14 Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs – 2023

Have you ever seen The Jetsons, that classic TV show about a family living in a futuristic utopia of flying cars and domestic robots? While this vision of the space age may once have seemed like a science fiction fantasy, thanks to today’s technology, that fantastical world isn’t far off. In fact, we’re already living in it! In the 21st century, we find ourselves in an era where technical skills and proficiency aren’t just advantageous but mandatory for many careers. These skills will benefit you in any industry, from business to health care to government. Maybe you’re looking to make a career change, or perhaps you’re in college, considering switching majors. No matter your circumstances, online computer science degree programs can be the catalyst to transforming that future you envision into reality.

In this article, we’ll focus on online computer science (CS) degree programs. These programs are inherently adaptable. Many have rolling admissions and start dates so that you can pursue your academic goals within the confines of your circumstances and commitments. If, however, you’re looking to apply to a more traditional CS program, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of institutions that house high-quality, in-person CS degree programs.

Now, onto the list!

Why Get a Computer Science Degree?

The sphere of computer science is vast and filled with wonders. As mentioned above, a degree in CS is invaluable and can prepare you to enter nearly any field. But what exactly is a computer science degree, and what does the coursework cover? We’re so glad you asked! A computer science degree provides students with a foundation in pivotal areas of computer science, such as data programming, information technology, programming languages, and system analysis.

As you’ll find in our list below, every program is slightly different in its coursework, though most will include classes in the above. Some offer more in-depth specialization in areas like artificial intelligence and robotics, while others aim to give students a broader taste of the industry. Either way, whatever computer science degree program you enter will provide you with the necessary skills to enter the technological workforce. And once you have that CS degree in hand, the sky is the limit! (Or, if you end up working for SpaceX, Mars may be the limit. You never know!)

How Do I Prepare for a Computer Science Degree?

To know if CS is the right degree program for you, there are several steps you can take in advance to prepare. First, you’ll want to brush up on those math skills. Computer Science and math are like peanut butter and jelly—they go together! Next, consider completing some logic puzzles to improve your problem-solving skills. Third, why not start learning how to code? Since this is the backbone of any CS program, you’ll want to get your hands dirty learning about Python, Java, and C++. Attend conferences, workshops, and hackathons to immerse yourself in the tech community. Finally, you might consider attending a computer science summer program, which will allow you to enhance your skills and build relationships with other aspiring techies.

Online vs. In Person

There are many benefits to earning your computer science degree online. An online degree typically offers cheaper tuition costs than a traditional degree. Additionally, an online program allows students to learn where they’re comfortable and balance their schoolwork with other life commitments. If, however, you’re already enrolled in a traditional college, you might check out our handy guide here, which covers everything you need to know about changing your major to computer science.

Be aware that some schools, such as Carnegie Mellon and Northeastern, require applicants to be directly admitted into their CS program. For more information on how to earn a computer science degree and the answers to questions like: what is the difference between a software developer, computer engineer, and computer programmer?, and: What is the job outlook for computer science majors?, we’ve got you covered!

What To Do with Your Computer Science Degree

Take a gander at the U.S. News & World Report’s list of 100 Best Jobs. Notice anything? That’s right: software developer is the number one job, followed by information security analyst in the fifth spot, and IT manager in the eighth. As you see, tech gurus are needed everywhere. What’s more: the earnings potential once you have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science is relatively high. According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for computer and information research scientists comes in at a whopping $155,880. So, you might think of this crucial degree as a high-return financial investment!

How We Chose Our Online Computer Science Degree Schools

At College Transitions, we understand the gravity of selecting your future school. We aim to empower all our students to make educational choices that align with their career goals and personal circumstances. To assist you, we’ve sifted through numerous lists of the best online computer science degrees and curated our own. In drafting this list, we considered several factors, which include:

• Affordability: We looked at tuition rates, scholarships and financial aid availability, and each program’s investment return.
• Format: One of the most tremendous benefits of an online program is its flexibility. In the age of Zoom and A.I., we are forward-thinking regarding digital education.
• Career Prospects: We’re proud to say that every school on this list offers services to enable their students to set off on the right career path. Many provide employment opportunities and internships with technology companies. In putting together this list, we also considered graduate employment rates and average salary upon graduation.
• Course Requirements: We’ve looked closely at the course requirements of each program, from the number of credits required to graduate to the seminars and lectures offered. If a program offers a specialization or concentration, we’ve listed that below.

Ultimately, we’re committed to giving you as much information as possible to help you decide on the best online computer science degree for you. We’ve tried to provide as comprehensive an overview of each as possible, but we encourage you to visit the school’s website to learn more.

The Best Online Computer Science Degrees

1) Franklin University

Location: Columbus, OH

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $9,55
• Out-of-state: $9,552

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $16,080
• Out-of-state: $16,080

Program Details: Offers flexible start dates. Allows you to transfer up to fifty credits from another institution. Offers hands-on assignments, where you collaborate with peers on cutting-edge software development projects.

2) Lewis University

Location: Romeoville, IL

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $34,268
• Out-of-state: $34,268

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $14,580
• Out-of-state: $14,580

Program Details: Has a 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s program that allows you to earn a Master’s degree with one additional year of study. Offers six different areas of specialization: applied programming, secure programming, artificial intelligence, game and simulation programming, mobile app development, and system programming. Offers both traditional and accelerated course plans.

3) City University of Seattle

Location: Seattle, WA

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $13,658
• Out-of-state: $13,658

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $11,812
• Out-of-state: $11,812

Program Details: Requires 180 credits to graduate. It’s possible to earn your degree in less than three years. Quarterly enrollment. Allows you to specialize in several computer science fields, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and information systems.

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4) Oregon State University

Location: Corvallis, OR

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $9,846
• Out-of-state: $29,445

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $13,257
• Out-of-state: $26,109

Program Details: Offers two course options. The first is applied science, where you build your own program of study, and the second is the cybersecurity option. Additional program features include a capstone, which is a three-term, online course sequence involving an engineering design project, and the possibility of an accelerated Master’s program.

5) Maryville University of St. Louis

Location: St. Louis, MO

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $24,766
• Out-of-state: $24,766

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $14,346
• Out-of-state: $14,346

Program Details: Allows you to tailor your education with one of six certificates: artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, data science, software development, or user experience/interface.

6) University of Illinois Springfield

Location: Springfield, IL

Hybrid, Self-Paced, and Online Classes

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $9,592
• Out-of-state: $16,120

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $8,247
• Out-of-state: $14,021

Program Details: Offers an information systems security degree and a computer science degree. The computer science degree familiarizes students with fundamental skills and core theories. Allows 12 hours of coursework to be transferred.

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7) Charleston Southern University

Location: North Charleston, SC

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $27,800
• Out-of-state: $27,800

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $7,800
• Out-of-state: $7,800

Program Details: Every student completes a senior project that provides hands-on experience. Requires 125 hours of coursework to graduate. The recommended timeframe for completing the degree is 17-24 months.

8) Baker College

Location: Owosso, MI

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $9,960
• Out-of-state: $9,960

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $12,510
• Out-of-state: $12,510

Program Details: Requires 120 hours to graduate, which most students complete in four years. Every senior completes a year-long project where they apply their knowledge to a real-world computing problem and receive work experience with a company in their field.

9) Concordia University-Saint Paul

Location: Saint Paul, MN

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $23,400
• Out-of-state: $23,400

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $8,550
• Out-of-state: $8,550

Program Details: Requires 120 credits to graduate. Students take a wide variety of courses, from mathematics to programming languages. Seniors also complete a computer science capstone, where they work in teams to build a medium-sized software.

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10) Saint Leo University

Location: Saint Leo, FL

Average Undergrad Tuition:

•  In-State: $23,990
•  Out-of-state: $23,990

Average Grad Tuition:

•   In-State: $870 per credit
•   Out-of-State: $870 per credit

Program Details: The CARDS program at Saint Leo University offers computer science, robotics and artificial intelligence, and data science degrees. Through the online computer science degree course, students can receive a specialization in information assurance. Saint Leo University offers rolling admissions.

11) Southern New Hampshire University

Location: Manchester, NH

Average Undergrad Tuition:

• In-State: $9,600
• Out-of-state: $9,600

Average Grad Tuition:

• In-State: $18,810
• Out-of-state: $18,810

Program Details: Requires 120 total credits to graduate and accepts up to 90 credits in transfer. Offers four concentrations: data analysis, project management for STEM, information security, and software engineering. The coursework is entirely flexible and tailored to your schedule.

12) Colorado State University-Global Campus

Location: Aurora, CO

Average Undergrad Tuition:

•  In-State: $8,400
•  Out-of-state: $8,400

Average Grad Tuition:

•  In-State: $9,000
•  Out-of-state: $9,000

Program Details: Requires the completion of 120 total credits to graduate. Offers a flexible schedule that is entirely online. Provides an additional certification in Java SE 8 Programming.

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13) Auburn University

Location: Auburn, AL

Average Undergrad Tuition:

•  In-State: $10,080
•  Out-of-state: $30,240

Average Grad Tuition:

•  In-State: $10,080
•  Out-of-state: $30,240

Program Details: Requires 120 total hours to graduate. The program can be completed as either a second bachelor’s degree, requiring only 60 hours of computer science content, or as a first bachelor’s degree, by meeting the other general education requirements.

14) Western Governors University

Location: Salt Lake City, UT

Average Undergrad Tuition:

•  In-State: $6,380
•  Out-of-state: $6,380

Average Grad Tuition:

•  In-State: $7,500
•  Out-of-state: $7,500

Program Details: Most students finish the degree at WGU within 27 months. The program is rolling, with start dates on the first of every month. Offers additional industry certifications in Linux and AXELOS ITIL. The cost of these certifications is included in tuition.

Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs – Additional Resources

For additional resources, we recommend checking out the following relevant College Transitions articles:

• 13 Best Coding Jobs
• Changing Your Major to Computer Science
• Computer Science Programs for B Students
• Best Python Bootcamps
• 6 Easiest Programming Languages to Learn