[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Embark on one of today’s most in-demand careers with a computer science degree. As a computer science (CS) expert, you could be a data scientist, computer engineer, or computer science researcher. You might work in healthcare, manufacturing, software development, national security, or nearly any other industry.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Whether you’re considering a career change or just now graduating high school, this degree could be your pathway to an engaging and lucrative future.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learn more about the best online computer science degrees in our guide below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]10 Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees Online[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”primary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability, so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For this page, we’ve ranked colleges by their online enrollment numbers. This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What You Can Expect from an Online Computer Science Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online computer science bachelor’s degree programs typically require 120 credits and four years of full-time study to complete. As an online CS student, you’ll dive deep into the algorithms, software, networks, security systems, and cloud data centers that make up modern computer systems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You’ll also engage with computer science theory, debate the ethics of technology, and explore the complexities of calculus and discrete mathematics. In some programs, you can choose a concentration, such as cybersecurity, data science, or artificial intelligence. Typically, you will conclude your degree with a capstone project demonstrating your engineering design and program management skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Differences Between an Online and Campus-Based CS Degree Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your online [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]CS degree requires the same courses[/hen-ui-link] as the on-campus program, but [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]how you study[/hen-ui-link] can be quite different. As an online student, you will use a virtual learning platform to respond to discussion posts, submit assignments, and interact with your professor and classmates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some students find that programming courses align nicely with online learning platforms, but studying CS theory or discrete mathematics online can be tricky. You get to decide which approach is best for you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online Computer Science Program: 4 Key Factors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science is a diverse field — different programs give you different career options. Before choosing an online computer science degree, think about these five steps.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1. Outline Your Program and Career Goals[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before narrowing down your program options, consider what you want to get from your computer science degree. You may have a specific career or salary level in mind or a particular timeline to earn your degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Alternatively, you may want a program that gives you the freedom to explore different areas of study before fully committing yourself to a specialization.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2. Determine Your Budget[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re like most students, the cost of tuition is a primary concern when choosing an online computer science bachelor’s degree. Outside of tuition, online programs can often create a different set of budget considerations. You may be able to save on some expenses, such as parking and transportation, while spending more on others, such as [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]online student fees[/hen-ui-link] and specific technology or software.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3. Compare Online Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Even if they cover similar course topics, online computer science degrees can vary widely in terms of program format, length, and graduate outcomes. Consider which factors are most important to you when you start looking at programs. Careful research and comparison can help you choose the best online computer science degree that meets your needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4. Confirm Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]Institutional accreditation[/hen-ui-link] helps ensure that you can receive [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]federal financial aid[/hen-ui-link] to pay for college. It also legitimizes your degree in the marketplace, making it easier to transfer credits, pursue a graduate degree, or land a job after graduation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although not required, accreditation from [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/” target=”_blank”]ABET[/hen-ui-link], the programmatic accreditor for technology and engineering programs, demonstrates a school’s commitment to the department and the discipline. ABET accredits only bachelor’s programs and does not apply to graduate degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer science degree is one of the most marketable credentials in today’s digital landscape. With a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science degree[/hen-ui-link], you can work as a software engineer, data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, or IT project manager, among many other high-demand careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Even with no experience, you can compete for entry-level or support roles in cybersecurity, technical support, or computer programming. A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/non-cs-majors/”]master’s degree[/hen-ui-link] can set you up for leadership positions or advanced technical careers in CS.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Science Salary and Career Outlook[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer science bachelor’s degree prepares you to pursue a high-paying career with strong job growth potential. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm” target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (BLS) reports that the annual median salary in the computer and IT field was $105,990 as of May 2024, which means many jobs have six-figure salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BLS projects that all the following information technology jobs will grow much faster than average between 2023-2033.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Computer Science Careers and Job Outlook[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Wage (May 2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Outlook (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer and Information Systems Managers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]$171,200[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]17%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]$131,450[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]17%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Network Architects[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm” target=”_blank”]$130,390[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]13%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Information Security Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]$124,910[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]33%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Database Administrators and Architects[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm” target=”_blank”]$123,100[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]9%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Systems Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]$103,790[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Web Developers and Digital Designers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]$95,380[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Support Specialists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”8 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm#tab-1″ target=”_blank”]$61,550[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Wage (May 2024)”]6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The average annual cost of an online computer science degree is $11,480, but remember that your experience will vary. Some colleges offer in-state tuition rates to out-of-state online students. Others provide CS scholarships, partner with local employers, or offer generous transfer policies to help you save money.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Below, we compare the average cost of an online CS degree to a traditional, campus-based CS degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Average Annual Cost of an Online CS Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-xl md:text-2xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]Online CS Degree[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-3xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]$11,480[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-xl md:text-2xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]Traditional, Campus-Based CS Degree[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-3xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]$19,746[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Science Programs: Bachelor’s Degree vs. Certificate vs. Bootcamp[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Choosing the right path to start your career in computer science depends on your goals, time commitment, and budget. The table below can help you decide which option best suits your needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-tertiary”]Bachelor’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Takes four years to complete[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Costs can total over $80,000[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Includes general education coursework[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Comes with a higher salary potential[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Qualifies graduates to [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/”]apply for a master’s degree[/hen-ui-link] or doctorate in computer science[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]May offer job search support[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Usually offered by an accredited school[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Qualifies graduates for many CS jobs that require a four-year degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-tertiary”]Certificate Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Takes 4-18 months to complete[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Can cost over $6,000 annually[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Offers only specialized courses[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Results in limited employment opportunities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Is not the same as a certification[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Often requires 9-36 credits[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Usually offered by an accredited school[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-tertiary”]Coding Bootcamp[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Takes six months or less to complete[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Costs an average of $13,579[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Does not qualify for federal financial aid[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provides career-oriented training[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]May offer an income share agreement or other deferred tuition options[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Often includes a professional portfolio and job search support[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Is usually unaccredited[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online Computer Science Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is computer science a good major​?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best major will help you get a job doing work you enjoy, and indeed, computer science can lead to an engaging, rewarding, and lucrative career. However, it’s not an easy major to pursue.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re considering a computer science degree, set yourself up for success by practicing coding skills, learning new computer languages, and brushing up on your calculus and electrical engineering knowledge.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you get a computer science degree online?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can get a computer science degree entirely online. You will take the same 120 credits that you would take on campus, including general education and major subject courses. Your degree will be from the same institution as if you had studied on campus, and your diploma will likely not specify that your degree was earned online.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Whether earned online or in person, a computer science degree from an accredited school holds value in the marketplace. As online education becomes more common, it also grows more accepted. As early as 2019, [hen-ui-link href=”https://bachelors-completion.northeastern.edu/news/are-online-degrees-respected/” target=”_blank”]Northeastern University[/hen-ui-link] found that 71% of organizations had hired at least one employee with an online degree.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is computer science hard?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer science degree builds high-level knowledge of information technology theories and practices, and coursework is typically challenging. A natural inclination for technology and math will serve you well if you plan to pursue this field of study. You can also take advantage of academic tutoring and other support services at most colleges.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can a graphic design degree complement computer science​?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A graphic design degree could complement computer science by allowing you to apply design principles to full-stack development and project engineering.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An entire subfield of software engineering called front-end development employs graphic design. Designers might also create motion graphics, make computer programs more accessible, or collaborate with engineers to make technology products visually appealing.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you love making computers accessible, you might also consider a field called human-computer interaction, which focuses on making software efficient and enjoyable.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What are the highest-paying jobs you can get with a computer science degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BLS reports that the median annual wage for all computer and information technology occupations was $105,990 in 2024. Two of the highest-paying CS jobs you can get with a bachelor’s degree are software developer and information security analyst, with median salaries of $133,080 and $124,910, respectively.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other high-paying computer science fields include cybersecurity, data science, IT management, and network architecture. These jobs are in high demand and can pay well into six figures, particularly in states like Utah, Washington, Virginia, and New York.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,905,21979″][/hen-ui-article-row]