Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Degrees
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
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.Â
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%
$35,262
75%
$35,262
- Acceptance Rate
- 71%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,183
- Institution Type
- Private
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.Â
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%
$39,260
79%
$39,260
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,566
- Institution Type
- Private
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.Â
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
$7,162
63%
$7,162
- 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)
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.
