Accelerated Computer Science Degrees

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Earning an accelerated computer science degree can often lead to high-paying career opportunities. Graduates of computer science bachelor's programs may qualify to work as computer systems analysts or database administrators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth for both of these professions between 2019 and 2029.

Students who pursue a master's degree in computer science often qualify for management-level jobs or leadership positions, sometimes working as data scientists.

Learners with keen mathematical acumen, strong problem-solving abilities, and well-developed communication skills usually do well in computer science programs.

Why Choose an Accelerated Computer Science Degree

Why Get a Degree in Computer Science?

Earning an accelerated computer science degree allows graduates to enter the workforce and begin earning a salary sooner. An early career start allows professionals to determine their desired computer science focus. Many of the field's postgraduate degrees and certificates require a certain amount of work experience, which is another advantage to earning an accelerated degree in computer science.

Online accelerated computer science degrees typically follow the same curriculum as on-campus programs. The same teachers usually conduct online and onsite classes, giving all learners the same quality of instruction. Online students graduate with a degree that gives them the same professional opportunities as on-campus enrollees.

How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, full-time undergraduate students enrolled at four-year public institutions paid $20,598 on average during the 2018-19 school year. Learners who enrolled in four-year nonprofit private schools paid an average of $47,541. Both figures include tuition, required fees, and room and board.

For the same period, the average cost of postgraduate enrollment came to $12,171 for four-year public institutions and $27,776 for private nonprofit schools. Computer science degree-seekers can expect to spend a similar amount for their degree, depending on their chosen school.

Online accelerated computer science programs require less time to complete, allowing enrollees to potentially save even more. Prospective students should also inquire whether their desired school allows out-of-state online enrollees to pay in-state tuition since this can significantly reduce the cost of earning a degree.

How Much Do Computer Science Majors Make?

Some computer science degree-holders work in the technology arena as software developers or data scientists. Others provide support services for various types of businesses and organizations.

The BLS combines employment and income data in the computer science field with mathematical occupations such as statisticians and actuarial scientists. In 2019, companies providing computer design and similar technical services hired the most computer science professionals, employing as many as 1.2 million practitioners.

The states with the highest employment levels for this sector include California (640,210), Texas (396,060), New York (265,840), Florida (220,900), and Virginia (218,360). States with high employment levels in specific industries usually offer better professional opportunities in those areas.

In 2020, computer science professionals earned the most in Washington ($122,640), California ($116,820), Virginia ($107,130), and Massachusetts ($105,400). The District of Columbia paid the third-highest salary for professionals in this sector after Washington and California ($113,930).

Courses in Computer Science

Well-crafted computer science programs help enrollees develop valuable technical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Students enroll in classes such as operating systems, database and web system development, and ethical and social implications of computing. Many colleges and universities also offer concentrations in software development, mobile computing, healthcare informatics, and computer networking.

Coursework for accelerated computer science degrees can vary significantly between colleges and universities. However, computer science students often take the three courses below.

• Data Structures

  The course introduces students to several fundamental concepts of data structures, including vectors, stacks, queues, and hash tables. Enrollees learn how to identify appropriate data structures and create, test, and debug their own programming. Learners study modularity and data abstraction, priority queues, and different classes and methods.

• Discrete Mathematics

  Students explore how mathematical thinking impacts different computer science areas, including bioinformatics, machine learning, and computer graphics. The course teaches enrollees about common tools used in discrete mathematics, such as induction, logic, recursion, matrices, and optimality. Degree-seekers receive guided practical training with classroom instruction.

• Web Development

  Enrollees explore topics such as static and dynamic content, security, and the software development process as these relate to programs that operate online. The course helps students develop skills in web design and applications by familiarizing them with web programming software such as Javascript and HTML.

Certifications and Licensure for Computer Science

Computer science graduates do not need a license before they can work in the field. However, earning an industry-recognized certification can significantly improve professionals' career options and salary expectations. See below for three possible certifications for computer science professionals.

Scholarships for Computer Science

Computer science majors often find scholarships at their college or university. Degree-seekers can also explore scholarships from professional organizations, private nonprofit groups, and state and federal agencies with close professional ties and interests in the computer science field. See below for three opportunities available for computer science students.

Accelerated Computer Science Programs