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Are you ready to discover your college program?
A bachelor's degree in computer science provides an intellectual and practical foundation in computer science theories and uses. This degree is the foundation for most computer-focused careers, including computer engineering, cybersecurity, and systems analysis.
Earning your degree online can shorten your time to graduation and save you money. Plus, you can work an entry-level job in the field while going to school, giving you practical experience along with your classroom education.
Specialists in this field will likely face a strong job market. Explore our guide below to discover the best online computer science degrees, what to expect in an online program, and how to turn your degree into a career.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestCollegeReviews.org 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.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $330 Out-of-State | $330
Credits to Graduate: 120
SNHU's online BS in computer science offers a combination of affordability, convenience, and quality. Low tuition rates apply to all learners regardless of residency, with asynchronous courses and self-pacing options providing flexibility.
Students have four concentration options: data analysis, information security, software engineering, and STEM-focused project management. In each case, the curriculum emphasizes proficiency in major programming languages and builds student proficiency with industry-standard software tools. Graduates emerge ready to make career transitions.
SNHU's online learning experience enjoys strong reviews: 93.6% of the 17,000-plus respondents to a 2022 survey said they would recommend the school to others.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
145,533
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
WGU designed its online BS in computer in consultation with tech industry experts and focuses on high-demand skills. The curriculum covers theoretical and practical topics, including artificial intelligence, data structures, computing architecture, and version control. WGU also built multiple professional certifications into the program, including for Axelos and Linux.
Asynchronous classes deliver excellent flexibility, making the program suitable for working adults. Learners can advance at their own pace, with 71% of enrollees graduating within 30 months. According to WGU, alumni report average annual income increases of $22,000 within two years.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,162
Out-of-state
$7,162
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
150,116
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI
4 years
Online
Cost per Credit: In-State | $495 Out-of-State | $495
Credits to Graduate: 121
Johnson & Wales' BS in computer science develops technical and practical skills. The program applies a 100% online asynchronous course delivery model to cover programming, computing theory and architecture, algorithms, software design, and systems analysis. It also features a supplementary focus on troubleshooting, problem-solving, and project management proficiencies.
Students can pursue software or network engineering specializations, with eight-week terms offering accelerated pacing. Johnson & Wales reports a 95.4% career outcomes rate among graduates, thanks in part to built-in experiential learning components.
Cost per Credit: In-State | $255 Out-of-State | $255
Credits to Graduate: 122
The BS in computer science at PUPR takes an applied approach to skills development. Its STEM-focused curriculum builds proficiencies in programming, algorithm design and analysis, interface design, software engineering, and database management. Students can customize learning to match their personal and professional interests, with an asynchronous model delivering appealing flexibility.
Electives support concentrations in data science, gaming, IT management, networking, security, and software development. Students can also adopt a research-oriented focus. Course requirements ensure that learners graduate with versatile and broadly relevant skills.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,420
Out-of-state
$12,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,110
Out-of-state
$7,110
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
149
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Fayette, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $270 Out-of-State | $270
Credits to Graduate: 120
CMU's online computer science programs offer BA and BS pathways. Both options feature an intensive curriculum built on a 37-unit core that emphasizes technical proficiencies.
Asynchronous coursework focuses on the structure and architecture of computer systems and applications. Students can sharpen problem-solving and analytical skills through core coursework and electives covering various programming languages.
CMU accepts both first-time undergraduates and transfer students into the program. To obtain transfer student status, each applicant must have at least 24 credits from an accredited school and a GPA of 2.0 or higher in those courses.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$6,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,075
Out-of-state
$6,075
Retention Rate
33%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,242
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $424 Out-of-State | $424
Credits to Graduate: 120
The online undergraduate major in computer science at CU covers 36 credits of core requirements, along with a concentration of the student's choice. Core coursework focuses on programming, networking, software engineering, systems analysis, and computer architecture. Learners can explore concentrations in game programming, robotics and automation, or web development.
Using an asynchronous delivery model, CU supports student-directed scheduling. The school's generous transfer policy welcomes learners with previous college coursework. Undergraduates can transfer up to 72 credits from any accredited postsecondary institution.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,238
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $395-450 Out-of-State | $395-450
Credits to Graduate: 120
Regent's online BS in computer science program allows enrollees to build expertise in programming languages and technology applications. Coursework examines networking, security, data structures, computer architecture, database management, and software engineering, among other topics.
The school's online learning model supports synchronous and asynchronous learning. In courses with pre-recorded lectures, students can schedule live one-on-one meetings with instructors. This unique design promotes interactivity with peers and faculty, enriching the online student experience.
Each candidate must submit only a general application and unofficial transcripts to receive consideration.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,220
Out-of-state
$17,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,590
Out-of-state
$15,590
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
10,330
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
Alexandria, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $325 Out-of-State | $325
Credits to Graduate: 120
LSU of Alexandria's online BS in computer science emphasizes practical, project-based learning. Students develop familiarity in areas like algorithms, data structures, and programming. Coursework also provides work to include in portfolios, which graduates can use to display tangible skills to potential employers.
Asynchronous classes feature low student-to-teacher ratios, which makes instructors more accessible. LSU of Alexandria also welcomes transfer students, who can cover up to 75% of their degree requirements with existing coursework.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,984
Out-of-state
$4,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
3,771
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2024
Baker College
Owosso, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $435 Out-of-State | $435
Credits to Graduate: 120
Baker's online programs in artificial intelligence, computer programming, and data analytics deliver intensive, focused learning in high-demand technical areas. All three programs are available asynchronously. Learners in the computer programming concentration can also opt for synchronous learning.
The programming and data analytics programs share a common 75-unit core. Required courses cover a broad survey of computer science essentials, building versatile and transferable skills. Students in Baker's innovative AI concentration take courses in machine learning and perception, perceptive AI, and product-focused AI technologies.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,180
Out-of-state
$12,180
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,510
Out-of-state
$12,510
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
4,969
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Cost per Credit: In-State | $949 Out-of-State | $949
Credits to Graduate: 120
Auburn's online bachelor of computer science is a degree-completion program. Students use transfer credits to satisfy non-major academic requirements. Major courses cover 30 credits and emphasize algorithms, data structures, networking, software engineering, and mobile application development.
Classes may use asynchronous or synchronous delivery models. In either case, students can complete all coursework exclusively online. Compact terms cover 7.5 weeks, with five terms per calendar year. Ambitious students can use this structure to accelerate their graduation timelines.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
31,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Methodology Overview
Best College Reviews ranks schools based on over a dozen factors, including academic quality, affordability, and earning potential after graduation. To accurately and objectively evaluate each school's value, we consider factors such as student retention rate, average net price, and median student debt.
Computer science is among the most popular undergraduate majors in the U.S., due to the market's strong demand for experts. Despite intense interest in the field, the market is not oversaturated. The demand will likely intensify as machine learning, big data, and quantum computing expand.
Surprisingly, computer science is an ancient field. Mechanical devices that aid calculations date back to the Babylonians. However, computer science as we now consider it began post-World War II and ramped up in the 1980s.
Today, computer scientists talk about topics such as computer vision, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 2.6 million people work in computer science, earning a median annual wage of $90,000. Jobs in the field cover virtually every industry and include engineering, analysis, management, security, and leadership roles.
Most of these positions call for at least a bachelor's degree, and many also require a graduate degree or professional certifications. Earning your degree online can save you time and money while sharpening your computer science skills.
Each college or university creates its own computer science curriculum based on its research, faculty expertise, and view of the CS landscape. Which courses you take depends on where you attend. However, many schools include classes like:
Computer Architecture: Students explore modern computer systems design and organization. Topics may include system performance, system efficiency, processors, memory, input, and output.
Data Structures and Algorithms I and II: The first course explores data dynamics, analysis, and infrastructure implementation. Topics may include trees, queues, stacks, lists, bags, and hash tables. The second course dives into efficient design techniques using object-oriented design and abstract data types.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence: This course builds on a background in algorithms, statistics, and data structures to introduce fundamental AI and robotics principles and practices. Students analyze relationships and create models to solve AI problems.
Fundamentals of Information Security: Students learn about the terms, principles, and processes of information security. Topics may include recognizing vulnerabilities and techniques for protecting information assets
How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), computer science majors pay an average of $17,545.70 in tuition and fees. That number drops to $11,480 for fully online computer science degrees.
Of course, broad averages may not apply to individual situations, and many factors affect a school's price. How prestigious is its brand? Is it public or private? Do you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition? Do you qualify for discounts through your parents' employer? All of these questions help determine your tuition.
Remember that you may incur other costs during your studies, such as paying for textbooks, internet access, or other educational materials. Once you graduate, you may also have to pay for certifications before securing a job.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?
In December 2023, Payscale reported that the average base salary for a computer science major was $72,000. A broad average only tells us so much, however, because salaries ranged from around $40,000 to more than $160,000.
More education can mean higher wages. For example, computer and information research scientists, who hold a master's degree or doctorate, earn a median salary of $136,620, according to the BLS.
What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Degree in Computer Science?
Computer science majors can enjoy access to several fast-growing, high-paying careers across various industries. Consider the following career choices:
Career: Computer Network Architects
Description: Sometimes called network engineers, these professionals design and manage computer networks. They may research new technology, upgrade hardware, document processes, and troubleshoot network issues.
Description: Database architects design and build the systems that secure and organize data. Administrators manage those systems. Architects and administrators may work in education, healthcare, insurance, or other industries that store large quantities of information.
Description: Information security analysts plan and manage corporate cybersecurity initiatives. They may work in virtually any industry and enjoy one of the highest growth rates of any career.
More Questions About Computer Science Online Degrees
Is it OK to get a computer science degree online?
Getting a computer science degree online is okay if you earn your credentials through an institutionally accredited college or university. During the initial COVID outbreak, almost all students learned online. As of 2021, about 28% of students are learning exclusively online, according to the NCES. The online education boom has bolstered distance learning's standing in the marketplace.
Is accreditation important for online computer science programs?
Accreditation is essential for any postsecondary educational program, regardless of major. At a minimum, your school should hold institutional accreditation from a regional accrediting agency. Programmatic accreditation from ABET is less critical, but it may indicate how invested an institution is in its computer science degrees.
Is it easy to get hired with a computer science degree?
Computer science is a valuable major in the marketplace. In 2022, the BLS projected that computer and information technology occupations would experience 377,500 job openings yearly from 2022 to 2032.
However, getting a hot, technology-related job is not as simple as graduating and nailing the interview. You need to stay ahead of the industry trends, be realistic about what employers are looking for, and recognize that macroeconomic winds influence hiring in every sector, including technology.
Is computer science the hardest degree program?
Computer science is a challenging degree that demands learning complex theory, math, and technological applications. However, other majors like law, nursing, dentistry, biomedical engineering, and aerospace engineering may be equally or more difficult than computer science.
If you choose to major in CS, go into your program well-prepared, study hard, and take advantage of your school's resources to help ensure your academic success.
How fast can I get an online CS degree?
With enough transfer credits, you can earn a computer science degree in as little as one year. Typically, however, you should plan on 3-4 years if you study full-time and up to six years if you work on your degree part time. Schools that offer computer science programs online may also provide accelerated learning options.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Best College Reviews. Page last reviewed January 2, 2024.