Labor market experts consider computer science to be one of the most future-proof subjects a career-minded person can study. In a 2022 review of the 25 best college majors, Kiplinger placed three computer-related fields in the top 10. Computer engineering and computer science ranked first and second, respectively.
A bachelor's degree is typically an entry-level requirement for many computer and information technology roles. Affordable online computer science degrees deliver extra value by reducing your schooling costs while positioning you for high-growth careers with strong salaries.
This guide profiles the unique features of affordable online computer science degrees. Explore a ranked list to source programs that might meet your educational and career development goals.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Affordable Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degrees
#1 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Located in Salt Lake City, Western Governors University (WGU) enrolls nearly 140,000 students. The university uses a competency-based system, allowing students to advance through degrees after demonstrating mastery of each topic.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Western Governors University's BS in computer science allows you to build in-demand skills and earn industry-recognized certifications while you complete your degree. Courses include computer architecture, advanced Java, and introduction to artificial intelligence. The program concludes with a computer science capstone where you integrate skills and knowledge gained throughout the program into a single project.
WGU offers a flexible, personalized approach with no fixed course schedule. You must complete at least eight credits per term but may finish as many credits as you like. The university reports that, on average, WGU alumni earn $29,200 more annually four years after graduation than they did at their enrollment.
WGU's Affordability
WGU's unique structure lets you accelerate your degree timeline, thus helping you save time and money on your degree. The school also features a generous transfer policy.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $3,985/term
- Required Credits: 38 courses
- Program Length: 30 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admissions
- Process: Submit application, high school diploma, and evidence of preparation in pre-calculus
- GPA: 2.75
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: None
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
150,116
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
University of Illinois Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established in 1969, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) now enrolls upwards of 4,600 students in its online and on-campus programs. UIS offers almost 150 academic programs and counts more than 44,000 living alumni.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of Illinois Springfield's BS in computer science establishes a foundational understanding of the field. Students learn to solve complex technological problems in the business, scientific, and public sectors.
New enrollees need backgrounds in calculus, discrete math, or Java programming. Core courses include computer organization, programming languages, and data structures and algorithms. The program concludes with a software engineering capstone.
Students may also gain credit for internships and prior learning experiences. Online learners can arrange for local internship placements. Enrollees living near campus may use UIS' computer labs and career placement assistance services.
UIS's Affordability
UIS offers a low e-tuition rate for Illinois residents and non-residents who enroll in 100% online coursework. The school also participates in state, federal, and private financial aid programs, including veterans initiatives.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $362/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admissions
- Process: High school transcripts and essay, complete prerequisites
- GPA: None
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: $60
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A Kentucky-based Christian institution, Campbellsville University (CU) maintains campuses around its home state, in Costa Mesa, and online. CU offers technical and academic programs at all levels. Its mascot is the tiger.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Students in Campbellsville University's BS in computer science take courses in Campbellsville, on the Louisville campus, or online. This program prepares students to pursue careers as software developers, database administrators, or computer hardware engineers. Courses in the 42-hour major include programming I and II, computer architecture, and structured systems analysis and design.
Students may choose from concentrations in web development, game programming, and robotics and automation. CU's curriculum also includes a 21-credit minor. The School of Business, Economics, and Technology provides a fully online MS in computer science for applicants with bachelor's degrees in the discipline.
CU's Affordability
CU accepts up to 72 transferable credits, helping students save money. The school also offers low tuition, access to financial aid, and helpful payment plans. Military and veterans can also take advantage of reduced tuition.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $424/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (online and on-campus)
Admissions
- Process: Submit application, high school transcripts
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT are optional
- Cost: None
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
- Alexandria, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Positioned on a 2,000-acre campus, LSU of Alexandria (LSUA) enrolls upwards of 4,100 students, more than half of them full-time learners. This institution operates under approval from the Louisiana Board of Regents.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
LSU of Alexandria's BS in computer science prepares you to pursue a career as a technology consultant, data engineer, product manager, or software engineer. You can graduate with in-demand skills such as Java, fundamentals of algorithm development, and object-oriented software development.
Courses include discrete structures, theory of computation, and ethics in computer science. Project-based learning gives you real-world experience that you can compile into a portfolio after graduation. As an online student, you can participate in Omega Nu Lambda Online Honors Society, an online coalition that offers resume enhancement opportunities, networking options, and scholarships.
LSUA's Affordability
LSUA accepts up to 75% of the degree's requirement in transfer credits, which can include non-traditional prior learning assessments. In addition, the school charges a low, flat-rate tuition for all online learners.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $325/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and high school diploma
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT for applicants with a GPA below 2.0
- Cost: None
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Central Methodist University
- Fayette, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the Missouri-based Central Methodist University (CMU) can trace its history back to 1823. Today, the school enrolls approximately 4,300 students, with about 50 students pursuing the computer science major.
BA or BS in Computer Science
Students in Central Methodist University's BA or BS in computer science can build their communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills through career-focused classes. Courses include game programming, a survey of programming languages, and mobile application development. The degree culminates in a senior thesis in which each enrollee selects a topic of interest to complete an in-depth project.
The program also offers for-credit internships, which you can complete on or off campus. After graduation, employment options include IT specialist, consultant, programmer, and network or database administrator. The program also prepares you to pursue a master's degree or doctorate in a computer science-related field.
CMU's Affordability
CMU participates in scholarships, grants, loans, work-study, and other cost-reducing options. The university offers scholarships for extended campus or online students, as well. Veterans, military members, and their qualifying dependents can also take advantage of financial aid opportunities.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $270/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and transcripts
- GPA: 2.0 (for transfer students)
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Cost: None
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1856, Auburn University now offers more than 150 majors and an enrollment of more than 31,000 students as one of the largest schools in the South. The university is widely known for its battle cry of "War Eagle!"
Bachelor of Computer Science
Offered through the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, Auburn University's bachelor's in computer science provides a chance for students with extensive transfer credits to complete their undergraduate education. This degree requires 20 in-major courses, the equivalent of 60 credits. Courses include computer organization, data structures, and algorithms I and II. Students can choose two in-major electives.
Each major course lasts one 7.5-week term, and Auburn offers five terms in each calendar year. The program also requires 60 credits of non-major coursework, including classes in math, science, composition, and social science. Minor options include information technology and business-engineering technology.
Auburn's Affordability
Auburn offers a generous transfer policy and provides military-friendly tuition and other standard financial aid. The university reports that 60% of its first-year students receive a scholarship, such as the Academic Presidential Scholarship.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $558/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Hold some transferable college coursework
- GPA: 2.5 (for applicants who already hold a bachelor's degree)
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: $60
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Concordia University, Saint Paul
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1893 and affiliated with The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Concordia University, Saint Paul (CSP) is part of a national network of six colleges and universities. The university offers more than 100 majors and minors to its 5,800-plus students.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Concordia University, Saint Paul's BS in computer science can equip you with skills in programming languages, operating systems, computer architecture, data structures, and software engineering. This program includes 30-60 credits of in-major courses, such as discrete mathematics, database design, and language design and implementation. You can choose between a capstone and an internship to complete the program.
This program can set you up for a successful career in software engineering, mobile app development, or cybersecurity management. You can also use your degree as a launching point for graduate education. CSP offers an online master of science in computer science to expand upon its undergraduate program.
CSP's Affordability
If transferring into CSP, you may qualify for a $2,000 scholarship. The school also offers special assistance to members of the U.S. military, church workers, and AmeriCorps alumni.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $420/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 2.5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and previous college transcripts
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: None
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando (PUPR) is a nonprofit, non-sectarian institution that began in 1966 and today operates campuses in Puerto Rico, Florida, and online. The school enrolls more than 5,000 students on its San Juan campus alone.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico-Orlando's bachelor of science in computer science can prepare you for a career in information technology or information business systems. This degree blends multiple related disciplines into a single curriculum to deliver a comprehensive education across computer science subjects.
Courses include ethical hacking, deep learning, and data engineering for machine learning. You may also earn credit for research or professional practice. In the 2022-2023 academic year, PUPR conferred 45 computer science degrees and enrolled 245 students in the major. Applications and instructions are available in English and Spanish.
PUPR's Affordability
PUPR offers assistance with completing the FAFSA and applying for external scholarships such as the Gilman International Scholarship and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. The school also charges a low cost-per-credit tuition, making education more accessible.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Tuition: $365/credit
- Required Credits: 122
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (online and on campus)
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and transcripts
- GPA: 2.5
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: $30
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
As the nation's largest nonprofit provider of online higher education, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) now enrolls around 160,000 students. SNHU maintains a 300-acre campus near Manchester, along with its online campus.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Offered in eight-week terms, Southern New Hampshire University's bachelor's in computer science can equip you with marketable technology skills for the modern workplace. You can learn subjects such as agile software methodologies, full-stack development, and popular programming languages. The curriculum also allows you to create your own portfolio to use when job searching after graduation.
You can also choose one of four concentrations: data analysis, information security, project management for STEM, or software engineering. Enrolling in one class makes you a part-time student. Full-time learners enroll in two classes. In a 2022 survey, 93.6% of SNHU's online enrollees said they would recommend the school.
SNHU's Affordability
SNHU accepts up to 90 transfer credits, including credits earned through exams or certificates. The school also offers financial support for veterans and members of the military. Some students receive scholarships or employer support.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $330/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and transcripts
- GPA: No minimum
Students Enrolled
145,533
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#10 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degrees
Franklin University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Building on 115 years of history, Franklin University offers more than 80 academic programs for working students, with an average student age of 34. The school maintains a network of about 45,000 alumni.
BS in Computer Science
Franklin University's BS in computer science is a transfer-friendly program that can prepare you to pursue a career as a computer programmer, database administrator, or enterprise systems developer. The language-independent curriculum includes courses in computer architecture, object-oriented design, and coding and testing. You can also complete a minor and earn micro-credentials like STEM foundations or software development in Java.
Optional focus areas include data analytics, software development security, web and mobile development, and software architecture and engineering. You can apply to start your degree at one of several enrollment dates during the year.
Franklin's Affordability
Franklin offers a locked-in tuition guarantee that keeps your per-credit tuition rate the same throughout your enrollment. In addition, you may take advantage of savings through Franklin's employer or professional organization partnerships.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $398/credit
- Required Credits: 124
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Admissions
- Process: Submit application and transcripts
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
How We Rank Colleges and Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is ensuring that you find the best fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
What Factors Into an Online Bachelor's Affordability?
Tuition price is the biggest component of a degree's affordability. However, students should also consider how factors like program format, financial aid and scholarship availability, and enrollment status can affect their overall costs.
Tuition
The cost of an affordable computer science degree can vary significantly. Colleges may set prices on a per-semester, pre-credit, or per-year basis. Whether tuition is "cheap" or "affordable" is subjective. However, a cheap degree typically refers to a program that costs less than average.
The College Board reports that, for the 2023-2024 school year, one year of tuition and fees at a public four-year school cost $11,260 for in-state learners. Based on this data, students may pay more than $45,000 for a computer science bachelor's degree at a typical public institution.
Online programs commonly offer perks that make them more affordable. For instance, public colleges often extend in-state tuition rates to all online students, even if they live out of state. Some schools even maintain a separate schedule of lower fees for their fully online degrees. Still, programs may include additional per-credit or per-semester tech fees for online learners.
Enrollment Status
Whether you study full time or part time can influence how much you pay for a bachelor's in computer science.
A part-time student may find it easier to hold a job while in school. However, taking fewer classes at once will extend the timeline for your degree. If a school charges tuition by the semester or year, part-time learners can end up paying more than students who graduate in four years. With per-credit tuition, however, attending part time while working in the field can help you stay on budget.
Research your school's tuition format to understand the pros and cons of attending part time versus full time.
School Location
The location of the school you choose for your online computer science bachelor's degree can affect cost.
Depending on where you live, you may need to pay out-of-state tuition rates to attend a public university online. In-state learners usually pay much lower rates. Make sure to find out if you will pay in-state, out-of-state, or a special online tuition rate.
Students who select hybrid programs should consider additional expenses like commuting, parking, and housing.
Delivery Format
Many students find online-only courses more convenient and flexible than in-person or hybrid programs.
Asynchronous courses let learners log on to learn on their schedules, while synchronous courses require students to meet in a virtual classroom at specific times. Asynchronous programs may make it easier to continue working — especially in remote positions — and earning income while in school.
Online programs often provide access to in-person or online internships. Completing an internship can help students develop real-world experience and get a foot in the door with employers.
Financial Aid
Private schools often charge higher tuition than public institutions. However, private schools may offer more financial aid, potentially making them an affordable option. Do not assume that the publicly stated tuition is what students end up paying.
The National Association of College and University Business Officers reports that private, nonprofit schools in the United States offered an average tuition discount of 54.5% for first-year undergraduates as of the 2021-2022 school year. Some private institutions hold no-loan policies, promising to meet 100% of students' demonstrated financial need.
Types of financial aid include federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Students can also access work-study programs, a form of aid that helps learners make money through part-time jobs. Loans must be repaid, while grants and scholarships do not require repayment.
All college students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Colleges, government agencies, and scholarship providers use this form to determine financial aid eligibility. Some schools have a priority FAFSA deadline — research each prospective school's submission deadline to ensure you apply in a timely manner.
How Can You Pay for an Online Degree in Computer Science?
Even students pursuing affordable online computer science degrees may still need help paying for their degrees. As free money that does not require repayment, scholarships are the best option to consider. The list below is not exhaustive but provides a helpful selection of scholarships for computer science students.
Apply for Computer Science Scholarships
Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship-North America
- Requirements: This award honors women who are exceptional technology students. Undergraduates and master's students in computer science, software engineering, or adjacent subjects can qualify. Candidates must be enrolled in accredited colleges in the United States, Canada, or Mexico and planning to return for the next academic year.
- Award: $7,000
- Deadline: March 22, 2024
Apply
National Society of High School Scholars STEAM Scholarship
- Requirements: Open to high school students planning to major in a STEAM field, this scholarship requires an academic resume, headshot, and educator recommendation. Applicants also must submit transcripts and complete an essay question. Candidates can optionally submit evidence of their leadership.
- Award: $1,000
Apply
Microsoft Tuition Scholarship
- Requirements: Microsoft offers this scholarship for computer science and other STEM majors pursuing bachelor's degrees in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA (out of a possible 4.0) or a minimum 4.0 GPA (out of a possible 5.0).
- Award: Varies
- Deadline: March 13, 2024
Apply
Reduce Education and Living Expenses
Students can make the cheapest online computer science degrees even cheaper by looking for creative ways to cut expenses.
- Rent / Use Digital Textbooks: College textbooks are expensive, and most students do not reuse them after completing the course. So, consider renting books instead of buying them. Look for textbook rental options through your school's bookstore or online booksellers. Some schools may have digital copies of textbooks, or a hard copy on reserve at the library.
- Choose an In-State Public School: Tuition is typically much more affordable for in-state learners at public schools. Out-of-state students pay much higher tuition rates. Tuition prices at private schools are even higher, although financial aid packages can reduce the cost of attendance.
- Complete Two Years at a Community College: Many students make four-year degrees less expensive by completing the first two years at community colleges. These schools usually charge significantly lower tuition rates. Make sure to research how easily you can transfer credits to your desired computer science bachelor's program before you choose this option.
- Overload Credits: If your school charges tuition by the semester or year, overloading credits may help you save money by accelerating your program. Enrollees can often shave off a semester or more by taking extra credits each term. Ensure that you can handle the extra coursework if you pursue this path.
- Live with Family/Roommates: Tuition is not the only cost to consider for your educational pursuit. Students can save money on housing by living with family or splitting rent with other people.
Will an Affordable Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Pay Off?
Even an affordable computer science degree may demand a considerable amount of time and money, and no degree guarantees a job. However, the best computer science bachelor's programs can prepare graduates for high-paying careers in diverse industries, making this degree a worthwhile investment for many students.
When comparing affordable degree costs, calculate your estimated return on investment by researching factors like prospective schools' alumni employment records and salary-to-debt ratio. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that computer and information technology professionals earned a median annual salary of $100,530 as of May 2022.
Choosing an in-demand concentration or minor can increase your degree's value and improve your career and salary prospects after graduation. Consider specializing in a high-demand area like cybersecurity.
Learn about working in cybersecurity as a security analyst
Find high-paying jobs in tech with no experience needed
Explore the best computer science jobs for any skill level
Learn how women can change careers to work in tech
FAQ About Cheap Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degrees
Start by choosing one of the most affordable online computer science degrees. You can also rent textbooks instead of buying them, overload credits to graduate sooner, and choose an in-state public school.
Yes -- employers increasingly recognize that online computer science degrees can prepare students just as well as traditional on-campus programs.
An affordable online bachelor's in computer science can prepare graduates to pursue jobs like information security analyst, computer programmer, and software developer. Previous work experience, specialization area, and location also affect job availability.
They can be, depending on your career goals and the cost of your program. Calculate your expected return on investment to decide if earning an affordable computer science degree is worthwhile.
Page last reviewed February 19, 2024.
Edited by
