Do you love computers? Do you enjoy solving complex problems? If so, an online bachelor’s degree in computer science may help you. The coursework may be challenging. Yet, for some, it is interesting and may be filled with opportunities.
If you are looking for a career path involving computers and solving real world problems, this may be a good path to take.
What is an Online Computer Science Degree?
An online computer science degree focuses on the study of software systems. It typically teaches skills and methods of creating and managing software. Computer scientists may work in a range of companies providing these services. More companies may be using tech. As they do, the need for these skilled professionals may grow.
Many students may learn comp sci as a starting point. They then determine which field they wish to pursue. The educational path may allow them to choose a specific focus. There are typically various ways to customize a degree in this field. Some may even work in areas of passion. For example, they may obtain a bachelor’s of science degree and then develop software related to fashion.
Another big focus is cyber security. Here, software developers help to keep computer systems safe from would be thieves and criminals. They must typically use critical thinking skills to provide these services. Electives could help students to find a path that works for their needs.
What Do Computer Scientists Do?
The job responsibilities of computer scientists range. Many are hired by software development firms. They may work to create new theories around tech development. Some typically work in a software firm building new tech. They may also work to improve existing technologies. Many work as IT consultants. They may also work in research companies.
Their job is often to solve problems related to tech and security. They may write software programs. Some also install and manage software. Most often, they may develop models to improve the interaction between computers and people. This may span all types of computer devices and methods.
They often engage in theoretical investigations. This allows them to make decisions to solve problems. They may use skills like comp graphics and programming languages, Many use numerical analysis. They may also use critical thinking to develop solutions and ideas.
Some may also work in web development. They may help in the development of a computer network for a company. Some develop methodology for solving web related problems. They may even work as network architects in this area.
Types of Online Computer Science Degrees
A wide range of opportunities exist. Bachelor’s programs are one way to get started. Students who wish to enroll in an online master’s degree program may do so as well. If you have a busy life, this could prove to be very important. Online computer science degree programs may make it easier for some to get the concentration or skills they need. Finding the best online bachelor for you is important. Here are some areas you may wish to focus on.
Associate of Science in Computer Science
This degree may provide a gateway to either entry level positions and also provides a stepping stone to completing a bachelor’s program. An online Associate Degree in Computer Science typically provides a background into the field and may allow students to pursue different avenues based on the career path they are looking to get into. Here are some of the goals of this program:
- Understanding math and science principles that apply to computing and information technology
- Applying strategies to create effective computing systems
- Using methods and tools for analyzing tech problems
- Gaining critical thinking skills in computer ethics
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
An online Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science typically provides an understanding of the design, development, testing and documenting of operating systems. Learning and understanding programming languages as well as database management. Learn how to use the skills gained in real life situations.
- Learn programming languages such as Java while getting fundamentals in program control and string manipulations
- Explore computer systems by looking at the internal design and how the most basic components function
- Learn web programming, including web apps and services
- Begin to look into Artificial Intelligence with an introduction to reasoning and optimization
Master of Science in Computer Science
Earning a Master of Sci in Comp Sci may enable you to expertise in the field of tech in regard to bus. You might be able to improve your skill sin software design while working hands on in mastering your skills.
- Customize your area of study to meet your specific areas of interest
- Mater skills in database design and software engineering to use in your career field
- Consider pathways in data analytics, cyber security and software programs
- Pursue an internship that may match up with your desired learning goals
PhD in Comp Science
The goal of the PhD in Comp Sci is to typically provide students with increased knowledge of science, math and engineering. The ability to demonstrate in depth knowledge of the area in which the student is focusing on. The ability to write technical reports as well as proper project documentation.
- Be able to make oral and written presentations of the subject matter covered to display mastery of the subject matter covered
- Make significant contributions in the areas of math, engineering and applied science
- Be able to use research tool sot come up with conclusions and to solve problems as they are being presented
Comp Science Curriculum
You may take a range of classes to earn this degree. Here is a look at some of the most common courses. Many factors may play a role here. Transfer credits may change what you need to learn. Did you earn any high school credits that could apply? School accreditation may be also something to think about when choosing.
Bachelor’s Programs
An online bachelor’s degree in comp sci may include courses like these. Coursework may vary from one program to another.
Students may learn about structured databases. They may learn about big data and using it. Scores in emerging technologies and data validation may be helpful to some students. This type of class looks at database environments.
Introduction to Comp Sci. Look at different languages as well as programming constructs. Looks into software engineering techniques.
Introduction to methods for solving math problems. Covers floating point number representation and sources of error. Implementing algorithms in computer programming.
Intro to comp networking. Layered architecture is looked at. May look at wireless networks and security.
Study of organizing and accessing data. Data modeling and data base design are covered. May include relational algebra.
Study of comp operating systems. Looks at languages. May include scope rules and block sculptures.
Intro to ops research. Includes linear programming and duality. May include network models.
Master’s Degree Programs
A graduate degree may further your education. Sometimes it may allow for concentration. Some courses you may take in a master’s degree include these. Courses may vary significantly in online courses. Prerequisites may apply.
Focuses on computer systems from a hardware aspect. It may also include source code. Students may learn about memory models, code generation, linking, and loading. This may include computer architecture.
Students may learn about various computer languages. This may include Python or Java for example. They may learn about structures and semantics. Some learn about logic programming languages. They may study data structures.
Some students may study AI. This may learn about what AI is and using it within various frameworks.
How Long Could It Take to Earn a Degree in Comp Sci?
Full and part time online schools may be available. This could play a role in how long it takes to complete a program. Many Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degrees require around 124 credit hours. This usually takes 4 years. That is full time education.
Many students complete master’s degrees in the field on a part time basis. They may work while they work. Part time education tends to take 3 to 5 years to complete. Some students may complete this in 18 months to 2 years. Many master’s degree programs require about 45 credit hours. Electives may change this.
Some students may complete a capstone project. This is a final completion project for their degree. It may apply to various areas of the computer science field. Faculty members may offer some insight into doing this. Independent information on capstone ideas may also be available. Work experience may be a part of some master’s degree programs.
What May I Pursue with a Degree in Comp Science?
Higher education may help people pursue work in a range of programs. This may include companies or nonprofit organizations. Computer science careers may range widely. They may be a part of a range of fields. This includes things like healthcare or tech companies. Degree completion may help you qualify.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) typically offers some guidance on what you May do with this degree. Here are a few examples.
Web Developer
Web developers design and create websites.
2019 Annual Median Salary: $73,760 per year
2019-29 Job Growth: 8%
Information Security Analysts
A web security analyst typically plans and carries out security measures in order to protect an organization’s network and system.
2019 Annual Median Salary: $99,730
2019-29 Job Growth: 31%
Database Administrators
A database administrator may store and organize data using specialized software.
2019 Annual Median Salary: $93,750 per year
2019-29 Job Growth: 10%
Computer Programmers
The job of a computer programmer is typically to write and test code in computer systems as they relate to different industries.
2019 Annual Median Salary: $56,550 per year
2019-29 Job Growth: -9%
Software Developers
Software developers may work to make applications and systems be able to work on computers or other devices.
2019 Annual Median Salary: $107,510 per year
2019-29 Job Growth: 22%
Computer Science Certifications
A variety of professional organizations typically exist in comp sci. Students may benefit from being a part of these programs.
Association for Computing Machinery
This organization includes educators, researchers, and professionals in computing society as a whole. It aids in providing career development support. It may also provide continuing education resources.
Institution of Engineering and Technology
This is a professional association. It typically has a focus of both engineering and tech. It aids in tools and resources for those in engineering jobs. That includes comp sci. It may provide career mentoring. It may provide training resources. And, it aims at supporting young professionals in the industry.
IEEE Computer Society
The IEEE Computer Society typically helps to support professionals in the field of comp sci and eng. It may offer support for students and those in career fields. This may include peer-reviewed publications. Some may benefit from the digital library. Others take advantage of continuing education opportunities. They may also offer courses and some types of certifications.
Computing Research Association
This organization may provide support for comp research organizations. This includes working with labs and comp sci depts. It helps by sharing insight into a computing research blog.
20 Schools with Comp Sci Degrees – Online Colleges to Consider
Online learning may be perfect for you! An online computer science degree program may open the door for new opportunities. An online master or bachelor degree may be available to students at these schools. A school search may show other options, too. As online colleges add and change degree options, this info may change as well.
Online students may wish to look into other fields of concentration. Some computer science bachelor’s degree options may be in related fields. Be sure to request information and resource guides for more insight. Learn more about school rankings, start dates, and tuition rates. General education requirements may differ.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Builds fundamentals in programming and computational theory. Provides a solid foundation of knowledge to apply digital processes.
Desired Outcomes:
- Work in computer modeling
- Knowledge of computing and devices
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Computer Engineering
- MS in Comp Sci
- MS in Cyber Security
2019/20 Tuition: $33,794 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 69% of students at $10,621 per year
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Info Systems
Learn fundamentals in a broad range of comp sci topics. Looks at data analysis and project management.
Desired Outcomes:
- Careers in data systems analysis
- Working in the field of cyber security
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Information Systems
- BS in Comp Sci
- MS in Cyber Security
- MS in Info Tech
2019/20 Tuition: $31,136 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 46% of students at $3,913 per year
New York University
Bachelor’s in Computer Science
The program provides backgrounds in algorithms and machine learning. May also cover scientific computing and networking.
Desired Outcomes:
- Research comp information systems
- Have a career data science
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Comp Sci and Math
- MS in Comp Sci
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $53,308 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 46% of students at $30,532 per year
University of Wisconsin Madison
Master of Science in Computer Science
Program offers programming and cyber security options. Works with the fields of medicine and business.
Desired Outcomes:
- Recognize core principle of computing
- Working in web design
- Gain key knowledge of computer systems
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Cyber Sec
- MS in Comp Sci
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $37,785 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 41% of students at $10,508 per year
University of Michigan Ann Arbor
Program covers computer software and hardware. Also may cover databases, AI and graphics.
Desired Outcomes:
- Develop algorithmic fundamentals
- Working as software engineers
- Keeping pace with comp sci advances
Programs Offered:
- BS Comp Sci in Engineering
- BA Com Sci in LSA
- MS in Software Engineering
- PhD in Comp and Info Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $51,200 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 50% of students at $21,174 per year
Salt Lake Community College
Computer Science and Information Technology
This program typically covers cyber defense as well as ethical hacking. Computer languages and web programming are other areas of study as well.
Desired Outcomes:
- To get into fields such as programming and design
- Work in information assurance
- Prepare students to continue on to a four year degree
Programs Offered:
- AS in Geospatial Technology
- AS in Network Administration
2019/20 Tuition: $12,460 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 25% of students at $4,166
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Provides a foundation in software, AI and databases. Other areas of study and covered are Internet technologies and graphics.
Desired Outcomes:
- Participating in cutting edge research
- Pursue a career in the tech field
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BA in Comp Sci
- MS in Machine Learning
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $32,189 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 49% of students at $12,941 per year
Stony Brook University
Prepare for internships and a professional career through studying various aspects of comp sci. Areas of study typically include user interfaces, networks, databases, and forecasting
Desired Outcomes:
- To advance professionally through training and self learning
- Become practicing professionals in the field like information security analysts
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in AI
- MS in Comp Eng
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $24,845 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 60% of students at $9,615 per year
Northeastern University
Uses experiential learning and research as the keys to teaching the program. This program typically allows you to create your own career path through your studies.
Desired Outcomes:
- To be able to master a filed for your chosen career
- Customize your major to meet your learning needs
Programs Offered:
- BS in Data Science and Environmental Science
- BS in Data Science and Math
- MS in Informatics
- PhD in Cyb Sec
2019/20 Tuition: $53,506 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 62% per student at $28,499 per year
University of Maryland Global Campus
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
In this program, the goals are to typically plan and design computer software. Developing of systems for commercial and government environments.
Desired Outcomes:
- Plan and design computing architecture and software applications
- Identify and respond to emerging technology, methods and human to computer interaction
Programs Offered:
- BS in Computer Networks and Cyb Sec
- BS in Info Sys Mgmt
- MS in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation
- MS in Info Tech and Data Base Systems Tech
2019/20 Tuition: $12,336 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 34% of students at $3,659 per year
The University of Texas at Austin
Learn to study, manage, and innovate information systems. Gain insights from data and info tech.
Desired Outcomes:
- Mgmt of info systems
- Use skills achieved in problem solving for data and info systems
Programs Offered:
- BA in Informatics
- BS in Informatics
- MS in Info Studies
- PhD in Info Studies
2019/20 Tuition: $38,326 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 50% of students at $10,664 per year
Tarrant County College District
Associate of Science in Info Tech
Gain knowledge and skills in the field of info tech. May cover fields such as network support, cyb sec, convergence tech, and programming.
Desired Outcomes:
- To gain knowledge and skills to get a career in the info tech field
- To have a head start on getting into a four year program
Programs Offered:
- AAS in Network Support
- AAS in Web App Programming
2019/20 Tuition: $8,235 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 35% of students at $4,023 per year
Jefferson Community and Technical College
A.A.S. in Computer and Information Technology
This program prepares students for careers in the info tech field. It provides problem skills for professionals in the field.
Desired Outcomes:
- To get a degree and to complete a program at a four year institution
- To better position students for a career in the info tech field
Programs Offered:
- AAS in Info Security
- AAS in Network Admin
2019/20 Tuition: $14,888 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 74% of students at $3,286 per year
University of Central Florida
Program may look at problem solving techniques, algorithms and programming language skills. Looks at abstraction as well as applying skills learned as program progresses.
Desired Outcomes:
- Master and computer programming and language skills
- Use problem solving techniques to achieve career goals
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci in Artificial Intelligence
- BS in Comp Sci in Algorithms
- MS in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $22,467 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 65% of students at $7,631 per year
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Study the design, implementation and usability of comp systems. This program likely has an emphasis on software and computation.
Desired Outcomes:
- Develop a strong foundation in algorithms
- Learn problem solving and software development
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Comp Eng
- MS in Comp Sci
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $32,835 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 46% of students at $9,023 per year
Gateway Community and Technical College
Computer Information Technology
This program provides experience in designing, maintaining and using different comp tech. Provides working partnerships with businesses in the industry.
Desired Outcomes:
- To improve career opportunities with enhanced skills
- Obtain a degree in order to continue education in a four year program
Programs Offered:
- AAS in Comp Information Technology Information Security
- AAS in Comp Information Technology Programming
- Certificates in various tech areas
2019/20 Tuition: $14,888 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 69% of students at $3,208 per year
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Program typically covers design and implementation of software and systems. Provides knowledge to be used in business and everyday life areas such as pharmacy, finance and management.
Desired Outcomes:
- Be able to design, build and implement comp algorithms
- Work with op systems, databases and web servers
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Comp and Bus
- MS in Comp Sci
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $33,386 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 61% of students at $13,300 per year
University of Florida
Combines technical engineering with an emphasis on comm skills. Also prepares students for a career as a computing professional.
Desired Outcomes:
- Get into the field of professional computing and engineering
- Work as database administrator or information assurance specialist
- Develop skills in eng, comm, and bus related to tech
Programs Offered:
- BS in Comp Sci
- BS in Digital Arts and Sci
- MS in Comp Eng
- PhD in Comp Eng
2019/20 Tuition: $28,659 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 82% of students at $9,528 per year
Johns Hopkins University
Program typically centers on the study of comp sci with an emphasis on math, basic science and humanities. Students should expect to take classes on multiple levels in multiple ares.
Desired Outcomes:
- Success in professional practice of computing sci
- Work in network security
- Working successfully in independent and team environments
Programs Offered:
- BA in Comp Sci
- BS in Comp Sci
- MS in Comp Sci Cyber
- MS in Comp Sci Data Science
2019/20 Tuition: $55,350 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 54% of students at $40,594 per year
Georgia State University
Prepares students in the fundamental principles of computation. Typically has students apply these principles in areas of industry, science, and govt.
Desired Outcomes:
- To achieve a career in computational science in a field of your choosing
- Increased knowledge of the field and how it relates to the path you are taking
Programs Offered:
- AS in Comp Sci
- BS in Comp Sci
- MS in Comp Sci
- PhD in Comp Sci
2019/20 Tuition: $24,517 per year
2019 Financial Aid: 76% of students at $8,151 per year
