Best Online Master’s in Computer Programming 2022
Updated September 7, 2022 | ComputerScience.org Staff
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Computer programmers are responsible for bringing software design and apps to life. Coding languages like C++ and Java ensure that programs follow instructions to carry out specific tasks and produce expected results.
An online master's in computer programming can help prepare learners for in-demand jobs like computer programmer, software developer, and systems analyst. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth in positions for computer programmers between 2020-2030.
Computer science and software engineering programs typically focus on programming skills. Depending on the school, students also learn computer engineering, information technology, and management information systems master's programs.
This page highlights some of the best online master's in computer programming degrees for 2022. Our list includes detailed information on application materials, tuition rates, specialization options, and graduation requirements.
What Else Should I Know About a Master's in Computer Programming?
How long does it take to get a master's degree in computer programming?
Master's program length varies among schools. Full-time learners can complete online master's computer programming degrees in 1.5-2 years. Part-time students may need 2-6 years to complete a master's.What can you do with a master's in programming?
Graduates with a computer programming degree can pursue jobs in computer systems design and related services. They may also seek professional practice positions as database developers, computer programmers, and software developers.How much does a computer programmer make?
As of May 2020, the BLS reports that the median annual wage of computer programmers is $91,250. The top 10% of earners in these positions earned yearly salaries over $146,050.Is a master's in computer programming hard?
Yes, these programs may be challenging. The top online master's in computer programming schools often accept those with computer science bachelor's degrees or previous experience in computer programming subjects. This helps ensure that incoming students are prepared to study advanced computer programming concepts.Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Top Five Master's in Computer Programming Programs 2022
We chose the following accredited computer programming online master's programs based on information from reliable, unbiased sources. We use data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), including schools' tuition rates, degree conferral rates, and faculty and staff employment. We also account for institutions' prestige, flexibility, and affordability in our rankings. Read on to learn more about the programs we selected as the best online master's computer programming schools for 2022.
#1
University of Southern California
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Admission Rate | 11% |
| Graduation Rate | 92% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
17%
|
Founded in 1880, USC is home to approximately 49,500 students and is the oldest private research university in the state. USC houses 20 professional schools, including the Viterbi School of Engineering.
Master of Science in Computer Science
USC's master of science in computer science program, offered through the Viterbi School of Engineering, is available on campus and online. The curriculum focuses on the programming and application of computer systems, along with related design concepts and techniques.
As one of the top online master's computer programming degrees, USC offers nine concentration areas for graduate computer science learners. Popular concentrations include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Data science
- High-performance computing and simulation
- Software engineering
Learners need to complete at least 28 units with an overall 3.0 or higher GPA to graduate. Most students complete only coursework to meet graduation requirements. On occasion, advanced students may receive permission to complete a master's thesis during an additional two semesters after coursework.
Applying to USC
Incoming students must possess a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Applications must include official transcripts that reflect at least three core computer science classes. Prospective students may also submit optional letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC); Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $2,199/unit
- Program Length: 1.5-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous); On-campus
- Percentage Awarded Loans: 26%
#2
Brandeis University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Waltham, Massachusetts |
| Admission Rate | 30% |
| Graduation Rate | 87% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
7%
|
Established in 1948 in Waltham, Massachusetts, Brandeis has about 5,500 students and a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. The private research school reports a 34% acceptance and is home to 13 innovative technology programs.
Master of Software Engineering
Brandeis offers a fully online master of software engineering. The school accepts part-time learners who wish to build upon existing software engineering skills, learn the latest technologies and best practices in the field, and bolster their professional portfolios.
Faculty delivers classes asynchronously, including four required elective courses. Popular electives include programming with Java and Scala and advanced JavaScript programming. Part-time students can complete the program in approximately 2.5 years.
This program helps prepare learners for several in-demand careers as staff software engineers, IT scrum masters, and QA automation engineers. Brandeis software engineering graduates have worked at companies such as Fujifilm, CVS Health, Penguin Random House, and Raytheon.
Applying to Brandeis
Prospective students should have basic skills in Java, C++, and C programming languages. Students should also have taken introductory software engineering and data structures courses. There are no minimum GPA requirements for applicants.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $3,535/course
- Program Length: 2.5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Percentage Awarded Loans: 39%
#3
Kansas State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Manhattan, Kansas |
| Admission Rate | 95% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
27%
|
K-State is a public institution founded in 1863. Its global campus offers fully online academic programs in all 50 U.S. states and 41 countries. K-State has 12 online computer tech programs, including computer science and computer programming.
Computer Science Master's Degree
K-State's master's degree in computer science features a fully online curriculum. Students develop advanced skills with multiple programming languages and operating systems. They also learn how to build computer software.
Learners complete at least 30-33 credits of asynchronous coursework. Depending on their chosen track, master's students complete either a thesis, a final project, or a final paper for graduation.
Computer science master's students at K-State tailor their program to meet their academic needs. Students choose one class from five predetermined subject areas and one elective specialization class. Upon graduation, K-State degree-holders can pursue careers in information technology, national defense, and engineering.
Applying to K-State
Applicants should possess a bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited school. Applicants should also include a personal statement, contact information for three references, and unofficial transcripts. Competitive applicants have a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $800/credit
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Percentage Awarded Loans: 45%
#4
DePaul University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Admission Rate | 68% |
| Graduation Rate | 74% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
30%
|
Located in Chicago, Illinois, DePaul is a private not-for-profit institution. The school boasts 14 online master's programs, including master's degrees in game programming, data science, computer science, and artificial intelligence.
Master of Science in Computer Science
DePaul's master of science in computer science requires at least 52-76 credit hours for graduation. This rigorous curriculum covers advanced concepts in computer application development, programming languages, and software development techniques.
Computer science majors take four required classes plus four elective classes in this highly flexible program. Learners also choose a thesis or non-thesis track. DePaul provides remote students the opportunity to complete an optional for-credit graduate internship.
To remain in good standing, students must earn a C- or higher grade in all required computer science classes. DePaul requires a 2.5 or higher GPA for graduation.
Applying to DePaul
Incoming students should possess a 2.5 or higher GPA and a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Applications must also include an application fee and official transcripts. Students may also submit optional materials such as letters of recommendation or documentation of industry certifications.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $865/credit
- Program Length: 1.5-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
- Percentage Awarded Loans: 54%
#5
University of Michigan-Dearborn
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Dearborn, Michigan |
| Admission Rate | 62% |
| Graduation Rate | 56% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
34%
|
UM-Dearborn is a public institution founded in 1959. The school has approximately 8,700 students and a 1-to-16 faculty-to-student ratio. Graduate learners choose from 66 programs and certificates, including degrees in computer and information assurance, data science, and software engineering.
Master of Science in Software Engineering
UM-Dearborn's master of science in software engineering prepares learners for doctoral studies and professional practice. Students complete this 30-credit program entirely online, on-campus, or hybrid format. Evening classes help accommodate part-time learners with day jobs.
In addition to core classes, software engineering students choose from classes in specialized areas, including:
- Web engineering
- Game engineering
- Data engineering and analytics
- Information and knowledge engineering
Degree-seekers choose between a thesis and a non-thesis track. The faculty recommends that students planning to pursue doctoral studies or research positions complete a traditional master's thesis.
Applying to UM-Dearborn
Competitive software engineering applicants possess a bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering with a 3.0 or higher GPA. UM-Dearborn gives preference to applicants with the seven recommended prerequisite classes.
Program at a Glance
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $810/credit (in state); $1,437/credit (out of state)
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous), On-campus, or Hybrid
- Percentage Awarded Loans: 64%
Featured Image: Maskot / Maskot / Getty Images
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