Complete an accredited four-year tech education right from the comfort of your own home and land your dream tech job with the best online computer programming bachelor’s degrees. Our in-depth guide will help pave the way.
This comprehensive guide covers the top 10 programs for obtaining your online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming, including admissions requirements. We also provide you with the best computer programming bachelor’s degree jobs you can expect after graduating. Read on to discover how to acquire computer programming qualifications in artificial intelligence, database management, or software engineering.
Where Can I Get a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Online?
Online computer programming bachelor’s degrees are available from several accredited, top-rated universities. From admissions requirements to tuition, knowing the details of these degree programs will help you choose the right one for you and get your new career off to a strong start.
What Schools Offer the Best Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Oregon State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Regent University
- Drexel University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online computer programming bachelor’s degree are similar to in-person computer programming undergraduate programs. The specifics of these online degree programs will vary from school to school. However, some of the common admission requirements are a high school diploma or a GED and a Common App online application.
Letters of recommendation from your high school professors and mentors are also a general requirement for online bachelor’s degree programs. Some universities also have a minimum SAT or ACT score and GPA requirements. The minimum GPA requirement for a computer programming degree is usually 2.0.
Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- 2.0 GPA or higher
- High School Diploma or GED
- Official school transcripts
- Letter of recommendation
- Common App online application
- Personal statement
How to Get a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can get a computer programming bachelor’s degree online by meeting the specific admissions and course requirements set by your chosen university. This includes completing the required course credit hours and meeting the GPA requirement.
High school students may be able to earn college credit while still in high school and meet the credit requirements faster. This often involves excelling in specific courses and programs related to computer science and general education, subjects all computer programming degrees cover.
Some of the core topics of study for Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Programming include programming languages, software systems, software testing, network security, cloud integration, and artificial intelligence. The general education courses cover social studies, math, and science-based subjects such as physics.
Computer Programming Degree Requirements
- 120 to 124 credit hours
- Minimum cumulative GPA
- General education courses
- Computer programming courses
- Capstone project
Best Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Software Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Online Bachelor of Science in Computing & Security Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Fort Hays State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Pennsylvania State University | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Software Development | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Computer Programming: Top Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Below are the top 10 schools offering the best online computer programming bachelor’s degree programs. Consider the admissions requirements as well as your financial and scheduling needs when choosing among the top schools for online computer programming bachelor’s degrees.
What Is an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
An online computer programming bachelor’s degree is a remote degree that generally provides the same education as an in-person degree. Online programs will typically range between four and five years and offer basic computer programming, computer science, and software development courses.
Depending on your choice of major you can learn artificial intelligence, database management, software memory management, or game development. These options open up many career avenues in software development, software engineering, database administration, or systems analytics.
Online vs In-Person Computer Programming Degrees
The benefits of online vs in-person computer programming degrees differ according to your preferences for the overall educational experience, career pathways, curriculum delivery, and tuition rates. Your decision regarding which is a better fit for you will depend on your learning and financial preferences.
Below are the top five benefits of the best online computer programming bachelor’s degrees and the top five benefits of in-person bachelor’s degrees.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming
- Lower overall costs. An online bachelor’s degree will almost always cost less than an in-person degree. Online students can avoid costs associated with housing, on-campus parking, mandatory campus healthcare, and transportation expenses.
- Flexible location. An online degree offers a highly flexible learning environment for its students. Be it from the comfort of your own home, a public library, or another Internet-connected location, you pick the setting for earning your degree.
- Flexible schedule. Online degrees are a great option for full-time professionals or other busy individuals looking to get a computer programming education. Many accredited online schools offer flexible evening or weekend education courses.
- Remote-work preparation. To successfully complete online bachelor’s degrees you must showcase self-discipline, determination, and excellent time-management skills. Online education prepares you for future remote or hybrid professional work settings.
- Same education as an in-person degree. Online and in-person computer programming bachelor’s degree programs cover the same courses, including object-oriented programming, network security, computer science, and software development.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming
- A traditional experience. An in-person Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming offers a more traditional educational experience. Because online colleges are relatively new, getting an in-person degree can help you deter any workplace biases.
- Ample networking opportunities. Going to a four-year in-person college allows you to network with your peers and potential employers regularly. Colleges hold career fairs, major-related workshops, and career services activities to help their students pursue fruitful career paths.
- Fixed schedules. For students who prefer the stability of a classroom learning setting with fixed schedules, an in-person bachelor’s degree might be for you.
- Easier access to professors and more opportunities for interaction. By attending an on-campus class, you get the opportunity to interact with your professors face-to-face and get easier access to their mentorship. They also have an office where you can meet to get your questions answered.
- Extracurricular activities. A college campus offers many extracurricular opportunities, such as debate clubs, art clubs, and engineering clubs. Including extracurricular activities on your resume reflects highly on your interpersonal skills.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Computer Programming?
There are two main types of online bachelor’s degrees you can get in computer programming to learn computer science, information technology, software development, network security, or cyber security, preparing you for a career in these fields.
These are a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Engineering, with a Bachelor of Science being the most popular online degree type available for computer programming majors.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Programming?
Whether it is better to get a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Engineering in computer programming is dependent upon your preferred manner of learning and what exactly you want to learn.
The more popular Bachelor of Science degree offers a more broad education focused mainly on theories and principles. It is one of the most widely recognized degrees in the world. The Bachelor of Engineering degree focuses specifically on engineering fields and offers a more practical education, which some employers may prefer.
Programming and engineering degrees will equip you for both software and hardware aspects of the computer and help you penetrate the engineering technology industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for software developers is projected to grow by 22 percent between 2020 to 2030.
BLS categorizes software engineers under the software developers. This means your salary and career trajectory for both these degrees will depend on your real-world experience, science majors, tech skills, and the company of employment.
How Much Does a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
The cost of a computer programming bachelor’s degree will vary from school to school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost for a four-year degree in 2019-2020 was $35,331. NCES further reports that the average cost for a four-year public school was $25,487 for in-state students, $53,217 for private nonprofit universities, and $35,125 for private for-profit universities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes about four years to get a computer programming bachelor’s degree online. Your degree duration might vary depending on the required credit hours. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming typically requires around 120 to 185 credit hours, which can take anywhere from four to six years to complete.
Are Online Computer Programming Degrees Respected?
Yes, online computer programming degrees are respected. Online computer programming graduates get the same science credits, programming projects, and real-world experience as in-person graduates.
As the popularity of distance education grows, so does the number of online degree programs and their credibility. According to NCES, there were 16,565,066 students enrolled in undergraduate distance education in 2019. This number has increased even more as remote learning and remote work have taken precedence due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Is Computer Programming Hard to Learn Online?
No, computer programming is not hard to learn online. The IT subjects and software skills that computer programming degrees cover meld with the online world. The flexibility allows students to take their time and learn at their own pace, and online education itself helps prepare graduates for a career working with computers.
Computer Programming Bootcamp vs Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A computer programming bootcamp offers specific benefits, like affordability and flexibility. Online computer programming degrees have benefits such as higher-salary jobs and well-rounded education. Check out the top benefits of each below.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree
- The industry standard. An online computer programming bachelor’s degree meets the industry standard education requirement for most tech and software jobs.
- Higher salaries. Having a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming makes you eligible for a variety of lucrative tech jobs. You can start your career as an entry-level software engineer or a software developer and earn a competitive annual salary.
- School rankings reputation. Getting a bachelor’s degree from a highly reputable school enhances your desirability as an employee for potential employers. Top online computer programming schools such as Arizona State University and Southern New Hampshire University are worth checking out.
- Long-term and in-depth education. A four- or five-year education in computer programming equips you with all the necessary tech and software skills needed to excel at your dream job.
- Well-rounded education. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming requires both core and general education courses. Taking courses in physics, social studies, psychology, or math helps round out your skills.
Top 5 Benefits of a Computer Programming Bootcamp
- Short-term commitment. Computer programming and computer science bootcamps are short-term training-intensive programs that last a few weeks to a few months. You can prepare for a junior programming job without spending years getting an education.
- Affordability. A coding bootcamp education is far more affordable than an online bachelor’s degree. Bootcamps also offer installment plans, loan financing, and scholarship opportunities as aid.
- Job guarantees. Several of the best in-person or online coding bootcamps offer a job guarantee to their students. Usually, if a student fails to secure a job within six months of graduation, they get their tuition reimbursed. Get in touch with the bootcamp’s admission advisor to find out if they offer this benefit.
- High job-placement rates. Several bootcamps report excellent job-placement rates, some as high as 95 percent. You can use the bootcamp’s career services and tech training programs to land your dream computer programming job.
- Ample networking opportunities. Several bootcamps offer in-depth career services programs, giving you access to school alumni and their hiring partners. Use this networking opportunity to pave the way for your dream career.
Why You Should Get a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a computer programming bachelor’s degree online if you want flexibility, a reputable degree, and in-depth tech education. Getting the best online computer programming bachelor’s degree will help you land lucrative software-based jobs. You can use your online degree to venture into software testing, information security, or software development professions.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Computer Programming?
An online bachelor’s degree program in computer programming offers courses covering computer science topics. Computer programming is a subsect of the computer science field and covers a wide range of software and programming topics. Below are the degree’s top core courses.
Full Stack Development
Full stack development or web development is a popular career choice for computer programming majors. This course will cover JavaScript, Angular, Python, HTML, PHP, and jQuery. You will learn both backend and front end development during this course.
Network Security
A network security course covers data transmission, computer security systems, troubleshooting, software upgrades, and network security authentication and maintenance. An online computer programming bachelor’s degree can be used to become a network administrator, software engineer, or information security analyst.
Artificial Intelligence
Your computer programming degree will also require you to take artificial intelligence courses. You will learn machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, data science, Python, and AI designs. According to PayScale, the average salary for machine learning engineers is $112,266. A computer programming degree specializing in AI can help you get this job.
Database Management
Data is prevalent across all sectors of our lives and plays a big role in a computer programming bachelor’s degree. You will learn SQL, relational database maintenance, database design and development, and database queries in this course.
Top Programming Languages
Some of the most common courses for your computer programming degree cover the top programming languages. You will learn Python, SQL, JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, HTML, PHP, Java, C++, and C.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The continuing education paths for online computer programming bachelor’s degree graduates are countless, and depend on your educational and career goals. If you are interested in a cyber security career, you can get the Certified Information Security Professional or Certified Ethical Hacker certification.
For those interested in furthering their software development paths, look for a Master’s Degree in Game Development, Computer Science, or Full Stack Development.
Related Online Computer Programming Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Programs
When looking for the best computer programming bachelor’s degree programs, there are many important factors to consider. Below are the top five to keep in mind.
Program Cost
One of the main factors to consider while choosing the best computer programming degree program is the tuition cost. Choose the program that matches your financial preference and payment plans.
The Reputation of the School
Researching the school’s rankings by US News & World Report and other reliable sources is another crucial factor. Consider schools that have high credibility, are accredited, and rank high in computer programming degrees and programs.
Program Format Flexibility
Flexibility is likely important to you if you’re looking for an online computer programming bachelor’s degree program. Consider each school’s program format and flexibility.
Graduation Rate
Apply to schools with a high graduation rate to ensure that your education investment will yield profitable results. You should also look up whether the school has a high retention rate for in-person and online students.
Specialization Options
Computer programming is a diverse field that incorporates a wide range of IT and software subject areas. Make sure that your school offers your areas of interest.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online computer programming bachelor’s degree is offered by Fort Hays State University, at $5,430 per year. With its 96 percent job placement or grad school placement after graduation, this distance-learning option is a great choice.
Can I Get a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a computer programming bachelor’s degree online for free. All universities charge a per credit or a per semester tuition fee for their bachelor’s programs. However, you can apply for scholarship opportunities or federal student aid to reduce or eliminate your tuition costs.
Or, you can opt to take free online courses covering programming languages, cloud integration, software development, or computer science to acquire a computer programming education.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Students who graduate with an online computer programming bachelor’s degree can pursue a variety of IT or software careers. Your employment path, job outlook, and salary will vary depending on your choice of computer science degree programs. Read on to find the best jobs and employment information for a graduate with an online computer programming bachelor’s degree.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a computer programming bachelor’s degree, as the program provides the tech education, hands-on experience, and career services needed to land a lucrative job. The career services provide you access to the school’s career advisors, who will help you perfect your resume and provide interview tips. An online degree often follows the same curriculum as a traditional degree and allows you to get the same quality education at a more affordable price.
What’s the Average Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for an online computer programming bachelor’s degree holder is $77,000, according to PayScale. However, your salary will vary depending on your major specialization, designation, and place of employment.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online computer programming bachelor’s degree include systems analyst, network administrator, or software developer. You can also become a game developer, software engineer, cyber security analyst, or database administrator.
Computer Programming Degree Jobs
- Software Developer
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Network Security Engineer
- Game Developer
- Database Administrator
Potential Careers With an Online Computer Programming Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree?
You can expect to make good money with an online computer programming bachelor’s degree, around six figures, on average, with the potential to earn even more. Software developers are among the highest earners, and the popular profession of web development earns an average salary of more than $77,000.
Highest-Paying Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developers | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analysts | $103,590 |
| Database Administrators | $98,860 |
| Network Administrators | $84,810 |
| Web Developers | $77,200 |
Best Jobs for Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Grads
Below are the best online computer programming bachelor’s degree jobs. Work your way into senior positions in these jobs to earn higher salaries.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online computer programming bachelor’s degree is worth it for anyone wanting to get a lucrative IT or software job. This degree opens up many career opportunities across the fields of software development, information security, and database management. You can pursue professions with a growing job outlook rate and earn a competitive salary.
Additional Reading About Computer Programming
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Online Computer Programming Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
You can get a wide range of tech jobs with a computer programming bachelor’s degree such as web developer, game developer, network administrator, information security analyst, or database administrator.
Yes, an online computer programming bachelor’s degree generally follows the same curriculum and hands-on training approach as an in-person degree. An online degree offers more format flexibility and is a more affordable option. You can apply to get the same software programming jobs with both types of degrees.
The best schools for online computer programming bachelor’s degrees are Arizona State University, Fort Hays State University, Oregon State University, and Southern New Hampshire University.
Yes, online computer programming bachelor’s degrees are well respected and offer the same credibility as an in-person degree. You can get the same jobs and the same salaries with both degrees.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
