We’ve done the research and created comprehensive guides to online schools for computer science. Continue below and dive into the details on computer science degree programs, tuition and fees, related career outlooks, employable skills and much more.
Apr 21, 2020 | By Justin Boyle
Earning a computer science degree has long been one of the strongest foundations for a career in tech. Data produced by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2019 findings show that careers available to graduates of computer science schools can feature yearly salaries, which is up to twice as high as the national average of $ $53,490 calculated for all occupations nationwide.
Computer science students may plan to move onward to a graduate degree after finishing their bachelor's, as employment demand and salary compensation tend to increase alongside the complexity or sensitivity of the work you're capable of doing. Candidates who've earned a master's or Ph.D. are typically best prepared for such advanced positions.
Students hoping for a quicker route to the workforce may also want to consider a degree in information technology, a similar but distinct field. IT degree programs focus on the application of technology in business and private settings, which allows graduates to qualify for a range of specific positions after just two or four years of education.
Scroll on to learn more about computer science careers, find out what to expect from your computer science major and view the featured computer science colleges we compiled using data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and other sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Different institutions offer different levels of opportunity for distance education, but students looking for the best fully online computer science degrees should be able to access them from anywhere in the country. Hybrid programs, splitting time between the traditional and virtual classrooms, are available as well.
Here are a few questions to ask when looking for the best online computer science degrees. Does the program have substantial enrollment? Do the same faculty members teach both online and classroom-based courses? Are online advising and tutoring services available?
Accreditation is another feature to look for when choosing a program. The best computer science colleges all earn regional accreditation for the entire institution, as well as program-specific accreditation awarded by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
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Computer Science Degree Program Overview
What is covered in computer science colleges, exactly? Each online college takes its own specific approach, but most study plans can be sorted into two general categories:
Theoretical computer science programs tend to contain more material about the theory behind important concepts like programming languages, networking, algorithms and database models.
Applied computer science students typically focus on the real-world technical aspects of existing systems and technology, often with the goal of putting their knowledge to use on the business market.
The exact list of courses you'll take can vary from computer science school to school and from one degree level to another.
Earning an Online Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
How long does an online bachelor's degree program in computer science take?
In most cases, it takes about four years of full-time study to earn an online bachelor's in computer science. However, there are certain accelerated programs that can be completed in two or three years. Typically, you'll need about 120 course credits to complete your online bachelor's degree program in computer science.
What are the requirements to start a bachelor's degree program in computer science?
Although admission requirements vary from school to school, most programs require that you hold a high school diploma or GED. You can also transfer from another accredited educational institution as long as you are in good standing and have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Why earn a bachelor's in computer science?
As with campus-based programs, if you pursue a bachelor's degree program in computer science online you can select a specialization that aligns with your unique strengths, interests and career goals. This degree level is for you if you want to enter the computer science field quickly. It can also be a way to prepare for a higher-level degree program.
Degree Timeline
Take general education courses:
Most online bachelor's in computer science degree programs begin with general education courses such as English, algebra and psychology.
Choose a specialization and take relevant courses:
Once you have learned more about the field you can select a specialization like algorithms, languages and computability, software systems, networking, computer systems and architecture, artificial intelligence and cognitive modeling that aligns your career path with your interests.
Participate in an internship:
An internship may be required before graduation so that you can gain meaningful work experience before you begin applying for jobs. Check with your intended school to find out how they support computer science internships.
1.Common Courses
Operating systems
Compilers, compiler design
Real-time computing
Distributed systems
Computer networking
Data communication
Computer graphics
2. Common Careers:
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Network Architect
Web Developer
Software Developer
Database Administrator
Computer Hardware Engineer
Financial Aid for Computer Science
It's not easy to manage the cost of a college education, but financial aid programs are here to help. Read more about computer science financial aid below, and get some additional info in our guide to scholarships.
Applicant must be attending a UNISEX conference and currently performing research relating to the conference topic. Application with supporting statement is required.
Applicant must be actively pursuing an undergraduate degree, graduate degree, or credential/licensure for the purpose of teaching STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math) subjects at a United States middle or secondary school. Applicant must be attending an accredited U.S. college or university. Graduate-level candidates must be currently enrolled in at least two semester equivalent classes; credential/licensure students must have completed a bachelor's degree in a STEM major.
Applicant must be a United States citizen enrolled in an accredited four-year institution in the United States who is active in a ROTC program and nominated by professors of military science, naval science, or aerospace studies. Applicant must be able to demonstrate academic excellence, good moral character, potential to serve as an officer in the U.S. Armed Forces, and financial need.
Applicant must be a member of an American Indian tribe and must have successfully completed a high school summer transition program offered by CERT or a tribal internship program. Applicant must be a full-time undergraduate (12 hours/semester) or graduate (9 hours/semester) student enrolled at an accredited two or four year tribal, private, or public university or college.
PG&E believes in helping students interested in being a part of California?s clean energy future, giving them opportunities to learn and succeed in higher education. PG&E is awarding scholarships to help further STEM studies of students in California. Twenty scholarships of $10,000 each and 20 scholarships of $2,500 each are available to high school seniors, current college students, veterans and adults returning to school who are PG&E customers at the time of application and are pursuing a degree in one of the following STEM disciplines: Engineering (electrical, mechanical, industrial, environmental, power and/or energy), Computer Science/Information Systems, Cyber Security or Environmental Sciences. Applicants must plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study for the entire 2020-2021 academic year and be pursuing their first undergraduate degree at an accredited 4-year school in California. Scholarships will be awarded based on academic achievement, demonstrated participation and leadership in school and community activities and financial need.
Applicant must be a U.S. citizen who is a full-time student with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Selection is based upon essay, letters of recommendation, resume, standardized test scores, and transcript.
Applicant must be a full-time student in an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting program in a field directly related to the support of United States intelligence or homeland security enterprises, and/or foreign languages. Applicant must be currently enrolled at a two- or four-year accredited college or university in the United States.
Applicant must have a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA. Preference is given in the following order to applicants majoring in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, accounting, and computer science.
Applicants must be women currently enrolled in an accredited institution working towards a degree in computer science or related field. Students must join the Windows Insider Program and be able to attend two required conferences. Applicants must submit a video and a written statement pertaining to their vision for the future.
Applicant must be a woman with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicant must be in an ABET-accredited engineering program, engineering at SWE-approved institution, or computer science in a CSAB-accredited program or at an ABET-accredited or SWE-approved institution.
Applicants must be enrolled in a degree-granting program in business, computer science, engineering, mathematics or the natural sciences. Selection is based on the overall strength of the application.
Applicant must be a Wyoming high school graduate, enrolled at a Wyoming university, community college, or approved trade school, planning to pursue a course of study leading to a career in the highway transportation industry.
Applicant must be a high school senior in a Unitil service territory in Maine, New Hampshire, or Massachusetts who plans to major in science, technology, engineering, or math. Selection based upon academic merit, financial need, other scholarships awarded, outside student activities and other relevant factors such as the number of hours worked outside of class during the school year.
Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, a woman, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicant must be in an ABET-accredited engineering program, engineering at SWE-approved institution, or computer science in a CSAB-accredited program or at an ABET-accredited or SWE-approved institution.
Applicants must be undergraduate freshmen, sophomores or juniors. They must be enrolled in an accredited degree program in computer science, chemical engineering, manufacturing engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering or industrial engineering. They must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a four-point scale. Selection is based on the overall strength of the application.
Applicant must be a United States citizen enrolled at an accredited four-year institution who is enrolled in a degree-granting, graduate-level STEM major (science, technology, engineering, and math) program.
Computer science students typically spend the first two years or so of their bachelor's programs learning about the range of subjects within the discipline. This is a good opportunity to consider how you want to focus your studies going forward. Here's a list of a few of the specialties that may be available at computer science colleges:
Computer systems
Software engineering
Data science
Robotics
Networking
Cybersecurity
Game development
Machine learning and artificial intelligence
Here's some extra detail about a few topics that most computer science degree programs include in their curriculum:
Data structures. The different ways in which data can be organized constitute an important foundational principle in computer science. Courses in data structures are often placed in the first year of computer science degree plans.
Programming. Computer scientists need to know the ins and outs of programming as a concept, as well as have a working grasp of common programming languages. Programming is often split into introductory, intermediate and advanced levels, and thus is taught at multiple points along the degree timeline.
Advanced mathematics. Calculus is the most common branch of advanced math for undergraduate computer science students, but others may be included as well. Math is part of the foundation of the discipline, so you can expect to take these courses early on in your studies.
Security. Computer security has several layers of implementation, from securing individual software applications to providing secure networks and databases for hundreds of users. Students who specialize in cybersecurity are likely to begin taking security courses in the second year of their bachelor's programs, while generalists may begin later.
Career Outlook for Computer Science Graduates
Computer science students may find themselves facing with a dazzling array of job titles and specific positional requirements once they head out into the workforce, but it remains true that an education from the best computer science schools can prepare you for a range of in-demand jobs near the higher end of the salary spectrum.
In the paragraphs below, we'll drill down into the specifics of a few careers that computer science graduates can qualify for and provide some detailed information on how to position yourself well for each one.
What does a data scientist do?
Data scientists combine their computer science expertise with a deep knowledge of statistics and data modeling to help solve complex problems. If you can't decide between a career in computer science or one in mathematics, this might be the job for you.
Here's a short list of skills and responsibilities commonly expected of data scientists:
Having proficiency with statistical software and programming languages
Using research skills to gather and select appropriate data
Conducting data analysis using advanced mathematics
Communicating the results of analysis to management and other stakeholders
How to become a data scientist
It's possible to get certain entry-level data science positions with a generalized bachelor's degree in computer science, but employers may prefer candidates with a minor in statistics or a dual-degree plan in computer science and statistics or mathematics. Full bachelor's degree plans in data science may be available at some institutions.
A range of professional certifications can help demonstrate your abilities to potential employers, as well. Here's a list of just a few of the certification options currently on the market:
Microsoft Certified Azure Data Scientist Associate
Dell EMC Data Science Associate
SAS Certified Associate
SAS Certified Specialist
SAS Certified Professional
IBM SPSS Statistics Level 1 v2 Certified Specialist
Some advanced positions may require a master's degree or higher. Dedicated data science study plans are fairly common at the graduate level, which can be helpful if you're thinking about changing your career after working in another computing field.
What does a software tester do?
As the name implies, software testers conduct various tests to assess the usability of software apps and systems. Once each round of tests is complete, software testers use analytical software to process the results and prepare reports on their findings. Here are a few on-the-job duties that software testers typically perform:
Designing test plans for the specific piece of software being tested
Identifying and documenting issues that arise during testing
Assessing database impact, general usability and edge-case scenarios
Performing basic debugging procedures
Providing feedback and recommendations to developers
How to become a software tester
Many employers of software testers prefer applicants with a four-year degree in computer science — around 70 percent of working software testers hold a bachelor's degree, according to the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) — but post-baccalaureate certificates that specifically teach software testing skills may help you stand apart from the pack.
Certification paths can help aspiring software testers prove to potential employers that they have the full suite of skills necessary to test software accurately and effectively. Here are a few of the credentials available:
Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST)
Certified Software Tester (CSTE)
Certified Manager of Software Testing (CMST)
ASTQB Foundation Level Certification (CTFL)
ASTQB Advanced Technical Test Analyst
ASTQB Mobile Testing
Communicating with team members and stakeholders is a big part of effective software testing, so augmenting your computer science degree with courses in communications and professional writing can be a good idea.
What does a web developer do?
Web developers use their computer science knowhow to build and maintain applications and sites on the web. Some web developer positions may also include a visual design element, particularly if you're working on a team without a dedicated web designer.
Here are a few of the day-to-day responsibilities that web developers are expected to handle:
Writing code for websites or web applications
Ensuring that sites site and apps are compatible with a range of computing platforms
Coordinating with clients and managers to determine goals and functions
Documenting technical elements of sites and apps for users and other team members
How to become a web developer
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists a two-year associate degree as the minimum educational requirement for web developers, but some employers may require that candidates hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or higher, depending on the complexity of the work they have to offer. Undergraduate and non-credit certificates in web development are available as well, for those looking to transition their skills after earning a different degree.
Professional certifications in web development can also enhance your job prospects. Here's a list of a few top credentials:
Google Ads certification
Google Analytics Individual Qualification
CIW Web Development Professional
A portfolio of completed web development work is often requested by potential employers or clients, so it's important to keep an archive of sites and apps you've worked on. Most web development degree programs offer ample opportunity to build your portfolio in specific ways, depending on the courses you take.
Computer Science Certifications
SAS Certified Associate
If you're hoping to become a big data expert and get a job in analytics or data science, this credential is a strong first step toward mastery.
Requirements: Candidates must have knowledge of basic SAS programming concepts and pay an exam fee of $180.
Exam Format: 60-65 short answer and multiple-choice questions; 120-minute time limit.
How long does the certification last?: Certifications from SAS don't expire, but some exams may be retired as the associated technology advances.
American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) Foundation Level Certification
This credential ensures that you share a common testing vocabulary with other members of a prospective software testing team and opens the door to more advanced certifications in the future.
Requirements: No prior professional experience testing software is required to sit for the exam, but some form of study in the field is recommended.
Exam Format: 40 multiple-choice questions with a one-hour time limit.
How long does the certification last?: ASTQB Foundation Level certifications are valid for life.
CIW Web Development Professional
This certification helps you combine front-end scripting languages with back-end programming languages to produce high-quality sites and applications on the web.
Requirements: Consists of three exams: CIW JavaScript Specialist, CIW Perl Specialist and CIW Database Design Specialist.
Exam Format: 50-55 questions, with time limits of 75-90 minutes depending on the exam
How long does the certification last?: There is no official expiration date, but tests are updated periodically and holders are encouraged to recertify when updates are released.
Professional Organizations
Becoming a member of a professional organization in your field can expose you to opportunities for professional growth and resources that can help you stay on the cutting edge of computing technology. Here are a few organizations you should consider:
This large organization features a network of close to 100,000 student and professional members and offers a Career and Job Center for members, among other benefits.
Student membership in this organization comes with access to a robust digital library, a members-only job board and discounts on conference and event attendance.
Members of AAAI get subscriptions to AI Magazine and the Artificial Intelligence Journal to help them stay ahead of the curve in their field.
This organization's Career Manager tool helps you plan, document and reach your professional goals, and exclusive personal and professional support is available to members.
Related Rankings
Computer science isn't the only degree out there for students hoping to make their mark in the computer technology field. Check out our pages in these other disciplines:
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