Computer science entered higher education in the 1940s when computer systems were still in their infancy. Since then, technology has expanded exponentially, requiring more computer scientists than ever to keep up with its evolution.
A bachelor's in computer science degree is an undergraduate program that teaches the fundamentals of programming, data analysis, and artificial intelligence. Coursework also explores statistics and calculus.
A computer science bachelor's degree can lead to many of today's top-paying and quickly growing careers, like web and software developers and information security analysts, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
This guide covers what to expect from earning a bachelor's in computer science online or in person. Explore our rankings of top bachelor's in computer science programs.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Bachelor's in Computer Science Schools
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org uses trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to rank computer science degree programs. To help you find the best possible fit for your education, we focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability. Our research also considers metrics such as graduation rate, student debt, and potential earnings.
This ranking is from 2023. Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
Why Get a Computer Science Bachelor's Degree?
Computer science degrees are highly relevant in today's job market, and that trend appears poised to continue well into the future.
In April 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) updated its list of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States for 2022-2032. Of the 20 profiled jobs, one-fifth were in computer science and had 2023 median pay levels in the six-figure range. Their projected growth rates ranged from 23-35%, dramatically outpacing the average for all professions.
By studying general computer science rather than a tech specialization, you can pursue many different career paths. Advantageously, the paths available to specialists also remain open to you — especially if you develop targeted skills independently or obtain a specialized advanced degree.
Three valuable and specific benefits of a bachelor's in computer science include:
Job Security: Computer technology has become deeply entrenched in many facets of everyday life. Its presence will likely accelerate in the years ahead, creating strong job prospects both now and tomorrow.
Strong Returns on Educational Investment: Computer science is one of the top-paying bachelor's degrees. Given the strong job market and high pay in the sector, you can receive excellent returns on your investment of time and money.
Flexibility: A bachelor of computer science builds a solid knowledge base that easily transfers to specialized areas. This flexibility optimizes your career options while providing growth opportunities.
What to Expect From Bachelor's in Computer Science Programs
Bachelor of computer science degrees aim to develop fundamental, universally valuable technical skills. Programs typically cover 120 credits across four academic years.
Lower-year coursework mainly focuses on foundational basics in areas like:
Computing theory and computer architecture
Operating systems
Data structures
Networking and network security
Programming, algorithms, and computerized problem-solving
In upper years, programs usually allow students to pursue electives and areas of personal interest. You can also move beyond fundamentals in a targeted subfield to build deep knowledge and advanced skills.
Bachelor's in computer science programs usually build up to senior capstones or research projects. These requirements put the sum of your gained knowledge to the test, allowing you to display your readiness for the professional world.
Admission Requirements
Beyond a high school diploma or the equivalent, you will likely need:
Advanced Placement or college credits in mathematics, especially pre-calculus
A strong academic background in STEM fields
Foundational computer science knowledge
Some schools require each applicant to pass an entry exam to demonstrate their readiness for college-level computer science.
You may also need to submit:
SAT/ACT scores
A personal statement
One or more letters of recommendation
Common App allows you to file and track multiple applications in one place.
Degree Options
Bachelor of computer science programs usually lead to bachelor of science (BS) degrees. However, some schools operate as bachelor of arts (BA) programs. BA degrees typically have fewer mathematics requirements and more upper-division liberal arts coursework.
You can obtain a general BS or BA in computer science or pursue a concentrated degree. Concentrations prepare you for targeted areas of professional practice but trade off some of the versatility you will find in generalist programs.
Popular concentration options include:
Software development
Many schools also offer specialized programs in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Popular Courses
A bachelor's in computer science often combines academic disciplines such as mathematics, information technology, science, and engineering. Students must complete required general education courses, foundational pre-major classes, the major core, and electives. A computer science bachelor's degree typically culminates with a capstone project or an internship.
The following section covers sample course descriptions for common courses in computer science programs.
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Programming Fundamentals | This course presents introductory programming concepts to prepare learners for additional computer science studies. Coursework covers object-oriented programming, problem analysis, and simple design and implementation. Enrollees gain familiarity with high-level programming languages. |
| Data Structures and Algorithms | Students explore basic data structures, such as arrays, stacks, and queues, to solve computational problems in this class. Coursework focuses on the interactions between data structures and algorithms, which allows for data manipulation. Other topics include design and implementation, algorithm scalability, and program performance analysis. |
| Computer Architecture | An undergraduate computer architecture course explores computer systems design and the relationship between hardware and software. Common topics include data path organization, basic machine instructions, and quantitative analysis of computer performance. |
| Introduction to Software Engineering | Computer science undergraduates typically begin studying software engineering as early as their first semester. This course explores the software development lifecycle, introduces relevant terminology and concepts, and explains standard coding practices and languages. Learners may work on software development projects throughout the course, applying learned concepts through each phase. |
| Internship | Often completed in a student's last year, an internship in computer science provides real-world experience in an industry setting. Students receive supervision, guidance, and evaluation from program faculty and on-site managers. Internship opportunities boost practical skills and knowledge. |
How Much Will a Bachelor's in Computer Science Cost?
In general, you can expect the cost of your bachelor's in computer science program to line up with prevailing college averages. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported the following averages for various institution types in the 2021-22 school year:
Public institution (in-state): $9,596
Public institution (out-of-state): $27,457
Private institution: $34,041
You can reduce your costs by studying at a public college as an in-state student or in a neighboring state with a tuition reciprocity agreement.
Remember to budget for other costs and expenses beyond housing, transportation, and food. For computer science majors, these may include new computing equipment, lab fees, and software licenses or subscriptions.
Computer science scholarships may help reduce your costs. Research available programs before committing to federal or private loans. You can also follow other best practices to pay for your computer science program.
Careers for Bachelor's in Computer Science Graduates
Graduates can pursue various bachelor's in computer science careers, many of which offer the potential for advancement opportunities and strong salaries. For instance, entry-level software and web developers can become higher-paid project managers with experience, computer science certifications, or graduate-level education.
Explore a few top computer science careers below.
Computer Network Architect
These architects plan, design, and improve secure and efficient communications networks for organizations. They test current setups, upgrade hardware, and research new technologies. Computer network architects also consult decision-makers about ways to improve the organization's computer systems.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $129,840
Job Outlook (2022-32): +4%
Information Security Analyst
These professionals identify and thwart potential threats to organizations' network security. They frequently work in the financial and computer systems design industries. In addition to a bachelor's degree, some employees prefer candidates with information security certifications that demonstrate their ability to perform hands-on security tasks.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $120,360
Job Outlook (2022-32): +32%
Software Developer
Frequently hired in the software publishing and company management industries, software developers design and develop software to meet the needs of businesses or the public. After several years on a team, software developers can become project managers with increased responsibility and salary.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $130,160
Job Outlook (2022-32): +25%
Web Developer
These developers design website infrastructure, including its navigation and scripts. They can work in freelance roles for multiple companies or as employees of single organizations. Although they typically work in computer-related fields, companies in the retail, financial, and advertising industries also hire web developers.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $92,750
Job Outlook (2022-32): +16%
Choosing the Right Computer Science Program
Our program rankings offer a great starting point for prospective computer science students, but other factors should affect your school selection process. Consider the following as you research schools:
Accreditation: Accreditation ensures that an institution meets academic quality, fiscal responsibility, and student support standards. Without proper accreditation, your degree may hold little value in the workforce. Look for schools with institutional accreditation from agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education. You can also consider attending a program with programmatic accreditation from ABET.
Admission Competitiveness: Some schools offer a limited number of admission slots for computer science majors. Before applying, consider whether your grades, prerequisites, and test scores make you a competitive candidate.
School Size: While small schools tend to provide lower student-to-faculty ratios and more personal attention from professors, larger schools may feature more expansive facilities and resources.
Earning Potential: Many universities provide data on alumni career outcomes. Consider attending a school where computer science graduates regularly secure work in your chosen field or with your preferred employer.
Future Education Opportunities: Some computer science careers require education beyond a bachelor's degree. Many schools offer master's degrees, certificates, and other educational opportunities to help students reach their goals. Pursuing additional programs at their alma mater may provide learners with seamless credit transfers and simplified admissions.
Should You Get Your Degree Online?
Studying online can help you save money while enjoying flexibility, convenience, and choice. These benefits come with a trade-off, though — you may find it harder to connect with your peers, which can make it more difficult to network.
Hybrid programs combine online and face-to-face learning. Like fully online programs, these degrees feature either synchronous (live) or asynchronous (pre-recorded) e-learning sessions. You can balance these with varying amounts of campus-based learning.
Despite its considerable advantages, online education may pose some pitfalls. You need self-discipline to manage your coursework and assignments, which demands independence. If you prefer more structure and support, traditional learning might make a better match.
More Computer Science Degree Programs
FAQ About Bachelor's in Computer Science Degrees
What jobs can you get with a bachelor's in computer science?
According to the BLS, computer science occupations open to people with bachelor's degrees include roles in programming, web development, network architecture, database and systems administration, and information security. A bachelor's in computer science also makes an excellent base for careers in software development.
Should I get a BA or a BS in computer science?
While BS programs are much more common, this is a matter of preference. BA programs usually require more electives in nontechnical areas, which can round out your education nicely. Conversely, BS programs typically include more STEM coursework, which may strengthen your technical knowledge base.
Is getting an undergraduate in computer science hard?
Computer science programs will challenge you. They emphasize complex technical concepts, and you will need strong logic, analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to master them. Many students also find the mathematics components challenging.
Is a bachelor's degree in computer science worth it?
Yes — a bachelor's in computer science can be worthwhile for students interested in information technology. Degree-holders can pursue high-paying careers as software developers and computer network architects. Additionally, many careers stemming from this educational pathway are growing fast, offering plenty of future opportunities.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org. Page last reviewed May 30, 2024.
