Do you find the idea of the latest computer innovations exciting and the prospect of working on the cutting edge of technology advances a driving force in your future professional plans? Is combining a salary with digital information, analyzing, problem-solving, and implementation an enticing option for your employment future?
Then you might consider the colleges and universities listed below to embark on a career in computer science that could put you at the forefront of a stimulating digital media or information technology career.
What is an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science provides a diverse array of career opportunities for students seeking a career that combines information technology innovations with real-world problem-solving in public, private, and even government industries. With a degree in computer science, gain employment as a computer programmer, computer systems analyst, network architect or even an information security analyst. Coursework is typically, heavily focused on math and programming instruction that will include key training in modern computer languages. Some programs offer testing assessments for applying students with industry-related experience. The assessments can give students course credit for work experience in the industry.
See Also: How Hard is it to Get a Job in Computer Science?
How Much Can You Earn With an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?
Since the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics has projected software development jobs will continue to grow through the year 2028 and has called for a faster-than-average job growth demand for the industry, a bachelor’s degree in computer science gives graduates excellent prospects for a number of information technology jobs. In 2020, computer science bachelor’s degree holders working as computer programs earned an annual median income of $89,190, while those working as computer systems analysts made a little more at $93,730. Software developers and information security analysts wages reported in 2020 higher at $110,114 and $103,590 respectively. For graduates interested in web development employment or digital designer jobs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported their job incomes in 2020 at about $77,200 annually.
What Is Required For an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?
To earn an online bachelor’s degree in computer science, most institutions require a high school transcript, transfer credits from a degree program at a similar institution, or demonstration of real-life computer work experience, typically in portfolio form. Many online computer science programs target working adults interested in expanding their industry skills and work experience and offer a variety of specializations or concentrations to provide more specific instruction in areas like cybersecurity, gaming programming, software development, and artificial intelligence (AI). Most programs require a capstone project at the end and some also prepare students to sit for professional certifications. While computer language experience is not necessary, familiarity with Java, HTML, or Python is helpful.
What Are the Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you interested in entering the innovative and challenging field of information technology and possibly earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, software development jobs are projected to continue to grow through 2028 at a faster-than-average job growth rate. So, a bachelor’s degree in computer science offers graduates a variety of employment prospects in information technology.
Since career opportunities with computers will continue to rise to meet demand, consider the skills you’ll need to find the job you really want. Think about jobs in computer science, information systems as well as information technology, and what the differences may be. Also, consider how confident you are in your math skills and your proficiency in science courses.
Does a computer science degree require more math and science courses or programming languages work?
A bachelor’s degree in computer science typically focuses on computer programming, computer analysis, cybersecurity, and even software program creation. According to Brian Eastwood at Northeastern University, Python and JavaScript are the top key programming languages students will learn and work with. While it isn’t necessary to be proficient in programming languages before entering a computer science bachelor’s program, students will find it beneficial. In addition, real-world experience with programming languages can be evaluated during the admissions process for possible course credit.
How important is cybersecurity training in a computer science degree?
Cybersecurity is all about keeping data on the internet, for private citizens, the government, and any company safe from hacking and unauthorized access. According to the Harvard Business Review, breaches in security and information are getting worse instead of better. Whether it’s the Russian election hacking or even larger credit reporting institutions like Equifax that have seen their compromised data affect millions of people, information security is a growing concern.
As a student choosing an online computer science bachelor’s program, it’s important to verify that coursework is dedicated to internet security protocols and cybersecurity. While some programs offer specializations or concentrations in cybersecurity, coursework in internet information and programming security are key elements to look for in choosing the bachelor’s program that is right for you.
Do computer science programs offer professional certification as part of the degree program?
According to ComputerScience.org, professional certifications in the computer and IT fields can range from vendor-specific certifications that companies require as part of a job requirement, to programming languages certificates of proficiency or certifications for specialty services like security. Some companies require specific professional certificates for individual job functions while other companies will accept proof of expertise or experience in certification areas that were covered in a graduate’s bachelor’s degree program.
While a few computer science bachelor’s programs offer opportunities to get program-specific certifications, most programs prepare students to sit for licensure exams and professional certificates once the degree program is complete. Since the computer science field is considered a largely global job community, there is little to no need for state-specific professional licensure like you will encounter in professions like counseling, law, or nursing.
Do I have to purchase computer programs to earn my computer science degree?
New innovations in digital information, computer programming and analysis, and software creation emerge almost daily. To keep up with the most cutting-edge training for computer science majors, most universities provide access packages for the computer programs needed for their degree requirements. In some instances, universities will provide incoming students with a fully-loaded computer featuring the hardware and software needed. Consult your institution’s degree requirements for specific details on required technology.
Final Thoughts:
Students considering a bachelor’s degree in computer science will need to enter their degree program with strong math and science skills. However, programming language exposure and a strong desire to learn new technologies are all that’s needed. Once a student settles on their specialization or concentration, as well as seeks advisor counseling on professional certifications, they should have a good idea of what they can do and want to do. In many instances, professional certification will be employer-driven, and some companies will cover the fees associated with the examinations. Whether you already know what area of computer science you are interested in, or are keeping your options open, the field offers a variety of industries in which to leverage your degree. For more about computer science careers and requirements, check out this article on computing and technology!
