Computer science is a rapidly expanding field. Aspiring computer scientists must earn a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field of study, such as software engineering or computer information systems. The demand for these professionals has led to schools in New York and other states offering affordable online computer science degrees.
Students in New York can enroll in online computer science bachelor's programs in-state and beyond to earn a degree and begin their career or pursue graduate degrees.
Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
New York State has some of the top-ranking colleges and universities in the nation. In-state students can pursue distance learning at many affordable online colleges in New York with lower tuition rates and access to different state-based financial aid opportunities.
1. Mercy University
Mercy University offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science through three on-campus opportunities as well as a fully online format. Students will develop skills related to operating systems, computer architecture, and software engineering.
Full-time online students pay $884 per credit hour while part-time students pay $892 per credit hour. Students at Mercy have access to multiple financial aid programs to cover these costs.
2. City University of New York - School of Professional Studies
Students at the City University of New York can complete a Bachelor of Science in information systems. This degree might not be called computer science, but this degree teaches many of the same skills. Students will work with application development, IT project management, and database management.
Full-time in-state students pay $288.75 per credit hour while part-time students pay $305. Out-of-state students pay $350 per credit, regardless of enrollment status. CUNY also offers no-cost textbooks for general education courses, which can help save additional money.
Other Affordable Computer Science Degrees in the U.S.
Online programs often ignore state borders. Learners can find online bachelor's degrees with different concentrations from schools throughout the country to prepare for their careers.
1. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students can choose from four specializations for this degree: data analysis, information security, project management, and software engineering. This degree utilizes accelerated semesters to help students work around their other responsibilities.
The online tuition rate at SNHU is $330 per credit hour.
2. Colorado State University
The online Bachelor of Science in computer science from Colorado State University has six concentration options. Students can take a general education track or more tailored options like artificial intelligence and machine learning, computing systems, and cybersecurity. Coursework can also qualify for credits in an accelerated master's degree program.
All students, regardless of residency, receive the in-state rate of $476 per credit.
3. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science with three concentration options. Students can select from data science, cybersecurity engineering, or software engineering. Online courses at CTU are five weeks long and allow for flexible scheduling.
Online tuition rates at Colorado Technical University are $340 per credit hour.
4. Indiana University
The Indiana University Bachelor of Science in computer science is offered fully online to students nationwide. This degree can lead to careers as systems analysts, computer programmers, system administrators, and more. Students can enroll in course-specific electives to pursue individual specializations.
In-state students pay a rate of $290 per credit while out-of-state students pay $390.
5. University of the People
The University of the People is a tuition-free online college with Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) accreditation. Students can complete courses on their schedule and pay as they go. This Bachelor of Science in computer science includes programming languages, data structures, and other information technology fundamentals.
Students at the University of the People pay $140 per course final examination for 40 total courses. There are school-offered financial aid programs that can help students cover these costs.
6. Franklin University
Franklin University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in computer science degree. Students can transfer up to 76% of the degrees required for 124 total credits. Coursework includes operating systems, information systems, and information science.
Online students pay $398 per credit hour.
7. Louisiana State University
Louisiana State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science through its Alexandria campus. LSU's program uses hands-on project-based learning to teach cybersecurity, operating systems, and programming languages.
The online tuition rate at LSU is $325 per credit hour, regardless of residency.
8. University of Florida
Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in computer science from the University of Florida. This online program is the same high-quality degree as U of F's in-person degree. Students will take courses in data analytics, web development methodologies, and software development.
In-state students pay $129.18 per credit hour while out-of-state students have a tuition rate of $552.62.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs
Computer science is an emerging field, but many students have questions about selecting the best degree program to become a computer scientist. Some common questions about these degrees are their costs, whether they are legitimate, and if they are worth it.
Should I Enroll in an Online Computer Science Program?
If you want to become a computer scientist, enrolling in an online computer science program will be your most convenient and affordable option. The availability of programs from other states can help you find the best program for your career goals.
How Much Is an Online Computer Science Degree?
An online bachelor's degree costs $41,000 on average over four years. However, there are several ways to reduce these costs, even beyond financial aid.
Most schools accept transfer credits or associate degrees from community colleges or other higher education which can reduce the total amount of required credits and increase affordability. Additionally, students can find more affordable degrees at in-state, nonprofit, and public schools.
Do Employers Respect Online Computer Science Degrees?
Employers respect online computer science degrees as long as they are accredited programs. In addition to school-based accreditation, look for recognition from groups like ABET. Most schools don't indicate that a degree was earned online, so employers, graduate schools, and certification exam providers generally won't even know that you have an online degree.
Find Online Computer Science Degree Today
There are many online computer science degree programs available nationwide. Use the resources on BestAccreditedColleges.org to learn more about these degree programs, admission requirements, and what you need to do to submit your application today.
