Although nearly every industry requires computer science professionals, not all colleges offer these degrees. Fortunately for Illinois-based learners, in-state and out-of-state schools offer online programs, including online bachelor's degrees in computer science.
Earning an online bachelor's degree or enrollment in an undergrad degree completion program can help you learn the fundamental skills needed to start your career or work towards a master's degree program. There are many affordable online computer science degrees to help students financially.
Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Illinois
Students can find computer science degrees from affordable online colleges in Illinois. These degree programs offer fully online coursework, with internship and capstone opportunities to develop hands-on experience.
1. National Louis University
National Louis University has on-campus offerings in Illinois and Florida, but the Bachelor of Science in computer science and information systems can be earned fully online. This degree includes specialization options like data analytics, network security, and software development. Many students also use minors like business administration to expand their studies.
Students at National Louis University have a flat rate of $5,940 per semester for full-time enrollment, with multiple other rates based on various part-time enrollment statuses.
2. DePaul University
DePaul University's online education extends beyond its Chicago campus. Online students can pursue a degree completion program through DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media. This program has stricter prerequisites and admission requirements than some bachelor's programs. Students must have completed 30 credit hours (45 if you're coming from a quarter model) and have a 2.0 GPA; they must also be in good standing with the school they are transferring from.
Full-time students (12-18 credit hours) at DePaul pay a flat tuition rate of $15,065 per semester. DePaul's students also can qualify for financial aid programs or reduce costs with more transfer credits.
3. Lewis University
Lewis University offers a fully online accelerated Bachelor of Science in computer science. The program includes hands-on coursework covering programming languages, computer network design, and cybersecurity. It uses accelerated eight-week courses that increase scheduling flexibility.
The online accelerated degree programs at Lewis University have a tuition rate of $625 per credit hour.
Other Affordable Computer Science Degrees in the U.S.
Online college programs reduce many of the costs associated with in-person learning. Students in Illinois can find enrollment opportunities across state lines to find different concentration opportunities.
1. Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. This program has ABET accreditation and allows students to incorporate certificates into their online coursework. Although this degree has an artificial intelligence focus, students will also study data structures, computer architecture, and computer theory.
Western Governors University offers a flat rate where students can complete as many courses as possible — this comes out to an average of $357 per credit hour.
2. Capella University
Students at Capella University can earn their Bachelor of Science in computer science. This degree can be earned through the FlexPath (self-paced) or the GuidedPath (traditional online learning). Both paths have different scheduling options but include the same high-quality education. Students will take courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, problem-solving, and more.
FlexPath students pay a flat rate of $2,500 per 12-week semester, regardless of total credit load. GuidedPath students will pay either $365 or $415 per credit hour, based on the level of course being taken.
3. University of Florida
Students at the University of Florida can earn a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Graduates of this program can work as systems analysts, database administrators, web developers, and computer programmers. Students can pursue a four-year degree or a degree completion program after an associate degree or with equivalent transfer credits.
Floridian students pay $129.18 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $552.62.
4. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University offers a four-year degree and a degree completion option for its Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students in the degree completion program must complete at least 30 through ODU. This ABET-accredited degree program teaches skills like data science, machine learning, and web development.
ODU charges in-state students a $408 tuition rate, while out-of-state students have a rate of $439 per credit hour.
5. Oregon State University
There are two options for computer science students at Oregon State University: a bachelor's degree and a post-baccalaureate degree. All students at Oregon State University pay $428 per credit hour.
The Bachelor of Science in computer science program allows students out of high school or with some transfer credit to earn an undergraduate degree. The post-baccalaureate program is designed for students with a different bachelor's degree to return to school and utilize their previously completed general education credits.
6. Franklin University
Franklin University has a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students will work with the fundamentals of operating systems and cybersecurity with diverse elective opportunities. In addition to electives, students can add micro-credentials to their degree program.
The online tuition rate at Franklin University is $398 per credit hour.
7. University of Wisconsin Superior
The University of Wisconsin Superior offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students will use programming languages, software engineering, database systems, and more. This program relies heavily on hands-on projects both in coursework and through internships and other real-world experiences.
FAQs About Online Degrees in Computer Science
Computer science is a widely used degree, but aspiring students have many questions about these programs. Some of the most common questions include costs, what to expect, and what career opportunities these degrees can lead to.
How Much Is an Online Computer Science Degree?
An online computer science degree costs about $41,000 on average. There are several ways to reduce these costs, though. Beyond financial aid packages, students should use transfer credits from community colleges or other programs to reduce total credit requirements.
Additionally, students should look for schools that offer lower average tuition. The lowest average tuition costs will be found at in-state, nonprofit, and public schools.
What Can I Expect from an Online Computer Science Degree?
Individual courses will vary from program to program, but there are many common traits of computer science degree programs. Students will work with computer systems, information security methodologies, and general information technology skills. Students will also work on communication, project management, and other related competencies.
What Can I Do With an Affordable Online Computer Science Degree?
Affordable online computer science bachelor's degrees can lead to multiple careers, like computer programming, web development, and cybersecurity. These degrees can also lead to online master's degree programs.
Explore Online Degrees in Computer Science
There are many quality online higher education programs, but some will be better than others for your individual goals. Use the resources on BestAccreditedColleges.org to research degree options across the country including admission requirements, accreditation status, and how you can submit your application today.
