Welcome to our list of affordable online computer programming degree programs.
Degrees in Computer Programming and Computer Science (CS) are in high demand. Graduates who are familiar with multiple programming languages and are also knowledgeable about web services, networks, and software engineering will go far in their careers.
As a programmer, you're practically guaranteed financial security, too. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, average salaries in the industry hover around $80,000, and you could make as much as $130,000! While you can enroll in a traditional university and attend classes on campus, you also have another, more convenient option – distance education. The increasing popularity of such programs is putting competitive four-year degrees within reach of a wider populace.
The 20 Best Cheap Computer Programming Degrees Online Ranking Methodology
Selection Criteria
For this ranking, we focused on public and private (non-profit) colleges and universities that offer online undergraduate programs related to computer programming. This included degrees in computer science, programming, and software development/engineering, but not degrees in information technology, networks, systems, etc.
In addition, we only considered schools that offer full, four-year programs online. Therefore, degree completion programs were not eligible for this ranking.
Finally, we controlled for affordability by focusing on colleges with average* costs (tuition + fees) that are less than $25,000 a year.
*For public schools, we calculated the average value of their in-state and out-of-state rates.
Ranking Factors
Our primary goal in this ranking was to identify the best, most affordable online bachelor's degrees for aspiring computer programmers. To do this, we examined four different aspects of each program.
First, we acquired a sense of the program's popularity in recent years by looking at the number of computer science (or programming or software engineering) majors that the college graduated recently. Of course, size isn't everything, but this was still helpful in determining the program's ability to attract and retain students.
We also closely examined each program's major/core curriculum to determine the percentage of classes with an explicit focus on programming. This includes (but is not limited to) classes in specific coding types or languages as well as courses in algorithms, data structures, and web or software development.
Because each college organizes its curriculum differently, the number of designated core courses is not the same for every program. Therefore, we balanced the previous metric by also counting the number of programming classes available within the curriculum. In this way, we were able to ensure that a degree with a 20-course core curriculum and ten programming classes earned more points than one with six core courses and just three coding-related ones.
Last but not least, we awarded points based on each college's annual cost. Schools with overall cheaper undergraduate tuition rates (including fees) earned more points.
We weighted our calculations so that the first and last categories (popularity and tuition) were worth 10 points, while the other two were worth 15 points each. Although no school earned the maximum possible 50 points, some came close! Scroll down for more on the 20 best degrees in computer science online.
15. Fort Hays State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Website
Computer scientists are in high demand across a number of industries – and not just because of their technical abilities. CS majors, including those at Fort Hays State University, also develop superior problem-solving skills. At FHSU, the emphasis is on using software applications to devise efficient solutions to complex problems. Meeting this goal requires a solid foundation in programming, and the BS in Computer Science curriculum covers all the basics: Java, data structures and algorithms, and a two-part sequence in software engineering. And unlike many accredited online programming degrees, FHSU's program also offers concentrations in Business and Networking.
Average Tuition & Fees: $9,665/yr
Score: 24.3
14. Old Dominion University
Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Website
Old Dominion University's affordable online computer science degree is available as both a four-year and completion program. But even if you have already earned many of the credits you need for your bachelor's degree, you'll take many of your upper-level CS classes at ODU. This is good news for future coders and software developers, as about half of the required core courses are programming-related. You'll cover all the expected topics – principles of programming, object-oriented languages, and algorithms – and get an introduction to software engineering as well. And if you complete an internship or work in a CS-related field, you could get course credit for your on-the-job experience.
Average Tuition & Fees: $18,240/yr
Score: 26.6
13. Franklin University
Online Computer Science Degree Program
Website
Some schools take a wide-angle approach to computer programming by offering instruction in every possible language and platform. However, Franklin University understands that a broad, shallow education is not necessarily better than a narrow, deep one. As such, the university has designed what it calls a "language independent" curriculum that emphasizes practical skills and applications over complete linguistic fluency. And since the goal of its affordable online computer programming degree is to prepare students for jobs in software and web development, coursework puts an unusually strong emphasis on object-oriented programming using Java. Through a four-part course sequence, you'll learn the ins and outs of data structures, algorithms, design patterns, and software analysis.
Average Tuition & Fees: $11,641/yr
Score: 26.7
12. Virginia International University
Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Website
Founded less than two decades ago, Virginia International University is relatively new to the world of higher education. And unlike many older colleges, VIU has made online, non-traditional programs a priority from the very beginning. One of many web-based degrees that it offers, the BS in Computer Science covers all the field's most essential theories and practices. The major curriculum consists of four units: Fundamentals (21 credits), Programming (12 credits), Applications (21 credits), and Electives (30 credits). Note the sizeable elective component, which grants you the freedom to explore other coding languages (like C/C++) and unique topics (like computer forensics) while earning this cheap computer programming degree online.
Average Tuition & Fees: $9,968/yr
Score: 26.900000000000002
11. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Website
Of the 20 undergraduate programs on this top online computer science degrees ranking, only two focus specifically on software engineering. Not only does Penn State have one of those two programs, but its BS in Software Engineering is also ABET-accredited! And this high-quality curriculum is also highly challenging. You'll need to earn at least 126 credits and complete a capstone course by designing your own software engineering project. Along the way, you'll accumulate a heap of coding knowledge through classes like "Programming Language Concepts," "Object-Oriented Software Design and Construction," and "Net-Centric Computing" (which covers JavaScript, AJAX, and XML).
Average Tuition & Fees: $13,678/yr
Score: 27.3
10. Central Methodist University
Online Bachelor of Arts/Science in Computer Science
Website
Like many CS programs, Central Methodist University delivers a curriculum that emphasizes "a broad understanding of computer languages." The coursework also seeks to produce versatile graduates who have the analytical and critical thinking skills to succeed in a number of industries. At the same time, you'll have an opportunity to tailor your experience to your specific goals. For example, you'll get to pick three programming classes to take from a list that includes topics like web design and development, scientific computing, mobile apps, game design, Java, Visual Basic, and more. And by offering this cheap degree in computer science online in both BA and BS forms, CMU makes it easy for transfer students to match credits with their prior coursework.
Average Tuition & Fees: $5,280/yr
Score: 27.5
9. Bellevue University
Online Bachelor of Science in Software Development
Website
A career-focused approach and an emphasis on software development distinguish Bellevue from other top cheap online programming degrees. Combining technical and computation-based classes with coursework in business and project management, the curriculum prepares you to succeed in a real-world professional environment. There are even classes like "Business System Programming" that blend technological and commercial topics in a single syllabus. Speaking of programming, Bellevue's curriculum features a diverse set list of skills, including SQL, Java, Ruby, and other object-oriented languages. Top these off with a few courses in telecommunications, information security, and web scripting to broaden your career opportunities.
Average Tuition & Fees: $7,050/yr
Score: 29.2
8. Davenport University
Online Database Systems and Programming BS
Website
It may be one of the more expensive options on this ranking of affordable online computer programming degrees, but Davenport's BS in Database Systems and Programming is still one of the best investments for a future coder. A thorough curriculum ensures that graduates are familiar with C++, C#, and Java and can write scripts in Perl and Python for all the main operating systems (Windows, Mac, and Linux/Unix). Davenport also highly encourages computer programming majors to apply for professional certificates that will strengthen their prospects in the job market. The university even offers a list of what courses you'll need to qualify for specific certifications from CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, and Oracle, among others.
Average Tuition & Fees: $15,952/yr
Score: 29.300000000000004
7. University of Illinois at Springfield
Online Computer Science Bachelor's Degree
Website
If you choose to earn an accredited degree in computer science online from the University of Illinois at Springfield, note that you will not be able to apply directly to the major as a freshman. Instead, you will need to start by taking prerequisite courses in calculus, discrete math, and statistics. You'll also need to have at least two semesters of Java programming experience – and maintain at least a 2.0 GPA! But once you're in, you'll quickly accumulate expertise in all the standard topics, from algorithms to operating systems. UIS also requires all seniors to take an "exit assessment" in order to "assess the body of knowledge they've attained."
Average Tuition & Fees: $16,176/yr
Score: 31.6
6. University of Maine-Augusta
Online BS in Computer Information Systems: Software Development
Website
The University of Maine is the only school to make this best online computer programming degrees ranking with a B.S. in Computer Information Systems (and Cybersecurity). Although CIS programs typically encompass a wide range of topics, UMA allows its CIS majors to tailor their studies through specific concentrations. One such option, in Software Development, emphasizes "the ability to reason and apply algorithmic thinking" while covering "a variety of programming languages." Indeed, this track requires undergrads to take classes in Visual Basic, Java, C++, C#, and .Net, not to mention software engineering and quality assurance. Alternatively, you choose the Web Development concentration and learn about JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL.
Average Tuition & Fees: $12,248/yr
Score: 31.800000000000004
5. Dakota State University
Online Computer Science BS
Website
Dakota State University is well-known in the Midwest as a top provider of both online education and tech-centric programs. Fortunately for commute-limited computer geeks, DSU has combined these two areas of expertise into one impressively cheap online computer science degree. The curriculum provides the resources and experience that you'll need to work as a software engineer, programmer, systems administrator, or even in cybersecurity. And for a broad-based CS degree, the program is also surprisingly code-focused. Indeed, more than half of the required major courses – including "Object-Oriented Design," "Data Structures," and "Assembly Language" – are programming-related.
Average Tuition & Fees: $10,385/yr
Score: 32.400000000000006
4. Florida State University
Online Computer Science BS
Website
At Florida State University, CS majors develop proficiency "in C, C++, and Assembly Language" as well as a familiarity with "Java, C#, Ada, Lisp, Scheme, Prolog, Perl, and HTML." Few schools can compete with this kind of guarantee, making FSU a clear leader in the world of top online computer science degrees. But course designers at Florida State didn't stop there. What makes the curriculum even better is its "embedded" minor in math and physical sciences. Not only is this minor ABET-accredited, but it will also boost your credentials and provide an easier transition to graduate school, should you decide to earn a master's degree.
Average Tuition & Fees: $14,090/yr
Score: 37
3. Arizona State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Website
One of only two software engineering options on this affordable online programming degrees ranking, ASU's program is stuffed to the brim with tech-heavy, coding-oriented courses. Indeed, the curriculum includes more than a dozen such classes on its list of core requirements. You'll start with "Principles of Programming" in your freshman year before advancing to topics like assembly language, algorithms, and web-based applications. SE majors at Arizona State also complete a five-part "Software Enterprise" course sequence that takes them through every stage of the design process, from testing and quality to construction, implementation, and elaboration.
Average Tuition & Fees: $18,420/yr
Score: 38.7
2. University of Maryland-University College
Online Computer Science Bachelor's Degree
Website
Anyone familiar with UMUC will not be surprised to see that it ranks 2nd on our list of cheap online computer programming degrees. After all, the University of Maryland is a powerhouse of online tech education. It offers bachelor's degrees not just in computer science, but also in computer networking, cybersecurity, information systems, and software development (to name a few). And this strength is on full display in the CS curriculum. In addition to coursework in introductory, intermediate, and advanced programming, UMUC CS majors also study object-oriented and concurrent programming, data structures and analysis, web applications, and even compiler design.
Average Tuition & Fees: $9,756/yr
Score: 45.3
1. Western Governors University
Online Bachelor of Science in Software Development
Website
With its nearly unbeatable tuition rate, Western Governors University slides past the competition and into the #1 spot on our ranking. But affordability isn't all that this online college has to offer. In fact, WGU performed well in every metric we considered. Plus, the university conferred more than 200 computer programming bachelor's degrees last year, easily making it one of the most popular options online. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of choosing WGU's cheap online programming degree is that it actually incorporates several IT certifications into the curriculum. In fact, you could become certified in five different areas of expertise as part of your regular coursework – and for no extra charge beyond the cost of tuition!
Average Tuition & Fees: $6,070/yr
Score: 45.9
Thanks for reading our ranking of the 20 best cheap computer programming degrees online!
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics – Computer Programmers
IPEDS Data Center
College Navigator
See also: