30 Best Computer Science Schools with Online Degree Programs

Individuals looking to enter a career in technology can benefit greatly from a computer science degree. Graduates from the best computer science schools are hired by high-profile companies like Dell, Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle, among others.

The field of computer science is expected to increase 19 percent through 2020, making it an excellent place to begin a new career. The average salary for graduates with a master degree and experience in the top levels of computer science is about $90,000. Employers are pushing their current staff to obtain a degree and most only hire recruits who have obtained at least a bachelors in computer science degree, preferably from a top computer science school. This computer science program ranking aims to identify those top schools.

There are a couple of options to consider when deciding which colleges for computer science and degree programs to consider. While some applied sciences students have the time and ability to attend traditional classes at colleges and universities, others are looking to obtain a bachelors in computer science or master degree while working around their work and home lives. For this reason, several computer science colleges around the United States offer online computer science degree programs tailored for working professionals. These online schools offer flexible, affordable cs degree programs that can be completed around the student’s other obligations. Finding a reputable online computer science degree program can be essential for meeting a student’s unique needs.

If you’re interested in an online degree in computer science, whether it’s an undergraduate program, masters or PhD, it’s important to consider factors like the school’s graduation rate, cost, student to faculty ratio, number of applicants admitted and university rankings.

Here are the 30 best computer science schools, out of all colleges for comp sci in the U.S.:

#1 – Peirce College

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tuition: $9,302

Peirce College, our top computer science pick, offers online Computer Science programs that lead to degrees in Information Technology and Technology Management. During their course of study, students can earn IT Certifications through a partnership with CompTIA. The IT program offers concentrations in Networking, Administration and Information Security, or Programming and Application Development. The Technology Management program is designed for adults who already have some college level credits.

#2 – University of Minnesota

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Tuition: $15,589

At the University of Minnesota, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management. The program includes the same classes as the traditional on-campus program but it allows student more flexibility. Students have access to individual advising and student support services. Coursework can be completed 100 percent online.

#3 – University of Illinois

Location: Springfield, Illinois
Tuition: $9,049

The University of Illinois offers a fully accredited online computer science program that confers a bachelor’s degree upon completion. The program prepares graduates to either enter the workforce or continue on to graduate school. Students can decide between concentrations in software engineering or systems security and information assurance.

#4 – Jones College

Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Tuition: $9,051

Jones College’s online Computer Information Systems Bachelor’s degree prepares students for careers in the computer science field as computer programmers, systems analysts, and more. Coursework includes classes like Business Systems and Web Performance. Students must attend an online orientation before classes begin.

#5 – Park University

Location: Parkville, Missouri
Tuition: $9,326

Park University offers two online computer science-related degrees: Information and Computer science, and Computer Information Systems. Students can enroll in classes five times per year and each class lasts eight weeks. Students receive education in computer usage and business management, allowing them to be successful in a collaborative environment.

#6 – University of West Florida

Location: Pensacola, Florida
Tuition: $10,759

Students at the University of West Florida can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with an emphasis in Networking and Communications. The program gives students a solid foundation needed needed to be successful in the field of computer science. The program allows students to take courses that focus on areas like Business and Communications or Computer Web Development Technologies. Students must complete either an internship or a practicum before graduation.

#7 – King University

Location: Bristol, Tennessee
Tuition: $16,845

King University’s online Computer Science program offers a degree completion in Information Technology. The program requires 124 semester hours, though major coursework can be completed in less than 16 months. Students can pick from concentrations in Cyber Security, Network Management, or Programming. Students take a comprehensive general education assessment prior to graduation.

#8 – Milligan College

Location: Milligan, Tennessee
Tuition: $16,976

Milligan College offers an online degree in Computer Information Systems for non-traditional or working students. No previous college experience is required for the program. Students get to use the latest virtual technology as they listen to MP3s, podcasts, and use simulators for lab activities. The program uses the same high quality, personalized approach as a traditional on-campus program.

#9 – Siena Heights University

Location: Adrian, Michigan
Tuition: $8,298

Siena Heights University offers an online Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Information Systems. Students learn about principles related to ethics, analytical ability, creativity, and communications. The program is designed for working adults. Graduates often pursue positions as systems analysts, software programmers, and database administrations.

#10 – Daytona State College

Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Tuition: $9,302

At Daytona State College, students can earn an online Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology through the School of Engineering Technology. Students learn about development, delivery, management, and security of IT systems in both large and small scale environments. In order to enroll in the program, students must already have their associate’s degree.

#11 – Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology

Location: Okmulgee, Oklahoma
Tuition: $8,381

Students at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology can major in an online Bachelor’s of Technology degree in Information Technology. Concentrations are offered in Information Awareness and Forensics, Network Infrastructure, Software Development, and IT Expertise Management. Students may transfer up to 61 credit hours from a two year institution. In order to enroll in the program, they must already have an Associate in Applied Science or higher.

#12 – Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Location: Natchitoches, Louisiana
Tuition: $9,488

The online Computer Science program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana confers a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems. Students are given hands-on experience in database, cloud computing, networking, programming, and many other areas. During their study, students can earn certifications in Cisco, A+, Security+, and more. Concentration areas include Networking and Systems Management, Web Development, and Application Development.

#13 – Medaille College

Location: Buffalo, New York
Tuition: $9,698

Medaille College offers an online Business Administration in Information Systems degree completion program. Classes are offered in seven-week sessions with no scheduled class times, offering students flexibility for when they listen to lectures and complete their assignments. Professors at Medaille are experience in the field and ready to help students develop professional networks that will help them find employment after graduation.

#14 – Central Washington University

Location: Ellensburg, Washington
Tuition: $14,199

Central Washington University has two distinct online Computer Science programs. The Bachelor of Science degree can be completed through a traditional online program or as a FlexIT option. The latter requires students to already hold a two-year degree. They can specialize in Administration Management, Cybersecurity, or IT. The FlexIT option lets students pay a set fee for six months of “all you can learn” courses.

#15 – Old Dominion University

Location: Norfolk, Virginia
Tuition: $14,512

Old Dominion University’s online Bachelor’s in Computer Science degree teaches students through hands-on lab experience. Some classes are offered asynchronously, while other classes are offered through live online meetings where students attend virtually alongside their traditional on-campus counterparts. Some coursework is offered in an accelerated format and students can access the undergraduate program course material through computers or mobile devices.

#16 – University of Massachusetts

Location: Lowell, Massachusetts
Tuition: $15,965

The University of Massachusetts’ online Computer Science program confers a Bachelor’s in Information Technology. Course content is updated as technology improves, ensuring students learn the most relevant information in the field. Students must complete 120 credit hours and classes are flexible so that working adults can earn their degree.

#17 – George Mason University

Location: Fairfax, Virginia
Tuition: $27,347

At George Mason University, students can earn their online degree in Information Technology. The degree completion program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Students can attend classes on a full-time or part-time basis. They can take advantage of student support services, including phone consultations.

#18 – Northwood University

Location: Midland, Michigan
Tuition: $19,870

At Northwood University, students can earn an online degree in Computer Information Management. The program is offered as a degree completion program, meaning they must already have some credits or an associate’s degree to enroll. Students learn by way of case studies and a project based learning approach.

#19 – Indian River State College

Location: Fort Pierce, Florida
Tuition: $1,807

Indian River State College offers students an online degree in Information Technology Management/Cyber Security. Students must already hold an AA or AS degree to enroll in the program. They will complete courses in areas like database design and administration, network security, computer forensics, and business management.

#20 – St. Petersburg College

Location: Clearwater, Florida
Tuition: $7,499

At St. Petersburg College, students can earn an online Bachelor’s degree in Technology Development and Management. Courses are offered 100 percent online and take eight weeks to complete. Students can pick from four specializations: Data Analysis, Information Security Assurances, Project Management, and Software Development.

#21 – California State University

Location: Seaside, California
Tuition: $8,121

California State University’s Cal State Online program offers a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Students learn computer mathematics, programming, problem solving, and more through hands on, interactive projects and technical experience. Students must complete a professional portfolio and a capstone project before graduation.

#22 – University of Maine at Augusta

Location: Augusta, Maine
Tuition: $9,136

The University of Maine at Augusta offers an online Computer Information Systems degree, as well as an online Cybersecurity degree.Students in both programs benefit from the latest in virtual education, from video streaming to Class Capture and ITV. Students can complete the program on a full-time or part-time basis and no previous experience in computer science is required.

#23 – Arizona State University

Location: Tempe, Arizona
Tuition: $12,191

Arizona State University lets students pick from several online Computer Science programs, including Information Technology, Software Engineering, and Internet and Web Development. Students interested in information technology can pick from program tracks like security and administration, video game design and construction, and web applications.

#24 – Brandman University

Location: Irvine, California
Tuition: $13,830

Brandman University offers an online Bachelor’s degree in Computer Technology with emphases in Business Systems, Information Technology, or Project Management. All three concentrations allow students to receive specialized training in high demand areas. Courses are offered six times per year and last eight weeks each. Students receive support from start to finish through admission, financial aid, and registration offices.

#25 – University of Wisconsin

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Tuition: $13,940

Students at the University of Wisconsin can take advantage of its unique competency-based online degree in Information Science and Technology. The program uses a Flex Option where student progress is determined by assessment of key competencies instead of “seat time.” Students progress through the program one their own schedule and work with an Academic Success Coach instead of a professor to answer questions, determine progress, and work on a personal degree plan.

#26 – Georgia Southern University

Location: Statesboro, Georgia
Tuition: $16,032

Georgia Southern University’s online Computer Science program consists of WebBSIT degree program. This allows students interested in the field to complete a degree online. Since GSU’s online program is for degree completion, students must have already completed general electives to apply. The program is perfect for students who may not otherwise be able to complete a degree.

#27 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
Tuition: $22,017

Penn State World Campus offers an online Bachelor’s in Information Sciences and Technology. The program is available to beginning and advanced IT professionals. Students can work on credentials throughout the program to build their professional portfolio. There are two options in the program: Integration and Application, and Information Systems-Design and Development. The first is for students interested in business and working with high-level strategic organizations, while the second is designed for people who want to develop advanced information technology systems.

#28 – DePaul University

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Tuition: $29,756

DePaul University offers online Computer Science degree programs in Computer Science and Information Technology. The programs are completed 100 percent online and are not self-paced. Instead, students follow a schedule to keep them on track for completion. While classes are online, students must take in-person proctored exams.

#29 – South Texas College

Location: McAllen, Texas
Tuition: $1,320

South Texas College offers an online Computer Science program for a Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Technologies. The program gives students access to online advising, career counseling services, online orientation, and online tutoring. Students are taught technology skills, as well as professional skills like ethics, group work, and technical communications.

#30 – Western Governors University

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Tuition: $8,624

At Western Governors University, students can pick from a few online Computer Science programs. These include degrees in Information Technology, Software Development, Health Informatics, and Information Technology Management. The program is available to experienced IT professionals and students can pass through courses quickly because of the university’s competency-based approach.

Best Computer Science Schools – In Conclusion:

The 30 online colleges in this ranking of the best computer science schools will give students many options to consider. No matter which top computer science school you choose, whether it’s an undergraduate program, master degree or doctorate, we hope this objective computer science program ranking points you in the right direction.

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