Computer science is a diverse field of study that includes cybersecurity, data science, programming, and more. Learners in Maine can find affordable online computer science degree programs to learn computer science fundamentals. Many of these programs also offer concentrations to prepare students for individual career paths.
Online college courses are still a developing way to complete an undergraduate program. Many schools have limited online learning offerings, compared to their on-campus higher education programs. As a result, there aren't any online bachelor's degrees in computer science offered by Maine universities, but there are many out-of-state programs that students in Maine can enroll in.
Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs for Maine Students
Online students in Maine aren't limited to programs offered in New England. Mainers can pursue online programs in other states to help them earn a convenient and affordable computer science degree.
1. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University has in-person learning opportunities in neighboring New Hampshire, but Maine students can earn a Bachelor of Science in computer science fully online. This degree includes four specialization options: cybersecurity, project management, data analysis, and software engineering. Students can also transfer up to 90 credit hours from a community college or other university.
The online tuition rate at SNHU is $330 per credit hour.
2. Colorado State University
Colorado State University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science program. This bachelor's program prepares graduates for careers in programming, software development, and cybersecurity. Students have six specializations that they can choose from including artificial intelligence and machine learning, computing systems, and software engineering.
CSU offers in-state tuition to all online students. Mainers attending CSU have a tuition rate of $476 per credit hour.
3. University of Florida
The University of Florida's online learning programs include a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students can use this program as a full degree, or degree completion program, with equivalent transfer credits or an associate degree. This degree can lead to careers as information security analysts, computer programmers, and more.
The online tuition rate for in-state students is $129.18 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay a rate of $552.62.
4. Louisiana State University
Online students at Louisiana State University can earn a Bachelor of Science in computer science. LSU uses project-based education to give students hands-on learning experiences with in-demand skills like programming languages, data structures, and algorithm designs.
All online students at LSU have a tuition rate of $325 per credit hour.
5. University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix provides the opportunity to earn information technology certifications alongside a Bachelor of Science in computer science. These certifications can highlight individual skills like cybersecurity, programming languages, and cloud computing. This fully asynchronous degree allows students to complete their degrees with full-time or part-time class schedules.
Students from any state pay $398 per credit hour at the University of Phoenix.
6. Florida State University
Florida State University's online program, Distance@FSU, offers students a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students will work with operating systems, database structures, and other computer science methodologies. Students who complete this program will be ready to pursue their master's degree or career.
In-state students at FSU pay $180.49 per online credit hour, while out-of-state students pay a rate of $686.04.
7. Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) is an online college that offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science that has ABET accreditation. This degree's main focus is artificial intelligence, but students will also work with data structures and other information systems.
Online students will pay about $357 per online credit hour. However, the school offers a flat rate, allowing students to complete as many courses as they can in a semester, meaning this amount could be cheaper as more classes are completed.
8. Capella University
The Bachelor of Science in computer science can be completed at Capella University using one of two education pathways. Students can use the asynchronous FlexPath or the traditional GuidedPath. Both programs include the same courses in software engineering, data science, and web development.
FlexPath students pay a flat rate of $2,500 per 12-week session, while GuidedPath students have tuition rates of $365 or $415 per credit hour based on the level of the course.
9. University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus has a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science program. Coursework includes data analytics, software engineering, and more. Students can combine this degree with popular minors like business administration and data science.
Students at UMGC have three tuition rates. In-state students pay $324 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $499. Military students pay a tuition rate of $250, no matter where they live or where they're stationed.
10. Full Sail University
Students at Full Sail University have enrollment opportunities for a Bachelor of Science in computer science online or on campus. Students will take courses on computer architecture, networks, and software engineering. This degree has two concentration options: artificial intelligence or mobile development.
Full Sail University's online students pay $558 per credit hour.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs
Online computer science degrees have various specializations that can lead to different careers. Students often have questions about career opportunities, costs, and how to pay for these degrees.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree?
Students with an online computer science bachelor's degree can pursue multiple career paths. Some of the most common career paths include cybersecurity professionals, systems analysts, and web developers. Undergraduate degree holders can also use their degrees to pursue graduate school for more advanced career opportunities.
How Much Is an Online Computer Science Degree?
The average cost of an online bachelor's degree is around $41,000. This rate will change depending on your school and the length of time your program takes. In-state, nonprofit, public schools will generally have the lowest tuition rates. Students also will have lower costs if they use transfer credits to complete their degree in fewer than four years.
How Do I Pay for an Online Computer Science Bachelor's Degree?
There are multiple ways to pay for a computer science degree. Students should fill out the FAFSA each year to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. Learners should also apply for private financial aid (i.e., grants and scholarships) from the school or nonprofits.
Find an Online Degree in Computer Science
Many of the top-ranking schools in the country have online degree programs, with many computer science bachelor's degrees available. Use the resources on BestAccreditedColleges.org to learn more about schools, their degree programs, and what you need to do to submit your application today.
