Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degree Program Guide

Alison Plaut
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Updated on June 24, 2024
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Considering a computer science degree but wondering if the field is oversaturated? Find common coursework, careers, and salaries here.

Computer science has been growing enormously for decades, and the trend continues. Businesses across many industries invest a lot of money into computer science fields such as AI, cybersecurity, and data administration. Students can choose a computer science degree for the promise of well-paying jobs, job security, and entering a growing field.

What Is a Computer Science Degree?

Computer science is the study of computer systems and computer software. A bachelor’s in computer science is a four-year undergraduate degree that can prepare students for entry-level roles in the field.

A typical curriculum provides a foundation in the theory and practice of computer science and covers topics like coding, software development, and data structures and algorithms. Computer science majors take classes like algorithms, principles of programming, and software engineering.

Computer scientists can use their computing knowledge to find technical solutions to problems in business, education, government, healthcare, and other industries. For example, insights and tools from computer science can help governments improve their predictions and responses to natural disasters like hurricanes and extreme heat.

Computer science developments have also improved global communication, made it possible to automate dangerous work, and led to improvements in personalized healthcare.

Featured Online Computer Science Programs

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Computer Science Degree Courses and Concentrations

Computer science offers an enormous amount of flexibility. You can also choose from front-end, back-end, or full-stack programming, as well as concentrations in AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, computer engineering, scientific computing, or video game design and development.

Other popular concentrations include artificial intelligence, computer-human interface, game design, networks, computer graphics, information security, data science, programming languages, software engineering, systems, and theory.

Computer Science Program Courses

  • Introduction to computer science: This foundational course introduces learners to the computer science field and covers data structures, algorithms, writing programs, and problem-solving.
  • Principles of programming languages: Students gain a better understanding of the theory behind computer programming, which can make it easier to learn various programming languages.
  • Data structures and algorithms: This class explores advanced algorithms and data structures. Students can learn how to implement data structures and algorithms during programming.
  • Software engineering: Students learn about software engineering best practices, concepts, and tools. Topics include software testing, design, and implementation, as well as the software development life cycle.
  • Computer science capstone project: This culminating course during a student’s senior year usually includes hands-on, real-world experience solving a problem using computer science theory and skills developed over the course of the program.

How to Get a Computer Science Degree

To earn a computer science degree, you must apply for a program, get accepted, and then meet program requirements. You can also consider online degree programs or accelerated programs to earn a degree faster.

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

The typical bachelor’s in computer science requires about 120 semester credits. To graduate, students usually must complete general education credits in addition to computer science core, elective, and concentration credits. Many programs also require a capstone project.

A bachelor’s in computer science, like most other bachelor’s programs, usually takes about four years for full-time students to complete. Part-time learners typically take longer to graduate.

Some online computer science bachelor’s programs offer accelerated options. These let learners graduate in less than four years by condensing the curriculum and providing year-round enrollment and generous transfer policies.

How to Apply for a Computer Science Degree Program

Admission requirements for bachelor’s in computer science programs vary by school, but in many cases applicants apply for general admission to the college and declare a major later.

Prospective students need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Application requirements may also include a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, an essay or statement of purpose, and an application fee. Some programs have prerequisite math requirements.

Most schools accept undergraduate applications through Common App, a website that lets students apply to more than 1,000 colleges with just one general application.

How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?

How much a computer science program typically costs varies by university. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition for public universities was $9,800 a year for the 2022-23 school year, while private non-profit institutions cost an average of $19,100 a year. Private for-profit institutions can cost up to an average of $40,700.

But there’s a range also for in-state and out-of-state students. For example, in-state tuition cost an average of $9,212 for the 2021-22 school year, according to the NCES, while out-of-state tuition cost an average of $27,023.

What Can I Do With a Computer Science Degree?

Employers require a bachelor’s degree to qualify for many entry-level positions in computer science. They can also consider continuing their education and pursuing a master’s degree in computer science. This can open the door to more advanced and even better-paying jobs in the field.

Computer Science Degree Jobs

A computer science degree opens various career paths. For example, you could work as a computer system architect, network architect, or database administrator. You could also pursue a career in cybersecurity or AI development.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), fast-growing career fields in computer science include information security analysts, computer systems analysts, web developers and digital designers, software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers, and database administrators.

How Much Money Can I Make With a Computer Science Degree?

You can make a salary significantly higher than the national average with a computer science degree. For example, computer network architects made a median salary of $129,849 as of May 2023, more than double the national median wage for all occupations, according to the BLS.

Information security analysts, computer and information research scientists, software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are all high-paid computer science careers.

Popular Computer Science Degree Jobs
Job TitleMedian Annual Salary (May 2023)Job Growth Rate (2022-2032)Description
Computer Network Architects$129,8494%These professionals design and implement data communication networks, like LANs, WANs, and intranets.
Computer Programmers$99,700-11%Programmers can write, modify, and test code and scripts used for computer software and applications.
Computer Systems Analysts$103,80010%These professionals study an organization’s computer systems and design efficiency improvements.
Database Administrators$101,5107%Database administrators create or organize systems to store and secure data.
Information Security Analysts$120,36032%These workers plan and carry out security measures to protect organizations’ computer networks and systems.
Source: BLS

Continuing Education in Computer Science

After earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you can earn advanced degrees like a master’s in computer science or a Ph.D. You can also consider pursuing related degrees in fields like mathematics, physics, engineering, or computer engineering.

However, you can also start working in computer science or a related field immediately after graduation. While working, you can earn a certification to qualify for higher tuition and more advanced roles.

There are many certifications to choose from, including Cisco Systems, CCIE Data Center Certification, Cisco DevNet Professional, CompTIA A+, and CompTIA Security+. Many certifications require 2-7+ years of professional experience.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Computer Science Program

The biggest factors you’ll need to consider when choosing a computer science program include the program format, total costs, and program length. You’ll want to choose a program from an accredited university and choose a university that offers the specialization or concentration you’re interested in pursuing. Here’s a detailed overview.

Cost

Cost affects your total cost of tuition and possible student loan debt. You could save by choosing an in-state public university, online degree programs, or accelerated programs. You can also look for scholarships and other financial aid and the return on investment of the program by checking the average salary after graduation and job placement.

Program Length

Program length is important to consider before enrolling as it will affect your overall cost and how long until you can start your career. Likewise, the program length can restrict your ability to work or require a long-term time commitment. Additional school years can add tuition plus the cost of living without working.

Accreditation

It’s essential to choose a college with institutional accreditation. This demonstrates that the university meets rigorous academic requirements to deliver a consistent program of study. Programmatic accreditation is uncommon for computer science degrees. Choosing a university with additional programmatic accreditation can add to the usefulness of your degree.

Program Format

Degree programs are now in flexible formats, including online, in-person, or hybrid program formats. This can help you balance the flexibility to work or live at home with the traditional on-campus college experience. Programs are also asynchronous or synchronous, allowing you to choose course formats that can help you succeed.

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