Computers are essential parts of daily life and there is a need for trained computer scientists. Computer science is a field of study that focuses more on skills like software engineering, programming languages, data structure analysis, and artificial intelligence and less on hardware as computer engineers do.
Aspiring computer scientists must complete a four-year degree before entering the industry. Many affordable online colleges have begun offering fully online bachelor's degree programs to help meet the demand for these professionals, including colleges in Arizona. Most computer science bachelor's degree programs are offered as Bachelor of Science degrees, but some programs will offer a Bachelor of Applied Science or similar program.
Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Arizona
Arizona-based online students can find enrollment opportunities in some of the top-ranking computer science degree programs at in-state schools. Many affordable online computer science degree programs include differing concentrations and specializations that prepare students for individual career paths within the industry.
1. Arizona State University
Arizona State University's students can complete an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Some skills that ASU's online students will work on include artificial intelligence and machine learning, computer networks, information systems, and algorithm design. This degree can be completed as part of an accelerated online master's degree.
The online tuition rate at ASU is $744 per credit hour, regardless of residency.
2. University of Phoenix
The fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science from the University of Phoenix includes information technology fundamentals but also covers machine learning, big data, and other advanced topics more deeply. Students will combine general education, major-specific courses, and electives culminating in a capstone project.
Students can also complete IT certifications within their degree program to highlight specific skills. The online tuition rate at the University of Phoenix is $398 per credit hour.
3. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in applied computing. Though the name is different, it is a degree program that covers the same skills as other computer science degrees. Some of the skills taught in the degree program include Agile methodology, operating systems, software engineering, information systems, and computer engineering.
Students can bring up to 60 transfer credits (or an associate degree) to satisfy general education and prerequisites. The University of Arizona has a tuition rate of $525 per credit hour for this degree program.
Other Affordable Computer Science Degrees in the U.S.
The rise of online higher education has eliminated state borders for learners. Some schools have fully eliminated residency-based tuition rates (in-state versus out-of-state). This makes online degree programs more affordable than on-campus versions.
1. Trident University
Trident University is a fully online college that offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students in this degree program can choose a cybersecurity concentration that builds upon their other computer science coursework. In addition to the hard skills needed to work in computer science, students will learn soft skills like problem-solving, decision-making, and legal and ethical concerns.
The tuition rate for Trident University's students is $415 per credit hour.
2. Full Sail University
Full Sail University offers in-person education opportunities at its Florida campus, but it also has diverse online offerings. Its Bachelor of Science in computer science has two concentrations: mobile development and artificial intelligence. Students will focus on software engineering, computer systems and networks, and computer architecture.
Online students at Full Sail University will pay $558 per credit hour.
3. Auburn University
Auburn University offers a bachelor's degree completion program in computer science. To be eligible for this program, students must have transfer credits or an associate degree, roughly 60 total credit hours, or another bachelor's degree. Students will complete 18 core courses and two electives at Auburn to earn their Bachelor of Computer Science.
The tuition rate for this degree completion program is $949 per credit hour, but students can qualify for financial aid programs to reduce overall costs.
4. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University has an online Bachelor of Science in computer science degree. ENMU has small class sizes, online tutoring, and other student services to promote learning. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in web development, application development, software development, and data analytics.
New Mexico residents have a tuition rate of $174.75 while non-residents will pay $257.25 per credit hour.
5. University of North Dakota
The Bachelor of Science in computer science at the University of North Dakota can be completed fully online or on-campus. Students will gain knowledge through extensive hands-on learning, including system design, application and web development, and creating VR and other computer animations.
In-state and out-of-state students have a tuition rate of $611.75 per online credit hour.
6. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University is a leading provider of online degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students can choose from four concentrations for this degree, including information security, project management, data analysis, and software engineering.
Students can become computer programmers, systems analysts, or software developers. The online tuition rate for SNHU students is $330 per credit hour.
7. Excelsior University
Excelsior University offers students a Bachelor of Science in computer science with four concentration options. Learners can focus on artificial intelligence, networking and cloud computing, software development, or data science.
Undergraduate degree programs have a tuition rate of $510 per credit hour, regardless of residency.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs
Students in Arizona looking to enroll in an online computer science program often have questions about these degree programs. These questions commonly focus on what they should expect, how much they will pay, and how to pick the best program.
What Can I Expect from an Online Computer Science Degree?
Online computer science degrees cover the hard and soft skills associated with computer science. These degree programs will commonly include coursework related to programming languages, like Java and C++, application and web development, and more.
Students will also sometimes take business and general education courses that develop communication and critical thinking skills.
How Much Is an Online Computer Science Degree?
The average cost of an online bachelor's degree is $41,000, but this can be adjusted based on different factors. Students should submit their FAFSA to qualify for federal financial aid, but several factors will indicate a school will be more affordable.
On average, the most affordable schools are in-state, nonprofit, public universities. Students who take a full-time schedule also pay less in total than part-time students.
How Do I Choose the Best Computer Science Degree Program for Me?
There are multiple methodologies that you can use to review programs. First, review your career goals. Many specializations in the field might require certain minors or degree concentrations. Find schools that offer your degree, and then review factors like flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, and admissions policies.
Explore Online Programs Today
If you want more help finding the best computer science degree for your needs, turn to BestAccreditedColleges.org. Our resources can help you learn more about individual schools, degree programs, and admission requirements. Once you pick a school or schools to apply to, we make it easy to start your application today.
