50 Best Online Computer Programming Degree Programs [2024 Guide]

By Joy Cromwelle
Updated on March 23, 2024
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Explore Online Computer Programming Degrees for 2023. Compare online programs, career paths, and salaries!

We’ve identified the 50 accredited Online Computer Programming Degrees for 2024. Compare online programs, career paths, and salaries!

computer programmers working in the office

Are you interested in computers and coding, and wondering if a computer programming degree is a wise move for you? With the rising popularity of STEM careers, a computer programming degree may be a wise investment.

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Universities Offering Online Bachelor’s in Computer Programming Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a public institution based in Phoenix. It was established in 1885, and they now serve over 50,000 students. They possess five different campuses in Phoenix, each one centered on a different department. They have been recently chosen by U.S. News & World Report as one of the most innovative universities in the country.

  • Bachelor’s in Software Engineering

ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Baker College

Baker College is a private non-profit university that dates back to 1911. They are located in Flint, Michigan, where they have historically been one of the leading technical and engineering training centers. They possess an urban campus that encompasses 53 acres of academic buildings. They are renowned for their extensive financial aid programs and their “right to try” admissions policy.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Baker is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Bellevue University

Located in Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University is a private non-profit institution. They were founded in 1966 as a way to cater to working adults and non-traditional students who already had job experience. In addition to their main suburban campus in Bellevue, they also maintain a professional center in Omaha. They currently have over 10,000 students.

  • Bachelor’s in Software Development

Bellevue is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

4. Brigham Young University

Based in Provo, Utah, Brigham Young University is a private research university. They are affiliated with the Mormon Church (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) and are as much a training center as a cultural icon for that community. They were established in 1875 and still keep largely the same “honor code” in effect for all their students.

  • BS in Information Technology

BYU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

5. California State University – Long Beach

Sometimes known as CSU, California State University is actually a school system that comprises 23 different campuses across the state. These are all public institutions, which were organized in 1857 to replace the California State Normal Schools conglomerate.

The main campus is located in Long Beach, California. They currently have approximately 481,000 students.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Cal State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

6. Champlain College

Champlain College was founded in Burlington, Vermont in 1878. It is a private institution that was originally founded by G. W. Thompson with the goal of “preparing young men for business and life.” They now have over 2,200 full-time on-campus students, in addition to a wide array of international students who are enrolled in their online Master’s programs.

  • Bachelor’s in Software Development

Champlain is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

7. Colorado State University – Global Campus

The Global Campus of the Colorado State University System was founded in 2007 as an extension arm that could facilitate long-distance opportunities for students from all around the world. Although their administrative offices are located in the city of Aurora, this online campus now has a student body of over 19,000 people who hail from over 40 countries.

  • BS in Information Technology

On June 30, 2011, CSU – Global was officially granted independent regional accreditation status by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Colorado Technical University

Sometimes known as CTU, the Colorado Technical University is a private higher education institution. They were founded in 1965. Just like their name indicates, they are based in Colorado Springs, where they cater to over 23,000 undergraduates and over 2,000 postgraduate students. Most of their current student body is pursuing a long-distance degree.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

CTU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

9. Concordia University

Concordia University is a private research university based in Portland, Oregon. They were founded in 1905 by the Missouri Synod of the Lutheran Church. As they are now part of the Concordia University Alliance, they have maintained their affiliation with the Lutheran Church.

They have a student body of approximately 1,300 on-campus students, plus 5,000 long-distance learners.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

CTX is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Depaul University

Depaul University is a private school affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. They were founded in 1898 by a Vincentian Congregation in the city of Chicago, where their main campus is still located. Some of their most notable alumni include Dan Evans, general manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and oil consultant George Papadopoulos.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Depaul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. Drexel University

Drexel University is a private non-profit institution with a strong focus and science and industrial education. They were established in 19891 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where their main campus is still located. This school has over 24,000 students and maintains 18 varsity teams and 31 sports clubs.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Drexel is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. Florida State University

Florida State University is a public institution located in Tallahassee, where they were originally founded in 1851 as an agricultural and mechanical college. Their over 41,000 students can take pride in attending an institution that has been ranked as one of the top 20 public universities in the United States by U.S News & World Report.

  • BA in Computer Science
  • BS in Computer Science

FSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

13. Franklin University

A private University based in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University was originally founded by the YMCA in 1902. However, they are no longer affiliated with any religious institution. They run a large number of online and long-distance programs, so the majority of its students are off-campus adult learners who are also working.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. George Mason University

George Mason University, sometimes known AGMU, is a public facility based in the city of Fairfax, Virginia. They date back to 1949. They also have satellite facilities across the state and in South Korea. GMU’s alumni include notable economists and lawyers, such as Nobel Memorial Prize winner Hames Buchanan.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

GMU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

15. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University is a large public school that prides itself in its “small feel.” They were established in 1906 and currently serve over 26,000 students in their flagship campus of Statesboro. In addition, they maintain a satellite campus in Armstrong. Their varsity teams participate in the NCAA Division I.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Georgia Southern is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

16. Liberty University

Liberty University, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the wealthiest private universities affiliated with the evangelical Christian Church. It was founded in 1971 as a non-profit and quickly expanded to house over 15,000 on-campus students. In addition, they were among the first to adopt distance-learning modes and now have over 90,000 long-distance students.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago is a private institution that dates back to 1870. They are affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, as they were originally founded by a Jesuit congregation. This school now serves approximately 16,000 students on its main campus. It consistently ranks among the best-value private universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

LUC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and was first accredited in 1921.

18. Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia State University is based in Macon, Georgia. The school dates back to 1884, when it was originally founded by a New Ebenezer Baptist Association. However, it is now a public institution and has no religious affiliation. They currently have over 8,000 students, which provides them with a cozy “small town” feel.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Middle Georgia State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. National University

This private non-profit university is located in the city of La Jolla, California, where it was originally established in 1971. However, they possess 28 urban campuses across the states of California and Nevada, in addition to varied online-based learning programs. They currently serve almost 24,000 students and have over 170,000 alumni.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

NU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

20. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University is located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where they possess a 900-acre urban campus. It is a public school with a strong focus on research. They currently have over 21,000 students, mostly at their main campus in Las Cruces. They also have satellite campuses in Alamogordo, Carlsbad, Grands, and Doña Ana County.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

NMSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

21. Northeastern University

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern University is a private institution with a history that dates back to 1898. They currently have over 27,000 students on their historical urban campus.

They are well-respected for their co-op educational programs, which maximize practical work experience alongside traditional classroom learning. They also participate in 18 varsity sports.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

NEU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

22. Old Dominion University

Sometimes referred to as ODU, Old Dominion University is based in Norfolk, Virginia. They were founded in 1930 as a division of the College of William and Mary, but they are now a fully public institution. They serve over 25,000 students and have over 1,000 full-time faculty members. This school maintains 18 athletic teams.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. Oregon Institute of Technology

The Oregon Institute of Technology is part of the Oregon State University System. They are based in the college town of Klamath Falls, where they serve over 5,400 students. They currently have an additional campus in Wilsonville, Oregon and manage extension centers in Salem and Seattle. This school is renowned for its emphasis on externships.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Oregon Tech is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

24. Oregon State University

Oregon State University was established in 1868 as a public research school and is the flagship of its state’s university system. They possess land, sea, space, and sun grants, which have helped it build a stellar reputation for its research activity and publications. They currently have over 30,000 students on their main campus, which is located in Corvallis, Oregon.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Oregon State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

25. Pace University

Pace University of New York is a private non-sectarian institution. They were originally established in 1906 as a school of accounting but have now acquired great prestige for their Computer Sciences and Drama programs. In addition to their main New York City campus, its 12,000 students can also access a satellite suburban facility in Westchester.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Pace is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

26. Park University

Established in 1875, Park University is a private institution based in Parkville, Missouri. They currently serve over 11,000 students. This university’s unorthodox beginnings included a “work and study” program where future teachers could pay for her education through farm work. This boldness has helped them become one of the top “nontraditional” colleges in the U.S. by the Military Times.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Park is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

27. Pennsylvania State University – World Campus

The World Campus is the online, long-distance based extension arm of the highly ranked Penn State, #10 in Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by  U.S. News & World Report. They were first established in 1998, which makes them one of the first university-level institutions to fully embrace and apply online possibilities. Nowadays, they serve over 13,000 students, with over one-third of them being enrolled in postgraduate programs.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Programming
  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Penn State Online is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

28. Regent University

Regent University is a private school that keeps a strong affiliation with Evangelical Churches, although they strive to cater to different denominations of them. They were established in 1977 in Virginia Beach, where they have a large suburban campus.

They have approximately 8,600 students, which include an almost equal number of undergraduates and postgraduates.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

29. Regis University

Regis University is a private institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. They were established in 1877 in Denver, Colorado. It currently has over 8,000 students, which makes them one of the leading Jesuit institutions in its state. Regis University also has extension programs in partnership with the University of Ireland and the Jesuit University of Guadalajara.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

30. Rogers State University

This public school is located in Claremore, Oklahoma, where they have a large suburban campus that serves 4,300 students. They were established in 1909 as a Preparatory School but has now grown to encompass three campuses: the main one, and two branches in Bartlesville and Pryor Creek. They also maintain football and softball teams.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

RSU is a member of and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

31. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private school located in Saint Leo, Florida. They were founded in 1889 by the Benedictine Order, and after being re-established as a college, they kept their affiliation with the Catholic Church. Their rural campus currently serves over 11,000 students, who enjoy the benefits of attending one of the highly ranked regional private institutions by U.S. News & World Report.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Saint Leo is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

32. Salem University

Salem University is a private institution located in the town of Salem, West Virginia. They were established in 1888 by the Seventh Day Baptist Church as a Seminar and Teacher Training Center. Their intimate and hand-picked student body (of just 835 people) include a large number of non-traditional or adult learners.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Salem has been accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1963.

33. Southeast Missouri State University

Sometimes affectionately known as SEMO, the Southeast Missouri State University is a public institution based in Cape Girardeu. They were founded in 1873. Despite being located in a relatively small city, the school still houses over 11,000 students who pursue a variety of disciplines. Their varsity teams play in the NCAA Division I.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

SEMO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

34. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a relatively small liberal arts college located between Manchester and Hooksett in New Hampshire. Here they possess a semi-rural campus that spans for over 300 acres and houses over 4,000 students. The school also has a major long-distance department that serves over 80,000 students.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

35. Southwestern College

Located in Chula Vista, California, Southeastern College is a public community college that dates back to 1961. They currently have approximately 19,000 students, making them one of the largest community colleges in the country. This allows them to maintain 15 different varsity teams and to keep strong links with the nearby University of California – San Diego.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Southwestern is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

36. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University is a publicly funded institution located in Trenton, New Jersey. However, unlike most other members of the State’s University System, they focus almost exclusively on online and long-distance education. They were founded in 1972 and offer a wide array of degrees in liberal arts, technology, and business.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems

TESU is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

37. Trident University

Based in Cypress, California, Trident University is an online university formerly owned by the Touro University System. As of 2007, they were acquired and managed by Summit Partners. They were established in 1998 and currently have an enrollment of 6,197 students, many of them hailing from outside the United States.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Trident is the only fully online university regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

38. Troy University

Troy University is located in the city of the same name, in Alabama. This public institution dates back to 1887, when they were founded as part of the State’s Normal School system. Nowadays, they serve over 18,000 students, both online and in their suburban campus. Troy University’s alumni have gone on to important positions across 50 different states.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Troy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

39. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida is a public institution located in Orlando, Florida. They are one of the best ranked universities in the state, in the top list for Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report. They were founded in 1963 and set out from the very beginning to become a leading feeder institution for NASA. They now have close to 69,000 students.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UCF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40. University of Denver

Sometimes known as DU, the University of Denver was founded in 1864 by a group of Methodist preachers. However, they are now non-sectarian. They are run privately but possess non-profit status. This means that its more than 11,000 students enjoy a high return of investment, as well as the chance to play on Division I NCAA teams.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science
  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

DU is accredited as a doctoral degree-granting institution by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is authorized to offer post-secondary education in the state of Colorado by the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

41. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public research school located in Gainesville. It was originally established in 1853 as a seminary. It is now one of the largest public universities in its state, with over 56,000 students. It has been recognized as the sixth best public school in the country by U.S. News & World Report and as having “high research activity.”

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

42. University of Illinois – Springfield

The University of Illinois at Springfield is a public land grant school that dates back to 1969. It is the newest campus in the state’s school system, which affords its over 5,000 students the opportunity to enjoy high-tech facilities. This school also maintains 16 different varsity teams, which play in Division II of the NCAA.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UIS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

43. University of Maine – Augusta

The University of Maine at Augusta dates back to 1965. It was created to offer people in Central Maine the means to access select professional or associate degrees without relocating too far. Its urban campus serves over 6,000 students. The school keeps active basketball, bowling, golf, and cross country skiing teams.

  • Bachelor’s in Software development

UMA is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

44. University of Maryland University College

Sometimes also referred to as the “Global Campus” of the University of Maryland, the University College dates back to 1947 and focuses on offering online degrees. This public school has its main administrative offices in Adelphi, Maryland. It currently serves over 47,000 students, including people from 140 countries and many active-duty service members.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UMUC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

45. University of Massachusetts – Amherst

The University of Massachusetts is based in Amherst and dates back to 1863. It is a public school system with six different campuses across the state of Massachusetts, and it serves a total of 72,000 students. This school is well-renowned for its ongoing collaboration program with MIT and Harvard University, the Green High Performance Computing Center.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UMass is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

46. University of Minnesota – Crookston

The University of Minnesota at Crookston is a public institution that dates back to 1966. They are a part of the University of Minnesota System but have chosen to differentiate themselves by providing a small-campus feel with a very low student-to-faculty ratio. They currently serve 1,821 students, which means that they all get customized attention.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UMC has secured continued accreditation status from the Higher Learning Commission.

47. University of Nebraska – Omaha

The Omaha Campus of the University of Nebraska system dates back to 1908, when it was originally established as a private Presbyterian seminary. However, they are now a public research school. This institution is currently undergoing rapid expansion, as they have tripled their student body (now 15,000 students) and renewed their facilities.

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UNO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

48. University of Wisconsin

The main campus of the University of Wisconsin is located in Madison, where it was originally founded in 1848. They are the largest public research school in the state, as they have 44,000 students, a land grant, and a space grant. Their varsity teams play in the Big Ten League and the NCAA Division I.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UW is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

49. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private, non-profit school established by the Governors of the Member States in Salt Lake City, Utah. It dates back to 1997 and was created from the very beginning as a way to use the internet to expand educational opportunities. They now have 110,000 students, all online or long-distance.

  • Bachelor’s in Software Development

WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

50. Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a public institution that dates back to 1906. Although they started out as a Teacher’s College, they have been experiencing very rapid investments and expansion since the mid-1990s. They now have over 20,000 students in their semi-rural campus. Their football team plays in the NCAA Division I.

  • Bachelor’s in Information Technology

WKU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Computer Programming Degrees

Becoming a computer programmer is a wide path, with many degrees helping you develop the skills and experience necessary to be successful as a programmer. Click on the subject you’re most interested in to skip to that section.

While there is some overlap, each of these degree concentrations may set you up to be very specialized in your chosen field. Choose the one that most appeals to you.

Computer Engineering Degree

programmer testing a drone

Computer engineering encompasses the design and maintenance of larger systems used in communications, controls, and power systems.

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You may develop the skills necessary to be a computer engineer in courses such as Introduction to Digital Logic Design, Microprocessor Systems, and Mobile Robotics.

Computer Information Systems Degree

programmers working on a project

This degree is fine-tuned to provide a partnership with business management and information systems.

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These skills may be developed through courses such as Fundamentals of Cyber-Security, Project Management, and IS Strategy Management & Acquisition.

Computer Programming Degree

female programmer looking at her computer

An online computer programming degree specializes in learning computer code and the applications of this skill in the marketplace.

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Some of the courses you can expect to take in this degree include Java Programming, SQL Fundamentals, and Designing and Programming an Application.

Computer Science Degree

programmers working on a project

An online computer science degree program encompasses a wide variety of disciplines, including software, networks, information security, digital design, and electronic media. These skills may enable you to approach nearly any technological problem and know how to handle it using the tools at your disposal.

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These skills may be developed through courses such as Communication in the Computer Industry, Data Structures, and Introduction to Software Engineering.

Information Technology Degree

programmers working in the office

This degree bridges the gap between business and technology, enabling you to be a powerhouse in the workplace.

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These skills may be developed through courses such as Systems Administration, Intermediate Java Programming, and Principles of Project Management.

Management Information Systems Degree

computer programmers collaborating in the office

This degree can help equip you to be a leader with skills in both technology and business management.

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With the goal of working as a liaison between information services and the end-user, you may strengthen your skills through courses such as Computers and Internet in Society, Statistical Inference in Management, and Information Systems Analysis and Design.

Software Engineering Degree

programmers collaborating on a project

Working as a software engineer may hone your skills in all areas of software development, from concept to product release.

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To become a proficient programmer, you can expect to take classes such as Programming Languages, Object-Oriented Development, and Software Engineering.

Computer Programming Degree Levels

someone going up in education

You can earn a computer programming degree either on campus in a traditional format or online. You could earn a:

  • Associate’s in Computer Programming,
  • Bachelor’s in Computer Programming,
  • Master’s in Computer Programming, or
  • PhD in Computer Programming.

The level of programming degree required will likely depend on the job you are seeking. You can often land entry-level programmer jobs with a computer programming certification or associate’s degree in computer programming. That being said, some employers may give preference to candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in computer programming or higher.

Online Computer Programming Courses and Curriculum

students in a computer programming class

Becoming a computer programmer is not as simple as completing a weekend seminar. If you enroll in an online computer programming degree, you can expect to take courses such as these:

  • Intro to Computer Information Systems
  • College Algebra
  • Introduction to Web Development
  • Front-End Web Development
  • Object-Oriented Programming
  • Assembly Language
  • Programming Languages
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Graphics
  • Database Design and Programming

With the skills you’ll develop through courses like these, you may be well equipped to succeed as a computer programmer.

Computer Programming Certifications

students taking a test on their computers

Computer programming certifications are a way to prove your proficiency and aptitude in a specific area of programming or development. Being certified may give you an edge over other job applicants in entry-level programming positions.

While many degrees offer students the opportunity to develop proficiency in a particular tool, programming language, or vendor-specific platform, a certification is a verified example of your skillset.

With over 2,000 computer programming languages available, a company or organization may value one certification over another. Some positions, such as a database administrator, may require certification in the product that the company uses, whether through the software vendors or vendor-neutral certification providers.

For senior positions such as an information security analyst, most companies will require applicants to be certified before applying.

How to Become a Computer Programmer

a computer programmer coding

NASA, Pokémon Go, and the operating system on your cell phone all have one element in common: they were all built by computer programmers. So, what do you need to do to join the ranks of computer programmers and make an impression on the world around you?

Most computer programmer jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related subject. However, if you do not have the time or resources to complete a four-year degree, some companies have entry-level positions for programmers who only have an associate’s degree.

You can also expect to be continually upgrading your skills with courses in new programming languages and technological developments even after you get a job as a computer programmer.

Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees

the internet

Want to get your computer programming degree fast? Pick a school like Purdue that offers 6-week online courses to help you finish your degree at an accelerated pace.

For a step-by-step guide to getting your bachelor’s degree fast, you can check out this article: How to Get an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online.

Computer Programming Jobs

people shaking hands after an interview

In today’s marketplace, computer programmers can be found in almost every sector, from healthcare to research and development.

Computer programmers are a key player in the advancement of the workplace, strengthening the impact of every other department in an organization. Within the workforce, a computer programmer might hold positions such as:

  • Computer and Information Systems Manager
  • Computer Hardware Engineer
  • Computer Network Architect
  • Software Developer
  • Information Security Analyst
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Database Administrator
  • Computer Programmer
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrator
  • Web Developer

Computer coding jobs often allow you to harness technology to support your corporation’s goals and objectives.

Computer Programming Salary

Computer Programming Salary

If you are on the fence about whether to pursue a career as a computer programmer, ponder this fact for a moment: The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 93% of STEM careers command wages above the national average.

In fact, the average for STEM occupations was nearly double the national average wage!

Career Average Median Salary
Computer and Information Systems Manager $151,150
Computer Hardware Engineer $119,560
Computer Network Architect $116,780
Software Developer $110,140
Information Security Analyst $103,590
Database Administrator $98,860
Computer Systems Analyst $93,730
Computer Programmer $89,190
Network and Computer Systems Administrator $84,810
Web Developer $77,200

The average median salary is one of the biggest factors that advertise for an online computer programming degree. If you are hoping to increase your paycheck, a computer programming career may work in your favor.

Accreditation

Computer Programming Accreditation

There are a lot of computer programming training courses online, and most of them are not accredited. That means no one has double-checked the quality of the education they offer.

To ensure that you receive the highest quality education possible, along with a degree that employers will respect, only enroll in accredited schools. Regional accreditation can come from any of these boards:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Getting your associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree from an accredited school also helps to ensure that other universities will accept you into their programs if you ever want to further your education.

Financial Aid

Computer Programming Financial Aid

You plan to make a good living once you graduate, but what can you do to make sure you have the funds to finish?

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Then, check into these secondary sources:

Most students qualify for multiple sources of financial aid, so don’t pass over any of these opportunities.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Computer Programming?

frequently asked questions Online Computer Programming Degree Programs

Having a degree in computer programming may open up a wide variety of careers within the technology field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that computer programmers are often employed in software, systems analysis or IT.

How Many Years of College Do You Need to Be a Computer Programmer?

someone holding up four fingers

According to US News, most employers require computer programmers to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. In addition to a four-year degree, many employers also expect computer programmers to have specific certifications.

Do You Need a Degree to Get a Job as a Programmer?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that most employers will not hire you without a degree.  For employed computer programmers 25 years and older, 50.2% have a bachelor’s degree.

How Much Do Computer Scientists Make?

Computer programmers working together on a project

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a computer scientist’s median wage is $126,830. Computer scientists that specialize in a particular field may earn more, such as software publishers who make a median $145,920 annually.

Can You Get a CS Degree Online?

Yes! It would be strange if you couldn’t get a technology degree online, wouldn’t it? And with the popularity and demand for computer programming, there are many universities offering different types of an online computer programming degree. Take a look at our list below.

Is an Online Computer Programming Degree Different From a Traditional Degree?

The only difference between an online computer programming degree and a traditional degree is the way you obtain it. Both degrees are equivalent and may open up the same opportunities post graduation.

How Do I Know if Computer Programming is Right For Me?

Computer Programmers working on their computers

Determining which college degree is right for you can be quite difficult. Compared to other popular majors such as psychology, criminal justice, or nursing, computer programming can be just as easy to decide on. If you have any of the following traits, a computer programming degree may be the right fit for you.

  • Have a passion for computers
  • Excel at problem solving
  • Enjoy thinking outside of the box
  • Are a quick learner and pay attention to detail

In addition to these traits, programmers typically start with an interest in mobile development, web development, or video game development.

Where Can I Go to School for Computer Programming?

Today, you could go to almost any junior college or university to study computer programming. You could also take online classes from some of the accredited educational centers in the world. We’ve listed over 70 of them below.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

a stopwatch

For an online computer programming degree, an associate’s degree takes 1-2 years. A bachelor’s usually takes 4 years, but if you take accelerated classes and test out of a few Gen. Ed. courses, you may finish in as little as 2.5 or 3 years. You might finish even faster if you have transfer credits or applicable life experience.

Getting Your Computer Programming Degree Online

a group of friends looking at a computer screen

So, what do you need to do to tap into a computer programming education?

  1. Choose your specialty.
  2. Narrow your choice of universities.
  3. Identify sources of financial aid.
  4. Apply to 5-10 schools to make sure you get in.

Once you enroll, take as many classes as you can and learn as much as you can to get a jump-start on your new career!

Ready to start your journey?