Computer programming is one of the fastest-growing segments of technology careers, with employment in computer and technology occupations projected to grow much faster than the national average, adding over 317,000 jobs every year over the next decade.1
This article breaks down the fastest accredited online computer programming degree paths in 2025 and compares program lengths, formats, and career outcomes so that you can earn your degree faster while still meeting industry standards.
What Is an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
An accelerated computer programming degree is an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree that is structured to let students finish more quickly than traditional programs. These programs can be finished typically in 2 to 3 years for bachelor’s degrees, or 1 to 2 years for master’s degrees, by offering shorter terms, higher course loads, and generous transfer-credit policies. An accelerated online computer programming degree lets students complete their computer programming education faster, often in 2–3 years for a bachelor’s or 1–2 years for a master’s, by using formats like 8-week terms, year-round enrollment, and credit transfers. It enables aspiring programmers to earn their degrees efficiently without compromising academic quality or professional credibility.
How Do Accelerated Degrees Work?
Accelerated computer programming degrees work by condensing the traditional academic calendar and allowing students to take more courses in less time. Instead of the standard 16-week semester, many accelerated programs use 5- to 10-week terms and operate year-round, so students can graduate faster by completing courses year-round without a long summer break disruption.
These programs also let students apply prior college credits, Advanced Placement (AP) exam results, or professional experience toward their degree. For example, transfer-friendly institutions may accept up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree, which can shorten the timeline by more than two years. Some schools also offer Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) assessments, where students can demonstrate their competency through exams or portfolios to earn additional credit.
By combining intensive courses, year-round enrollment, and transfer credit policies, accelerated computer programming degrees can reduce the time to completion by up to 12 to 24 months compared to traditional bachelor or master programs.
Types of Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees
You can enroll in an accelerated program for computer programming at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s degree levels. Many universities also offer accelerated pathways that blend undergraduate and graduate coursework, in a 4+1 type of pathway. Below is a breakdown of the main types of accelerated computer programming degrees available in 2025.
Accelerated Associate Degrees
Accelerated associate degrees are designed for students that are seeking entry-level jobs in IT and programming fields. While a traditional associate degree typically takes two years to complete, accelerated options can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months through intensive 8-week terms and year-round scheduling. These programs help to prepare students for support roles in software development, database administration, or IT help desks.
Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees are the most common option for people that are changing careers or recent graduates who want to complete their degree quickly. Instead of the typical four-year track, accelerated bachelor’s programs can be finished in 2.5 to 3 years, with some credit-friendly institutions offering completion in as few as 18 months. Coursework for these programs covers core programming languages, systems analysis, and software engineering foundations.
Accelerated Master’s Degrees
Accelerated master’s programs allow students to earn advanced credentials faster, often in 12 to 18 months instead of the usual two+ years. These degree programs focus on advanced programming, machine learning, or systems architecture, and may include research or capstone projects as part of their completion. These programs are ideal for professionals that are seeking leadership roles or specialized technical roles.
Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Many universities now offer combined 4+1 programs, where students can begin taking graduate coursework during their undergraduate studies. These accelerated tracks let students complete both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in about five years total, rather than the traditional six or more. This combined degree pathway saves time and tuition while simultaneously providing a competitive edge in the job market.
Who Should Get an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
An accelerated computer programming degree is best suited for students and professionals who want to save time and reduce the overall tuition costs while still earning a recognized credential. These programs are ideal for:
- Career changers who want to transition into technology fields without spending four to six+ years in school.
- Working adults who need flexible, online learning formats but also want to complete their degree faster than the average program duration.
- Students with prior credits or AP coursework who can transfer credits and therefore significantly shorten their degree timeline.
- Motivated learners who thrive in intensive, fast-paced academic environments and are comfortable taking heavier course loads compared to traditional degree programs.
How to Get a Computer Programming Degree Fast
If you want to complete your computer programming degree quickly, there are several strategies that you can use to shorten the timeline to completion without sacrificing educational quality.
- Enroll in an accredited online program. Online programs often provide accelerated formats, self-paced courses, and year-round scheduling that allow students to finish faster than traditional on-campus paths.
- Increase your course load. Taking the maximum allowable credits per semester, if you can balance the workload, is one of the fastest ways to graduate ahead of schedule.
- Transfer prior credits. Students with completed coursework, community college credits, or industry certifications may be able to transfer up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree, which will result in cutting years off of their study time.
- Take Advanced Placement (AP) or dual-enrollment courses. High school students can shorten their college degree timeline by earning credits in advance through AP exams or dual-enrollment classes with partner colleges.
- Use Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) or exams. Programs like the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and institutional challenge exams allow you to test out of subjects where you already have strong knowledge, earning credits without sitting through the full course.
By combining these strategies, especially online enrollment, transfer credits, and accelerated term formats, students can often complete a bachelor’s degree in computer programming in 18 months to 3 years, compared to the traditional four-year path.
What Is the Fastest Online Computer Programming Degree?
As of 2025, one of the fastest online computer programming degrees is the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science at Concordia University–Wisconsin, which can be finished in as little as 18 months through 8-week accelerated terms and generous credit transfer policies.
Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees: The Basics
| Degree Title | School | Required Time | Notes (2025 Update) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science | Concordia University–Wisconsin | 18 months (with transfer credits) | Accelerated 8-week courses; accepts up to 84 transfer credits. |
| Bachelor of Science in Software and Data Engineering | Bellarmine University | 1 year (accelerated) | Available online; designed for students with prior credits. |
| Master of Science in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence | Lewis University | 1 year (accelerated track) | Intensive graduate program focused on AI; requires strong technical background. |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Oregon State University | 2–4 years | Flexible online program; duration depends on full-time vs. part-time enrollment. |
| Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Full Sail University | 29 months | Year-round accelerated program; project-based learning model. |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Concordia University–St. Paul | 2.5 years | Transfer-friendly; offers 7-week accelerated courses. |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming | Herzing University | 32 months | Online and hybrid options; prepares for entry-level software development. |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Programming | Baker University | Under 4 years | Accelerated online courses with flexible pacing. |
| BS in Information Technology & MS in Software Engineering (Combined) | Regis University | 5 years | Accelerated combined bachelor’s/master’s program. |
| BS in Computer Science & MS in Computer Science (Combined) | University of North Dakota | 5 years | “4+1” style program reduces total time compared to separate degrees. |
The Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees, Explained
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science | Concordia University–Wisconsin
Concordia’s BS in Applied Computer Science offers accelerated 8-week online courses and accepts up to 84 transfer credits, which makes it possible to graduate in as little as 18 months. The program emphasizes programming fundamentals, database systems, and applied computing, which prepares graduates well for entry-level software development and IT roles.
Bachelor of Science in Software and Data Engineering | Bellarmine University
Bellarmine’s accelerated online program is designed for students that have prior college credit. The degree can be completed in about one year, with coursework that is focused on software engineering, data structures, and applied mathematics.
Master of Science in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence | Lewis University
Lewis University offers an accelerated one-year track for its MS in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence. Students will learn advanced AI methods, machine learning, and algorithm design, and this is ideal for those pursuing careers in data science or AI engineering.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s well-known online CS program can be finished in two to four years, depending on transfer credits and course load. Students will learn multiple programming languages, software engineering, and systems design, with the flexibility to study part- or full-time.
Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Full Sail University
Full Sail offers a 29-month accelerated program in web development with year-round enrollment. The curriculum blends coding and design with real-world project work, which helps students to build strong portfolios for careers in front-end and back-end web development.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Concordia University–St. Paul
Concordia–St. Paul provides a 2.5-year online BS in Computer Science through 7-week accelerated courses. The program is transfer-friendly and covers programming, algorithms, and system design, which prepares students for careers in application development or IT analysis.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming | Herzing University
Herzing’s online BS in Computer Programming takes about 32 months to complete. Coursework includes C++, Java, SQL, and mobile app development, and has a focus on applied software projects to prepare students for entry-level developer roles.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Programming | Baker University
Baker University offers an accelerated online BS in Computer Science with a concentration in programming. Students can graduate in under four years depending on how many credits they transfer, with training in database systems, operating systems, and software development.
BS in Information Technology & MS in Software Engineering | Regis University
Regis University’s accelerated 5-year combined program that allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree in IT and a master’s in software engineering. Coursework includes programming, systems analysis, and advanced software design, offering graduates a strong foundation for leadership roles.
BS in Computer Science & MS in Computer Science | University of North Dakota
UND’s combined BS/MS program offers a 5-year accelerated pathway. Students begin graduate coursework while they are in the process of finishing their bachelor’s degree, which saves time and tuition compared to completing both separately. The program emphasizes algorithms, systems, and advanced programming.
Fastest Computer Programming Degree Completion Programs
Degree completion programs are designed for students who already have prior college credit, such as an associate degree or unfinished bachelor’s coursework, and want to finish their degree on an accelerated timeline. Below are some of the fastest online computer programming degree completion programs in 2025.
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Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems | Gardner-Webb University
Gardner-Webb’s online BS in Computer Information Systems provides core programming, systems analysis, and introductory business courses. Students can transfer up to 96 credits, which makes it possible to graduate in as little as 18 months.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | California State University–Monterey Bay
CSU Monterey Bay offers a two-year online CS degree completion program that is focused on database development, application programming, and software design. Students must transfer in 60 lower-division credits to qualify.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Boston University
Boston University’s Metropolitan College provides a two-year online CS completion degree. Students will gain proficiency in programming languages like Java, along with database management and systems programming, which will prepare them for software development and IT roles.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | DePaul University
DePaul University’s BS in Computer Science offers a three-year online completion option for students. Coursework covers advanced programming with Java and C++, software engineering principles, and systems architecture, which makes it a strong choice for career changers.
Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing | University of Wisconsin–River Falls
UW–River Falls offers a 61-credit online BS in Applied Computing completion program. Students will develop skills in programming, data management, and systems analysis, and can finish in two years or less depending on their transfer credits.
Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?
Yes, employers generally respect online computer programming degrees when they are earned from accredited universities, just as they would an in-person degree. Accreditation ensures that the degree meets the same academic standards as on-campus programs.
Employers hiring for programming, software development, or IT roles typically value demonstrated skills and projects just as much as the degree itself. Graduates who can show that they have strong portfolios in languages like Python, Java, or SQL alongside an accredited online degree are highly competitive in today’s job market.
What Jobs Can You Get with an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
Graduates of accelerated computer programming degrees can qualify for many of the same roles as traditional computer science degree graduates. Key career paths include:
- Software Developers | Median annual salary: $131,4502
- Computer Systems Analysts | Median annual salary: $103,7903
- Database Administrators and Architects | Median annual salary: $123,1004
- Computer Programmers | Median annual salary: $98,6705
- Web Developers and Digital Designers | Median annual salary: $95,3806
Are Online Computer Programming Degrees Worth It?
Yes, online computer programming degrees are very worth it for many students, especially people who need additional flexibility and want to enter the workforce more quickly. Accredited online programs provide the same curriculum and faculty oversight as on-campus degrees, just with more flexibility than traditional pathways.
For students that are balancing work or family commitments, online programs also reduce commuting costs and often allow accelerated completion through year-round or self-paced formats.
Ultimately, the value of an online computer programming degree depends on choosing an accredited university and building a strong portfolio of programming projects. In fast-moving tech fields, employers often weigh demonstrated skills in languages like Python, Java, and SQL just as heavily as the importance of the degree itself.
Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees FAQ
Yes, you can definitely get a programming job without a degree. Many employers will hire self-taught programmers, coding bootcamp graduates, or candidates with professional certifications as long as they can demonstrate strong skills. However, that being said, a degree can expand opportunities at companies that list a bachelor’s degree as a preferred or required qualification.
Becoming an entry-level programmer can take as little as 12 to 18 months through an accelerated associate degree or intensive bootcamp. A traditional bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete, while accelerated bachelor’s programs can reduce that timeline to 2–3 years with transfer credits and heavier course loads.
An accelerated associate degree in computer programming can qualify you for roles such as:
– Computer support specialist — Median annual salary: $61,5507
– Web developer — Median annual salary: $95,3806
– Software developer — Median annual salary: $131,4502
These jobs provide a structured and reputable pathway to higher-paying positions with additional experience or further education.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or programming-related fields often qualify for roles like software developer, which had a median annual salary of $131,450 as of 2025.2 Salaries can vary widely depending on job title, employer, and location.
References
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm
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