.
Ultimately, a computer science degree can open up many doors. Below, we cover the various types of computer science degrees you can earn and what jobs you can land in this in-demand field.
Can You Get a Computer Science Degree Online?
Yes, you can earn your computer science degree online.
Top-rated affordable online computer science degrees boast the same curriculum and rigor as on-campus programs.
Here are some examples of popular online computer science programs:
- Arizona State University’s BS in software engineering
- Regent University’s BS in computer engineering
- Bellevue University’s BS in web development
An online computer science degree can offer many advantages, such as asynchronous classes and increased flexibility. Some colleges may even waive out-of-state tuition for nonresidents.
How Much Can You Make With a Computer Science Degree?
According to the latest BLS data, many computer and information technology roles earn a median annual salary of over $100,000.
The BLS projects strong employment growth for jobs like data scientist, information security analyst, and computer scientist based on the latest computer science trends.
While many in-demand computer science jobs only require a bachelor’s degree, aspiring computer scientists must have at least a master’s. Below is a look at some of the most popular computer science jobs today and how much money you can expect to earn.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $145,080 | 23% | Master’s degree |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | $138,080 | 5% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Software Developers | $132,270 | 26% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Network Architects | $129,840 | 4% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Information Security Analysts | $120,360 | 32% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Data Scientists | $108,020 | 35% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,800 | 10% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Computer Programmers | $99,700 | -11% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $95,360 | 2% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Web Developers | $84,960 | 17% | Bachelor’s degree |
Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?
A computer science degree offers many advantages, including raising your salary potential. That said, a degree and career in this field may not align with your interests and skills.
Consider the following pros and cons before applying to on-campus or online computer science programs.
Pros
Jobs for computer science professionals are projected to grow significantly between 2022 and 2032, meaning a higher likelihood of job stability and career advancement.- Many computer science degree-holders can easily work remotely, allowing for flexibility and better work-life balance.
- Several computer science careers boast median salaries in the six figures.
Cons
Database administrators experience lower-than-average job satisfaction.- Burnout affects a high percentage of software developers.
- Long periods of independent work may lead to feelings of isolation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees
Yes, computer science degrees require many math classes. Most computer science students take classes in calculus, algebra, trigonometry, and statistics. Learning higher-level math helps you develop the logic and abstract reasoning skills needed to succeed in a computer science job or graduate program.
Note: The insights on this page were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed June 20, 2024.
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