Best Online Computer Science Degrees of 2023

Computer Science Degree Programs

An online computer science degree prepares people for a lucrative, in-demand career, like computer or information systems manager. Other computer science degree-holders become computer hardware engineers or computer network architects. Bachelor's-level classes may include software security, full stack development, and programming languages.

Prospective degree-seekers need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Other admission requirements include recommendation letters, test scores, and a resume. The following sections answer frequently asked questions, discuss a degree's many benefits, and describe typical courses. The final section details how to become a computer and information research scientist.

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Why Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

A computer science degree brings more benefits than just qualifying for a well-paying career. All industries need computer science experts to create programs, protect databases, and train employees on the latest technology. These and other responsibilities affect companies and organizations' success significantly. The field also features geographic flexibility, as employers nationwide hire computer science graduates.

Online computer science degrees help people who could not otherwise attend college. Many programs use an asynchronous curriculum. This feature lets degree-seekers schedule their education around work. Students view recorded lectures when convenient. Distance learning's other advantages include enrolling in a top out-of-state program without relocating.

How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?

As of Aug. 2021, college students paid $51,090 on average for an online bachelor's degree. However, an online computer science degree's attendance costs depend on many factors. Public schools charge residents the most affordable tuition rate. Degree-seekers at private schools may pay significantly more for a computer science degree. Institutional and private scholarships help learners avoid student debt.

A computer science degree online may require an internship or practicum. Degree-seekers in one of these programs should budget for commuting. Other costs may include buying computer science software suites.

Additional Online Student Fees

Students earning a computer science degree online need a computer meeting their school's technology requirements. These requirements may exceed those for learners majoring in a nontechnical subject. Like other online degree-seekers, computer science majors pay for textbooks and supplies. Students should also budget for a one-time graduation fee in their final year.

Professionals with an online computer science degree can earn certifications to advance their career. Certifications show mastery of one or more skills, such as a programming language. Organizations offering them often charge an examination fee. Professionals may also need to pay a fee to maintain their certification status.

How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?

Many factors impact salary, such as education, experience, certifications, and employer. Computer and information research scientists at software publishers earn nearly twice as much as their peers in academia. Many research scientist positions require a master's in computer science, making a graduate education a professional investment.

Computer and information research scientists in California, Virginia, and Washington earn up to $146,180. Workers in New York and Oregon also make much more than the national median salary. However, professionals in these states may face a higher-than-average cost of living.

Courses in Computer Science

Online computer science degrees require general education, major, and elective classes. Some programs' flexibility lets students minor or double major. Typical major courses include introductory programming and advanced programming languages. Students also learn software engineering principles and techniques. Degree-seekers build transferable skills in general education classes, including communication, analysis, and research.

The section below introduces three major courses commonly found in computer science curricula. Not all computer science online programs offer or require them, however. School websites cover graduation requirements and course topics. Some schools also provide sample syllabi. College admissions counselors can also provide this information.

• Introductory Programming

  The first-year class focuses on Java or another programming language. Students learn to write and test simple programs, debug problems, and document progress. These exercises help degree-seekers master development tools. New learners with programming experience may test out of this course through an examination or a portfolio.

• Advanced Programming Languages

  Students take advanced programming languages to master in-demand skills. The course may let learners pick a language matching their career goals. The class covers software security, programs' syntaxes, semantics, and run-time support. Degree-seekers demonstrate mastery by completing projects. Typical prerequisites include data structures and analysis or a similar course.

• Software Engineering Principles and Techniques

  Not all computer science graduates become software engineers. However, all professionals in the larger field must understand software development fundamentals, such as design, testing, and troubleshooting. Students analyze software-development processes to identify problems. Other topics include configuration management, security, and organization. Some schools let degree-seekers substitute a similar class for software engineering principles and techniques.

How to Become a Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and information research scientists find new uses for technology. Their work impacts the business, medical, and scientific fields. People specializing in programming improve and simplify programming languages. Daily responsibilities include working with other scientists and conducting experiments. They also publish research papers. Most of these scientists work for the federal government, research and development agencies, or computer systems design companies.

Computer and information research scientists need a master's degree in computer science. A master's degree takes 2-3 years to finish. Some employers prefer applicants with a Ph.D. or significant professional experience. Other in-demand traits include advanced analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Best Online Schools for Computer Science Degrees

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees

Can you get a computer science degree online?

Yes. Many top schools offer computer science online programs. Some institutions use a hybrid program, where degree-seekers visit campus for seminars or other educational experiences.

Can you get a computer science degree in two years?

Yes. Associate degree-holders may finish a computer science degree in only two years. Learners without an associate in computer science take longer than their peers.

What is the highest paying computer science job?

Computer information and research scientists, computer hardware engineers, and computer network architects earn a median $116,780-$126,830 annual salary. Salary varies by degree and geographic location.