Where to Find the Best Online Computer Science Courses, Classes, and Training

Computer science is a broad field that applies to careers in software engineering, data analytics, information and software security, computer engineering, and network administration. If you want to pursue a career in this field, there are many online computer science courses, classes, and training programs to choose from.

These programs give you the skills you need to work in the computer science field. You can learn popular programming languages, cyber security, and data science skills within a short period of time. This guide will cover some of the best online computer science courses, classes, and training currently available. 

There are many online computer science courses on the Internet. With so many businesses and communication tools going digital, there is a growing interest in computer science degrees. After all, a lot of the developments in the digital space are thanks to the many programmers of the world.

If you are looking to join their ranks, then online computer science courses may be for you. Read on to learn where you can find the best online computer courses with certificates.

What Is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computer systems. Computer scientists participate in the development, theory, design, and application of computer systems. This field extends to networks, artificial intelligence, database systems, human-computer interaction, numerical analysis, bioinformatics, programming languages, and software engineering.

When you research computer science, it can feel quite intimidating. However, learning computer science is the kind of challenge that motivates you to be better because there is a lot to learn.

Everything you do on your computer or any digital device is possible thanks to years-long development. Computer programs you use to create documents or presentations in Microsoft Office were created thanks to computer science, just like the programs you use to play games or listen to music.

If you want to learn coding or software development to create such programs, then you can begin your journey in computer science by testing the waters through free online courses.

Why Online Computer Science Courses Are Important for Professional Development

Online computer science courses are important for professional development because of how quickly the tech industry grows and changes. Knowledge and skills that were obtained at one point can lose relevance quite quickly in the tech world. Online computer science courses are a great way to update your knowledge and skills without changing your current schedule. 

Taking up a computer science degree or computer science courses is the way to go if you want to learn about programming and coding. While these are the cores of computer science, there are also other disciplines within it such as machine learning and data management.

Being a computer scientist is beneficial because the computer and information sector is ever-growing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for computer science will grow by as much as 15 percent in the next 10 years.

Accordingly, a computer scientist earns an average of $122,840 per year and much more for those who continue to expand their studies. To do so, you can either take a master’s degree or take an online computer science course with a certificate.

Can You Learn Computer Science Online?

Whether you are an incoming college student or looking to transition to take a computer science degree, there are online courses available to get you started. Some are free, while others are paid.

There are also online computer science courses with certificates that you can list in your job applications. Some of these programs can be directly linked to your LinkedIn account so the professional certificate is viewable on your profile.

Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Computer Science?

If you want to enter the IT sector, a coding bootcamp is a good starting point. These programs are usually hands-on and flexible, which makes them an appealing educational route to a variety of learners. Bootcamp programs are especially ideal for college graduates who want to enter a field that differs from their bachelor’s degree focus.   

Overview: The Best Online Computer Science Courses, Classes, or Training

Some of the best online computer science courses, classes, and training programs focus on web development, software engineering, cyber security, and computer networks. You can find these courses primarily delivered through online coding bootcamps, massive open online courses, and certificate programs.

The table below lists some of the best online computer science courses, classes, and training programs. When deciding which online option is best for you, it’s important to consider the price, length, format, and whether or not they offer a certificate. 

Provider	Course	Price	Length	Certificate
App Academy	Software Engineering	$20,000	24 weeks	Yes
Coding Dojo	Software Development Online Full-Time Bootcamp	$16,245	14 weeks	Yes
Coursera	Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose	Free	10 weeks	No
Coursera	Accelerated Computer Science Fundamentals Specialization	Free	3 months	Yes, for a fee
edX	CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science	Free	12 weeks	Yes, for $348
Flatiron School	Software Engineering	$16,900	15 weeks	Yes
Galvanize	Hack Reactor Software Engineering Online Immersive	$17,980	13 weeks	Yes
Kenzie Academy	Software Engineering Program with Amazon Technical Academy	$16,000	4 to 12 months	Yes
New Jersey Institute of Technology	Online Graduate Certificate in Computer Science	$1,082 per credit	1 year (12 credits)	Yes
Udacity	Intro to Theoretical Computer Science	Free	2 months	No
Udemy	Foundations of Computer Science: Theory and Practice	Free	4 hours and 31 minutes	No
Udemy	Computer Science 101: Intro to Java and Algorithms	$90	14 hours	Yes
Udemy	Computer Science 101 – Computers & Programming for Beginners	$20	5 hours	Yes
Udemy	Build A Search Engine With Python: Computer Science & Python	$12	14 hours and 30 minutes	Yes
University of Massachusetts	Computer Science Graduate Certificate	$1,422 to $1,536 per course	1 year (15 credits)	Yes

In Detail: The Best Online Computer Science Classes, Courses, or Training

Software Engineering | App Academy

Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training 

Level: Beginner 

Subjects Covered: Programming fundamentals, computer science, web development fundamentals, backend engineering, Python

Students in this software engineering course build their expertise through this 24-week immersive course. The course begins by introducing students to HTML, CSS, Git, and Boolean logic. They continue into programming fundamentals, computer science, web development fundamentals, backend engineering, and Python. 

The enrollment process involves submitting an application, taking a non-technical assessment, and attending a 25-minute interview. Once you’re accepted, you’ll be required to complete the prep work, which is meant to prepare students for the technical challenges of the course. 

Key Takeaway: This is an immersive software engineering beginner course, offered in full-time and part-time options. Students aren’t required to have any technical background but will be required to independently complete the prep work before enrolling in the course. 

Software Engineering | Coding Dojo  

Learning Format: Bootcamp program

Level: Intermediate 

Subjects Covered: Java full stack, MERN full stack, Python full stack

This software engineering bootcamp program begins with a mandatory skills assessment, which is used to determine whether you will need to complete the two-week programming basics course, or if you can go straight to web fundamentals. Students will receive training in HTML, CSS, JS, jQuery, VS, Terminal, and GIT.

Coding Dojo offers extensive career services to program graduates, including profile, portfolio, and resume assistance, mock interviews, technical job skills tests, interview preparation, and contract negotiation. Online students are also offered a variety of payment options and scholarships.

Key Takeaway: This intermediate software engineering course is designed for students with a basic tech background, and focuses on direct object manipulation (DOM) and data manipulation.

Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose | Coursera  

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Modular programming, basic programming concepts, conditionals, loops

This computer science course is facilitated through Coursera and delivered by Princeton University. The curriculum includes arrays, loops, variables, conditionals, I/O, modular programming, recursion, code reuse, and object-oriented programming.

Once you enroll in this free program, you gain access to all video lectures, assignments, assessments, and other resources. Princeton University uses an automatic grader that’s capable of providing detailed feedback on all assignments, projects, and assessments. This course also allows students a flexible learning schedule.

Key Takeaway: This course is designed for beginners without any programming experience. It is most ideal for anyone interested in pursuing an online computer science course who doesn’t need a certificate.

Accelerated Computer Science Fundamentals Specialization | Coursera 

• Learning Format: Three-course program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Ordered data structures, object-oriented data structures in C++, unordered data structures

This intermediate program is facilitated by Coursera and offered by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In the free version, your access is limited to reading and reviewing course material. In the paid version, you’re allowed full access to the courses, which includes graded assignments, projects, and quizzes. You’ll also receive shareable course certificates.

In the first course of the series, students learn about object-oriented data structures in C++. In the second course, students learn about ordered data structures. The third and final course of the program covers unordered data structures. Students have the option to only enroll in certain courses within this program and can apply for financial aid. 

Key Takeaway: This accelerated computer science program is ideal for working professionals who want to advance their education or career quickly while maintaining schedule flexibility.

CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science | edX

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Cryptography, forensics, abstraction

This course is hosted by edX and offered by Harvard University. The course is free, but you can upgrade to a paid version that includes perks, such as a certificate. Students learn about algorithms, encapsulation, data structures, abstraction, software engineering, resource management, and web development. 

It also covers programming languages, like JavaScript, Python, SQL, C, and HTML. This introductory course lasts for 12 months, with an estimate of six to 12 hours of coursework a week. It’s a flexible course, which means students can absorb and work through the material at their own pace. 

Key Takeaway: This is an excellent free course for beginners offered by Harvard University. It’s also beneficial for anyone who wishes to pursue an affordable and reputable certificate.

Software Engineering | Flatiron School  

• Learning Format: Bootcamp program
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Backend development, front end web development, backend web APIs

To accommodate a variety of learners, Flatiron School offers full-time and flexible learning options. Students who choose the flexible learning option will meet with an academic advisor who will assist in creating an ideal schedule. Online students studying with a flexible schedule can adjust their pace at any time. 

The course curriculum includes programming fundamentals, creating UIs, fundamentals of web programming with Sinatra, building apps with Rails, Ruby basics, object-oriented programming, SQL, and object-relational mappers. 

Key Takeaway: This is an ideal option for anyone who is busy and can’t commit to a set schedule. This course is designed for beginners and focused on software engineering. 

Hack Reactor Software Engineering Online Immersive | Galvanize 

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Fundamentals of computer science, full stack JavaScript, application design

This program focuses on JavaScript and app design and begins by introducing students to crucial fundamental strategies and concepts that are used in the software engineering field. Students learn to use JavaScript instantiation patterns, build data structures, and master full stack JavaScript. 

Some other courses in the curriculum include MVC pattern, server-side technologies, inheritance patterns, browser animation, deployment, authentication, algorithms, API frameworks, JS frameworks, and CSS frameworks. The program also allows students to apply their knowledge and skills through group projects and hands-on activities. 

Key Takeaway: This program is ideal for beginners without prior experience. Galvanize provides a free preparation course that allows students to get familiar with basic concepts before diving into the course.

Software Engineering Program with Amazon Technical Academy | Kenzie Academy 

• Learning Format: Training program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Software engineering best practices, advanced backend Java development, cloud architecture

This training program is hosted by Kenzie Academy and offered by the Amazon Technical Academy. The coursework starts with an introduction to programming topics such as statistics and math, logic and conditionals, loops and functions, and equality and comparisons. Students also learn to develop apps in Java and write objects with Java standard libraries. 

This program is developed by Amazon engineers. It awards students with a Software Engineering Foundations certification in the third month and a Software Engineering with Backend Java certification upon program completion. Amazon Technical Academy also offers a foundations program, which allows beginners to prepare for this intermediate program. 

Key Takeaway: This course is designed by Amazon software engineers and is ideal for intermediate learners. The program is also flexible, which allows working professionals to simultaneously advance their education and career.

Online Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | New Jersey Institute of Technology

• Learning Format: Graduate-level certificate program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Cloud computing, internet protocols, introduction to wireless networking

This certificate in computer science program focuses on software systems. Students learn about the basics of computer science, practical applications of programming, database design, software engineering, logic, data management, and discrete mathematics needed by computer science professionals.

By the end of the program, students will be able to work with high-level inter-process programming languages, master computer algorithms used to identify logic errors during the software design process, and develop secure database systems from scratch for different purposes. 

Key Takeaway: This is a graduate certificate program, which means participants are required to have completed their bachelor’s degree before enrolling. This program is ideal for college graduates who want to advance their education, but don’t want to pursue a master’s program.

Intro to Theoretical Computer Science | Udacity 

• Learning Format: Self-paced full course
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Theoretical computer science, addressing challenging problems 

This intermediate course covers the basic theoretical aspects of computer science. Students are introduced to challenging problems, understanding hardness and NP-completeness, hardness tools, problem-solving techniques, approximate solutions, complexity classes, and ultimate limits. 

As this is an intermediate course, students are expected to have a basic understanding of algorithms and programming. Additionally, all participants should have a stable internet connection, updated browser, Google account, access to YouTube, and hardware that meets the course requirements.

Key Takeaway: This course is a great option for anyone interested in learning about basic theoretical computer science concepts.

Foundations of Computer Science: Theory and Practice | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Full course
• Level: Beginner/Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Data Structures, Complexity Analysis, Python, and Algorithms

This course is most ideal for beginners with basic knowledge of programming concepts and an understanding of high school-level mathematics. This free course allows access to the video content. However, for a fee, you can directly communicate with the instructor, participate in question and answer sessions, and receive a certificate of completion.

By the end of the course, students will have learned about computer science fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and Python. This program is meant to help students evaluate and optimize codes to produce better results, and enhance their code-writing and data-storing skills. 

Key Takeaway: This four-and-a-half-hour course is ideal for anyone wanting a thorough but time-efficient refresher. 

Computer Science 101 – Computers & Programming for Beginners | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Standalone course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Algorithm, loops, subroutines, jumps

This online course is designed for beginners without any prior experience and covers the basics of computer systems and programming languages. It also covers the definition of algorithms, how to create algorithms, and why algorithms are important.

The program comes with 90 minutes of video lectures, 20 articles, one downloadable resource, lifetime access to the material, and a certificate of completion. This course is ideal for anyone looking to gain basic knowledge of computers and programming in a short amount of time.

Key Takeaway: This course covers the basics of computer systems and programming languages, and is a great resource for anyone wanting to explore this field. 

Build a Search Engine With Python: Computer Science & Python | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Python rules, procedures and loops, data management

This online course teaches the basics of computer systems, Python fundamentals, managing data, and how to use Python to build a search engine. As this is a beginner course, it does not require participants to have any prior knowledge or experience, nor does it require the purchase of software. 

It includes over 150 video lectures, five articles, tons of quizzes, lifetime access, and a certificate of completion. This course is ideal for anyone who wants a foundational understanding of Python and how it applies to computer science, or for anyone who wants to brush up on their Python skills.

Key Takeaway: This is a basic introductory course that’s designed to teach beginners how to use Python to build a search engine. 

Computer Science 101: Intro to Java and Algorithms | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Java, algorithms, object-oriented programming, selection statements to loops, basic syntax and expression, methods, arrays

Udemy offers a 15-hour intro to Java and algorithms course. It includes 95 lectures, nine articles, seven downloadable resources, assignments, lifetime access, and a certificate of completion. This course is designed for beginners and does not require prior knowledge or experience, although students do need a computer and Internet connection.

The curriculum is divided into 17 sections. It covers fundamentals, control statements, methods, arrays, searching and sorting algorithms, object-oriented programming (OOP), advanced OOP, recursion, Polymorphism, and computer science. There are also several hands-on projects that allow students to apply and assess their learning.

Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for beginners who wish to learn and advance to intermediate concepts, specifically in Java and algorithms. 

Computer Science Graduate Certificate | University of Massachusetts

• Learning Format: Graduate-level certificate program
• Level: Advanced
• Subjects Covered: Computer programming with C, data structures and fundamental algorithms, and object-oriented programming with Java

This online certificate program is designed for graduate students in the computer science field. To be eligible to enroll, you need to have an undergraduate computer science degree. The course focuses on software engineering, computer networks, intelligent information systems, and distributed computing systems.

Students learn about new tools and concepts in the computer science field, including image processing, neural computing, evolutionary computing, and data science. Students in this program also receive online tutoring and one-on-one support throughout the program. 

Key Takeaway: This online certificate program includes five advanced courses and requires students to have earned their bachelor’s degree in a related area. Earning this certificate also fulfills the GRE requirements for the computer science master’s degree program at the University of Massachusetts. 

Online Computer Science Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?

Selecting the correct option depends on your current level of knowledge and educational goals. Classes usually last a few hours and focus on one subject. Training programs usually last a few weeks to months and primarily involve hands-on learning. Courses last several weeks to several months, cover many relevant topics, and combine lectures with hands-on training. 

How to Choose the Right Online Computer Science Course, Class, or Training Program

Cost 

When choosing which learning option is best for you, it’s important to consider the cost. While some programs are free, others can cost thousands of dollars. Additionally, many free program options don’t include certificates, which may be necessary for you, depending on your reason for pursuing an online computer science program.

If you decide to pay for an online program, it’s helpful to assess the different payment options. Many bootcamp programs offer financial aid, scholarships, and a variety of payment plans, while others have limited payment assistance or require an upfront payment.

Curriculum 

Another important thing to consider is whether a program’s curriculum aligns with your learning goals. For instance, if you want to advance your education or earn a certificate in computer science, whichever program you choose should focus on computer science. 

Another dimension of this is whether the course content is up-to-date with trending skills or requirements. Does the provider update their content list? Technology is constantly evolving and advancing, which creates a demand for tech professionals with current knowledge and skills.

Flexibility 

While some courses offer flexible learning options, others require students to participate in live lectures, discussions, and assignments. If you already have a variety of obligations to attend to, a flexible program would be the best option. 

Most online programs offer several learning options, one of which is usually a self-paced schedule. Self-paced options allow students to complete the coursework on a flexible deadline schedule or sometimes omit deadlines altogether. 

Computer Science Course Certificates vs Certifications

Certifications are often confused with certificates. Certificates are usually given upon completion of an educational program, whereas certifications are typically earned by passing a professional exam. Certificates primarily function as proof of completing a program, whereas certifications act as proof of qualification.

Importance of Computer Science Certifications

Computer science certifications are an excellent way to advance your education or find new career opportunities. They demonstrate your eligibility for positions or promotions related to your certification and they appeal to employers. Additionally, certification programs provide you with valuable and up-to-date tech knowledge and skills.

Why You Should Take Online Computer Science Courses or Classes

Online computer science courses and classes can teach you the skills and key concepts you need to thrive in the IT industry. Technology plays a massive role in the present and future, which makes it a rewarding field to invest in. 

Online computer science courses and classes can open up doors to a wide variety of career opportunities in the computer and IT fields. These roles are often high-paying. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, database administrators and architects have a median annual salary of $98,860. Computer and information technology careers have a job outlook of 13 percent.

Online computer science courses are a quick and efficient way to advance your education or career. There are many flexible programs available that allow you to maintain your current obligations and don’t require the time commitment that a degree program would. 

Conclusion: Find Your Path with Computer Science Courses

So much of what we enjoy today is thanks to the wonders of computer science. Seemingly simple things like graphic design and social media, or more complicated stuff like cyber security, are made possible by these developments.

Here’s some career advice: If you are dreaming of creating the next big food delivery app or the most efficient car booking service, it is time to start honing your computer science and coding skills.

Extra Free Online Computer Science Courses

We all want free stuff, right? Luckily, the Internet is filled with free online computer science courses with certificates. Of course, anything free comes with doubt in terms of quality. However, these institutions are guaranteed to deliver some of the best free online computer courses.

Harvard University: CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science

• Price: Free
• Certificate: Yes, available if you pay $90.00

This is an introductory course for those who want to learn the art of programming and computer science. It is designed for majors and non-majors alike, so it is friendly to those who have no tech background at all.

CS50 promises to provide a better understanding of computer science and programming as you tackle different programming languages like C, Python, SQL, and JavaScript.

University of London: Introduction to Computer Programming

• Price: Free
• Certificate: Available

A more focused approach, this program is aimed at helping beginners write computer programs. The course is designed to introduce you to programming languages that are basic for running programs.

The course is available on Coursera and is the beginner level of a three-part Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Specialization program.

University of Edinburgh: Code Yourself! An Introduction to Programming

• Price: Free
• Certificate: Available

This course takes a slightly more specific approach using Scratch. The platform was created by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for visual programming language lessons.

Generally, this program is an introduction to the principles of computing. Even better, it will mold you to think like a software engineer. Some of the skills you will learn in this free course include algorithms, programming, and of course Scratch.