10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Computer Science

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Updated: Nov 11, 2024

Key Takeaways

An accelerated online computer science degree can be completed in 2-3 years rather than 4 or more years for a traditional computer science degree program.
Because of the condensed time frame of the fastest computer science degree programs, students must be technically adept as well as highly disciplined and organized.
Earning a bachelor’s in computer science degree online opens up numerous career opportunities that pay a higher-than-average salary.

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Fastest Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs for 2025

Oregon State University
Southern New Hampshire University
University of Illinois Springfield
Saint Leo University
Franklin University
City University of Seattle
Charleston Southern University
+1
Austin Peay State University
–1
Lewis University
Concordia University, St. Paul

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

The top 10 fastest online bachelor’s degree in computer science programs didn’t have a significant amount of movement between 2024 and 2025. Charleston Southern University moved up one position to the number 7 position.

The best accelerated online computer science bachelor’s degree programs can be completed in four years or less. Students must be highly motivated and organized to keep up with the condensed curriculum and fast-pace as well as the strong focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills.

Learners develop technical skills in computer science and transferable skills, too, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical thinking skills, in the process.

Computer programmer smiling at his desk in front of a large monitor

Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Computer Science

Note that we included a few on-campus computer science programs in this list to provide more options.

Career Outlook for Students with Computer Science Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Computer Science

Degree Level: Bachelor's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Starting Salary*: $69,556
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $89,679
* denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers	17.42%	$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists	25.68%	$145,080
Database Architects	10.75%	$134,700
Software Developers	17.94%	$132,270
Information Security Analysts	32.71%	$120,360
Data Scientists	36.03%	$108,020
Computer Occupations, All Other	10.85%	$104,920
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers	11.80%	$101,800
Computer Programmers	-9.61%	$99,700
Web and Digital Interface Designers	7.93%	$98,540

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers	$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists	$145,080
Database Architects	$134,700
Software Developers	$132,270
Information Security Analysts	$120,360
Data Scientists	$108,020
Computer Occupations, All Other	$104,920
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers	$101,800
Computer Programmers	$99,700
Web and Digital Interface Designers	$98,540

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Young computer programmer writing code in front of three monitors

Admission Requirements for Computer Science Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Due to the intensive study demands that accelerated online computer science degree programs have on their students, the admissions process is selective. The common minimum admissions requirements include:

High school diploma or the equivalent GED
Official high school transcripts and/or college transcripts
SAT/ACT scores
Personal statement or essay
Letters of recommendation
Application form and fee

Key Point: Some online accelerated computer science degrees may also require applicants to submit a short resume.

Young female computer programmer sitting at her desk in front of a desktop and laptop computer

Things to Expect in Computer Science Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Every computer science program offers unique learning experiences for its online students. With that said, there are many similarities between accelerated online programs that can be a general reference for setting realistic expectations.

Condensed Coursework

Accelerated programs usually have a condensed curriculum that demands a rigorous study schedule from students. The condensed curriculum is possible by shortening the time-to-completion for the courses and removing the breaks between semesters.

Full-time Enrollment

Due to the accelerated coursework, students are usually required to enroll on a full-time basis. While external employment is possible, thanks to the online learning delivery, it’s more challenging with a full course load.

Transfer Credits

The best accelerated computer science degree programs accept transfer credits from college-level courses, such as Advanced Placement, DANTES, and CLEP, as well as computer science credits from professional work experience and certifications. Students can present proof and/or demonstrate their skills through prior learning assessments.

Supportive Learning Environment

Popular online computer science degree programs provide students with excellent student support services, including 24/7 tech support, online resources including access to digital libraries, and virtual office hours. Students also benefit from the synchronous and asynchronous learning formats, which include live classes, recorded lectures, and discussion forums.

Indeed, these are the best reasons for the enduring popularity of computer science degree online programs among traditional and nontraditional learners, including working professionals.

It is important to note that earning a computer science degree demands strong STEM skills and, thus, it may be best to start taking these types of classes during your high school years.

Bottom Line: While an accelerated online computer science degree can be demanding, they are a perfect option for busy working professionals. These students can complete classes on their own schedule by taking asynchronous courses.

And even better, the condensed time-to-graduation means that graduates get a career boost and bump in salary more quickly.

Young Muslim software developer checking code

How Fast Can I Actually Get a Bachelor’s in Computer Science Online?

Every computer science program has its specific time-to-graduation because of its unique program curriculum and requirements. But most accelerated online computer science programs can be completed in 2-3 years, not only because of the accelerated format, but also because many of these programs allow transfer credits from prior learning, relevant work experience, and professional certifications. In our ranking, some of the schools offer degrees in as little as 17 months.

Note that the traditional bachelor’s degree in computer science can be earned in four years of full-time studies. But it’s more common for students to earn a bachelor’s degree in 5-6 years, on average.

Key Point: Students in an accelerated online computer science degree program must be sure that they have the time and discipline to complete the coursework.

Traditional computer science bachelor’s degree programs are challenging, but the courses in the fastest computer science degree programs online must be completed in a much shorter time frame. Students must be prepared to be diligent and focused in their studies.

Factors to Consider In Choosing an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Computer Science

When choosing from several online bachelor’s in computer science degree programs, here are the foremost features to consider.

Accreditation

Only enroll in an online computer science degree program offered by a regionally accredited college or university. Accreditation is an assurance of quality academic instruction, federal and state financial aid options, and industry and employer recognition.

Program Curriculum

Review the courses and their descriptions and learning outcomes to determine if these courses align with your personal interests and professional goals. The curriculum of accelerated computer science degree programs will also determine their length and pace.

Faculty and Resources

Ask about the credentials of the faculty members as well as the types and features of the resources, student support services, and career services offered in computer science programs. The best programs also provide students with access to the alumni network and, thus, allow them to establish their professional network in the computer science field.

Delivery Method and Technology Used

Online programs utilize a learning management system (LMS), of which the most popular are Canvas, Moodle, and Blackboard. Check for ease of access, user-friendly features, and flexible schedules, among other features.

Tuition and Fees

Of course, be sure to check the tuition and fees, among other aspects of cost of attendance, since these will be instrumental in your ability to earn the computer science degree.

Computer programming class looking at a number of computer monitors

Concentrations in Computer Science

Not every computer science program at the bachelor’s level offers concentrations or specializations, but here are a few of the most common ones:

Computer Engineering

If you want to become a computer hardware engineer, then a computer engineering concentration is an excellent choice. Its focus is on the design and development of computer hardware and its integrated components, systems and networks.

Computer Programming

This concentration enables students to develop knowledge and skills in programming languages and, thus, the design and development of software and solutions.

Data Analytics

Students learn the effective collection, analysis, and interpretation of large data sets that can be used in making data-driven decisions.

Database Management

This specialization results in students being able to design, implement, and manage databases used in the storage, organization, and retrieval of large data sets.

Information Technology

Students learn about the best principles and practices in the management of computer systems and its software, solutions, and networks.

Software Engineering

This concentration spans the entire life cycle of software systems, from their design and development to their management, including troubleshooting and upgrades.

Network Administration

Students develop skills crucial in the management and maintenance of computer networks that facilitate efficient resource sharing and data communication.

Young female software engineer sitting at her desk in front of a computer

Common Courses in Computer Science Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The specific courses vary among online computer science programs. In general, however, bachelor’s degree in computer science programs include:

General education courses that build a strong foundation in the liberal arts and develop transferable skills.
Concentration courses that build technical skills in computer science, such as software and web development, programming languages, computer systems, and networks.
Elective courses that students can tailor to fit their learning experiences with their personal interests.

Most online bachelor’s degrees in computer science programs require students to complete a capstone course and project that demonstrate the student’s ability to design and develop efficient computer systems.

Here are some common concentration courses:

Data Structures and Algorithms: learning basic data structures, various algorithms, analysis of algorithms, and implementations and applications of data structures
Object-Oriented Programming: learning about subjects such as polymorphism, abstraction, design patterns and their applications, and gaining practice in programming using OOP languages
Operating Systems: learning about the basic functions of an operating system, memory management, operating system design principles, and synchronization and deadlock handling
Software Engineering: learning about the software development life cycle models, software design principles and patterns, and software testing techniques and methodologies
Web Development: learning about front-end and back-end development, web architecture and protocols, user experience considerations, and deployment and hosting considerations
Networking and Security: learning the fundamentals of computer networks and the OSI model, network security concepts such as encryption and authentication, and common network attacks and countermeasures
Artificial Intelligence: learning the basic concepts of AI, deep learning frameworks and architectures, and ethical considerations and societal impacts of AI
Software Testing and Quality Assurance: learning testing techniques and automation tools, defect tracking and management, and continuous integration and continuous development pipelines

Computer programmer smiling sitting in front of a large computer monitor

Popular Career Paths for Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Holders

Online computer science graduates have career opportunities in a multitude of industries, from corporations to nonprofit organizations to government agencies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the job growth rate for computer and information technology occupations to be 15% (2021-2031), which is among the fastest for all occupations.

With a median annual wage of $97,430, professionals in computer and information technology occupations are also among the highest-paid of all occupations.

The best computer science careers are outlined below. (The salary represents the median annual wages for the occupation)

Software Developers and Engineers ($109,020 per year)

Software developers design, develop, and test software systems and applications for diverse organizations.

Web Developers ($78,300 per year)

Web developers design, develop, and maintain websites, e-commerce platforms, and web and mobile apps using programming languages and other computer science tools.

Database Administrators and Architects ($101,000 per year)

These professionals create and manage computer systems used in the storage, organization, and retrieval of data in a safe and secure environment.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators ($80,600 annually)

Network and computer systems administrators install, manage, and troubleshoot issues in an organization’s computer information systems and networks, as well as manage their day-to-day operations.

Information Security Analysts ($102,600 per year)

These professionals plan and implement security measures for protection against internal and external threats to the computer systems and networks of organizations.

Other popular career paths for computer science degree holders include information technology project managers, UX/UI designers, and machine learning/artificial intelligence engineers. Indeed, there are numerous career opportunities in the computer science field, which makes it possible to create a niche for yourself based on your interests.

You may also consider pursuing further education beyond your bachelor’s in computer science degree. You can pursue online computer science degrees at the master’s degree and doctorate degree levels, as well as continue education via professional certifications. Popular choices are in information technology, web development, and software development, which can lead to leadership roles and/or cutting-edge research opportunities.

Did you know that there are also acclerated computer science degrees at the master’s level? We take a deep dive in our ranking of the Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science.

Bottom Line: Online accelerated computer science degrees qualify graduates for positions in numerous industries and command higher-than-average salaries.

Young computer programmer sitting at her desk working

Student Submitted Questions on Online Accelerated Computer Science Degrees

Kallan asks, “Is an accelerated online computer science degree just as comprehensive in its coverage as an on-campus, traditional program?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Yes, it is. Especially today, schools have high standards for their online programs. Except for the condensed curriculum and online delivery, on-campus and online programs usually have the same breadth and depth in their coursework.

Lantana asks, “Are accelerated online computer science degree programs self-paced?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: While there’s a certain degree of flexibility, online accelerated programs usually have a structured format with specific timelines. Most, if not all, programs are cohort-based for this reason.

Mark asks, “Do employers recognize accelerated online BS in computer science degrees?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Yes, they do! Of course, the online degree must be earned from an accredited college or university. Plus, relevant knowledge and skills combined with a good work attitude are usually more important in the hiring decision.

And with the high demand for graduates with computer science degrees, you can’t go wrong with a quality accredited degree program.

Cyrus asks, “Are there particular people who benefit from an accelerated program more than others?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Typically, highly motivated and self-disciplined individuals fare better in these programs as the curriculum is extremely fast-paced. Also because of the speed of these programs, quick learners and goal-oriented students are usually more motivated to complete these programs well. Adult learners with prior experience in whatever field they’re wishing to study might also do better as they have groundwork knowledge of the concepts that will be presented.

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10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Computer Science

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs for 2025

2025 Ranking Update

Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Computer Science

Last Year’s Ranking:

Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Oregon State University

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Southern New Hampshire University

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Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at University of Illinois Springfield

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Saint Leo University

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Franklin University

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at City University of Seattle

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Charleston Southern University

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Austin Peay State University

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Career Outlook for Computer Science degree at Lewis University

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