Computer programming is a high-demand field that requires skilled professionals to solve real-world problems using their knowledge of computer software. This article provides guidance for those interested in entering this lucrative industry quickly through the fastest online computer programming degree programs.
We’ve included a number of accelerated computer programming degree options that enable you to get your computer programming degree fast. Or cut right to the chase, with the fastest computer programming degree available today. We’ve also outlined some of the best tech industry jobs you can get with an accelerated programming degree.
What Is an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
An accelerated computer programming degree is obtained through a college program that allows students to graduate in a significantly reduced timeframe. Several accredited schools also provide accelerated computer programming degrees online to enable students to gain the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their career goals in the fastest time possible.
How Do Accelerated Degrees Work?
Accelerated degrees work by allowing students to take on more coursework in less time. Many accelerated programs feature shorter semesters. So, instead of a typical 16-week semester, accelerated programs may have 10-week semesters, for example. They also enable students who have obtained college credits, or the equivalent, to transfer credits to their current program.
Types of Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees
You can enroll in an accelerated program for a computer programming degree at the associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree level. Many universities also offer accelerated combined degrees to enable students to get an undergraduate and an advanced degree in the shortest possible time. The main types of accelerated degrees are explained below.
Accelerated Associate Degrees
Accelerated associate degrees are typically designed to enable students to graduate and qualify for entry-level jobs within a year. Unlike a traditional associate degree, which takes two years to complete, students in an accelerated program can fulfill all the requirements sooner through intensive study.
Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees
Accelerated bachelor’s degrees are a common option for people looking to make a career switch or quickly gain hands-on experience in a highly competitive field. While a traditional bachelor’s degree takes four years to obtain, accelerated bachelor’s degree programs can be completed in three years or less.
Accelerated Master’s Degrees
Accelerated master’s degrees allow individuals to learn advanced knowledge and conduct research in their field in less time than a traditional master’s degree program would take. Most accelerated master’s degree programs span one year and enable graduates to secure senior positions in their chosen industry.
Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees are one of the most common accelerated degree options. Many universities allow students enrolled in undergraduate programs to apply for the accelerated combined degree program and count some credits toward both their bachelor’s and their master’s degrees. This allows students to complete both programs in five years instead of the usual six.
Who Should Get an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
People seeking reduced college expenses and a flexible academic experience should consider an accelerated computer programming degree. This type of computer programming degree is also ideal for people who want a short pathway to acquiring computer programming skills and building job prospects.
Best Accelerated Degrees
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How to Get a Computer Programming Degree Fast
- Enroll in an online program. Online programs usually offer a more flexible schedule that will enable you to determine the speed at which you can take your courses. Opting for a self-paced online program can considerably shorten the amount of time you spend completing the program.
- Increase your semester course load. Taking more courses allows you to graduate faster, provided you can successfully complete the maximum number of courses per semester for your specific computer programming degree.
- Transfer credits. If your program provides the option of transferring credits from a prior college degree or other sources, take advantage of this option to earn your degree faster.
- Take advanced placement courses. AP courses allow students still in high school to earn credits that can be transferred to their college degrees. By taking AP courses and getting a high score on the exams, you can likely reduce the amount of time you spend pursuing your computer programming degree.
- Take College-Level Examination Program exams. The CLEP exams can reduce your program length by allowing you to earn credits in subjects where you are able to demonstrate significant knowledge and competence.
What Is the Fastest Online Computer Programming Degree?
The fastest online computer programming degree is the Bachelor of Science in Data and Software Engineering at Bellarmine University. This undergraduate degree can be completed in just one year and provides industry-standard educational experiences to enrolled students.
Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees: The Basics
| Degree Title | School | Required Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Software and Data Engineering | Bellarmine University | 1 year |
| Master of Science in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence | Lewis University | 1 year |
| Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science | Concordia University- Wisconsin | 1.5 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Oregon State University | 2 – 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Full Sail University | 29 months |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Concordia University-St Paul | 2.5 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming | Herzing University | 32 months |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Programming | Baker University | Less than 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Master of Science in Software Engineering | Regis University | 5 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Computer Science | University of North Dakota | 5 years |
The Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees, Explained
Below we provide a full overview of the fastest online computer programming degree options available in the United States. All degrees listed are from accredited institutions and can help computer programming professionals begin or advance their careers in this very competitive field.
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $690/credit
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Required Time: 1 year
Bellarmine University’s BS in Software and Data Engineering is a 37-credit, online, accelerated program that can be completed in one year. Students enrolled in this program will learn about computing, programming fundamentals, and the object-oriented paradigm to develop strong programming skills and grow lucrative careers.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $820/credit
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Required Time: 1 year
This online master’s degree is valuable for programmers who are seeking to improve their understanding of artificial intelligence and build relevant modern technologies. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 33 credits to graduate. They will be learning statistical programming and natural language processing in addition to programming fundamentals.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $559/credit
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Required Time: 1.5 - 4 years
This 120-credit accelerated BS in Applied Computer Science degree program can be completed in just a year and a half, or longer, depending on how many credits the prospective student can transfer and how much coursework the student is willing to take on each semester. Aspiring programmers who enroll in this program will learn the technical skills required to build relevant software by writing computer code.
- School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $549/credit
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Required Time: 2 - 4 years
Individuals who are interested in kickstarting their careers as computer programmers can enroll in Oregon State University’s online accelerated bachelor’s degree program. This 60-credit degree can be obtained within two years and covers the basics of programming and essential computer science concepts for building mobile and web applications.
- School Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- Tuition: $758/credit
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Required Time: 29 months
This 29-month online accelerated bachelor’s degree program focuses on programming concepts for building functional websites. Enrolled students will learn web architecture, server-side languages, interface programming, and cloud application development. Upon graduation, students are eligible for entry-level jobs in web development.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $420/credit
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Required Time: 2.5 years
This 120-credit online program at Concordia University-St. Paul thoroughly covers all the relevant concepts programmers need to get high-paying jobs at the leading tech giants. Its curriculum includes client- and server-side web development, Java and Python programming, data structures and algorithms, and database design topics.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $490/credit
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Required Time: 32 months
This 120-credit program is designed to train competent programmers within 32 months. Its curriculum contains instruction on Python, C++, C#, JavaScript, Java programming, database concepts and applications, and object-oriented programming. Students can choose between a capstone project or an internship as part of their graduation requirements.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $435/credit
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Required Time: Less than 4 years
Baker University’s online BS in Computer Science allows students to enjoy eight-week semesters, enabling them to finish their coursework faster than with a traditional degree program. Students will be taught computer architecture, programming, and data structures. They will also engage in practical work experience sessions to improve their technical skills.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $572/credit (undergraduate); $870/credit (graduate)
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Required Time: 5 years
Prospective students interested in pursuing an online accelerated degree in computer science at Regis University can take advantage of the school’s FastForward Program to earn an undergraduate and graduate degree within five years. Students will be required to complete 144 credits, including online courses in the foundations of programming and Java programming.
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $384.88/credit (undergraduate); 498.45/credit (graduate)
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Required Time: 5 years
This online, accelerated combined degree program includes core courses in systems programming, machine learning, computer architecture, and algorithms and data structures. Online students enrolled in this program are expected to complete between 138 and 144 credits to be eligible for the dual degree.
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Fastest Computer Programming Degree Completion Programs
Degree completion programs allow students who have received prior college credits from an associate degree or an uncompleted bachelor’s program to get a degree within a considerably reduced timeframe. The fastest degree completion programs for computer programming available today are listed below.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems | Gardner-Webb University. This online degree completion program provides core courses in computer programming and introductory courses in business. Graduates of this program will have gained strong technical and interpersonal skills to excel at the highest level in their careers.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | California State University-Monterey Bay. This two-year degree completion program is an excellent choice for programmers who are looking to learn how to build databases or applications. It covers computer software design, operating systems, and Internet programming topics.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Boston University. Graduates of this two-year degree completion program will gain proficiency in the Java programming language. They will also acquire the skills and knowledge needed to manage databases and build software while growing their communication skills.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | DePaul University. DePaul University’s BS in Computer Science degree has a three-year online degree completion option. Among several other important topics, this program will teach online students how to use Java and C++ to build reliable software solutions.
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing | University of Wisconsin-River Falls. The University of Wisconsin-River Falls’ BS in Applied Computing degree completion option is a 61-credit program that provides students with a deep dive into several critical programming concepts to perform several roles within their industry.
Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?
Yes, employers respect online degrees because they offer the same educational quality as a traditional, on-campus degree. Provided that you earn your degree from a reputable, accredited university, online education will not limit your career options.
In fact, online degrees are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 52 percent of undergraduate students at degree-granting postsecondary institutions in fall 2020 were enrolled in exclusively online programs.
What Jobs Can You Get with an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree?
- Software Developer | $110,140
- Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270
- Database Architect | $98,860
- Computer Programmer | $93,000
- Web Developer | $77,200
Best Accelerated Computer Programming Degree Jobs
The best accelerated computer programming degree jobs include software developer, computer systems analyst, database architect, computer programmer, and web developer. These job roles are becoming increasingly popular and are a great option for individuals looking to solve real-world problems.
- Average Salary: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% growth from 2020 to 2030
Software developers use their knowledge of computer architecture and popular programming languages to create applications that solve everyday problems. They also troubleshoot, maintain, and upgrade software applications to guarantee their optimal performance. An accelerated degree in computer programming can help you begin your career path in this lucrative field.
- Average Salary: $99,270
- Job Outlook: 7% growth from 2020 to 2030
Computer systems analysts are hired by companies to evaluate their hardware and software. They analyze and test an organization's digital systems and make recommendations for improvements where necessary. By obtaining an accelerated degree in computer programming, you can gain hands-on experience to succeed in this challenging role.
- Average Salary: $98,860
- Job Outlook: 8% growth from 2020 to 2030
Database architects help organizations design databases that are perfectly suited for their specific digital needs. They are responsible for database management, security, and routine upgrades. If you are looking to begin a professional career as a database architect, you can begin by getting an accelerated computer programming degree.
- Average Salary: $93,000
- Job Outlook: 10% decline from 2020 to 2030
Computer programmers apply their understanding of core computer science concepts to develop algorithms that drive computer software. Accelerated computer programming degrees cover necessary topics such as software engineering and Java programming to enable graduates to have the professional experience required to work as computer programmers.
- Average Salary: $77,200
- Job Outlook: 13% growth from 2020 to 2030
Web developers build customized websites for their clients. They could work alone or as part of a team tasked with front end, backend, or full stack development. An accelerated associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in computer programming will enable you to gain the competence to build highly performing interactive websites for small or large organizations.
Are Online Computer Programming Degrees Worth It?
Yes, online computer programming degrees are worth it because they are very flexible and allow students to learn at their own pace. By pursuing an online programming degree, you can receive the best quality education at a reduced cost and in less time.
Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees FAQ
Yes, you can get a programming job without a degree. Many tech companies hire individuals who can demonstrate high-level expertise in software development irrespective of their formal educational qualifications. Anyone who is skillful enough can land high-paying programming jobs, even if they don’t have a university degree.
You can become an entry-level programmer after just one year of intensive study. You can opt for an accelerated college degree, bootcamp, or go the self-taught route to develop your programming skills. However, the length of time varies depending on the number of hours you put in and your specific learning program.
You can get several entry-level jobs with an accelerated Associate Degree in Computer Programming. Computer programmers are needed in game development, cyber security, and information technology companies. An associate degree can help you get a role in any of these organizations.
Bachelor’s degree holders in computer programming earn $80,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, your salary can be significantly higher depending on where you work and your specific job description.
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