CS has an array of traditional and emerging opportunities that include artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.  Industry professionals are in high demand and may work in research labs, higher education, and government agencies. Graduates may work as web developers, programmers, and support specialists.  ZDNet has developed a data-driven rankings formula methodized by industry experts, researchers, and scientists. Learn more about prospective programs and ZDNet’s approach for the best online associate degrees.

Top 3 online schools for computer science associate degrees

The best online computer science associate degrees

ZDNet’s ranking methodology encompasses data and tools from the National Center for Education Statistics’ annual survey.  Springfield, IL Application fee: $75 McAllen, TX Application fee: Free Cheyenne, WY Application fee: Free Data analysis includes but is not limited to admission rates, conferred certificates and degrees, and graduation rates. Industry experts, researchers, and scientists conduct rigorous reviews of the data collection. Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.

What to expect in an online computer science associate degree program

Is computer science hard? Yes. A computer science degree is a major time investment and requires sufficient time management and studying skills.

Acceptance rate: 63% part-time and 37% full-timeGraduation rate: 35%Avg. annual net price: $6,168Years to completion: TwoSAT range: N/AMinimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: TwoCourse delivery method: Asynchronous

Acceptance rate: 69% part-time and 31% full-timeGraduation rate: 24%Avg. annual net price: $1,174Years to completion: TwoSAT range: N/AMinimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous

Acceptance rate: 63% part-time and 37% full-timeGraduation rate: 23%Avg. annual net price: $6,000Years to completion: TwoSAT range: Not publicly availableMinimum GPA: Not publicly availableEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous

Acceptance rate: 69%Graduation rate: 67%Avg. annual net price: $12,976Years to completion: TwoSAT range: N/AMinimum GPA: 2.4Enrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous

Acceptance rate: 75%Graduation rate: 41%Avg. annual net price: $8,000Years to completion: TwoSAT range: N/AMinimum GPA: N/AEnrollment periods per year: ThreeCourse delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous

While learning the steps to complete a computer science degree, inquire about class sizes, practical learning opportunities, and real-world experiences. Contact the department and learn more about what to expect in a computer science degree.

Computer science courses

Explore the computer sciences courses overview for advanced degree courses. Consider your key skills and select a career pathway. Depending on the courses you take, you can prepare for a leading role in artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering.

Computer science degree levels

There are several computer science certifications and degree levels to explore. If you are looking to add to your technical skills, consider a computer science certification.  An associate’s degree can prepare working professionals for entry-level positions such as a computer programmer or systems analyst.  With a bachelor’s level computer science degree, students can acquire advanced training and opportunities for designing innovative technologies. The best computer science master’s and doctorate programs can prepare graduates for senior management and executive careers.

In conclusion

Computer science is embedded in every job sector and institution. From computer systems and networks to bioinformatics and theory of computing, computer scientists are vital to our everyday lives. If you have a passion for studying computers and computational systems, then consider enrolling in a certification or degree program in computer science.