Computer science is the field of study that covers software and hardware used in computing systems. Some of the most common computer science career paths include software development, cybersecurity, data structure management, and web development, but there are many more concentrations and specializations within the industry.
Students with computer science career goals can attend affordable online colleges that offer a Bachelor of Science in computer science or similar degrees. These degrees provide online students with the fundamentals needed to begin their careers or pursue online master's degree programs and advanced certifications.
Low-Cost Online Computer Science Degree Programs
Many top-ranking online colleges offer affordable computer science majors to students. These online bachelor's degrees in computer science teach many of the most in-demand skills like problem-solving, understanding programming languages, the basics of machine learning, and application development.
Some of these programs are strictly general computer science degrees, while other programs will offer specializations to pursue concentrated skill sets. If you have specific career goals within the industry, it's important to review each program before seeking enrollment.
1. University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students can use electives to customize this degree plan to prepare for specific careers in the field, like being a business analyst, software engineer, computer system analyst, or programmer. Coursework in this computer science bachelor's degree is offered through a fully asynchronous format to increase flexibility.
The online tuition rates at the University of Florida are based on residency. In-state tuition rates are $129.18 while out-of-state students have a tuition rate of $552.62 per credit hour.
2. Louisiana State University
Students can complete a Bachelor of Science in computer science through LSU's distance learning programs. Learners will study computer programming, data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving skills. LSU uses project-based online learning to gain hands-on experience and build a portfolio that can be used to apply for jobs after graduation.
The online tuition rate at LSU is $325, regardless of residency or enrollment status.
3. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University is a leader in online higher education and offers multiple online bachelor's programs, like a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students will review software project planning, agile software methodologies, work with programming languages, and more.
SNHU offers concentrations in data analysis, information security, project management, and software engineering. All online students at SNHU pay $330 per credit hour.
4. University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) has an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Coursework includes data analytics, computer architecture, database management, and the fundamentals of computer networking. UMGC has transfer-friendly policies that allow students to bring up to 90 transfer credits or an associate degree to complete their degree program. Students who complete this program can qualify for accelerated master's degree programs.
UMGC has three tuition rates. In-state students pay $324 and out-of-state students pay $499. Military students pay $250 per credit hour, regardless of residency.
5. Arizona State University
Arizona State University's fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science covers many popular skills like algorithm design, artificial intelligence, operating systems, and more. This online degree leads directly to online master's degrees including big data systems and cybersecurity.
In addition to ASU's institutional accreditation, this online bachelor's program has the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET accreditation. Online students at ASU pay $744 per credit hour.
6. Indiana University
Indiana University's online learning program, IU Online, offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science. This degree includes core coursework focused on cloud computing, database management, and programming. Even though this degree is offered fully online, students will have opportunities for internships and capstone projects to develop their skills further.
Indiana University has two tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. The two tuition rates are $290 and $390 per credit hour respectively.
7. Oregon State University
Students can complete a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science through an online at Oregon State University. Students can choose from two concentrations: applied computer science and cybersecurity. OSU works on a quarter system and has 180 unit credits, which is the equivalent of a traditional 120-credit-hour degree program, and students can begin their degree program in any of the four quarters.
Online students at OSU pay $428 per credit hour, and there is no rate change based on residency.
8. University of the People
University of the People is an accredited, fully online tuition-free university. Students can complete a self-paced Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students will learn the fundamentals of computer science, including programming, software engineering, and data science. The degree includes 40 total courses, and most students can complete the degree in less than two and a half years.
University of the People is tuition-free; instead, it uses a pay-as-you-go model where students pay to take exams at the end of each course. Each course assessment costs $140, but students can qualify for financial aid programs.
9. Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science — which is one of their degrees that doesn't have an on-campus equivalent. Students can use electives to focus on other aspects of computer science and information technology, but the degree doesn't have formal concentrations. Graduates will develop competencies in programming languages, data management, data science, and more.
Online students have a $449 tuition rate for online undergraduate programs, but military students qualify for a $250 tuition rate.
10. Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science online, on-campus, and through its education centers. This bachelor's degree includes coursework focused on computer architecture, operating system administration, software engineering, and more.
Saint Leo offers internships and co-curricular activities to students in online and in-person programs, allowing for hands-on experience and networking opportunities for students.
The online tuition rate at Saint Leo University is $425 per credit hour.
FAQs About Affordable Computer Science Programs
Computer science is a rapidly growing field, but students often have questions about computer science degree programs. Some of the most common questions about about cost and value.
How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?
The average cost of an online bachelor's degree is around $41,000. To find the most affordable online degree program, look for in-state (or schools with one rate), nonprofit, or public schools. These universities will almost always have the lowest rates. You should also fill out the FAFSA form and apply for federal, state, and privately offered financial aid programs.
Is a Two-Year Computer Science Degree Worth It?
A two-year computer science degree has value, but only in specific circumstances. Some entry-level positions might only require an associate's degree, but most will need a bachelor's or higher. Completing a two-year degree from a community college is a good way to earn credits that can help reduce your total course load at more expensive institutions.
Is a Low-Cost Online Computer Science Program Respected By Employers?
Online computer science degrees will be respected by employers as long as they come from an accredited school. Accredited programs meet standards set by third-party groups. Most employers will care more about the quality of your education than they will about the cost of tuition.
Find an Online Program Today
Although there are many computer science degrees available, some programs will be better for your career goals. Use our resources to research schools to find out more about their degree programs, admission requirements, and what you need to do to submit your application today. Find out more about your state's affordable online CS degrees below:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
