Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Degrees

James M. Tobin
By
Updated on October 17, 2025
Edited by
An accelerated computer science degree can help you build job-ready skills quickly. Research program features, concentration tracks, and more.

Computer science is an interdisciplinary field focused on computing theory, computer technologies, information systems, and their uses. It is a popular major and highly relevant in the modern economy and labor force.

A traditional bachelor’s degree in computer science takes about four years of study, but you can reduce that timeline by enrolling in an accelerated program. These study paths move at a faster pace, helping you graduate and get into the job market more quickly.

Explore the features and advantages of an accelerated computer science degree, and connect with featured programs from accredited providers.

Why Earn Your Accelerated Computer Science Degree Online

  • Earn a degree with high demand among employers.
  • Save money with a shorter graduation timeline.
  • Balance school and other commitments with a flexible online program.
  • Enter the tech workforce sooner, boosting your lifetime earning potential.

Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Degrees

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

Lewis University

  • Romeoville, IL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $625
Out-of-State | $625

Credits to Graduate: 128

Students in Lewis' accelerated bachelor of science in computer science can learn the programming, networking, and big data skills they need to navigate the complex world of technology. The program offers six potential concentrations and five minors, including artificial intelligence, mobile computing, data science, and mathematical modeling. 

Lewis' 100% online degree accepts Prior Learning Assessments to help new enrollees graduate quickly and at a lower cost. To qualify, each candidate needs 30 transferable credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0.

77%

Online Enrollment

$35,262

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

75%

Retention Rate

$35,262

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
6,183
Institution Type
Private
#2

Regis University

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Programmatic Accreditation: ABET

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $589
Out-of-State | $589

Credits to Graduate: 120

Regis' BS in computer science equips students with the theoretical knowledge and broad technology skills to solve leading problems in security, data, programming, and more. Enrollees in this accelerated online degree engage with new courses every eight weeks. 

Students may combine their undergraduate work with graduate study to earn credits toward MS degrees. Both degrees equal 144 credits. Each applicant must hold a high school diploma, transferable credits, and work experience for admission. New students may transfer up to 66 credits.

64%

Online Enrollment

$39,260

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

79%

Retention Rate

$39,260

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
5,566
Institution Type
Private
#3

Western Governors University

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 year
  • Online
  • Accredited

Programmatic Accreditation: ABET

Cost per Term:
In-State | $3,985
Out-of-State | $3,985

Courses to Graduate: 38

WGU's online BS in computer science focuses on core IT skills, CS theory, and practical knowledge to prepare students to assume key technology roles after graduation. This fully online degree includes a Linux certification and the AXELOS ITIL® Foundation certification as part of its curriculum. 

The university reports that graduates earn an additional $22,000 a year within two years of graduation and an extra $29,200 within four years. Each computer science applicant must hold a high school diploma and demonstrate readiness for the program.

N/A

Online Enrollment

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$7,162

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
150,116
Institution Type
Private

Why Accreditation Matters

When researching online computer science degrees, be sure to check whether the schools are accredited. Accreditation is essentially a formal stamp of approval for schools and academic programs, indicating that they’ve met certain quality standards.

When a school is accredited, you can rest assured it offers quality academics, financial aid resources, and effective student services.

Many top computer science programs hold programmatic accreditation from ABET. That said, programmatic accreditation is not as critical to computer science education as it is to state-regulated fields like nursing and psychology.

How Do Accelerated Computer Science Degrees Work?

A computer science accelerated program typically features intensive courses lasting 7-8 weeks. These classes cover the same content as those in a traditional 15-week semester.

With two terms per semester, usually including the summer, accelerated programs can offer up to six short terms per year.

Online accelerated computer science degree programs normally cater to working students. Depending on whether you opt for a part- or full-time course load, you can expect to earn your computer science degree online in 2-4 years.

Popular Concentrations Within Computer Science

  • Information technology
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning
  • Cybersecurity and information security
  • Network and systems administration
  • Blockchain technology
  • Programming
  • Software development or engineering
  • Graphics and visual computing
  • Web and mobile development
  • Cloud computing
  • Game development

Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?

$13,444
Average annual tuition for an online CS degree (2020)

$102,033
Average starting salary for CS majors (2023)

+9%
Projected growth for tech jobs (2024-2034)

Source: National Center for Education Statistics, National Association of Colleges and Employers, Bureau of Labor Statistics

Computer science students graduate into one of the strongest job markets of any academic discipline. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average growth for computer and information technology jobs over the next decade, while the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that computer science graduates from the class of 2023 landed six-figure average starting salaries.

The artificial intelligence (AI) boom may have mixed impacts on the computer science job market. On one hand, observers expect that many entry-level, coding-heavy roles will become automated. On the other hand, the rapid rise of AI technologies has created exciting new specializations and career pathways.

If labor market uncertainty is a concern for you, consider targeting computer science skills relevant to the emerging AI economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Difficulty is always relative, so the answer will differ from person to person. To succeed in a computer science program, you need a strong command of math and logic, along with excellent problem-solving skills.

If you have these aptitudes, the material may come more naturally. You can also improve in these areas through diligent study and regular practice.