In computer science, many entry-level positions offer six-figure salaries, making it an attractive career path for analytical problem-solvers. For instance, computer systems analysts earn a median salary of $103,800, while computer network architects earn a median salary of $129,840. Those who pursue a master’s degree can expect even greater job security and higher wages, with computer and information research scientists earning a median salary of $145,080.
Accelerated online computer science programs provide an efficient route to these lucrative careers, with estimated completion timelines of two to three years for undergraduate and one to two years for graduate degrees.
How to Choose an Accelerated Online Computer Science Program
Choose your area of study
While some aspects of computer science may feel relatively niche, it’s important to note that the whole field is rather large in scope — covering many different facets of the industry. Choosing an area of study can help you tailor your education to your career goals and ultimately make you a more competitive hire post-graduation. Consider asking yourself:
- What are my career goals?
- What subjects interest me most?
- What industry sectors are growing?
Potential specializations include cybersecurity for those interested in protecting data, data science for students with an analytical mindset, and software development for creative problem-solvers.
Research schools and programs
With your specialization in mind, you can now focus on researching schools and programs that support your interests. You may come into this process with a few questions of your own, but here are some more to help guide your research further:
- What is the program’s accreditation status?
- How is the curriculum structured, and how does the coursework support my interests?
- What are the faculty qualifications?
- Are student support services offered for online learners?
Most of this information will be available on program websites, but you may also benefit from attending a virtual open house or speaking to an admissions counselor.
Prepare for tests and applications
You’ll likely have a shortlist of schools you’d like to apply to by this point. Some programs may have specific requirements, but many share similar criteria, like:
- High school diploma or GED
- SAT or ACT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
Consider enrolling in a test prep program for the SAT or ACT to improve your scores, which can also give your application a competitive edge.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on what matters most to you, such as curriculum relevance, the faculty you’ll learn from, and support services. Now is also an excellent time to reassess the total cost of attendance, comparing tuition, fees, and other expenses against financial aid offers.
Determine how you’ll pay for your you’ll
To pay for your degree without incurring debt, simply prioritize financial aid resources that can help. Start with scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment. If you’re seeking part-time work, consider work-study programs that offer resume-boosting employment. For those currently employed in a related field, ask if your employer offers tuition reimbursement — especially if you plan to stay with the company after graduation.
Lastly, federal loans can be used to bridge any remaining gaps, focusing on keeping loan amounts as low as possible to minimize future debt.
Best 50 Accredited Online Accelerated Computer Science Programs
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online accelerated computer science degree programs in the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of the best online accelerated computer science degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Accelerated Online Computer Science Program
In an accelerated online computer science program, you’ll engage in a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to be completed in a shorter timeframe. At the undergraduate level, this typically involves learning fundamental programming, data structures, algorithms, and computer systems. Those who continue to graduate programs may have opportunities to take software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity courses. Regardless of degree level, most programs emphasize hands-on projects and real-world applications to prepare students for the tech industry.
Many programs are entirely online, offering flexibility for those with other commitments – like a full-time job or raising a family — enabling them to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.
Potential courses you’ll take in an accelerated online computer science program
- Principles of Computer Organization: A cornerstone in most programs, this course teaches students about the architecture and functioning of computer systems. Topics include CPU design, memory hierarchy, and input/output mechanisms. This foundational knowledge is essential for understanding how software interacts with hardware.
- Cloud Fundamentals: This course introduces the basics of cloud computing, including cloud infrastructure, service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), and deployment models. Students will explore cloud storage, virtualization, and security considerations, preparing them for roles in IT environments.
- Object-Oriented Data Structures and Algorithms: In this upper-level course, students delve into object-oriented programming concepts while studying data structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, and trees. They also learn about algorithms for searching, sorting, and manipulating data, gaining skills essential for efficient software development.
- Mobile Programming: Typically an elective, this course teaches students to develop applications for mobile devices using popular platforms like iOS and Android. The curriculum covers interface design, mobile operating systems, and app deployment, equipping students to create responsive and user-friendly mobile apps.
What Can I Do With a Computer Science Degree?
With a computer science degree, you can pursue career paths like software development, data science, research, and IT management. The field is expected to add 377,500 jobs over the next decade, with most salaries surpassing the national median and many reaching six figures.
Career outlook
- Computer Systems Analyst — This role, accessible to bachelor’s graduates, focuses on evaluating and improving an organization’s computer systems and processes, ensuring they operate efficiently and meet business requirements.
- Median annual salary: $103,800
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 10%
- New jobs projected: 37,600
- Computer Network Architect — These professionals design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets, to meet an organization’s needs. Most computer network architects have a bachelor’s degree.
- Median annual salary: $129,840
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 4%
- New jobs projected: 10,200
- Computer and Information Research Scientist — Typically obtainable with a master’s degree, this in-demand role involves developing innovative solutions to computing problems.
- Median annual salary: $145,080
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 23%
- New jobs projected: 3,400
Accelerated Online Computer Science Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do accelerated degree programs work?
Accelerated degree programs offer the same high-quality curriculum as traditional programs but at a faster pace, allowing students to complete their studies in a shorter timeframe. These programs often feature condensed semesters, intensive coursework, and year-round classes and are generally designed for highly motivated individuals who can manage a rigorous schedule. To explore the pros and cons of these programs and determine if they’re the right fit for you, visit our page, which explains this in more detail.
How long does it take to earn an accelerated online computer science degree?
Obtaining an accelerated online computer science degree takes two to three years for an undergraduate degree and one to two years for a graduate degree, compared to the traditional four years for undergraduates and two to three years for graduates. However, completion timelines depend on the total number of credits required, which can vary by program. Assessing these requirements ahead of time is essential to plan your academic pursuits accurately.
How much does an accelerated online computer science degree cost?
The average cost for the 2020-2021 academic year was $25,910 for a bachelor’s degree and $19,749 for a master’s degree. Besides tuition, you should also budget for additional expenses like technology fees, textbooks, course materials, and software subscriptions. These costs can add up over time, ultimately making your education more expensive.