Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Programs

Interested in a growing career with generous compensation? An accelerated online computer science degree might be for you. We rank the best programs here.
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Updated January 30, 2024

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An interdisciplinary field, computer science focuses on the theories, math, and applications that underlie computing. In a computer science program, you'll develop in-demand skills in computer hardware, programming, and software engineering.

An accelerated computer science degree can help you start your tech career sooner than a traditional bachelor's degree. Learn more about the benefits of an online accelerated computer science degree and discover our picks for the best accelerated programs.

How Does an Accelerated Computer Science Degree Work?

A computer science accelerated program typically features intensive courses lasting 7-8 weeks. These classes cover the same content as those in a traditional 15-week semester.

With two terms per semester, usually including the summer, accelerated programs can offer up to six short terms per year.

Online accelerated computer science degree programs normally cater to working students. Depending on whether you opt for a part- or full-time course load, you can expect to earn your computer science degree online in 2-4 years.

Did You Know?


  • The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 15% growth for computer and IT jobs between 2021 and 2031.
  • Computer and IT professionals earn more than twice the annual mean salary of all jobs, according to the BLS.
  • There are more than 44,000 annual job openings for computer systems analysts.

Accelerated Computer Science Rankings Snapshot

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Lewis University
Romeoville, IL
$35,262 $35,262 71%
#2 Regis University
Denver, CO
$39,260 $39,260 81%
#3 Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
$7,162 $7,162 Not provided

Top Online Computer Science Accelerated Programs

Read About Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Programs

Lewis University

  • Romeoville, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $625
Out-of-State | $625

Credits to Graduate: 128

Students in Lewis' accelerated bachelor of science in computer science can learn the programming, networking, and big data skills they need to navigate the complex world of technology. The program offers six potential concentrations and five minors, including artificial intelligence, mobile computing, data science, and mathematical modeling. 

Lewis' 100% online degree accepts Prior Learning Assessments to help new enrollees graduate quickly and at a lower cost. To qualify, each candidate needs 30 transferable credits and a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,262
Out-of-state
$35,262
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,760
Out-of-state
$14,760
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
6,183
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Programs

Regis University

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: ABET

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $589
Out-of-State | $589

Credits to Graduate: 120

Regis' BS in computer science equips students with the theoretical knowledge and broad technology skills to solve leading problems in security, data, programming, and more. Enrollees in this accelerated online degree engage with new courses every eight weeks. 

Students may combine their undergraduate work with graduate study to earn credits toward MS degrees. Both degrees equal 144 credits. Each applicant must hold a high school diploma, transferable credits, and work experience for admission. New students may transfer up to 66 credits.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,260
Out-of-state
$39,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,063
Out-of-state
$14,063
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
5,566
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Accelerated Online Computer Science Programs

Western Governors University

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: ABET

Cost per Term:
In-State | $3,985
Out-of-State | $3,985

Courses to Graduate: 38

WGU's online BS in computer science focuses on core IT skills, CS theory, and practical knowledge to prepare students to assume key technology roles after graduation. This fully online degree includes a Linux certification and the AXELOS ITIL® Foundation certification as part of its curriculum. 

The university reports that graduates earn an additional $22,000 a year within two years of graduation and an extra $29,200 within four years. Each computer science applicant must hold a high school diploma and demonstrate readiness for the program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,162
Out-of-state
$7,162
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
150,116
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Explore Featured Computer Science Programs

Does Accreditation Matter for Accelerated Computer Science Degrees?

When researching online computer science degrees, be sure to check whether the schools are accredited. Accreditation is essentially a formal stamp of approval for schools and academic programs, indicating that they've met certain quality standards.

When a school is accredited, you can rest assured it offers quality academics, financial aid resources, and effective student services.

Programmatic accreditation can help you verify whether an accelerated computer science degree is worth it. That said, computer science programs aren't as likely to hold programmatic accreditation as, say, engineering or nursing.

Still, many top accelerated computer science programs hold accreditation from ABET.

What Courses Do You Take for an Online Computer Science Degree?

Online computer science programs usually entail 48-60 credits of major coursework, which you earn through core courses, specialization courses or electives, and capstone projects or internships.

Core coursework introduces you to the computer science discipline, teaching you to hone technical skills and examine digital technology ethics.

Capstone projects or internships help you build skills in research and analysis. They also let you apply your technical knowledge to real-world settings. You may graduate with a portfolio to share with potential employers.

To fulfill electives or concentration requirements, you'll take specialized courses in a field such as data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or software engineering.

Here are some common courses in an online computer science degree program:

  • Data structures and algorithms
  • Digital technology ethics
  • Introduction to computer science
  • Machine learning
  • Software engineering

What Can You Do With an Online Computer Science Degree?

Online computer science degree-holders benefit from the ongoing technology boom. Computer and information technology professionals earned a median annual salary of $97,430 in 2021, according to the BLS.

Jobs such as web developer and software developer are projected to grow by 30% and 26%, respectively, from 2021-2031.

You can qualify for several high-paying, in-demand roles with a bachelor's in computer science. The table below shows some of the most popular jobs for computer science graduates.

Popular Jobs for Computer Science Degree-Holders
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2021) Job Growth Rate (2021-2031)
Computer and Information Systems Managers $159,010 16%
Software Developers $120,730 26%
Computer Network Architects $120,520 4%
Computer Systems Analysts $99,270 9%
Computer Programmers $93,000 -10%
Network and Computer Systems Administrators $80,600 3%
Web Developers $77,030 30%

Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Computer Science Degrees

How fast can I get a computer science degree?

Full-time students with relevant job experience and/or coursework can usually earn an accelerated computer science degree in about two years. If you take courses on a part-time basis, expect your accelerated program to take longer — up to four years.

Can I finish a computer science degree in three years?

Yes. Many online computer science students in accelerated programs graduate in three or less years. Graduation timelines can vary among schools, though, so be sure to reach out to prospective programs regarding completion times before you apply.

Is computer science a hard degree?

While the difficulty level of a computer science degree can vary among students, computer science is often regarded as one of the more challenging college majors you can pursue.

Throughout an online computer science degree, you'll take theoretical and practical classes in subjects like programming languages, software security, and project management. Many computer science courses require an advanced knowledge of math and a high level of computer literacy.

Is computer science math-heavy?

Math, as well as problem-solving and critical thinking, plays a major role in computer science. You'll likely take classes in calculus, algebra, and statistics. That said, computer science is not as math-heavy as other STEM majors like physics and engineering.


All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.


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