A Look at Coursework, Schools, and What to Expect After Graduation

In today’s technology dependent world, the computer science field is growing quickly and the number of candidates for these degree programs is on the rise. Students who pursue a computer science degree will learn the technical skills necessary to pursue careers as researchers, web and software developers, and information security specialists. This guide allows prospective computer science students to compare their degree options from the associate through graduate level, along with career outlook and salary information.

Earning a degree in computer science can give students the opportunity to enter one of many careers in areas such as web development, cyber security or computer engineering. Many schools now provide computer science degrees and programs to keep up with the growing demand for experts in this field. We’ve carefully examined computer science programs – both on-campus and online – and ranked them based on our comprehensive methodology to create the list of Best Computer Science Degrees and Programs. Configure your future at one of the top-ranked institutions below.

Best Computer Science Degrees and Programs

Computer Science at a Glance

Computer science degrees can be found at every educational level from associate degrees to PhDs. Most programs combine the study of theory with the application of computer science. Whether pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, some programs may offer the ability to specialize in subjects like electrical or computer engineering, cyber security or web development. In a field that is constantly evolving, getting the right education can help computer science students and professionals stay ahead of the curve.

One of the first women to receive a PhD in computer science was Sister Mary Kenneth Keller. It is even said that Dartmouth University broke their “men only” rule when they allowed Keller to conduct research there.

It was an unlikely partnership between IBM’s Chief Executive Thomas J. Watson Sr. and Colombia University Professor Benjamin Wood that led to one of the nation’s first academic-credit computing course in 1946.

World War II served as a driving force in the development of computer science. One of the technological advancements during this time was the Automatic Sequence Control Calculator (Mark 1), developed by scientist Howard Aiken in 1944.

The job outlook for information security analysts is growing much faster than the national average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The career path is becoming increasingly important as Internet safety becomes a pressing issue, with over 6,000 new computer viruses deployed each month.

Related Degree Programs

While computer science is a growing field with numerous career avenues, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a degree program that involves working with computers, mathematical reasoning and analytical problem-solving, below are a few similar programs that may suit your interests and career goals.

• Information Technology

  Similar to computer science degrees, information technology focuses on the study of web design and creation of network architectures. Students can also explore specialties like security administration, customer support and computer animation technologies.

• Engineering

  If a major that allows for different applications in technology beyond computers seems more interesting to you, it may be beneficial to take a look at engineering. These programs generally offer specializations like electrical and biomedical engineering.

• Math

  In a mathematics degree program students learn about the various ways the systems of mathematics can be used to gain insight into human behavior and the world at large. This degree allows students to pursue careers as actuaries, statisticians or even financial analysts.

Computer Science Degrees by Level

Receiving a degree in computer science allows graduates the opportunity to excel in a highly technical and competitive field. With computer science degrees being offered through associate, bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programs, sifting through all of the different options and schools can be overwhelming. When comparing various degree programs, it’s important to consider your career goals and pick the program best suited to achieving them. Read on for a comparative overview of degree programs at each level.

Computer Science Associate Degrees

• Type of Schools: Community colleges, technical schools, two-year universities
• Time to Complete: Approximately two years
• Career Opportunities: Web developer, Information Technology (IT) Support Specialist, Systems Administrator, Technology Coordinator

Often considered a method of entering into a baccalaureate program, a computer science associate degree is an ideal program for those who want to enter the field as quickly as possible, or who may want another route to pursing a bachelor’s degree. In order to be considered for the program, students must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, in addition to taking entrance exams and completing the application process. Computer science associate degree programs typically require 60 credit hours and focus on familiarizing students with the basics of computer programming, algorithms, web development and database applications.

Course offerings for associate degree programs are geared toward giving students the tools they need to gain entry-level positions in the industry. Below is a sampling of some typical courses in an associate degree program.

• Fundamentals in Information Technology

  Students will receive the foundational knowledge necessary to understand the information technologies or computer-human interaction in addition to studying the basics of information management, programming and networking.

• Foundations of Computing

  Focuses on developing the critical thinking skills of students as it relates to computers in problem solving. It will focus on human interaction with technology, and the impact it has on learning.

• Website Design

  Students will learn about Internet concepts, network protocols and client-server communications and how those concepts relate to web design in practice and in theory.

• Sequential Mainframe Programming

  Introduces students to COBOL programming language, and covers input-stream, data input, printer output, alphanumeric and numeric editing.

Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees

• Type of Schools: Four-year universities
• Time to Complete: Approximately four years
• Career Opportunities: Quality Assurance Director (Computer Software), Software Engineering Manager, Software Architect, Data Architect, Security Architect (IT)

Bachelor’s programs in computer science are ideal for students starting college directly after high school, or are otherwise able to dedicate the time to a demanding course load. For admission, students must have earned a high school diploma or GED equivalent in addition to taking entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT.

During the course of an undergraduate education, students can expect to learn about engineering, programming and the theory of computer science in approximately 127 credit hours. Bachelor’s programs may also allow students to specialize in a particular field such as Human-Computer Interaction or Artificial Intelligence.

There are a variety of undergraduate courses that help students learn skills in everything from programming to theory. Below are a few examples of courses that students can expect to take at this level.

• Discrete Math for Computer Science

  Computer scientists need to have a firm grasp of the mathematical tools and concepts that shape the field. This course familiarizes students with the logical notations used to express mathematical arguments.

• Fluency in Information Technology

  Covers logical reasoning, operations and networks and contemporary applications.

• Data Structures and Algorithms

  Students will learn about algorithmic complexity analysis, recurrence relations and the master method in order to understand and analyze data structures and algorithms.

• Artificial Intelligence

  Artificial intelligence is becoming ubiquitous in today’s world, and this course teaches students how to identify issues as well as develop AI technologies.

Graduate Degrees in Computer Science: Master’s and Doctorate

• Type of Schools: Four-year universities
• Time to Complete: Six to eight years
• Career Opportunities: Senior Data Scientist (IT), Principal Software Engineer, Staff Software Engineer, Research Scientist

Receiving a graduate degree in computer science whether it be a master’s or PhD is an achievement that can set professionals apart in this competitive field. Graduate-level studies are typically rigorous programs that take a significant amount of time to complete. A graduate degree program can be very rewarding for those looking to become highly specialized in their field. During the course of the program students can expect to complete advanced computer science courses and an original research thesis.

For admission, they generally require students to receive high scores on graduate entrance exams and a strong undergraduate GPA. Prospective doctoral students should keep in mind that they must establish candidacy for a program before they are admitted.

Graduate programs offer advanced coursework that are meant to challenge students and further the field. Below are some examples of common graduate courses.

• JavaScript and Web Programming

  Teaches students about the importance of Java Script and how to understand its elements to achieve program idioms.

• Advanced Cryptography

  Students will perfect their knowledge of secure computation, session-key distribution, electronic payment and one-way functions.

• Computer Communication Networks

  Students will learn about the algorithms necessary for computer communication network concepts, protocols and architectures.

• Speech Processing

  Students will be exposed to a brief introduction to corpus linguistics and how to use that information to operate and install speech recognition software.

Student’s Perspective

Pre-Enrollment Checklist for CS Programs

Not all computer science programs are the same. Before committing to a degree path, students should make sure that they meet the specific school and program admission requirements. In addition to knowing that you are the right student for the program, it’s important to know that the program is right for you. Finding a computer science program that meets your academic and career goals should be a top priority for any new student.