Online Computer Science Degree Programs and Industry Salary 2023/2024

An online computer science degree, commonly called a CS degree, is proof that you’ve completed a computer science program. Computer Science is the study of computers and computational systems. Unlike electrical and computer engineers, computer scientists deal mostly with software and software systems; this includes their theory, design, development, and application.

In a nutshell, computer science degrees deal with the theoretical foundations of information and computation, taking a scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications.

Online Computer Science Degree

Online Computer Science Degree Programs

Computer science degrees are available at all levels of college studies. After starting with an undergraduate degree, you can build on your foundational studies by pursuing graduate degrees.

Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

You can now earn an online bachelor in computer science from a number of accredited schools. This degree program typically takes about four years, but traditional or online accelerated computer science degree programs are available as well.

Computer science is a promising field of study. On average, recent graduates with this degree earn more than those who study business, logistics or engineering. In fact, computer science is considered one of the top-paying bachelor’s degrees.

In a computer science undergraduate program, you can study computing theory, operating systems, data structures, robotics, computer architecture, and programming languages. You can practice software engineering, coding, working with algorithms and system optimization. In addition, you’ll need to take a strong foundation of math and science courses.

Some schools offer concentrations for bachelor’s programs. Options may include data science, software engineering, cybersecurity and computer engineering.

Online Master’s in Computer Science

Earning an online masters in computer science can help you advance your career to the next level. You may be able to get a supervisory role that’s related to your current position; for example, you might get promoted to the job of computer systems manager.

A master’s may also open doors to new roles, such as being a computer and information research scientist.

Online master’s programs usually take about two years. During that time, you may study advanced programming and become more fluent in programming languages. You may also take advanced courses in databases and algorithms.

You may want to select a concentration for your master’s degree. The school may offer specializations like computer networks, artificial intelligence or big data.

Online Doctorate in Computer Science

To advance to the top of your field, you may want to earn an online doctoral degree in computer science. This terminal degree may qualify you for positions of significant responsibility, give you the opportunity to teach college computer science classes or prepare you to spearhead innovations with computers and technology.

The online courses that you take for your doctoral degree will depend greatly on your chosen area of study. You might explore quantitative analysis, big data analytics or digital security. No matter what your area of focus is, you’ll most likely take classes that prepare you to conduct original research.

Your doctoral program may take three years or more. The first few years typically focus on coursework, and then you can begin carrying out research and preparing your dissertation.

Online Computer Science Degree Courses

To earn a degree in computer science, you’ll need to take an assortment of foundational courses that will introduce you to basic concepts in computing and technology.

After completing your core classes, you can begin more advanced studies to help you explore various topics in greater depth. This mix of courses can help prepare you to enter the job market as a knowledgeable computer professional with employable skills.

Your online computer science courses may include:

Artificial Intelligence: More and more systems are relying on AI technology, so it’s important for computer science students to understand the basics. An AI class can introduce you to the ideas of natural language processing, machine learning, robotics, and search algorithms.
Computer Architecture: In this class, you can learn how computers are built and organized and discuss the ways that software and hardware work with one another. The topics may include memory and multiprocessors. Through these studies, you can learn how to improve the efficiency of computer systems.
Cybersecurity: To protect computer systems, you need to develop your security skills. In a class on cybersecurity, you can learn to use encryption and identify vulnerabilities in networks. You can also discuss what’s involved in creating a security policy for a technology department.
Data Structures: An introductory class on data structures can help you learn how data is organized in computer systems. Data structures covered in this course may include stacks and arrays. You may also study algorithms that you can use to evaluate these systems and provide answers to queries.
Mobile Design: This course can teach you what goes into designing software for use on mobile devices. You can learn to create applications that are easy for people to use on screens of any size, and you may have a chance to design your own mobile program.
Operating Systems: In this class, you can learn about the role that operating systems play in computing processes. After discussing the history of operating systems, you can explore some of the most common modern systems, such as Windows and Linux. The class may cover file systems, process management, memory use, and security.
Programming Languages: Computer scientists code software programs using programming languages. In this course, you can explore fundamentals that apply to many computer languages; these concepts include syntax and semantics. You can also begin working with specific languages, such as C++, Java, Python, and Swift; you may take individual courses in some of these languages as well.
Software Engineering: Knowing programming languages isn’t the only thing necessary for designing software programs. You also need to understand the engineering process, which includes crafting a design and linking small elements to create a complete program. You may discuss user experience and software security.

In addition to taking classes, you may also complete an internship or engage in practicum experiences before graduation. These may count toward the 120 hours required for an undergraduate degree.

Computer Science Careers and Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in the computer and technology sector is increasing at a rate of 11%. On average, workers in this field earn $88,240 per year.

Career	Job Overview	Annual Median Salary
Computer and Information Systems Manager	Supervise and direct the computer usage in an organization, and lead the personnel teams that work in this area	$146,360
Computer and Information Research Scientist	Develop new uses or systems for technology in order to meet needs or solve problems; conduct experiments and present findings in journals or at industry conferences	$122,840
Network Architect	Design secure computer networks that can support the needs of an organization and install the hardware and software to run them	$112,690
Software Developer	Design applications or operating systems to meet the needs of organizations or home computer users	$107,510
Database Administrator	Maintain organizational systems for data so that information is easily retrievable and searchable	$93,750
Computer Systems Analyst	Evaluate computer systems to make sure that they are operating at maximum efficiency and incorporate new technologies as needed	$90,920
Computer Programmer	Input code to turn software designers’ ideas into functional programs and run software tests as needed to ensure code is correct.	$86,550
Network and Computer Systems Administrator	Oversee the computer systems used by organizations by installing components, carrying out upgrades, solving problems, and providing support for users	$83,510
Web Developer	Build websites that communicate to visitors through text, graphics, videos, and other elements, and provide ongoing support	$73,760
Computer Support Specialist	Work a technology help desk or provide in-person computer support for individuals or organizations	$54,760

Salary figures can vary greatly depending on the position you hold, the amount of experience and education you have, and the area of the country where you live.

Computer Science Concentrations

Computer Graphics

If you’re interested in both art and computers, consider pursuing a degree in computer graphics. This program can help you learn what’s involved with turning ideas into digital images or animations that inform, engage or entertain.

In this degree, you can explore how to create static and animated graphics. You can also study 3D design and virtual reality. Other classes may cover sight and perception. You may learn about using computer graphics in particular industries, such as video game design and website creation. As you practice entering code and using design software, you may create a portfolio of your work.

With a degree in computer graphics, you could pursue a career in animation, game design, user experience (UX) or graphic design. According to the US Bureau web developers may make about $73,760 each year. Multimedia artists and animators earn an average annual salary of $75,270 .

Data Mining

Companies rely on data to learn about consumers, make smart decisions and target their advertisements. To do this, they rely on professionals with the know-how to gather information and analyze it. Being successful in data science requires having a clear understanding of algorithms, so this is a good degree choice for those who are math-minded.

You will probably take multiple statistics classes as you study for this degree. You’ll also need to take classes on gathering data and developing systems for storing it. After that, you’ll need to discuss ways to draw meaningful information from the data you collect and how to present your findings in manageable formats. You may study machine learning and artificial intelligence as well.

With this degree, you may be hired as a data analyst or a data scientist. You could also be a software developer, which is a job that pays an average annual salary of $107,510.

Mobile Computing

Companies and consumers are relying more and more on mobile applications and cloud computing. To get your start in this field, you could earn a computer science degree that focuses on mobile computing. When applying for jobs, the distinctive skills that you’ve learned in this program may set you apart from those with more general programming credentials.

This discipline relies heavily on programming languages, so you’ll probably study several of them. To enhance your programming abilities, you may need to take advanced math classes. Other courses can teach you how people interact with computers, how networks function and how you can keep systems secure. You also need to learn what goes into designing apps and websites and then practice those skills.

Your studies can prepare you to create programs for use online or on mobile devices. Most web developers earn between $39,550 and $142,080 annually, and most software developers earn between $64,240 and $164,590.

Network Security

Although most system hacking is criminal and unethical, there’s a way to use those skills for good: ethical hacking. By becoming an expert in network security, you can develop the skills needed to identify weaknesses in a system and provide improvement suggestions. Earning a degree in this area could even help you prepare to become credentialed as a Certified Ethical Hacker.

This program may start with classes that introduce you to the basics of computer and network systems. After that, you should be ready to explore operating systems, programming languages, algorithms and cloud computing. You can take courses on firewalls and other network security measures, and you can discuss ways that organizations can respond and recover after data breaches.

As an information security analyst, you might earn an average annual salary of $99,730. You could also become a network administrator, earning around $83,510, or a network architect, making about $112,690.

Software Engineering

If your phone and computer are like many others’, they’re packed with handy apps for organization, information and entertainment. It seems that there are always new apps to explore! If you’d prefer to design apps instead of just using them, then a degree in software engineering may be for you.

You’ll likely take quite a few courses about programming languages; you may learn to use Java, Python and C++. You may study statistics, big data, user interfaces, system security, parallel computing, algorithms and machine learning. The classes can teach you to design and evaluate programs, and you may have a final project that involves building your own software from the ground up.

Developers who design systems software earn an average of $122,110 per year. App developers earn about $116,080 annually. You could also be a software tester or quality assurance analyst; that job pays about $107,510 yearly.

Computer Programming Languages

One of the fundamental skills that you can learn in a computer science program is how to communicate with computers. For that task, you’ll need to learn programming languages, such as the ones below.

C: A good starting point for new programmers, C language boasts only 32 main components for users to learn, and it provides a valuable foundation for its various spinoff languages. This language, which has been around for decades, is often used for building software and operating systems.
C#: Pronounced “C sharp,” this object-oriented language is used extensively for Windows-based programs; it’s also helpful for website and mobile app design. It’s not the easiest language to learn, but mastering it may increase your employability.
CSS: Cascading Stylesheets, better known as CSS, is useful for adding visual interest to websites. Once you know some HTML, you can then start learning CSS in order to change the fonts, sizes, colors and arrangements of the elements on your pages.
HTML: Website design often relies on Hypertext Markup Language, better known as HTML, for structuring and formatting text and images. HTML is sometimes used for programming games as well.
Java: If you are interested in object-oriented programming for game design, business software, mobile apps or website plug-ins, be sure to learn Java. This is one of the most common programming languages, especially since it’s required for building Android apps.
JavaScript: You can create interactive websites using JavaScript, a client-side scripting language that is used in conjunction with HTML and CSS. If you plan to build websites, you’re going to need to know how to use JavaScript and its extensive library of associated tools.
PHP: If you plan to engage in website design, PHP, also known as Hypertext Preprocessor, is another language to learn. This server-side language is useful for websites that deal with a lot of data, and it allows website users to input information into fields.
Python: Because it’s easy to learn and widely used, Python is one of the top programming languages for college students. This object-oriented, server-side language plays an important role in creating software, games and websites.
Ruby: An object-oriented programming language for web design and applications, Ruby is praised as being easy and fun to learn, making it a good choice for beginner programmers. A vast library of Ruby gems can simplify your coding processes, and the available Ruby on Rails framework is another valuable tool for users.
SQL: If you’re doing tasks that deal with data management or analysis, then you’ll probably want to rely on SQL, a language that allows you to sort through large data sets. In the context of game development, SQL is useful for letting players access account-management tools.

These are just a fraction of the many programming languages that are available to developers. It’s usually smart to start with a few of the basics, such as C, JavaScript or Python. After that, you can branch out. To pick your next language, consider what each is primarily used for and how that aligns with your professional goals.

Admissions for Computer Science Degrees

While some computer science degree programs are offered at many different schools, other specialties are much less common. Programs that are available from only a few institutions may be quite selective about which applicants they admit. For a good chance of getting into your top-choice schools, you’ll need outstanding applications. Your admissions packets are likely to include many of the following materials.

Application: This form will ask for your basic contact information and details about your extracurricular, work and volunteer activities.
Essay: Many colleges ask for a personal statement or a topical essay that gives the admissions department insight into your goals, interests and temperament.
Letters of recommendation: Most schools request two to four reference letters from people who are familiar with your academic or professional work; this may include teachers, guidance counselors and work supervisors.
Test scores: Standardized tests, such as the ACT and SAT, are often used as the basis for determining your readiness for college-level work, but some schools don’t require test scores. Others may offer waivers to applicants who meet certain criteria.
Transcripts: You’ll need to provide a record of the high school or college classes that you have completed and the grades that you earned; some schools may be looking for grades above a certain GPA level.

Be sure to begin gathering materials early, and submit them well in advance of the deadline. Some schools don’t accept any admissions packets after the cutoff date, and others give priority to on-time applications.

Computer Science Licenses and Certifications

Employers appreciate hiring computer professionals who know what they’re doing. Having a degree in the field is one way to prove your competence. To demonstrate your knowledge in a particular aspect of computing and technology, you can pursue credentials through an industry certification program.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): If you’re a top-level networking professional with at least five years of professional experience, then you could consider becoming a CISSP.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA):Taking the CCNA course and exam will demonstrate that you have foundational IT skills on topics like automation and network security.
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): This two-part credential includes a core exam that covers fundamental business networking topics and a specialty exam that addresses one of six different concentration areas.
CompTIA A+: The foundational certification shows your competence in many different areas of IT practice, including operating systems, cloud computing and mobile applications.
CompTIA Network+: This credential is given to networking professionals who are well-versed in building, maintaining, fixing, upgrading and protecting networks.
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE): There are five different programs available under the MCSE heading: Business Applications, Core Infrastructure, Mobility, Productivity, and Data Management and Analytics.

You may want to add multiple credentials to your resume. That’s a goal to achieve gradually since you may need to invest many hours in preparing for each certification program’s exam.

Computer Science Professional Organizations

To do your best work as a computer science professional, it’s a good idea to join an industry organization. Membership in a professional association will connect you with helpful resources, valuable networking opportunities, and some of the latest research in computing and technology.

Association of computing machinery : ACM publishes over 50 different scholarly journals, maintains a digital resource library, runs more than 100 workshops and conferences, and advocates for the computing industry.
IEEE Computer society : Membership in IEEE gives you opportunities to participate in a variety of industry-specific communities, councils, and societies so that you can connect with others who have similar interests.
Computer research association: Your place of employment may choose to join CRA for advocacy, conference opportunities, industry news, and job boards.

While you’re in school, you may be able to join a group at a student rate so that you can start exploring all of the benefits of membership.

Accreditation for Online Computer Science Degrees

What criteria are you considering as you select a computer science school? Perhaps you are thinking about tuition, curriculum, student support, and faculty. Make sure that one of the first factors you consider is whether the college is accredited.

Whether you are taking online or on-campus classes for your computer science degree, it’s smart to select a school with regional accreditation. That means that the school has been approved by one of the country’s official regional accreditors.

Those organizations are:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Accreditation indicates that a college offers solid educational programs that will be respected by employers and other schools.

Financial Aid for Computer Science Students

To help you pay for school, you may need to gather financial aid from multiple sources. The first step in this process will be to fill out and submit the government’s Free application for federal students aid.

After doing so, you may learn that you are eligible for federal grants, loans or work-study programs. If you submit your FAFSA results to your state, you may qualify for additional grants or loans through state programs.

Non-government sources can help you further fund your education. Some people get loans through private organizations. Others apply for fellowships from industry organizations.

Scholarships are a popular source of college money that you don’t have to pay back after graduation. You may be able to get scholarships from your college, professional computer associations, companies, special-interest groups, or local organizations.

Scholarships for Computer Science Students

Consider applying for some of the following scholarships:

ESA foundation scholarship program: Women and minority students who are interested in game design can apply for this scholarship.
Gates millennium scholarship : This scholarship is available to minority students at the undergraduate or graduate levels.
Microsoft tuition scholarship: Microsoft awards tuition help to undergraduate students who are studying in a STEM field.
Regenerate science student search: This program from the Society for Science and the Public awards monetary prizes to high school students.
SMART Scholarship: This program from the Department of Defense is available to STEM undergraduate or graduate students.
Wayne V black memorial scholarship award: This scholarship is open to undergraduate students in specific disciplines, including computer science.
Williams E Wiesel scholarship: Undergraduate students who are studying automated systems or robotics can apply for this scholarship from the SME Education Foundation.

These scholarships vary in their requirements and awards given, so be sure to read the details fully before applying.

What Is the Best Online School for Computer Programming?

There are many excellent online schools for computer science and computer programming degrees. To find a school that’s a good fit for you, consider the class format, the college schedule, the curriculum list, and the available concentrations.

Most importantly, when looking at online computer science degrees, always make sure to choose an online college that bears regional accreditation. By doing so, you can be sure that the computer science education you receive from the online college will be recognized upon graduation.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science online usually requires about 120 credit hours, and many students complete that process in about four years. For an Online masters computer science, it may take you two years to earn the necessary credits — usually around 60 credit hours. Doctoral programs vary in length but typically take at least three years.

Can You Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

Yes, many schools offer computer science degrees through online classes. You may be able to access the same reading materials, participate in the same class discussions, and complete the same projects and exams, but all through a digital platform.

Both generalist computer science degrees and programs that focus on a particular specialty, such as software engineering, are available online.

In addition, an online education is starting to appeal to most students as it offers a more flexible schedule and may even have a less expensive tuition cost due to not needing the room and board services.

What is the Best Online College for Computer Science?

Many online schools have strong computer science programs. You’ll want to look for one that has courses and specialties that align with your personal education interests and professional goals.

It’s essential to make sure that the online computer science program you pick is offered through a regionally accredited school. You may also want to look for programmatic accreditation from the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) division of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Either accreditation can help ensure your online computer science education is of the highest level.

How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?

Many online programs in computer science charge between $200 and $500 per credit hour. At those rates, your annual tuition for a computer science degree may cost around $6,000 to $15,000. The total tuition for all 120 credits may range from $24,000 and $60,000.

Most of the time, you may find the lowest tuition costs from a public university in your state or an online degree program with special e-Tuition rates.

Alternatively, even some of the best online computer science college will give you a generous financial aid package and may be your best option.

What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

A degree in computer science, whether online or traditional, can help prepare you to take a job in the field of computers and information security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this sector are growing at a rate of 11% and pay an annual average income of $88,240.

With a computer science degree, you might become a computer support specialist, a web developer, an information security analyst, a software developer or a system administrator. In fact, many universities offer system administrator student degree programs for students interested in this career field.

As you gain relevant computer science work experience, you may rise to a higher level in your career and work in a variety of different areas such as management, administration, and computer security. Most of these jobs are among the highest paying computer science jobs and can include specific titles such as big data engineer, data scientist, data security analyst, systems security administrator, and data manager.

What is an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degree?

Computer science majors study computer systems, including the hardware and software that they use.

You may also study networking, operating systems, programming languages and human-computer interactions.

When you pursue this degree in an online format, you can take your classes through the computer instead of going to a classroom for your studies. Homework assignments, tests, and even your capstone project may all be turned in through a digital platform. You may be able to complete your whole computer science degree without ever stepping foot on campus.

Is Computer Science a BS or BA?

Although a computer science degree program has the word “science” in its name, it can be offered as either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS).

Bachelor of Arts programs usually include more foundational classes in the humanities, while Bachelor of Science programs often specialize more on the math and science aspects of this field.

In general, Computer Science Bachelor of Science programs are more common than Bachelor of Arts ones.

What is Required for a Degree in Computer Science?

A bachelor’s degree in computer science typically requires earning about 120 credit hours: that’s usually around 40 classes.

Some of those courses may cover general education requirements like calculus, writing, history and psychology.

Most others should address computer-specific topics. For example, you may take classes like Introduction to Programming Languages, Windows and Linux Systems, Database Management, Web Development, and Data Structures.

How Easy is it to Switch Majors to Computer Science?

If you already starting taking college courses, but have decided to pursue a computer science degree instead, you should try to transfer any credits you may already have.

To determine which courses you can transfer, speak with your academic advisor. Typically, as long as you receive good grades, the majority of your general education courses should be transferable.

Any credits that you can transfer will count towards your 120 credits and can ultimately help reduce the extra costs that result in switching majors.

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