The listings featured on this site are from companies from which this site receives compensation. This influences where, how and in what order such listings appear on this site.
Advertising Disclosure
www.compareonlinecolleges.com is a free online resource that strives to offer helpful content and comparison features to our visitors. We accept advertising compensation from companies that appear on the site, which impacts the location and order in which brands (and/or their products) are presented, and also impacts the score that is assigned to it. Company listings on this page DO NOT imply endorsement. We do not feature all providers on the market. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. The information, including pricing, which appears on this site is subject to change at any time.
Close
Best Online Colleges for Computer Science & IT 2024
Launch your career in tech with an online bachelor's degree
Start your computer science & IT bachelor's degree with one of our top choices for accredited online colleges.
Last Updated December 2024
Best Online Colleges for Computer Science & IT 2024
Start your computer science & IT bachelor's degree with one of our top choices for accredited online colleges.
Last Updated December 2024
Best Online Colleges for Computer Science & IT 2024
Start your online computer science & IT bachelor's degree with a top-rated online college.
Last Updated December 2024
1
Our Most Popular
Online
Campus
Our Most Popular
Classes start on 01/06/2025
  • Choose from top computer science and IT programs and 200+ accredited degree programs that lead to high-demand career opportunities
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Unique services such as 24 hour tech support, tutoring, and online library
Read School Profile
SNHU's popular programs
  • Computer Science
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
Search Programs
2
Online
Classes start on 1/21/2025
  • Earn your technology degree through a convenient online format with flexible class & degree programs
  • No application fees or standardized testing requirements
  • Study at your own pace with accelerated 5-to-6 week courses with 24/7 student support
  • Earn credit for your work/life experience and military service
Read School Profile
UAGC popular programs
  • Criminal Justice
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
Search Programs
3
Online
Classes start on 02/26/2025
  • Earn an information technology degree backed by the power of Purdue, one of the nation's most respected and innovative public universities
  • Get personalized support for career planning, coursework, networking, and more
  • Designed for working adults with full lives, who need flexible online learning to advance their careers
  • Get started sooner—new terms start monthly, with open enrollment
Read School Profile
PG's Popular Programs
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
  • Cybersecurity
Search Programs
4
Online
Classes start on 01/13/2025
  • Gain technology and programming skills from a Christian worldview
  • Wide variety of computer science and tech focus areas with collaborative online learning tools
  • Ranked in Top National Universities by U.S News & World Report
  • Multi-disciplinary technology, cybersecurity and computer science courses
Read School Profile
Regent's popular programs
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
  • Religious Studies
Search Programs
5
Online
Classes start on 01/13/2025
  • Flexible study options from a Christian worldview
  • Tuition rates have been frozen for nine years through June 2025
  • Get assistance through every step of the admission, enrollment, and financial aid processes
  • Transfer-friendly and gives credit for qualified life experience, on-the-job, or military training
Read School Profile
Liberty University's popular programs
  • Business Administration
  • Criminal Justice
  • Psychology
Search Programs
6
Online
Classes start on 01/01/2025
  • Choose from award-winning programs designed by industry experts to build a path to a respected IT degree
  • Earn your online degree for half the cost of other online universities with a low, flat-rate tuition
  • Flexible scheduling and no class times, complete your degree while fulfilling work and family responsibilities
  • Free application and free transcript services that help you gather your transcripts at no additional cost
Read School Profile
WGU's Popular Programs
  • Business
  • IT/Technology
  • Education/Teaching
  • Healthcare/Nursing
Search Programs
7
Online
Classes start on 01/06/2025
  • Take courses 100% online and study when and where you want, at the pace of your life.
  • Earn a degree designed by industry experts with employer needs and your career success in mind.
  • Transfer credits from eligible college coursework and prior career and military experiences to cut the time and tuition required for your degree.
  • Learn from experts who are actively involved in the fields that they teach so you’re up-to-date and ready to get ahead in your career from day one.
Read School Profile
UMass Global's popular programs
  • Psychology
  • Business Administration
  • Information Technology
Search Programs
8
Online
Classes start on 01/13/2025
  • Choose from 300+ online degrees and certificates from a nationally rankled university to pursue your passions
  • Gain hands-on experience using interactive education technologies built into online courses
  • Learn from ASU's award-winning faculty who also teach on-campus and are at the forefront of research initiatives
  • Ranked #1 in the U.S. for innovation emphasizing adaptive learning and global solutions
Read School Profile
ASU's popular programs
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Leadership and Innovation
  • Forensic Science
  • Biological Sciences
Search Programs
Our Statistics
84%
of online undergraduates are employed while studying.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
63%
of students choose online programs for their flexibility.
Sources:
https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/online-learning-statistics
50%
less learning time is required when online learning.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
Our Top Choice
1
Our Most Popular
Online
Campus
Our Most Popular
Classes start on 01/06/2025
  • Choose from top computer science and IT programs and 200+ accredited degree programs that lead to high-demand career opportunities
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Unique services such as 24 hour tech support, tutoring, and online library
Read School Profile
SNHU's popular programs
  • Computer Science
  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
Search Programs
3,613,346
people have compared online colleges with
Editorial Reviews
SNHU
University of Arizona Global Campus
Purdue Global
Our Statistics
84%
of online undergraduates are employed while studying.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
63%
of students choose online programs for their flexibility.
Sources:
https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/online-learning-statistics
50%
less learning time is required when online learning.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
Must Reads
Read All
10 Reasons Why People Are Studying Online Today
Top 5 Compelling Reasons to Start an Online Degree Today
Studying Online vs. On-Campus: Which is Better?
Online vs. On-Campus

Pursuing an online degree offers a flexible and convenient way for students to advance their education and career prospects while empowering students to study from a diverse range of courses at their own pace from any device. Explore the different benefits that an online degree offers and how it adapts to your studying style.

Online Campus
Flexibility
Studying online allows students to choose their own schedules, perfect for working professionals.
Lower costs
Save on transportation, books and living expenses.
Study at your own pace
Choose your own study schedule and pace to fit your needs.
Study anywhere on any device
Access lessons, assignments and study materials from anywhere on any device.
Networking opportunities
Network with students all over the world from different backgrounds.
Student support
Receive dedicated student and academic support to help guide you through your studying experience.
Social activities
While you won't be able to meet your peers in person, you can still participate in virtual social activities that fit your schedule.

Online Computer Science or IT Degree: What You Need to Know

Whether you want to work for a social media giant or a blockchain startup, computer science or information technology is a great subject to study in today’s tech-focused world. However, studying on campus isn’t always the best choice. When you’ve got little time, a limited budget, and a need to upgrade your skills without uprooting your life, an online master’s, bachelor’s, or certificate might be the perfect way to pursue a technology degree.

Studying online enables you to learn anywhere, at any time, and usually at a lower cost than traditional in-person instruction. As you’re not tied to a particular location, you have a vast selection of programs and institutions open to you. This article will help you choose the best online computer science or information technology degree for you.

Who Should Get a Computer Science or IT Degree Online?

An online degree in computer science or IT may be the perfect choice for some students, but it won’t be for everyone. Remote learning is a different experience from attending college in person, as you’ll be required to complete your assignments, reading, and tests in your own time, so you will need to be disciplined and focused.

So who should get an online computer science or IT degree? Here are a few top candidates:

People who are short on time

Online degrees are an excellent option for busy people with work or family commitments. You can complete the units remotely and work from your home, your local library, or anywhere you like! There’s no need to travel to a particular location to take classes. You should be able to complete much of the learning at whatever time suits you, so you can fit studying around your life instead of needing to disrupt your routine to attend in-person classes.

Additionally, you may be able to enroll at any point in the year, so you don’t need to wait for a long time for the new semester to come around. You also won’t be tied into a rigid schedule, so you can adjust the timings to suit you.

People who don’t have colleges conveniently located near them

The beauty of online studying is that it’s fully remote, meaning you can get on with your online computer science or IT degree from your preferred institution without needing to travel or relocate. It’s an excellent option for people all over the country, giving everyone equal opportunity to pursue their degree regardless of location.

People who are on a budget

Finally, it’s all about the money. Since online programs don’t have the same kind of overheads as a brick-and-mortar school, they can afford to charge their students significantly less tuition, making it an easier and much more affordable option for anyone on a budget.

Our Top 3 Picks for Online Colleges

Our Top Choice

In a Nutshell

SNHU has more than 200 programs ranging from accounting and finance to technology and social sciences, and you can earn an Associate, Bachelor’s, or Master’s Degree from SNHU. The school is known for being affordable and flexible.

Features

  • Choose from top computer science and IT programs and 200+ accredited degree programs that lead to high-demand career opportunities
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Receive individual support from an academic advisor, from the moment you arrive until graduation
  • Unique services such as 24 hour tech support, tutoring, and online library

Pros

  • Helpful advisors and student resources
  • Affordable tuition & financial aid packages/scholarships
  • Easy to transfer credits

Cons

  • Can be difficult to follow tech-focused programs online
  • Not a lot of break time between sessions

In a Nutshell

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) is an accredited online university with flexible programs. It makes higher education more accessible for many working adults and provides dozens of degree options in numerous areas of interest.

Features

  • Earn your technology degree through a convenient online format with flexible class & degree programs
  • No application fees or standardized testing requirements
  • Study at your own pace with accelerated 5-to-6 week courses with 24/7 student support
  • Earn credit for your work/life experience and military service

Pros

  • $0 application fee
  • 50+ degree programs to choose from
  • Flexible online programs that work around your schedule
  • 24/7 support

Cons

  • Lower-than-average graduation rates
  • No options for in-person learning

In a Nutshell

Purdue Global provides an accessible online route to gain qualifications that can further your career. Ideal for busy people who want to study remotely, Purdue Global still offers a high level of student support, both academically and in helping you make progress at work. With a free three-week trial, you can test it out with no commitment. And there are plenty of options for financial aid, including experiential credits.

Features

  • Earn an information technology degree backed by the power of Purdue, one of the nation's most respected and innovative public universities
  • Get personalized support for career planning, coursework, networking, and more
  • Designed for working adults with full lives, who need flexible online learning to advance their careers
  • Get started sooner—new terms start monthly, with open enrollment

Pros

  • Qualifications from Associate’s to doctoral degrees
  • Range of options for financial aid and assistance
  • Free three-week trial period

Cons

  • Courses only in professional subjects
  • No dedicated internship program

Types of Computer Science or IT Degrees Online

The great thing about online studying is there are so many courses to choose from. If you’re looking for a shorter, more basic degree course, you could opt for an associate’s degree. For longer and more in-depth study, a bachelor's or master’s degree can give you a greater understanding of the subject and qualifications that will be well respected by employers.

Selecting an accredited degree will give your study more credibility, as it means the course has been checked and approved for offering high-quality education.

Online Bachelor Degree Vs Online Master’s Degree in Computer Science/IT: What’s the Difference?

If you’re set on studying computer science or IT, you may be wondering whether you should go for a bachelor's degree or a master’s degree. A bachelor's degree is an undergraduate qualification that gives you a grounding in the subject, whereas a master’s degree is the next level up.

For an online computer science or IT degree, you may study the following topics:

  • Data analysis
  • Software engineering
  • Project management in IT
  • Project management in Computer Science
  • Programming
  • Information security
  • Network architecture
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Cybersecurity
  • Business management

An online Master of Computer Science or IT program or degree should build on the information and experience you gained from your BA. It should naturally take you one step further. Top accredited online master’s programs might cover any or all of the following:

  • Algorithms
  • Healthcare Informatics
  • Technology and web design
  • Data analytics
  • Databases
  • Modeling and graphics
  • Bioinformatics
  • Distributed systems
  • Artificial intelligence

No matter which online college you choose, you’ll also need to do some coursework. Usually, this will be tailored to fit your area of specialty or interest.

Show Me the Money: The Finances of Getting a Computer Science Degree Online

An online computer science or IT degree can certainly save you money, as program costs are generally lower. For an online bachelor’s degree, top online colleges may charge upwards of $60,000, although you may find some in the range of $10,000 to $30,000 (usually charged on a per-credit basis). For a master’s degree, fees are similarly variable, with courses being offered for as little as $5,000, or as much as $40,000.

Don’t forget you may also need to pay other costs on top of tuition, like textbooks or other course materials.

Qualifying for FAFSA Student Aid, a private student loan, or college scholarships can also help you meet the cost. You may be able to secure a lower rate and most online colleges offer discounts for US service members and their spouses. Some employers may sponsor you to complete your studies too.

What to Look for in a Computer Science or IT Degree Online

Choosing an online college for computer science or IT can feel like a challenging process. After all, you need to narrow down the best computer science or information technology colleges, and it can be hard to choose. You might consider the following:

Accreditation

Accredited courses have been vetted by an accrediting agency (the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation). They need to meet specific high standards, including being capable of providing high-quality education to their students, with sufficient resources, well-trained staff, and rigorous qualifications. Getting an accredited degree not only ensures you’ve had thorough training in the subject, but you can also use your credits for further study at a different school.

Flexibility

To get all the benefits of studying online, make sure you check that the course is well set up for online learners. For example, you may want to look into its digital library provisions, the support you will get from teachers and other university staff, and whether you will have any personalized career support. You should also consider the structure of the course and whether it’s possible to start at any time, or if you’re tied into the traditional semester.

Of course, lowering the cost of getting a degree is one big reason to study online, so comparing prices is also a good idea.

Getting a Computer Science Degree Online: Making it Happen

If you’re set on studying for a computer science or IT degree through an online college, your next step is to apply. You might be eligible for financial help depending on your circumstances, so make sure you apply for relevant scholarships and loans.

Studying online enables you to obtain your computer science or IT degree from anywhere at a lower cost than traditional programs. Even if you have existing work and family commitments, you can take advantage of the flexibility of online study and work at your own pace. Taking a computer science or IT online degree may change the whole direction of your career!