OnlineComputerScienceDegreeGuide.com was made with the goal of assisting prospective students in their search for computer science degree programs that match their lifestyle. Whether you have a degree already but want to switch areas of study, you’re looking to change career paths or earn a promotion in your current field, or you’re simply interested in computer science or artificial intelligence, earning a degree in the field is a great way to get started. There are two major problems that students face when starting a degree program, however -- traditional programs are both too time-consuming and too expensive.

And that’s where we come in. Each year, remote schooling becomes more and more common. It is now a standard way to learn, with most in-person programs even including a few remote courses in their curriculum. To keep up with this trend, we took the time to research accredited colleges offering 100% online computer science degree programs. Remote options are a more convenient and adaptable studying option, which is why we focused our research on finding schools that offer flexible scheduling, self-paced courses, and 24/7 classroom access -- in other words, we looked for programs that can adapt to a busy life. We then took tuition and other costs into account, and looked at financial aid availability as well as credit transfer options to determine which programs offer the best value altogether. The result is our curated list of the Top 5 Colleges for Online Computer Science Degrees.

Whatever your goal within computer science is, entering the field and achieving your dreams is easily possible. The best way to get started? Earning a degree online.

For computer enthusiasts interested in a lucrative, fast-moving career, computer science is the way to go. With computer systems being integral to the function of all businesses, government bodies, and society, the continued maintenance and improvement of these systems is critical. By choosing to work in computer science, you’ll ensure that you’re joining a career that will only grow in importance in the years to come.

With how much we all use computers in our daily lives now, it’s no shock that computer science is one of the fastest growing fields. There is a wide variety of positions within the field to pursue, so whether you prefer working independently or want more human interaction in your work life, there’s sure to be a role that suits you. By joining this field, you’ll be front-and-center for major advancements in society, and you’ll be helping the billions of people that rely on computer systems to maintain their current lifestyles. No matter what it is that you want to achieve in the field, the first step is earning your computer science degree online. Here are just a few of the job titles that you might want to consider:

1. Becoming a Computer Information Research Scientist: Computer Science or Engineering Degrees

   Computer Information Research Scientists research innovative uses for both new and existing technologies. They take problems in their field, whether it’s medicine, business, finance, or something else altogether, and work on finding computing solutions. These researchers can usually be categorized in one of two ways -- programming research scientists and robotics research scientists. Depending on the career path you opt for, you could either spend your time writing and testing new programming languages to work with new software or you could explore the relationship between robots and the natural world. In any case, this career will have you at the forefront of human technology and advancement. In most cases, a master’s or higher in computer science or computer engineering will be necessary to get started.

   Median Pay: $145,080

   Job Growth: Computer Information Research Scientist positions are expected to grow by 23% between 2022 and 2032, which is far above average⁽¹⁰⁾.

2. Becoming a Computer Hardware Engineer: Computer Engineering Degrees

   Computer hardware engineers research and develop computer hardware parts such as circuit boards, processors, and routers. They regularly test and redesign hardware in order to ensure that the products they’re working on are as advanced as possible. As hardware is always paired with software, these engineers typically work closely with software engineers. To join this career path, you’ll need a bachelor’s in computer and information technology or computer engineering. Larger firms may prefer a master’s degree.

   Median Pay: $138,080

   Job Growth: Computer Hardware Engineer positions are expected to grow by 5% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average⁽²⁾.

3. Becoming a Software Developer: Computer Engineering Degrees

   While hardware engineers work on the physical components of a technological system, software developers design the programs that will run on a given computer system. They analyze user needs, determine the goals of a new system, and work to develop a program accordingly. They typically work in conjunction with software testers and quality assurance analysts to ensure that a given piece of software works flawlessly. Software developers usually need a bachelor’s in computer engineering or computer science. A master’s degree generally allows for higher earnings.

   Median Pay: $130,160

   Job Growth: Software Developer positions are expected to grow by 25% between 2022 and 2032, which is far above average⁽³⁾.

4. Becoming a Computer Network Architect: Computer and Information Technology and Mathematics Degrees

   Computer network architects design and build communication networks including LANs (local area networks), WANs (wide area networks), and intranets for an organization. They must have expertise in both hardware and software, as they’ll need to consider both while making upgrades. Additionally, they’ll need to keep up with modern technology in order to implement new and improved network components. To become a computer network architect, you’ll need to earn your bachelor’s in computer and information technology, mathematics, or engineering. In some cases, an MBA is also preferred.

   Median Pay: $129,840

   Job Growth: Computer Network Architect positions are expected to grow by 4% between 2022 and 2032, which is about average⁽⁴⁾.

5. Becoming an Information and Security Analyst: Computer and Information Technology or Cybersecurity Degrees

   Information security analysts plan and implement security measures meant to protect their organization’s computer systems and networks. Cybersecurity threats are a major threat to the function of any business, and security analysts work to ensure this threat never comes to fruition. They regularly test for vulnerabilities, make appropriate upgrades, and keep other staff members informed of any new security measures in place. In most cases, a bachelor’s in computer and information technology is the first step to joining this career path.

   Median Pay: $120,360

   Job Growth: Information and Security Analyst positions are expected to grow by 32% between 2022 and 2032, which is far above average⁽⁵⁾.

6. Becoming a Computer Systems Analyst: Computer and Information Technology Degrees

   Computer systems analysts investigate their company’s current computer systems and procedures and work on adding greater efficiency to these processes. They employ multiple techniques, including data modelling, to design these new computer systems. Additionally, they’re also expected to write and distribute appropriate training manuals to other staff when system changes are made. To become a systems analyst, you’ll need a bachelor’s in computer and information technology or a related mathematics degree.

   Median Pay: $103,800

   Job Growth: Computer Systems Analyst positions are expected to grow by 10% between 2022 and 2032, which is far above average⁽⁶⁾.

7. Becoming a Computer Science Teacher: Computer and Information Technology and Teaching Degrees

   Computer science teachers function as a potential gateway to a career in computer science for their students. They teach computer science fundamentals, including the basic coding languages and programs, to students of all ages, though in most cases computer science courses begin in high school. For those with both a love for computers and a drive to do good in the world, this is a great path to consider -- you'll be able to both teach a subject you enjoy and have a positive impact on your students. Requirements vary by state and school level, but most computer science teachers possess both a bachelor’s in computer and information technology as well as a teaching license valid within their state.

   Median Pay: $96,430⁽⁷⁾

   Job Growth: Postsecondary Teacher positions are expected to grow by 8% between 2022 and 2032, which is above average⁽¹¹⁾.

8. Becoming a Network and Computer Systems Administrator: Computer and Information Technology Degrees

   Network and Computer Systems Administrators handle the daily upkeep of an organization's networks, including LANs, WANs, and intranets. This can include network setup, repairs, and user assistance duties. They often assist network architects with designing new network models and making decisions concerning their organization’s future network needs. To get a systems administrator job, you’ll need a bachelor’s in IT or electrical engineering. You may also be required to obtain certifications for the specific products and programs you use.

   Median Pay: $95,360

   Job Growth: Network and Computer Systems Administrator positions are expected to grow by 2% between 2022 and 2032, which is about average⁽⁸⁾.

9. Becoming a Computer Support Specialist: IT Degrees

   Computer support specialists help make it possible for businesses, government offices, educational institutions, and all other organizations to function on a daily basis by providing direct IT support to staff as needed. Whether it’s being available to answer IT-related questions, troubleshooting technological problems, or installing basic computer systems. Support specialists need in-depth knowledge of computer systems as well as an ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people to be successful. Getting into this line of work typically requires an associate or bachelor’s degree in IT or a recognized certification through an organization such as CompTIA.

   Median Pay: $60,810

   Job Growth: Computer Support Specialist positions are expected to grow by 5% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average⁽⁹⁾.