Online computer science degree programs teach a variety of topics including programming languages, computer systems, and algorithms. Graduates should have a wide skill set that they can utilize in different industries and situations.
People may want to study computer science due to the field's high earning potential, job security, and advancement opportunities. Online and in-person students learn the same skills and earn the same degrees. However, online programs offer increased flexibility and options compared to in-class programs.
According to Cisco's 2023 Cybersecurity Readiness Index, only 15% of global organizations are prepared for the security risks of our new hybrid-friendly world. Of the same companies surveyed, 60% said they'd experienced a cybersecurity incident over the past year. Computer science specialists will be necessary to help these companies find solutions and continue to evolve.
Prospective computer science students can read the following page to discover the best online computer science degrees, program costs, and relevant benefits.
Popular Online Computer Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top 10 Computer Science Degrees to Get Online
#1 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Auburn's online bachelor of computer science features a core of 20 computer science courses. Students learn about topics like data structures, algorithms, networking, web and mobile application development, and software engineering.
This 100% online program uses five 7.5-week terms per year to encourage rapid student progress. The curriculum combines traditional educational models with cutting-edge technology.
This is a degree completion program — applicants need at least 60 transferable college credits that fulfill prerequisite requirements or a bachelor's degree in another field.
Highlights:
- Prerequisite requirements apply
- Two courses per five-week term
- Graduate in two years
Considerations:
- Total program cost of $37,500
- Limited elective slots
- No concentration tracks
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
OSU's online BS in computer science covers multiple computer science topics, including software and design engineering, networking, parallel programming, and cybersecurity.
OSU's curriculum uses a project-based learning model. For example, students can apply their developing skills as they custom-program a sensor board or coordinate an active cloud computing server network.
Learners pursue one of two concentrations: applied computer science or cybersecurity. Both tracks build to an intensive capstone experience, which spans the final three semesters and offers an opportunity to build a portfolio for potential employers.
Highlights:
- Postbaccalaureate program available to applicants with previous bachelor's degrees
- Four start dates per year
- Honors track available
Considerations:
- Transfer students must complete at least 45 upper-division credits at OSU
- Calculus prerequisites required for major entry
- 180 quarter credits required at a cost of $428 per credit
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 2 years
- Online
Why We Chose This School:
WGU's online computer science bachelor's program emphasizes one of the hottest topics in the computing world: artificial intelligence. The curriculum teaches skills for designing, building, and enhancing AI technologies with clear, direct business applications.
WGU employs a proficiency-based academic model. Students move through coursework at their own pace, proceeding through courses after they demonstrate mastery of new topics. This alternative to fixed scheduling creates accelerated learning opportunities: According to the school, 60% of students graduate from the program within 24 months.
Students can also accrue credentials as they progress. WGU offers multiple industry-standard professional certification opportunities at no extra cost.
Highlights:
- ABET accreditation
- Affordable term-based tuition structure creates savings potential
- Monthly start dates
Considerations:
- Precalculus prerequisites needed for admission
- Limited eligibility for international students
- Extensive general education requirements
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
150,116
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
California State University-Monterey Bay
- Seaside, CA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
CSUMB's online BS in computer science offers an accelerated learning opportunity for degree completion students. The 24-month program includes a software engineering concentration that equips learners with advanced skills in a specialized field with high employer demand.
The program at CSUMB uses a collaborative cohort-based learning model and offers a practical emphasis. All learners complete portfolio projects and a capstone experience, creating a body of work graduates can use to attract employers.
Advanced enrollees can pursue paid tutoring opportunities. Learners with previous bachelor's degrees have reduced credit requirements.
Highlights:
- Accelerated program
- Structured learning keeps students focused
- Enrollees take one class at a time for most terms
Considerations:
- Intensive weekly study schedule
- Synchronous online orientation requirements apply to each course
- 60 or more semester credits required for entry, including at least 30 credits of general education coursework
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Maryville University of Saint Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Maryville's online bachelor's program in computer science explores computer science fundamentals like programming, web design, and computer architecture. The program uses an experiential, collaborative project-based learning model, which builds a dynamic and valuable set of soft skills to complement technical proficiencies.
Students pursue an 18-credit concentration and earn a certificate in their specialization area. Concentration options include artificial intelligence, software development, and cybersecurity.
Applicants need at least 75 transfer credits. High-performing students can also access Maryville's early access learning path, which allows learners to earn up to 12 credits that qualify for transfer to a master's program.
Highlights:
- 100% online
- Transfer-friendly program
- No application fees or test score requirements
Considerations:
- Heavy coding emphasis
- Requires 75 transfer credits
- Few acceleration opportunities without transfer credits
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
University of Illinois Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
The UIS online BS in computer science develops futureproof skills through a combination of applied theory and hands-on learning. Required courses include computer organization, algorithms and computation, and a software engineering capstone.
The program offers multiple start dates each year. The online curriculum mirrors the on-campus coursework. Students must complete 120 credits to earn their degree.
Highlights:
- Major requirements include four electives that help students study topics of interest
- Multiple annual start dates
- Affordable tuition
Considerations:
- Cumulative 2.00 GPA required for graduation
- Entrance and exit assessments required
- Limits on transfer credit eligibility for major requirements
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
SNHU's online BS in computer science combines affordability and convenience. Low per-credit pricing and compact eight-week semesters make the program accessible and efficient. The curriculum highlights widely used programming languages and industry-standard web and software development proficiencies.
The program also builds soft skills: Students learn about computer science project planning and management while developing their own project portfolios. These emphases equip learners with assets that can help them land jobs and advance their careers.
Learners can pursue the general track or choose from four concentrations — data analysis, information security, software engineering, or STEM project management.
Highlights:
- Start dates throughout the year
- Apply for free
- 24/7 online support
Considerations:
- 41% graduation rate
- Highest student-to-teacher ratio of any program in this ranking
- Extensive general education requirements
Students Enrolled
164,091
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Designed for adult learners, LU's online BS in computer science delivers an accelerated education in technology. The program uses small class sizes to support a productive, collaborative learning environment. Courses run in eight-week sessions.
LU offers prior learning assessment credits for enrollees with previous software development and coding experience. Students can specialize in artificial intelligence, mobile computing, game and simulation programming, systems programming, secure programming, or software engineering.
Highlights:
- 14-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio
- Extensive personalization options
- Generous transfer credit policies
Considerations:
- Uniquely for adult learners
- Minimum 30 transfer credits required
- Highest-cost program in this ranking
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Platteville, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
UWP's online BS in applied computing builds business-focused information technology skills that put theory into practice. The program uses a project-based learning model, which UWP designed to closely replicate professional environments in the modern IT industry.
The program's core applied computing curriculum includes 61 credits, emphasizing the fundamentals of programming, database management, systems analysis, algorithms, and data structures. Learners also complete required courses in web development, operating systems theory, information science strategy, and other career-oriented areas.
UWP's program builds toward an immersive capstone experience where students design, develop, and deliver a customized computing solution to a real-world client.
Highlights:
- Lower-cost program
- Scholarships available specifically for online enrollees
- Transfer-friendly policies
Considerations:
- College prep course requirements apply
- More stringent admission standards for applicants under age 22
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees (2025)
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
- Alexandria, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Why We Chose This School:
LSU Online's BS in computer science uses small class sizes and a project-based instructional model to build targeted technical proficiencies. The curriculum emphasizes algorithms, data structures and analysis, and programming languages. Assignments double as portfolio pieces, allowing students to build their professional profiles as they learn.
The program puts students in control of their personalization pathways: Free electives account for about one-quarter of the degree's 120 credits, giving learners plenty of ways to pursue their in-major and out-of-major interests.
Students who maximize LSU's transfer credit policies can significantly reduce the program's already affordable costs. Because the school lets learners transfer up to 75% of the degree's required credits, the program offers a one-year graduation pathway, which carries a total cost of just $9,750.
Highlights:
- Lowest-cost program in this ranking
- Transfer in up to 90 credits — 75% of the total required credits for the degree
- 100% online delivery suitable for working professionals
Considerations:
- 31% graduation rate
- Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA and at least 18 eligible college credits, including at least a C grade in an English class and a math course
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How We Rank Colleges and Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability. This list is from 2025.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect From Online Computer Science Programs
On-campus and online computer science bachelor's degrees share many similarities. The curriculum for distance programs typically mirrors in-person classes, often with the same instructors. Distance learners can access most, if not all, of the same resources as their on-campus peers.
However, online programs differ from their on-campus counterparts in several key ways. The sections below describe differences in coursework, formats, and costs.
How Online CS Degrees Differ From On-Campus Programs
In-person computer science undergraduates can participate in on-campus activities like sporting events, which typically exclude online students.
In exchange for the lack of social opportunities, some of the best online computer science degree programs allow students to accelerate their graduation by taking more courses at the same time. On-campus learners often face more course load restrictions.
Some public schools allow online students to pay in-state rates regardless of where they live. Other schools may offer special tuition just for online students. Be wary, though. Some institutions charge higher fees for out-of-state or online learners; research costs before applying.
The table below compares online computer science bachelor's degrees and on-campus programs.
Online vs. On-Campus Bachelor's in Computer Science Degrees
|
Online Program |
On-Campus Program |
| Total Credits |
120-130 |
120-130 |
| Course Delivery and Schedule |
Classes typically meet asynchronously, where learners complete assignments and view lectures on a flexible schedule, or synchronously, with real-time meetings using webcams or other technology. Some programs combine the two methods. Others include some in-person hybrid elements. |
Classes meet in person at predetermined times. |
| General Education Requirements |
Writing and composition; math; cultural diversity; science; arts and humanities; history or politics |
Writing and composition; math; cultural diversity; science; arts and humanities; history or politics |
| Typical Time to Completion |
Four years or fewer, depending on course load |
Four years or fewer, depending on course load |
| Admission Requirements |
High school diploma or equivalent, online application, application fee, 2.0-3.0 minimum GPA; ACT or SAT scores may be required |
High school diploma or equivalent, online application, application fee, 2.0-3.0 minimum GPA; ACT or SAT scores may be required |
| Prerequisites |
Calculus, finite math, discrete math, and/or statistics. Some schools may require previous programming experience. |
Calculus, finite math, discrete math, and/or statistics. Some schools may require previous programming experience. |
| Tuition |
$300-$700+ per credit |
$300-$1,800+ per credit |
Students can expect many similarities when comparing computer science bachelor's degrees online versus on campus. Online programs can sometimes be more cost-effective than on-campus programs, especially for out-of-state students.
Some schools may charge additional tech fees for online learners, but the curriculum, admission requirements, and prerequisites are generally comparable.
Online Degrees for Computer Science vs. Bootcamps
Some prospective students consider computer science bootcamps. These programs offer a more direct route to pursuing basic tech jobs. Bootcamps generally end in a matter of months and some bootcamps may be more affordable than traditional degrees.
However, bachelor's degrees feature more opportunities to dive into complex topics, which can help learners advance their careers after graduation. Enrollees can also enhance their knowledge and professional development through extracurricular activities, school resources, and networking events.
Delivery Formats for Online Computer Science Degrees
Distance students can choose from several learning methods. For example, some colleges offer computer science bachelor's programs fully online. Others follow a hybrid format with occasional in-person classes or immersions.
Online learning may occur through synchronous or asynchronous delivery. Synchronous courses require live attendance through video conferencing software or other learning technologies.
Asynchronous courses do not require real-time participation, offering more flexibility for students with work or family obligations.
Prospective distance learners should also consider their personal learning styles when researching online bachelor's degrees in computer science. Regardless of the delivery method, all online students need strong time management skills and self-discipline.
They also need reliable home internet for a computer science degree online to be as flexible as it sounds. Without a reliable internet connection, students must prepare to commute to a place that can reach the internet, which may involve parking, transportation, or other fees.
Accreditation for Online Computer Science Degrees
Computer science degree-seekers should prioritize accredited schools. Institutional accreditation means a school meets educational standards in its curriculum, faculty, and high-quality higher education experience. Employers and industries typically hold schools with accreditation in high regard.
Programmatic accreditation can also enhance the trustworthiness of your degree. ABET is a renowned accrediting agency that recognizes technology-focused programs with excellent learning outcomes and dedication to best practices.
How Much Do Online Computer Science Programs Cost?
Online tuition for a bachelor's in computer science often ranges from $300-$700 per credit, but prices vary widely. Many factors contribute to tuition costs, and in-state students usually pay lower tuition at public universities than their out-of-state peers.
Some public schools allow distance learners to pay in-state tuition, regardless of their location.
Degree-seekers should remember that costs extend beyond tuition alone. The following list describes additional costs that online computer science degrees students may face.
- Tuition: Public schools may be cheaper than private institutions
- Additional school fees
- Technology resources: Stable Internet Connection, specific hardware, software
- Studying materials: Books
Online computer science degree students should begin the search for financial aid, such as grants, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans, by filling out FAFSA forms. Additionally, degree-seekers can apply for scholarships through professional associations and local organizations.
Why Get Your Computer Science Degree Online?
An online computer science degree program typically uses various digital technologies. This technical aspect makes it an ideal degree for online learning compared to subjects that require more face-to-face instruction.
Students typically pursue computer science bachelor's degrees online for the convenience of learning from anywhere on a flexible schedule. They can choose from schools across the country that fit their career goals without commuting.
A prospective enrollee should consider whether online education aligns with their learning style. The most successful online computer science students have strong time management, technical, and independent learning skills.
Pros of Online Computer Science Degree Programs
-
Flexibility: Distance learners can study full time or part time. They can often choose from several options, including synchronous, asynchronous, fully online, and hybrid delivery.
-
Location: Online computer science degree students can pursue programs that fit their lives and career goals without relocating.
-
Cost: Online tuition can be lower than tuition for in-person classes.
Cons of Online Computer Science Degree Programs
-
Campus Life: Students who enjoy lively campus activities like sports and social events may want to consider in-person programs rather than pursuing computer science bachelor's degrees online.
-
Networking Opportunities: Most online programs work hard to connect learners with peers and professional contacts like alumni. However, on-campus students may find it easier to find these opportunities.
-
Time Management: While all degree-seekers must manage their time wisely, students pursuing computer science bachelor's degrees online must be more self-motivated than enrollees in traditional programs.
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Selecting Your Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Program
Degree-seekers should consider several factors when searching for the best online computer science degree. Along with tuition and content, prospective enrollees should research the following:
- School Prestige: Your future employers will likely consider your school's stature when evaluating your resume. Graduating from an accredited school with an excellent reputation in computer science education can help your application stand out.
- Learning Format: Online computer science bachelor's degrees may use synchronous or asynchronous delivery. Determine if you prefer a self-paced structure or a more guided format with scheduled lectures.
- Admission Requirements: Some schools have more stringent admission standards, like test scores or prerequisite course requirements. Previously earned credits may also transfer more easily to some schools than others.
- Hands-On Practice: Does a computer science degree offer practical learning opportunities through online learning labs? Real-world assignments can be crucial for computer science majors.
- Program Length: Online computer science bachelor's degrees typically take four years to complete. However, some provide accelerated options to help you complete your degree faster. Others may allow extensions and part-time enrollment options for more flexibility.
Prospective students can use Common App to streamline the college admissions process. The service allows students to apply to multiple schools with one application.
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Questions About Online Computer Science Degrees
Many schools offer computer science bachelor's degree programs online. These online programs may offer flexible and asynchronous classes. Graduates will receive the same degree as their in-person counterparts.
Usually, students take about four years of full-time study to complete the 120 credits of a bachelor's in computer science. However, some programs may allow students to expedite the process through accelerated pathways.
Completing a computer science bachelor's degree online can cost from $300-$700 /credit. Most bachelor's degree programs consist of 120-130 credits, making the total price between $36,000-$91,000.
Individuals that enjoy math, logic, and programming may find a computer science degree equally difficult to other majors. Students that require additional time to memorize new programming languages and technologies may find computer science topics time consuming.
With an online computer science degree, graduates can pursue high-demand jobs in software engineering, web development, and network systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual salary of $104,420 across all computer and information technology occupations as of May 2023.
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