A computer programming degree program can help you build the transferable skills necessary for high-growth careers like web and software development. In an online computer programming program, you'll learn multiple coding languages and tactics for writing clean, efficient code for product development, cybersecurity, and more.
Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to advance your education while balancing work and other responsibilities. BestColleges' goal is to help ease your college decision-making process by showcasing online computer programming degree options that rank highly in affordability, student outcomes, and reputation.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Computer Programming Degrees
Why You Should Get a Computer Programming Degree
High-Demand Careers: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong growth through 2034 for roles that you can pursue with this degree. Jobs for software developers are projected to grow 16%, for example.
Always Room to Upskill: Computer programming is always changing. You'll have plenty of opportunities to advance your education and earn certifications for new skills.
Work from Anywhere: Many computer programmers, developers, and information technologists work from home or on a hybrid schedule and often earn more than six figures.
Benefits of Getting a Computer Programming Bachelor's Degree Online
Almost all (97%) of online STEM students and program graduates in BestColleges' 2025 Online Education Trends Report said they would recommend online education to others.
Nearly the same amount (96%) also said they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
More than 3 in 4 (77%) said an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
How to Choose the Best Online Computer Programming Degree for You
Before enrolling in an online degree program, consider its cost (including financial aid), duration, flexibility, and graduation outcomes.
How Much Does an Online Computer Programming Degree Cost?
Online Computer and Information Sciences Bachelor's Programs, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition and Fees
$7,654.40
Avg. Net Price
$4,932.40
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Online computer and information sciences bachelor's students paid $7,654.40 on average before financial aid in the 2019-2020 academic year, according to NCES.
But after financial aid, students paid nearly $3,000 less: $4,932.40.
By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans depending on your need. You may pay even less if you transfer college credits into your program, which can decrease the number of college credits necessary for graduation.
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How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Computer Programming Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
3-4 Years
Typically, it will take you about 3-4 years to graduate from a 120-credit bachelor's degree program if you are enrolled full time. However, you may graduate in less time in an accelerated program or more time in a part-time program.
Accelerated programs condense four years of content into two or three, requiring a larger course load per semester so you can graduate in less time. You can also shorten your time to graduation if you transfer credits from past college and professional experience. Some programs let you transfer up to 90 credit hours.
On the other hand, a flexible asynchronous degree program lets you work at any point during the day at your own pace. This schedule may mean that it takes you longer to graduate, but it also gives you the freedom and flexibility to balance life, school, and work.
What Can You Do With a Computer Programming Bachelor's Degree?
The BLS projects jobs for computer programmers to decrease by 6% between 2024 and 2034.
However, with a computer programming degree, you can pursue adjacent roles that involve programming, including web developer, back-end and front-end developer, information security analyst, or software developer.
While computer programming is expected to decline, the BLS projects that information security analyst jobs will grow by 29% over the next decade and software developer jobs will grow by 16%.
According to the BLS, in 2024, the median salary for these professionals ranged from $95,380 for web developers to $133,080 for software developers. Computer programmers made a median salary of $98,670.
| Job | Median Pay (2024) | Job Outlook (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Web Developer and Digital Designer | $95,380 | 7% |
| Computer Programmer | $98,670 | -6% |
| Database Administrator | $123,100 | 4% |
| Computer System Analyst | $103,790 | 9% |
| Information Security Analyst | $124,910 | 29% |
| Software Developer | $133,080 | 16% |
Is an Online Computer Programming Bachelor's Degree Worth It?
Due to the rise of AI, the computer programming industry is rapidly changing. While the BLS projects computer programmer jobs to decline over the next decade, it also projects other programming-related roles to grow.
Humans are still needed to write and edit code, and even utilize AI within their work to streamline lower-end projects, allowing them to focus on larger projects.
An online computer programming bachelor's degree can be worth it if you pursue roles in sectors like software development and information security — two jobs that are projected to grow over the next 10 years and pay median salaries above $120,000.
Education Beyond a Computer Programming Bachelor's Degree
If you want to upskill even further, you can consider a computer science master's degree.
These advanced programs focus heavily on coding, software development, the application of AI in computer science, and cybersecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Computer Programming Degrees
According to the BLS, computer programmers made a median salary of $98,670 in 2024. While the BLS notes that you need a minimum of a bachelor's degree, many computer programmers are self-taught or attended bootcamps to launch their careers. According to a 2025 BestColleges survey, some cybersecurity employers noted that they prefer experience over a degree.
You can gain experience and upskill through independent work, courses and bootcamps, and online coding communities.
