Modern home office setup with laptop displaying computer science coursework and coding environment
Updated June 26, 2026

Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs 2026

Compare 138 accredited online computer science (CS) degree programs using data from IPEDS 2024 and BLS 2024. Our rankings analyze graduation rates, tuition costs, student support services, and career outcomes for remote learning environments.

Programs Ranked138
Median Tuition$14,200/yr
Avg Graduation Rate68%
Median Starting Salary$78,000
On this page

Key Takeaways

  • 1.software Developers earn a median salary of $136,620 with 25% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
  • 2.Top-ranked Computer Science programs include University of California-Berkeley, University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Carnegie Mellon University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
  • 3.Best value: University of California-Berkeley offers computer science education at $11,834/year with 96% graduation rate
  • 4.50 accredited Computer Science programs analyzed using IPEDS 2024 completion data

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10 Online

🥇

Texas A&M University-College Station

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
College Station, TXPublic

$116,580 median salary · 84% graduation rate

91.5
Score
$9K
Tuition/yr
84%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #1

Ranked #1 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (91.5/100): 84% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $9,092 in-state tuition, 407 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 84% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $9,092 in-state tuition
  • 407 graduates annually
🥈

Oregon State University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Corvallis, ORPublic

$116,580 median salary · 70% graduation rate

84.0
Score
$12K
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #2

Ranked #2 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84/100): 70% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $11,910 in-state tuition, 977 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 70% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $11,910 in-state tuition
  • 977 graduates annually
🥉

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Scottsdale, AZPublic

$116,580 median salary

81.1
Score
$11K
Tuition/yr
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #3

Ranked #3 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (81.1/100): $116,580 median salary, $11,478 in-state tuition, 1 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • $116,580 median salary
  • $11,478 in-state tuition
  • 1 graduates annually
#4

University of Missouri-St Louis

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Saint Louis, MOPublic

$116,580 median salary · 57% graduation rate

78.8
Score
$15K
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #4

Ranked #4 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (78.8/100): 57% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $15,120 in-state tuition, 59 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 57% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $15,120 in-state tuition
  • 59 graduates annually
#5

Regent University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Virginia Beach, VAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 57% graduation rate

78.2
Score
$20K
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #5

Ranked #5 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (78.2/100): 57% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $19,950 in-state tuition, 14 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 57% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $19,950 in-state tuition
  • 14 graduates annually
#6

Thomas Edison State University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Trenton, NJPublic

$116,580 median salary

78.1
Score
$7K
Tuition/yr
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #6

Ranked #6 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (78.1/100): $116,580 median salary, $6,838 in-state tuition, 7 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • $116,580 median salary
  • $6,838 in-state tuition
  • 7 graduates annually
#7

Southern California Institute of Technology

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Anaheim, CAPrivate for-profit

$116,580 median salary · 74% graduation rate

76.2
Score
$18K
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #7

Ranked #7 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (76.2/100): 74% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $17,915 in-state tuition, 6 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 74% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $17,915 in-state tuition
  • 6 graduates annually
#8

Western Governors University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Salt Lake City, UTPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 46% graduation rate

76.2
Score
$8K
Tuition/yr
46%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #8

Ranked #8 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (76.2/100): 46% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $8,180 in-state tuition, 1096 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 46% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $8,180 in-state tuition
  • 1096 graduates annually
#9

Weber State University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Ogden, UTPublic

$116,580 median salary · 46% graduation rate

75.4
Score
$6K
Tuition/yr
46%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #9

Ranked #9 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (75.4/100): 46% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $5,621 in-state tuition, 128 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 46% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $5,621 in-state tuition
  • 128 graduates annually
#10

Central Penn College

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online
Summerdale, PAPrivate for-profit

$116,580 median salary · 51% graduation rate

75.3
Score
$18K
Tuition/yr
51%
Grad Rate
$117K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #10

Ranked #10 among online computer science bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (75.3/100): 51% graduation rate, $116,580 median salary, $18,324 in-state tuition, 16 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 51% graduation rate
  • $116,580 median salary
  • $18,324 in-state tuition
  • 16 graduates annually

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10 Online, Complete Program Data

  1. #1. Texas A&M University-College Station — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Texas A&M University-College Station's online bachelor's computer science program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: College Station, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,092/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 91.5

  2. #2. Oregon State University — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Oregon State University's online bachelor's computer science program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Corvallis, OR | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,910/year | Graduation Rate: 70% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 84.0

  3. #3. Arizona State University Digital Immersion — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Arizona State University Digital Immersion's online bachelor's computer science program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Scottsdale, AZ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,478/year | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 81.1

  4. #4. University of Missouri-St Louis — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks University of Missouri-St Louis's online bachelor's computer science program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Saint Louis, MO | Type: Public | Tuition: $15,120/year | Graduation Rate: 57% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 78.8

  5. #5. Regent University — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Regent University's online bachelor's computer science program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Virginia Beach, VA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $19,950/year | Graduation Rate: 57% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 78.2

  6. #6. Thomas Edison State University — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Thomas Edison State University's online bachelor's computer science program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Trenton, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $6,838/year | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 78.1

  7. #7. Southern California Institute of Technology — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Southern California Institute of Technology's online bachelor's computer science program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Anaheim, CA | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $17,915/year | Graduation Rate: 74% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 76.2

  8. #8. Western Governors University — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Western Governors University's online bachelor's computer science program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $8,180/year | Graduation Rate: 46% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 76.2

  9. #9. Weber State University — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Weber State University's online bachelor's computer science program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Ogden, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,621/year | Graduation Rate: 46% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 75.4

  10. #10. Central Penn College — Bachelor's Computer Science (Online)

    Hakia ranks Central Penn College's online bachelor's computer science program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Summerdale, PA | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $18,324/year | Graduation Rate: 51% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 75.3

Best Computer Science Programs - Compare Top 5 Online

SchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateScore
#1 University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
Public
$11,834
96%
100.0/100
#2 University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA
Public
$11,524
97%
89.8/100
#3 University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD
Public
$9,889
84%
89.0/100
#4 University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
Public
$11,834
96%
86.0/100
#5 University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Public
$11,834
81%
86.0/100

Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.

RankProgram & SchoolDeliveryAnnual TuitionGrad RateMedian SalaryHakia Score
#1
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Texas A&M University-College Station
College Station, TX · Public
Online$9,09284%$116,58091.5
#2
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR · Public
Online$11,91070%$116,58084.0
#3
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ · Public
Online$11,478$116,58081.1
#4
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO · Public
Online$15,12057%$116,58078.8
#5
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA · Private nonprofit
Online$19,95057%$116,58078.2
#6
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ · Public
Online$6,838$116,58078.1
#7
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Southern California Institute of Technology
Anaheim, CA · Private for-profit
Online$17,91574%$116,58076.2
#8
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit
Online$8,18046%$116,58076.2
#9
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Weber State University
Ogden, UT · Public
Online$5,62146%$116,58075.4
#10
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Central Penn College
Summerdale, PA · Private for-profit
Online$18,32451%$116,58075.3
#11
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Northwood University
Midland, MI · Private nonprofit
Online$32,80063%$116,58075.1
#12
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX · Private nonprofit
Online$43,90059%$116,58075.0
#13
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Walsh University
North Canton, OH · Private nonprofit
Online$31,51558%$116,58072.2
#14
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Regis University
Denver, CO · Private nonprofit
Online$23,70061%$116,58071.5
#15
Bachelor's in Computer Science
National University
San Diego, CA · Private nonprofit
Online$13,28443%$116,58070.9
#16
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Wisconsin-River Falls
River Falls, WI · Public
Online$7,12157%$116,58070.1
#17
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL · Private nonprofit
Online$27,88045%$116,58069.8
#18
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO · Private for-profit
Online$12,09019%$116,58069.5
#19
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ · Private for-profit
Online$9,55221%$116,58069.5
#20
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI · Public
Online$8,77249%$116,58069.2
#21
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Rasmussen University-Minnesota
St. Cloud, MN · Private for-profit
Online$10,59553%$116,58068.6
#22
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Averett University
Danville, VA · Private nonprofit
Online$38,40048%$116,58067.9
#23
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL · Public
Online$9,95053%$116,58067.8
#24
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Arkansas Grantham
LIttle Rock, AR · Public
Online$7,32043%$116,58067.7
#25
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE · Private nonprofit
Online$12,57020%$116,58067.6
#26
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WI · Public
Online$7,12656%$116,58067.6
#27
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI · Private nonprofit
Online$23,37657%$116,58066.3
#28
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Mercy University
Dobbs Ferry, NY · Private nonprofit
Online$21,98046%$116,58066.3
#29
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI · Public
Online$7,06146%$116,58065.8
#30
Bachelor's in Computer Science
American InterContinental University System
Chandler, AZ · Private for-profit
Online$11,7379%$116,58065.8
#31
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC · Public
Online$1,00038%$116,58065.6
#32
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Rasmussen University-Florida
Ocala, FL · Private for-profit
Online$14,02442%$116,58065.4
#33
Bachelor's in Computer Science
South College
Knoxville, TN · Private for-profit
Online$16,45042%$116,58065.4
#34
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI · Public
Online$7,37851%$116,58065.3
#35
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Franklin University
Columbus, OH · Private nonprofit
Online$9,55211%$116,58064.9
#36
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Baker College
Owosso, MI · Private nonprofit
Online$12,60036%$116,58064.3
#37
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI · Private nonprofit
Online$33,79235%$116,58063.2
#38
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI · Private nonprofit
Online$13,365$116,58062.7
#39
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Park University
Parkville, MO · Private nonprofit
Online$11,01838%$116,58061.7
#40
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Concordia University Texas
Austin, TX · Private nonprofit
Online$31,10845%$116,58060.5
#41
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Ottawa University-Kansas City
Overland Park, KS · Private nonprofit
Online$11,976$116,58058.5
#42
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Ottawa University-Online
Overland Park, KS · Private nonprofit
Online$11,97643%$116,58058.2
#43
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Management and Technology
Arlington, VA · Private for-profit
Online$9,36033%$116,58056.7
#44
Bachelor's in Computer Science
University of Advancing Technology
Tempe, AZ · Private for-profit
Online$17,90035%$116,58056.1
#45
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando
Orlando, FL · Private nonprofit
Online$13,39233%$116,58055.4

Showing all 45 ranked programs.

How Much Does a Computer Science Online Degree Cost?

The total cost of a online's degree in Computer Science ranges from $119,640 at public universities to over $168,200 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024-25, IPEDS 2024-24).

  • Public University (In-State): $11,610/year × 4 years = $46,440 total
  • Public University (Out-of-State): $30,780/year × 4 years = $123,120 total
  • Private University: $42,051/year × 4 years = $168,204 total
  • Online Programs: $8,000/year × 4 years = $32,000 total

With median starting salaries of $133,080, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.

Calculate Your ROI

Enter your details to estimate your degree return on investment

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+907%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,677,254

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$133,333

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.9%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Online Computer Science Degree Overview

Online computer science degree programs have evolved significantly, offering the same rigorous curriculum and ABET accreditation as their on-campus counterparts. Data from 138 accredited programs shows that top online CS degrees provide virtual labs, real-time collaboration tools, and comprehensive student support services that rival traditional programs.

The flexibility of online learning has made computer science education accessible to working professionals, military personnel, and students in rural areas. Leading programs like Arizona State University's online CS degree and Penn State World Campus demonstrate that remote learning can deliver exceptional outcomes without sacrificing academic quality.

Online CS graduates report similar career outcomes to on-campus students, with median starting salaries ranging from $72,000 to $85,000 depending on specialization and location (BLS OEWS May 2024). The key differentiators among programs are student support services, virtual lab access, industry partnerships, and career placement assistance.

Online Learning Formats Explained

Online Computer Science programs offer multiple learning formats to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Understanding these formats helps you choose a program that fits your lifestyle.

Synchronous (Live) Learning:

  • Real-time video lectures at scheduled times (often evenings/weekends)
  • Live interaction with professors and classmates
  • Immediate Q&A and discussion. Feels most like traditional classroom
  • Requires reliable internet and schedule commitment

Asynchronous (Self-Paced) Learning:

  • Pre-recorded lectures watched on your schedule
  • Weekly deadlines but flexible daily timing
  • Discussion forums replace live interaction
  • Ideal for working professionals with irregular schedules

Hybrid/Blended Programs:

  • Combines online coursework with periodic in-person sessions
  • 1-2 weekend residencies per semester
  • Best of both worlds: flexibility plus networking opportunities
  • Often required for programs with lab components

How to Verify Accreditation

Accreditation verification is critical when choosing an online Computer Science program. Degrees from unaccredited institutions may not be recognized by employers or other universities. According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, only properly accredited degrees qualify for federal financial aid and professional licensure.

How to Verify Accreditation:

  • Check regional accreditation. Look up the institution at CHEA Database or Department of Education Database
  • Verify ABET accreditation. For engineering/CS programs, ABET accreditation signals program quality
  • Confirm identical credential. Online degrees should state the same institution as on-campus degrees (e.g., "Arizona State University" not "ASU Online")
  • Check employer recognition. Review job postings in your target field for degree requirements

Red Flags to Avoid:

  • Accreditation from agencies not recognized by CHEA or DOE
  • "Accredited" only by an agency the school itself created
  • Degrees offered in weeks rather than months/years
  • No faculty credentials listed; "life experience" credits

Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?

Employer perception of online Computer Science degrees has shifted. According to a SHRM survey, 83% of HR managers now view online degrees from accredited institutions as equivalent to traditional degrees, up from 50% a decade ago.

What Employers Actually Care About:

  • Institution reputation matters more than delivery format. A Georgia Tech online degree carries the same weight as on-campus
  • Skills demonstration. Portfolio projects, GitHub contributions, and certifications often outweigh degree format
  • Major tech companies (Google, Apple, Meta) have removed degree requirements entirely for many roles
  • Consistency. Degree should list the institution name, not "Online Division" or similar

The COVID Shift: The pandemic normalized remote work and online education. Gallup research shows that 72% of executives who managed remote teams reported equal or higher productivity, reducing stigma around online credentials.

Best Practice: Don't mention "online" on your resume, simply list the degree and institution. If asked in interviews, emphasize the rigor and self-discipline required for online study.

Technology Requirements

Online Computer Science programs require specific technology to participate effectively. Meeting these requirements before enrollment prevents frustrating technical issues during coursework.

Minimum Hardware Requirements:

  • Computer. Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.15+. 8GB RAM minimum (16GB recommended for development work)
  • Processor. Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better. Critical for compiling code and running VMs
  • Storage, 256GB SSD minimum. Software development requires significant disk space
  • Webcam/Microphone. Required for proctored exams and group projects
  • Internet, 25 Mbps download minimum. Wired connection recommended for exams

Software Provided:

  • Free access to development tools (JetBrains IDEs, Visual Studio, etc.) via student licenses
  • Cloud computing credits (AWS, Azure, GCP), $100-$500 per course
  • Virtual lab environments for networking, security, or systems courses
  • Collaboration tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom) included with enrollment

Proctored Exams: What to Expect

Most online Computer Science programs use proctored exams to ensure academic integrity. Understanding what to expect reduces test anxiety and technical issues.

Common Proctoring Methods:

  • AI-proctored (ProctorU, Examity). Software monitors via webcam. Flags suspicious behavior for human review
  • Live proctored. Real person watches via video throughout the exam
  • Lockdown browser. Prevents accessing other applications. May combine with AI monitoring
  • In-person testing centers. Some programs offer or require local testing site options

Preparing for Proctored Exams:

  • Test your setup early. Run system checks 24-48 hours before. Most services offer practice sessions
  • Prepare your environment. Clean desk, good lighting, no one else in room, pets secured
  • Valid ID required. Government-issued photo ID. Check name matches enrollment exactly
  • Stable internet. Wired connection preferred. Have phone hotspot as backup
  • Know the rules. No headphones, no leaving frame, no reading questions aloud (varies by exam)
$78,000
Starting Salary
$125,000
Mid-Career
+25%
Job Growth
162,900
Annual Openings

Career Paths

Computer Systems Analyst

SOC 15-1211
+0.1%

Evaluate computer systems and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

Median Salary:$99,270

Choose Your Program Based on Your Profile

Arizona State University Online

  • You want the largest, most established online CS program
  • You need 24/7 technical and academic support
  • You prefer flat-rate tuition regardless of residency
  • You value extensive virtual lab access and industry partnerships

Penn State World Campus

  • You want advanced technology like VR programming labs
  • You prefer identical curriculum to prestigious on-campus program
  • You can afford higher tuition for premium student experience
  • You value Penn State's brand recognition and alumni network

University of Maryland Global Campus

  • You're military personnel or veteran seeking flexibility
  • You need asynchronous courses that accommodate irregular schedules
  • You prefer accelerated 8-week course format
  • You're interested in government contractor or defense industry careers

Southern New Hampshire University

  • You want personalized attention with dedicated success advisor
  • You prefer private university experience at public university price
  • You need competency-based learning to accelerate through material
  • You value multiple start dates and maximum scheduling flexibility

University of Florida Online

  • You want the best value with lowest tuition and highest graduation rate
  • You prefer smaller cohort size for personalized attention
  • You're interested in Florida's growing technology sector
  • You want access to research opportunities and graduate programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees

How long does it take to get a Computer Science degree?
A bachelor's degree takes 4 years (120 credits). Accelerated programs may complete in 3 years. Master's degrees take 1.5-2 years. Online programs often offer flexible pacing, with some competency-based programs like WGU allowing faster completion. (IPEDS, University catalogs)
Can you get a Computer Science degree online?
Many accredited universities offer fully online Computer Science degrees. Top ABET-accredited online programs include Oregon State University, WGU, Regis University, and CU Boulder. Georgia Tech's OMSCS is highly regarded for master's students at just $7,000 total. Online graduates receive identical diplomas and report similar career outcomes to on-campus peers. (OnlineU, BestColleges, US News)
Is a Computer Science degree worth it?
With a median salary of $133,080 and 15% job growth through 2034, CS degrees offer exceptional ROI. A bachelor's in computer and information sciences has an ROI of 716%, the highest of any major. CS graduates had the highest average starting salary in 2024 at $88,907. Most graduates recoup their educational investment within 3-6 years. (BLS OES 2024, NACE Salary Survey, Payscale College ROI Report)
What are the best schools for Computer Science?
Top-ranked programs according to US News 2025 include MIT, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, UC Berkeley, and Harvard University. Georgia Tech ranks #5 for undergraduate CS. For online programs, Oregon State and Arizona State lead in scale and support. (US News Rankings 2025)
What are the requirements for a Computer Science degree?
Prerequisites include Calculus I-II, Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, and Statistics for BS programs. BA programs have lighter math requirements. Core coursework covers programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, and software engineering. ABET accreditation requires 15 credit hours of mathematics including discrete math, probability, and statistics. (ABET Standards, University catalogs)
Do you need a Computer Science degree for entry-level jobs?
A degree helps pass applicant tracking systems, but it's not always required. About 43 million Americans work in tech without CS degrees. Bootcamp graduates have similar employment rates at major tech companies (6.03% vs 6.60%). However, the 2025 market is competitive, degrees combined with portfolios, internships, and certifications provide the strongest positioning. (Indeed Survey, Career Karma, BLS)
What's the job market like for Computer Science graduates?
The long-term outlook is strong with 15% projected growth (2024-2034) and 317,700 annual openings. However, 2025 presents challenges: over 100,000 tech layoffs, 71% decline in software development job postings since 2022, and 6.1% unemployment for recent CS graduates. AI, cybersecurity, and cloud roles show the strongest demand. (BLS OOH 2024, Oxford Economics, New York Fed)
Is a bootcamp or degree better for Computer Science?
Bootcamps offer faster ROI (14-18 months to recoup $15,000 investment) with 71% job placement rates. CS degrees provide higher long-term earnings, broader career options, and are preferred for AI research or FAANG companies. Bootcamp grads average $69,079 starting salary. CS grads average $88,907. Choose bootcamps for quick entry. Choose degrees for maximum career flexibility. (CIRR Data, Course Report, Research.com)
What skills do Computer Science graduates need?
Key skills include programming languages, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication. Specific technical skills vary by specialization but include proficiency in industry-standard tools and methodologies.
How much do Computer Science graduates earn?
The median salary for Computer Science professionals is $133,080 nationally. Entry-level positions start around $79,850, with experienced professionals earning over $211,450.

How We Rank Computer Science Degree Programs

Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024

Of the 45 online computer science programs we rank, Texas A&M University-College Station's Bachelor's in Computer Science earns the highest Hakia Score. Each is graded on real graduation, admissions, salary, and tuition data. In-state tuition across the list spans $1,000 to $43,900.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

National salary data for computer science graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2024Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024National and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code MappingPrograms identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources and Methodology

Graduation rates, enrollment data, tuition costs, and institutional characteristics for all accredited higher education institutions

Salary data and employment statistics for computer science occupations (SOC codes 15-1252, 15-2051, 15-1212)

Enrollment trends, graduation rates, and outcomes for distance education programs

Student Reviews and Satisfaction Data

Aggregated from Reddit, Niche.com, Google Reviews, and institutional surveys between January 2024 and December 2025

Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.