20 Best Accelerated Computer Science Degree Online Programs [2026 Guide]
Why wait years to launch your career in technology? Accelerated computer science degree programs online offer you a faster path to earn your degree, build essential skills, and access high-paying tech jobs. These programs provide flexible learning, expert-led coursework, and a career-focused curriculum. Can you afford to miss out on this opportunity?
Designed for busy learners, these programs combine speed and flexibility, allowing you to balance studies with other responsibilities. With courses covering programming, data analysis, and software development, you’ll gain the knowledge to thrive in tech. Start your journey toward success without pausing your life.
Universities Offering Online Computer Science Degrees
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer computer science degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
1. Baker College
Baker College’s online BS in Computer Science features accelerated, 8-week courses with flexible scheduling. Four concentrations are offered: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Programming, and Data Analytics.
Coursework can be completed 100% online, with asynchronous collaboration with peers and instructors. The curriculum provides preparation for careers in software development, data science, and AI applications.
Baker is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
2. Charleston Southern University
Charleston Southern University offers an online Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science for associate degree holders. This 125-credit degree combines liberal arts with professional courses and is customizable to individual goals.
The program has 7-week, accelerated courses tailored for working adults and can be completed in 17 to 24 months.
Charleston Southern is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
3. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers an online, 183-credit-hour BS in Computer Science with 5-week courses. It can be completed online or in Colorado Springs
This accelerated degree program focuses on software solutions and programming, offering concentrations in Cybersecurity Engineering, Data Science, and Software Engineering. The curriculum provides training in industry-relevant skills and programming languages.
Colorado Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
4. Concordia University
Concordia University – Wisconsin’s online BS in Applied Computer Science features accelerated, 8-week courses with multiple start dates. This 120-credit, STEM-designated program allows up to 84 transfer credits.
The curriculum covers software engineering, database administration, and emerging technologies. Designed for working professionals, it offers preparation for careers in software engineering and computer programming.
Concordia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
5. Dakota State University
Dakota State University’s BS in Computer Science offers a “Degree in Three” accelerated option. This 120-credit program can be completed online or on-campus. The curriculum covers programming, data structures, algorithms, and operating systems.
There are also 4+1 and 3+1 options for earning a master’s degree.
Dakota State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
6. Depaul University
DePaul University offers an online degree completion program for a BS in Computer Science with an accelerated path for transfer students that can be completed in 3 years. The curriculum focuses on programming, software development, and computer systems.
Applicants need 45 quarter or 30 semester hours of transfer credit, one semester of Java or C++, and a 2.0 GPA minimum.
Depaul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
7. Franklin University
Franklin University’s BS in Computer Science features accelerated 6- and 12-week courses and can be completed 100% online. This 124-credit program allows up to 76% to be transferred in.
Aligned with ACM and IEEE-CS standards, the curriculum covers software development, object-oriented design, computer architecture, and database management. It offers hands-on experience through the completion of cutting-edge projects.
Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
8. Herzing University
Herzing University’s BS in Computer Programming is a 120-credit program available 100% online. Up to 90 qualifying transfer credits are accepted, and the degree can be completed in 32 months.
The curriculum covers Python, C++, Java, SQL, and JavaScript, offering preparation for various tech roles through virtual labs and industry-aligned coursework.
Herzing is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
9. Lamar University
Lamar University’s online BS in Computer Information Sciences features accelerated 8-week courses. This 120-credit program covers software design, computing languages, and business technology integration. Up to 90 qualifying transfer credits are accepted.
Courses provide training in structured programming, computer architecture, and network administration, offering preparation for careers in data science, software engineering, and systems analysis.
Lamar is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
10. Lewis University
Lewis University offers an accelerated, 128-credit-hour BS in Computer Science. Several concentrations are available: Artificial Intelligence, Game and Simulation Programming, Mobile Computing, Secure Programming, Systems Programming, and Software Engineering.
LU offers 4+1 options for earning master’s degrees in an accelerated time in the following specialties: Information Security, Data Science, and Computer Science.
Lewis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
11. Limestone College
Limestone University’s online BS in Computer Science – Information Technology features asynchronous, 8-week courses. It offers preparation for IT management roles, covering information systems, database management, and mobile technologies.
The curriculum aligns with industry needs and CompTIA certifications, allowing for the pursuit of IT analyst, database administrator, and support technician careers upon graduation.
Limestone is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
12. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University offers an online BS in Computer Science with a degree completion option for transfer students. The ABET-accredited program emphasizes real-world problem-solving and hands-on lab experiences.
Additionally, ODU provides a linked BS and MS in Computer Science, allowing students to take up to 12 graduate credits during their senior year to accelerate their path to an MS degree.
ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
13. Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s online BS in Computer Science offers flexible acceleration options. This 180-quarter-credit program features an Accelerated Master’s Platform, allowing undergrads to take graduate courses. A 60-credit postbaccalaureate track is available for degree holders.
Transfer students can potentially fast-track completion. Courses run in 11-week quarters. The curriculum covers programming, algorithms, and software engineering.
Oregon State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
14. Pace University
Pace University’s online BS in Professional Technology Studies offers an accelerated path with computer science components. This 120-credit program allows students to transfer up to 75 credits and can be completed in 2 to 3 years.
Designed for working adults, it covers programming, cybersecurity, and data management. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format.
Pace is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
15. Regent University
Regent University’s online BS in Computer Science features accelerated, 8-week course sessions. This program allows transfer of up to 90 credit hours, potentially shortening degree time.
The curriculum covers programming languages, software engineering, and database design while integrating Christian principles. It provides preparation for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and systems analysis.
Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
16. Regis University
Regis University’s online BS in Computer Science features accelerated, 8-week courses with start dates in January, March, May, July, August, and October. This ABET-accredited, 120-credit program allows up to 66 transfer credits.
The curriculum covers programming languages, software development, and AI, offering preparation for roles in software engineering, web development, and data science.
Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
17. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University’s online BS in Computer Science features accelerated, 8-week terms with multiple start dates. This 120-credit program allows up to 90 transfer credits.
The curriculum covers software development, programming languages, and AI. Four concentration options are available: Data Analysis, Information Security, Project Management, or Software Engineering.
SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
18. Troy University
Troy University’s online BS in Computer Science features accelerated, 9-week terms with multiple start dates throughout the year.
This 120-credit program covers programming languages, software engineering, and emerging technologies. At least 25% of credits must be completed at Troy. The curriculum offers preparation for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and systems analysis.
Troy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
19. University of Denver
The University of Denver’s BA in Information Technology offers an accelerated path through 10-week courses. This completion program allows transfer of up to 135 quarter hours. Available in online or hybrid formats, it covers cybersecurity, database design, and web development.
A combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program is also available.
DU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
20. University of Maryland Global
The University of Maryland Global Campus has an online BS in Computer Science featuring accelerated, 8-week sessions. This 120-credit program allows transfer of up to 90 credits.
The curriculum covers programming, computer systems, and architecture, offering preparation for careers in software engineering and database administration. Courses are taught by experienced faculty and align with current industry demands in technology fields.
UMUC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The computer science field pays well & is growing
Salary and job data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Median salary in IT field: $91,250
- Median salary for Software Developers: $110,140
- Computer & IT jobs will grow by 13% over the next ten years
Computer Science & IT Curriculum
Computer science is now considered a foundational science. It connects in with many other areas such as education, medicine, finance, communication, and entertainment.
You may excel in a computer science program if you enjoy solving problems, analyzing situations, can organize and think creatively and logically.
A sampling of common computer science courses:
- Introductory Programming
- Intermediate Programming
- Computer Systems and Architecture
- Building Secure Web Applications
- Data Structures and Analysis
- Advanced Programming Languages
- Object-Oriented and Concurrent Programming
- Compiler Theory and Design
- Design and Analysis of Computer Algorithms
- Operating Systems
- Computer Graphics
- Fundamentals of Mobile Web Application Development
- Emerging Trends in Technology
- Introduction to Business Intelligence
- Fundamentals of Cloud Computing
- Ethical Hacking
- Apple iOS Programming
- Universal Windows Applications Programming
- Visual Communication in the Media
- Fundamentals of Enterprise Architecture
Classes and courses like these can help prepare students to enter a rapidly changing career.
Instead of watching as computer science and software engineering evolves, you might be at the front of the change!
Computer Science Careers and Salaries
Computer science, together with information technology, ranks as one of the high earning undergraduate majors in the STEM fields.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be 531,200 new jobs added in the computer and technology fields in the next decade… growing at a rate of 13%.
Computer related jobs are forecast to continue to grow and along with that growth comes a high demand for trained professionals.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the computer science field include:
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $126,830 |
| Computer Network Architect | $116,780 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $103,590 |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $98,230 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $93,730 |
| Computer Programmer | $89,190 |
| Computer Systems Engineer | $87,190 |
| Network Systems Administrator | $84,810 |
The number of jobs in computer science is forecast to continue to rise. And with a masters in computer science online no GRE, you may even qualify for a higher paying position.
Accelerated Online Computer Science Classes
When you attend a college class at your local school, you will typically be sitting in class for 16 weeks. But it doesn’t have to take that long.
With computer science accelerated classes, you may finish your course in 6 weeks or 8 weeks online.
If you are ready to jump in and start now, then there is good news for you. You can! Most universities have new online accelerated class start dates every month.
Computer Science Careers in High-Demand
Computer science, sometimes abbreviated to CS or CompSci, is a trans-disciplinary course of study about the operation, architecture, use and design of computers, their hardware and software, as well as the mathematical elements such as those in the theories of computation such as algorithmic construction and analysis.
The candidate’s qualities or skills needed for such occupation are:
- Analytical skills
- Detail oriented personality
- Communication skills
- Logical thinking skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Concentration
- Ingenuity
What is a Bachelor of Computer Science?
A Bachelor of Computer Science (BSC or BSCS) is a four year course of study at a degree-granting institution, though that timeframe may be shortened by taking a more intensive course of study leading to an accelerated computer science degree.
In a growing and evolving computing world where major money buys emergent technologies, who knows what the next WhatsApp will be. A BSC or MSC in Computer Science can help launch your career in this lucrative field of study.
Possible Career Paths for Computer Science Graduates
(Recent average salaries and projected growth through the next ten years according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Information Security Analysts: $103,590 average pay per year, projected growth of 31 percent.
- Database Administrator: $98,860 average pay per year, projected growth of 10 percent.
- Computer Systems Analyst: $93,730 average pay per year, projected growth of 7 percent.
- Network Systems Administrator: $84,810 average pay per year, projected growth of 4 percent.
- Computer Network Architect: $116,780 average pay per year, projected growth of 5 percent.
- Web Developer: $77,200 average pay per year, projected growth of 8 percent.
- Software Developer: $110,140 average pay per year, projected growth of 22 percent.
- Computer Hardware Engineer: $119,560 average pay per year, projected growth of 2 percent.
- Computer and Information System Managers: $151,150 average pay per year, projected growth of 10 percent.
In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes the relatively low unemployment rates for computer and mathematical occupations as a whole and maps the areas all across America where such professionals are in high demand.
No matter where you want to go with your accelerated computer science degree, there are opportunities practically everywhere — not just Silicon Valley or Redmond, but everywhere in the US where business, industry, finance or government runs on computers.
Why a College Degree Matters
A degree may make a serious difference, especially in a field like computer science, where a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree is less as a certification and more of a basic qualification for job candidates seeking to work in the field.
As the occupation and technology evolves at a lightning fast pace, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited degree granting institution can be advantageous for a well-rounded and technologically current employee.
As previously mentioned, of the many reasons to obtain a degree, the most prominent are employability, financial security, and the long term benefits over the course of a working lifetime.
Salary & Education Level
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, in a recent study, averaged the salaries in unemployment percentages of people 25 and older, across all levels of education from no high school diploma all the way up the ladder to advanced degrees — master’s, Ph.D., and holders of professional degrees such as medical doctors and lawyers.
By the measures of annual wages and rates of unemployment, the difference even an associate degree makes in job and financial security is stark. The numbers, even when averaged, simply do not lie.
- Less than a high school diploma: $27,510 average annual earnings, with unemployment of 3.3 percent.
- High school diploma: $39,070 average annual earnings, with unemployment of 1.5 percent.
- Associate degree program: $56,590 average annual earnings, with unemployment of 6.2 percent.
- Bachelor’s degree program: $77,920 average annual earnings, with unemployment of 6.4 percent.
- Advanced degree (Ph.D. and professional degrees): $110,200 average annual earnings, with unemployment of 5.9 percent.
When totaled over the course of 10 years, not accounting for raises, promotions with commensurate pay, or long periods of unemployment, the differences amount to under average earnings of $290,800 at the no high school diploma of the scale.
However, for the baccalaureate, earnings are above average by $213,300 and for the advanced degree come in at above half a million. Financial security depends, of course, on spending habits, savings, and budgeting for basic living expenses like housing, depending on where you live.
College & University Accreditation
Accreditation is the crucial difference between having a degree that is accepted not only by potential employers who want a credible standard of instruction and testing, but accepted by the best universities for computer science where you may wish to continue your education.
For instance, if you begin working toward your degree at a community college before transferring to a bachelor’s degree-granting institution, you would want your credits for that hard work to be transferable between schools, and this is one of the things that accreditation guarantees.
Then maybe you’ll take the credits from your undergraduate years and want them to be considered when applying for admission to graduate school for a master’s degree program.
Again, accreditation makes the difference in finding the program for your needs, and with so many degree mill schools engaging not only in fraudulent degrees and phony accreditation but also in predatory lending, it makes sense to do your best research on program information before you invest in your degree.
Regionally Accredited Colleges
Begin by checking the school’s website for computer science programs, which should mention regional accreditation bodies that are registered with the Department of Education.
Then check accreditation with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, which not only has a database of regional accrediting bodies, but also faith-based accrediting bodies and important programmatic accrediting organizations.
If you are attending a regionally accredited college or university, then you don’t need to worry.
Computer Science – Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
ABET is the big name in computer science and computer programming. Some big name schools have chosen not to bother with accreditation and go by their reputation only. But it never hurts to check if your school is accredited.
CHEA’s only computer science accrediting body is ABET – Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology – which accredits 3,367 programs at 684 institutions worldwide.
An ABET accredited program, with a regionally accredited school is the best guarantee of return on investment for the money and effort you’ll spend obtaining a valuable accelerated computer science degree.
Accreditation also helps to finance your degree by assuring grant making organizations, scholarship foundations, and loaning entities that the institution is valid and the degree worth the money.
Roadmaps to an Accelerated Computer Science Degree
Once you’re admitted to a school, depending on if you are a returning student, a new high school graduate, or a distance learner, there are several different paths to the accelerated computer science degree, but it’s going to mean more intensive courses, fewer breaks and working around the typical undergraduate breadth requirements.
Not everyone is cut out for the pressure, but working at an accelerated pace may assist people in leaving school earlier, owing less, and earning more sooner than their classmates.
Testing Out of Computer Science Degree Requirements
Testing out of undergraduate breadth requirements can nip off significant time from even an accelerated computer science degree, and save large amounts of money. It’s not cheap to go out of pocket, but compared to most tuition and time required for the same courses, it’s no contest.
College Level Examination Program is accepted by 2,900 schools as credit in these 33 different breadth requirement areas:
- History
- Social Sciences
- Composition
- Literature
- Business
- World Languages
- Science
- Mathematics
Online courses or an accelerated program, where laboratory units are not mandatory, may also be wedged in on weekends, evenings, breaks and summer vacation, or even whenever you have a spare quiet hour or so.
For students with a busy home life, caring for children or family members, accelerated degree programs online may also be a mental change of pace and a time saver.
Even students already enrolled in a traditional four-year or two-year course of study can use online courses to slice hours from their undergraduate requirements. As with all programs leading to a degree, accreditation for your online coursework is vital if you are to use the course credits toward a degree.
CHEA currently accredits two organizations for institutions offering distance learning:
- Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), which accredits private schools and colleges that confer diplomas, certifications, and degrees up to master’s level for technical, occupational and professional careers.
- Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) Accrediting Commission, which is for distance learning programs that award credit toward associate’s baccalaureate, master’s, professional and doctoral degrees.
Finally, you may have heard of the five-year plan or the 4+1 master’s degree.
The blended master’s accelerated computer science degree is offered as a way to take upper-division courses as an undergrad, and having them apply to both the baccalaureate and the master’s, with usually only one year postgraduate work to attain a master’s degree.
Often offered as a hybrid course, the 4+1 generally requires both online and on-campus work, though the on-campus hours can be as little as two days per week.
Computer Science Degree: Taking the next step…
A CS degree is an investment of time, money and effort on your part, with the potential for a valuable payoff in knowledge, satisfaction, confidence, an expansion of opportunities and a greater chance to provide for the future of your family, your own business or a comfortable retirement.
What you expend in effort over the course of your studies might come back to you with tangible and intangible benefits, and the excitement of being in the middle of the technology that underpins the modern world. Uncover accelerated compsci degrees online that fit your aspirations—hit “Find My Program” today.