20 Best Affordable Online Computer Science/IT Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

An online Bachelor's in Computer Science/IT degree prepares graduates for a number of rewarding careers in areas such as:

• computer systems analysis

• Web design and development

• software development

• the management and maintenance of databases and networks

Digital technologies and computers impact every industry as well as many aspects of our daily lives. This creates an increasing need for qualified, experienced computer science professionals. Students who earn an online bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology qualify for positions designed to meet the modern demands for technological ingenuity and expertise. Check out the list below to learn more about this growing, dynamic field. There is also information the salary earnings and minimum educational qualifications required for most entry-level positions.

Methodology

Regardless of the specific career path you are following, there are hundreds of Bachelor's in Computer Science degrees available to meet a variety of interests and academic needs. When making your decision, however, there are a number of factors to keep in mind, including the size of the class and school and the average cost of the program. Narrowing down schools and programs is often time-consuming, particularly for students with work and family responsibilities. For this reason, we do the hard work for you. We started by conducting a search for the term "online Bachelor's in Computer Science/IT degrees" using the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator tool. We then narrowed down our search results from more than 130 schools into the top 20 based on the following ranking criteria. We also checked each school's website to verify accuracy.

Average Cost of Attendance

No matter where you are in your search, you've probably already considered tuition rates in your search. The cost of attendance is arguably one of the most important factors students think about when selecting a university or college. It is just as important to think about the quality and offerings of the program such as:

• internships

• concentrations

• specializations

• extracurriculars

For the purpose of this list, we ranked tuition based on one year of study for in-state students completing 15 hours per semester. We provided out-of-state tuition rates for your reference only.

Student/Faculty Ratio

When considering the size of a school and, ultimately, your future classes, it is helpful to look at student/faculty ratios. Think about your personal preferences and academic background as well as what matters most to you in a bachelor's degree. Do you prefer intimate relationships and experiences, individual attention, and more accountability that are often provided by smaller colleges? Or do you thrive on the hustle and bustle and the opportunities to pursue concentrations and specializations offered at larger state universities? For the purpose of this article, we awarded the most points to institutions with smaller class sizes as indicated by student-to-faculty ratios of 10 or fewer students per professor.

Ranking Top 20 Undergraduate Degree Programs in Computer Science/IT

20. Regent University

Virginia Beach, Virginia

The online BS in Computer Science from Regent University requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 3Program Website

The College of Arts & Sciences at Regent University offers a low-cost BS in Computer Science that's available entirely online. From a Christian worldview, students:

• improve processing efficiencies

• learn to solve sophisticated computational problems

• explore social and ethical challenges in computer science and tech careers

Consisting of eight-week online course sessions and 120 credit hours of study, the affordable online degree program investigates topics in:

• mobile and smart computing

• parallel and distributive programming

• data structures and algorithms

• software engineering

• operating systems,

• computer architecture

Graduates are prepared for careers in:

• web development

• networks administration

• software development and engineering

• database and data mining analysis.

19. Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, Tennessee

The online bachelor's degree in computer information technology from Austin Peay State University requires an internship.

Points: 3Program Website

Austin Peay State University offers an affordable online bachelor's degree in computer information technology with a concentration in database administration. Students are required to complete 120 hours for the online degree, including general education requirements and electives

Core areas of study include:

• database management

• Web development

• data modeling

• data communications and networking

• information security

Students are also exposed to:

• systems analysis and design

• content management systems

• computer science information systems

An internship in information technology is required for graduation. Those who complete the low cost online degree program are prepared for careers as:

• computer specialists

• Web developers

• database administrators

• programmers,

• software applications developers, to name a few.

18. Lamar University

Beaumont, Texas

The online BS in Computer Science from Lamar University requires 120 credit hours of study.

Points: 3Program Website

Lamar University's affordable BS in Computer Science is available entirely online. It consists of 120 credit hours of study. Offered through the Department of Computer Science, the broad-based online program emphasizes the areas of:

• computer architecture

• applications of computer science

• multimedia

• databases

• networking

• software engineering

• theory of programming languages

• information systems, data structures

• computer programming languages

Students benefit from state-of-the-art equipment, small classes, and faculty members with solid research credentials. The ABET-accredited online program prepares students for careers as:

• network administrators

• database administrators

• software/app developers

• programmers.

17. Old Dominion University

Norfolk, Virginia

The BS in Computer Science from Old Dominion University is available entirely online.

Points: 3Program Website

The inexpensive online BS in Computer Science degree at Old Dominion University is offered as both a degree completion program and as a full degree. Students complete either 30 credit hours of 120 credit hours, respectively. They prepare for careers in:

• professional software development

• information security analysis

• network and database administration

The cheap online degree program investigates topics such as:

• operating systems

• computational methods and software

• theoretical computer science

• data structures and algorithms

• programming languages,

• software engineering

Some classes are comprised of regular, live online meetings, while others are more flexible in terms of scheduling.

16. Dakota State University

Madison, South Dakota

The online BS in Computer Science from Dakota State University provides students with access to the latest hardware and software technologies.

Points: 3Program Website

Dakota State University's affordable online BS in Computer Science provides students with access to the latest hardware and software technologies to give them a head start on the job market. Throughout the curriculum, students benefit from access to the Information Assurance Lab, where they find anti-hacking, security, and networking tools. Students also have access to DSUnix, student-administered systems using Windows, Solaris, Irix, or Linux. The online degree program also includes coursework in:

• operating systems

• software engineering

• foundations of computation

• algorithms and optimization

• programming languages

• parallel computing

• data structures

• software security

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• programmers or analysts

• software developers

• senior systems administrators

• software engineers.

15. University of Maryland University College

Largo, Maryland

The online BS in Computer Science from University of Maryland University College requires 36 credit hours of coursework in the major.

Points: 3Program Website

The University of Maryland University College offers a low-cost online BS in Computer Science. Students will be able to optimize, design, and plan computer hardware and software systems for government and commercial environments. The versatile major offers:

• a foundation in graphics and visualization

• complex algorithms

• software development

• programming languages

The program includes the math, science, and theory behind modern computing. Specifically, students develop their knowledge of MATLAB, Octave, OpenGL, C++, and Java. Coursework includes:

• signal and image processing

• computer architecture and systems

• data analysis and structures, and more.

Students must complete 36 credits of online coursework in the major, 43 credits of elective and/or minor classes, and 41 credits of general education classes to graduate from the program.

14. Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

The online BS in Computer Science from Western Governors University requires 34 credit hours of independent study.

Points: 3Program Website

Western Governors University's affordable online BS in Computer Science consists of 34 courses to be completed independently at each student's pace. The online degree program is divided into a number of categories, including:

• scripting and programming

• the business of information technology

• network and security

• Web development

• IT fundamentals

Students develop their skills and knowledge as they learn:

• data manipulation

• technical communication

• operating systems

• secure systems analysis and design

• data management

Students are expected to complete at least 12 competency units, or three or four classes, per six-month term. The online program culminates in a capstone project to be completed before graduation.

13. University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, Illinois

The online BS in Computer Science from the University of Illinois Springfield requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 4Program Website

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Illinois Springfield offers an inexpensive online BS in Computer Science degree. The program allows students to develop a firm understanding of the core theories and fundamental skills of computer science. Students may choose to emphasize:

• systems security and information assurance

• software engineering

The choice enables students to tailor the program to meet their individual interests and career goals. The online curriculum includes:

• 36 credit hours of computer science program requirements

• 36 credit hours of information systems security program requirements

• 10 hours of electives

Graduates are prepared for graduate studies or entry-level positions in the field of computer science.

12. Park University

Parkville, Missouri

The online BS in Management/Computer Information Systems from Park University requires 63 credit hours of degree-specific core courses.

Points: 4Program Website

The inexpensive online BS in Management/Computer Information Systems at Park University encompasses technology solutions across all fields. These include:

• business analytics

• security

• networking in a global, evolving environment

The ACBSP-accredited program is available completely online. It consists of 120 hours of study, including 63 hours of degree-specific core courses divided between business classes such as:

• accounting

• financial management

• marketing

• organizational behavior

• management

• computer information systems

Students will develop their skills and knowledge of critical areas within the field, including:

• project management

• business analytics

• networking and security

• analysis and design

• business applications

• managing information systems

• Web programming,

• Python programming language.

11. Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, New Jersey

The online BA in Computer Science from Thomas Edison State University requires 39 credit hours of computer science coursework.

Points: 4Program Website

Thomas Edison State University offers the affordable online BA in Computer Science. It prepares adults for graduate education, advancement, or career change. Students develop both a broad knowledge of the traditional discipline of liberal arts as well as a greater depth of knowledge of the computer science field. The online program consists of:

• 60 hours of general education requirements

• 39 hours of computer science coursework

• 21 hours of electives

Required areas of study include:

• computer architecture

• operating systems

• discrete math

• calculus

• data structures

• introduction to programming

There is also a culminating liberal arts capstone course.

10. Saint Leo University

St. Leo, Florida

The online bachelor's degree in computer science from Saint Leo University requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 4Program Website

Saint Leo University offers a low-cost online bachelor's degree in computer science with a concentration in information assurance. It covers everything from information systems to computer networking to computer architecture. The 120-credit online curriculum is comprised of general education requirements as well as major coursework. Those pursuing the information assurance specialization complete an additional four classes in areas such as:

• penetration testing

• management of information security

• intranet/Internet security

• computer forensics

• network defense and security

• disaster recovery

Recommended electives include:

• linear algebra

• applied data mining

• computer information systems internship

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• information technology specialists

• systems administrators

• software engineers, and more.

9. Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

The online BS in Computer Science from Southern New Hampshire University requires 121 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 4Program Website

Southern New Hampshire University offers a low cost online BS in Computer Science degree. It consists of general education requirements as well as key courses in:

• object-oriented analysis and design

• advanced programming languages

• the lifecycle of software development

Through the 121-credit online program, students also develop an understanding of operating environments such as mobile, Windows, and Linux. They learn the ins and outs of languages such as C++, Java, and Python. Students also master software testing and development platforms, including:

• Maven

• OpenGL

• Eclipse

• Netbeans

Graduates are prepared for careers as computer systems analysts and software and applications developers.

8. Granite State College

Concord, New Hampshire

The online BS in Information Technology from Granite State College requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 4Program Website

Granite State College's low cost online BS in Information Technology has one of the lowest student-to-faculty ratios on our list. This enables students to build a foundation in:

• software tools

• systems analysis

• network systems

• programming

Students explore the business use of information and learn how to help companies apply technology to enhance their overall operations. The inexpensive online program consists of general education requirements as well as major requirements in information technology, including:

• database management systems

• visual programming

• human-computer interactions

• statistics.

Students must complete 120 hours to graduate, 30 of which must be taken at GSC.

7. Central Methodist University

Fayette, Missouri

Central Methodist University offers both a low-cost BA and an affordable BS in Computer Science online.

Points: 4Program Website

Central Methodist University a 120-hour affordable online computer science program. Students learn to build their problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills as they investigate how computer systems function. CMU offers both an online Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree. Each consists of coursework in:

• computer architecture and operating systems

• software and hardware

• programming languages

• database technologies

The online BA program includes a foreign language component, while the online BS program includes a course in analytical skills. The computer science major culminates in a senior thesis and a science seminar capstone experience.

6. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

The online BS in Computer Science from Fort Hays State University requires 65 credit hours within the major.

Points: 4Program Website

The affordable online BS in Computer Science at Fort Hays State University is comprised of 55 credit hours of general education requirements and 65 credit hours in major requirements. The program exposes students to networking cognates in areas such as:

• back-end and front-end web development

• database design and programming

• introduction to web development

Major required courses cover topics in:

• software engineering

• computer graphics

• programming languages

• operating systems

• data structures

• assembly language

• foundations of computing

Students also complete a three-credit-hour seminar before graduating.

5. Eastern New Mexico University

Portales, New Mexico

The online BS in Computer Science from Eastern New Mexico University requires 33 credit hours in computer science-related classes.

Points: 4Program Website

Eastern New Mexico University offers an affordable online BS in Computer Science. It's for students with a mathematical background who are interested in solving problems related to the implementation, analysis, and design of computer software. Students complete 38 hours in general education coursework as well as 33 hours in computer science-related classes such as:

• software engineering

• operating systems

• design and analysis of algorithms

• database design and programming

To round out the 120-hour degree program, students also delve into:

• data structures

• programming language concepts

• discrete mathematics

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• database managers

• consultants

• computer programmers

• systems analysts

• software engineers.

4. Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

Florida State University offers both a BA and a BS in Computer Science online.

Points: 4Program Website

Florida State University offers an affordable online Bachelor of Arts and a low-cost online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree. They provide a broad-based background for students looking for entry-level careers in computing. Both online degree programs offer a systems view of computing that emphasizes:

• object orientation

• the interdependence of design

• distributed networks and systems, from systems design to basic software

Focusing on a number of programming languages, the programs allow students to develop core competencies in:

• operating systems

• computer organization

• database structure

• programming

Graduates have the skills they need to:

• analyze and design algorithms

• solve programs,

• investigate the performance of computer software and hardware.

3. Middle Georgia State University

Macon, Georgia

The online BS in Information Technology from Middle Georgia State University offers seven degree concentrations.

Points: 4Program Website

Middle Georgia State University offers a low-cost online BS in Information Technology. Students can choose from seven concentrations in the field of information technology:

• integrated digital media and game design

• network technology and administration

• Web applications development

• software engineering

• cyber forensics

• cybersecurity

• critical infrastructure management

All students must complete a core curriculum that consists of general education requirements as well as classes in:

• web development

• network essentials

• application development

• computer programming,

• information technology

All students are required to complete a senior capstone experience before graduating.

2. University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

The online BS in Computer Science from the University of Florida allows student to tailor the program to their academic needs.

Points: 4Program Website

The University of Florida offer an affordable online BS in Computer Science degree. The program encourages students to explore the theoretical foundations of computation and information with flexibility via studies in the liberal arts. The online curriculum is comprised of six credits of major electives, 29 credits in foundation coursework, and 35 credits in core coursework in areas such as:

• data structures and algorithms

• information and database systems

• programming fundamentals

• software engineering

• computer organization

• operating systems

• applications of discrete structures

The program gives students the freedom to tailor their studies to meet their academic strengths, skills, and interests. Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• computer systems analysts

• programmers

• researchers

• software engineers

• business analysts.

1. South Texas College

McAllen, Texas

The online BAT in Computer and Information Technologies from South Texas College involves both the technical and the theoretical competencies.

Points: 4Program Website

South Texas College offers the affordable online Bachelor of Applied Technology in Computer and Information Technologies. It is comprised of coursework that involves both the technical and the theoretical competencies in the CIT profession. Technology-oriented classes with an emphasis on applying those technologies make up the core requirements for the program. Areas of study include:

• computer programming

• cybersecurity

• Web design

• database management

• information security

• programming languages

• system analysis and design

Students must also complete a required capstone experience. This will be either a course in cybersecurity assessments or a computer and information technology internship. The capstone enhances a graduate's educational experience and employment potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options for a Bachelor's in Computer Science/IT Degree?

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science and information technology are prepared for a number of positions as well as managerial roles that are often reserved for candidates with college experience. Below are four of the most popular career paths for graduates with an undergraduate degree in computer science.

• Computer and Information Systems (CIS) Managers: These professionals, also known as information technology managers, oversee all of the technology-based operations at large organizations and companies. Their day-to-day responsibilities include a combination of business administration, data analysis, software development, and programming. Other duties might include completing different administrative tasks such as hiring, screening, interviewing, and recruiting new employees or answering questions from employees not involved in CIS.

• Computer Network Architects: These professionals are responsible for developing and designing various telecommunication networks. They typically focus on wide area networks (WANs), which involves many users across different locations, and local area networks (LANs), which involves a small number of users in one location. Computer network architects also perform software and hardware upgrades.

• Software Developers: These professionals are responsible for evaluating, testing, and creating games, applications, and other types of software-based programs as well as the controls and systems needed by these applications to properly function. Software developers might also design flowcharts, diagrams, and models that instruct computer programmers on the best practices for writing proper and accurate code sequences.

• Computer Systems Specialists: These professionals, are also known as systems analysts. They are responsible for developing computer systems based on their organization's needs. In order to do so, they must be able to research the organizational structure of their client with the goal of creating systems that are not only user-friendly and efficient but that also optimize productivity.

How Much Can You Earn in This Field?

Due to the vast number of positions one can hold with a bachelor's in computer science, it is difficult to pinpoint one specifically salary within the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for all computer and information technology occupations was $86,320 in May 2018, higher than the national annual wage of $38,640 for all occupations. Those with a master's degree and additional experience in the field may be entitled to more responsibility and, as a result, higher earnings. But bachelor's recipients may still earn a decent salary as well. In fact, the BLS reports the following median annual wages as of May 2018:

• Computer Network Architects: $109,020

• Software Developers: $105,590

• Information Security Analysts: $98,350

• Database Administrators: $90,070

• Computer Systems Analysts: $88,740

• Computer Programmers: $84,280

• Netowrk and Computer Systems Administrators: $82,050

• Web Developers: $69,430

• Computer Support Specialists: $53,470

What Courses Will You Take in an Online Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science/IT?

The field of computer science is a broad one that can lead to a multitude of career paths depending on the online programs offered and the school itself. The study of computer science emphasizes the theoretical and mathematical basis of using calculations like algorithms to process data and information. Therefore, students considering pursuing a Bachelor's in Computer Science online should be familiar with advanced mathematical concepts and theories.

Although every program is different, most courses expose students to every element of the computing pipeline from software and hardware applications to the network databases and configurations that connect the components. Some popular concentrations offered in online bachelor's degrees in computer science include

• software engineering

• game development,

• network and security.

When considering the courses you will take in this program, keep in mind that some schools stress the mathematical aspect of the field, requiring courses in calculus and linear algebra, statistics, and probability theory. Others offer a liberal arts academic experience, providing courses that offer an overview of computer science through a broad spectrum of study areas. Although no two schools will offer the exact same curriculum, some common courses that can be found in most programs include:

• Machine Learning

• Data Mining

• Cryptography

• Artificial Intelligence

• Programming Languages

• Cybersecurity

• Database Management

• Operating Systems

• Design and Analysis of Algorithms

• Information Security

How Long Will It Take To Earn an Online Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science/IT?

As we mentioned, no two programs are alike, and curriculum requirements will differ from school to school. Consequently, the time to completion will also depend on a number of factors. In most cases, online computer science bachelor's degrees are comprised of 120 credits of study, although some may require more, particularly if you do not have a background in mathematics or if you have not completed calculus or linear algebra. In most cases, however, students can earn their degree within four years without transferring previously earned college credits into the program. Students enrolled on a full-time basis who have an associate degree under their belt may graduate in as few as two years. Some schools provide accelerated tracks for students with a B.S. or a B.A. in an unrelated field, allowing them to earn their degree in just under one year.

Is Accreditation Important for Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Science?

When choosing a college or university for your bachelor's degree in computer science, it is important to determine whether the school is accredited. Accreditation is a peer review process that indicates that both the program and school have met rigorous standards set by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Education. Both agencies are responsible for establishing and implementing educational standards and policies to ensure that all colleges and universities are held to the same criteria for academic excellence and that students are receiving a high-quality education that is recognized by employers.

In terms of the school itself, a college or university can receive either national or regional accreditation. Although national accreditation is typically awarded to more affordable schools that accept a wider range of transfer units, most institutions in the U.S. have earned regional accreditation, which often has stricter qualifying standards. As a result, regional accreditation is often preferred over national accreditation by several licensing boards. Also, as you are considering programs, keep in mind that graduate schools typically only recognize bachelor's degrees earned from a regionally accredited college or university.

When choosing the best online bachelor's degree in computer science/IT, look for a program that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) as well as its four commissions, namely the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC). Also, ensure that the school is either regionally or nationally accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the CHEA or U.S. Department of Education.

Are There Any Professional Organizations for Graduates With a Bachelor's in Computer Science/IT Degree?

Joining a professional organization is a great way for current students and recent graduates to not only learn more about their chosen field but also to benefit from:

• active job boards

• online trainings

• networking events

• seminars and presentations

• other services for those entering the job market.

Three popular professional organizations for recipients of a bachelor's degree in computer science include:

• Network Professional Association (NPA)

• Association of Software Professionals (ASP)

• International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)

Keep in mind that, while there are certainly many benefits of pursuing an on-campus program, online learning offers the flexibility that working or nontraditional students may need to continue to meet their family and work responsibilities while furthering their education. In addition, choosing an online bachelor's degree in information technology or computer science, whether it be online or on-campus, is a personal decision, Only you can determine the right program to meet your interests, academic needs, and professional goals. We hope this ranked list of the top 20 affordable online bachelor's degrees in computer science/IT serves as a useful resource as you begin to narrow down your options.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the top 20 affordable online bachelor's degrees in computer science/IT.

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