[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is A Computer Programming Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students interested in creating applications and software with code can pursue computer programming degrees. These programs explore topics like security, architecture, and coding languages.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals with soft skills, including problem-solving, perseverance, and attention to detail, can excel in this technical role. Coders need to think creatively to solve issues with functionality. Computer programming degrees teach hard skills, including the math, logical reasoning, and programming skills necessary to work with computers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals pursuing computer programming degrees include prospective software developers, software testers, and database developers. Enrollees build a foundation in programming to apply across industries and roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Programming Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”em”]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online Bachelor’s in Computer Programming Programs Ranking Guidelines[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”] Rankings Methodology[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is An Online Bachelor’s In Computer Programming Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programming majors study coding languages like C++, Java, and Python to produce software applications and operating systems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Programmers turn software designs into instructions that a computer can read and follow. These professionals also test programs, fix errors, and debug systems. While online computer programming degrees prepare graduates to work in many industries, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that most programmers work in computer systems design and related fields.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm#tab-5/” target=”_blank”]According to the BLS[/hen-ui-link], computer programmers earned a median annual wage of $97,800. While the BLS projects [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm” target=”_blank”]a -7% decline in jobs[/hen-ui-link] for computer programmers from 2022-2032, the skills learned in a computer programming bachelor’s degree can apply to several other jobs in IT. The BLS projects a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm” target=”_blank”]13.4% growth rate[/hen-ui-link] for all computer-related occupations in the same period.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professionals with bachelor’s degrees or higher and individuals fluent in several programming languages can anticipate excellent job prospects. Candidates may strengthen their resumes by combining their computer programming degrees with supplemental business or science courses.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some students round out their online computer programming degree by pursuing concentrations or technical elective courses in data structures, artificial intelligence, and computer graphics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns=”1″ columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Choose Your Major” href=”/resources/how-to-choose-your-major/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”What to Look for in an Online College” href=”/resources/what-to-look-for-online-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in Computer Programming?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The average online college computer programming degree includes about 120 credits. Full-time students typically graduate in four years, while part-time learners tend to spend an additional 2-3 years on their studies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, many variables can affect a program’s duration, including course load, program format, and transfer credits. While some online programs offer accelerated or self-paced schedules, others use a cohort learning model. Cohorts complete courses with the same peer group throughout the entire degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This lock-step approach fosters student-faculty collaboration and peer interaction but typically takes longer to complete. In contrast, competency-based programs allow learners to move through courses as quickly as they can master a skill or topic.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Transfer credit can also shorten program length. Most schools accept 30-90 credits of prior coursework. Some two-year degree-completion programs admit students who already hold associate degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Programming Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Introduction To Computer Security:[/hen-ui-text] This course covers the principles of computer security. Enrollees learn to think like malicious actors and defend against attacks.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Game Production:[/hen-ui-text] Learners explore the fundamentals of developing video games through topics like software architecture, mathematical concepts, and in-game logic. Coursework may offer in-class opportunities to develop games.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Mobile Applications Development:[/hen-ui-text] Instructors in this course provide an outline of the design, development, and debugging process for creating mobile applications. Graduates can potentially create programs with simple functionality.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Introduction to Data Mining:[/hen-ui-text] This class introduces the fundamentals, implementation methods, and uses of collecting big data. Enrollees can learn about pattern discovery and cluster analysis. Professors may provide real-world data sets for students to data mine.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Introduction to Machine Learning:[/hen-ui-text] Prospective students in this course should understand calculus, statistics, and probability. The introductory course covers the basics, theories, and algorithms of artificial intelligence.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Programming Degree Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many programs offer computer programming as a concentration within computer science and [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-information-technology/”]information technology degrees[/hen-ui-link]. A standalone BS in computer programming may offer specializations in areas like game or mobile app development.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-secondary”]Computer Security[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This increasingly in-demand subfield of information technology and computer science explores data mining, cryptography, computer forensics, and secure software systems. Candidates learn to protect data, computer networks, and databases from unauthorized access or criminal threats.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers This Concentration Prepares For: [/hen-ui-text]Information Security Analyst, Forensic Computer Analyst, and Security Architect[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-secondary”]Game Development[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online computer programming degree with a game development specialization explores the algorithms, processes, and technologies involved in video game creation. Along with game design and development and computer graphics courses, students take highly specialized classes like human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, and modeling and simulation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers This Concentration Prepares For: [/hen-ui-text]Game Programmer, Game Designer[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-secondary”]Mobile Application Development[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This concentration develops the skills to create software and mobile apps for iOS and Android operating systems. Candidates explore programming languages like Swift, Java, Python, and PHP. Common course topics include mobile backend service, web/mobile user experience, and mobile interface implementation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers This Concentration Prepares For: [/hen-ui-text]Computer Programmer, Mobile Developer, and Mobile Game Developer[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-secondary”]Data Mining[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students pursuing a computer programming degree online can broaden their computer science expertise with a concentration in data mining. This track teaches candidates to work with big data and large databases. Along with courses on data structures and discrete structures, students explore assembly language programming, probability, and statistics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers This Concentration Prepares For: [/hen-ui-text]Data Mining Specialist, Database Programmer[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-secondary”]Machine Learning[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer experts use machine learning techniques and applications in many fields, including bioinformatics, finance, and information retrieval. Typical subjects include data mining, computational learning theory, computer vision, robotics, and natural language processing.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers This Concentration Prepares For: [/hen-ui-text]Computer Programmer, Data Mining Specialist, and Machine Learning Engineer[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Programming Careers and Outlook[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programming degrees cover the basics of computer science, programming languages, and architecture. Individuals with these skills can pursue roles as [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm/” target=”_blank”]computer programmers[/hen-ui-link], software quality assurance engineers, and software testers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Recent graduates may find internships rewarding since they provide hands-on experience with programming. However, programmers do not need to complete internships to apply for many entry-level roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following list includes potential career choices and related salaries for computer programming degree holders.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Computer Programming Careers and Outlook[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Programming Career[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Wage [/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Programming Career”]Computer Programmer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm” target=”_blank”]$97,800[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Programming Career”]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm” target=”_blank”]$136,620[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Programming Career”]Computer Systems Analyst[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]$102,240[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Programming Career”]Database Administrators and Architects[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm” target=”_blank”]$112,120[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Programming Career”]Software Developer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]$124,200[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programmers have adaptable skills for different roles, but they may still have questions regarding the field and job outlook.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Degrees in Computer Programming[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is computer programming?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programming is the field of designing and writing code for software and applications. Programmers test their code, identify bugs, and fix potential issues. These professionals can work on mobile apps, video games, websites, and more.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is computer programming a good career choice?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BLS projects computer programmer employment to decline from 2022-2032, but individuals with computer programming skills can pursue roles other than computer programming. The projected computer-related career growth rate in this period is 13.4% — tripling projections for all occupations.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is getting a computer programming degree worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each individual must determine if a computer programming degree is worth the investment of time and money. People interested in programming, hands-on work, and logical reasoning may find computer programming degrees worth it. Graduates can pursue many careers across industries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a computer programming degree difficult?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programming degrees are not more difficult than similar tech programs. Attendees learn about computer security, application development, machine learning, and more. Enrollees may also be asked to complete capstone projects at the end of their programs, which can be difficult. Are computer programming jobs in demand?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer programmers have an essential role in the software development field. Although programmers are essential workers, experts expect automation to replace some programmers in the future. Programmers can learn additional skills to increase their marketability and standing in the workforce.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]