Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2025

Badge for CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Earning a doctorate through an online computer science program opens the door to more and better career opportunities and higher salaries.
  • Many PhD in computer science students are working professionals, and online doctorate programs are the quickest and most affordable option for working students.
  • Today, many top-ranked accredited colleges and universities offer doctorate degrees in computer science that are delivered entirely online.

Most Affordable Online PhDs in Computer Science 2025

  1. University of California, Berkeley
    +1
  2. Columbia University
    –1
  3. University of Pennsylvania
  4. University of Minnesota
  5. Indiana University Bloomington
    +1
  6. Purdue University
    –1
  7. Syracuse University
    +1
  8. Pennsylvania State University
    –1
  9. University of Utah
  10. University of Rhode Island
    +1

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.

UC Berkeley moves into the top position in our 2025 ranking of the most affordable online PhD programs in computer science.

UC Berkeley is expanding its interdisciplinary research opportunities, allowing PhD students to collaborate across departments, including data science, AI, and computational biology. This emphasis on cross-disciplinary projects equips students to address emerging challenges in fields like energy-efficient microelectronics and underserved languages in AI.

IU Bloomington has expanded interdisciplinary research opportunities, allowing PhD students to collaborate across fields like artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and quantum computing. These initiatives enable students to work on groundbreaking projects in areas such as machine learning, security, and human-computer interaction.

An online doctorate in computer science degree program provides graduate-level training for leadership and executive roles in the computer science field. CS doctoral students can pursue careers in business, tech, or academia, where they can teach computer science programs.

The research-focused work involves database management systems, software development, software engineering, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.

Two professionals studying code

Featured Programs

What is an Online PhD in computer science?

A PhD in computer science is the highest degree one can earn in this field. Students in this program focus training in specific specialty areas, dissertation research and defense, and conduct research with faculty advisors.

Three professionals working on a computer

Back to Top

The Most Affordable Online PhD in Computer Science Programs

  1. #1

    University of California, Berkeley

    Berkeley , CA
    #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    48K

    What is University of California, Berkeley known for?

    University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of California, Berkeley, is a public land-grant research university in Berkeley, California. Offering top-rated undergraduate and graduate courses, this institution has 14 schools and colleges and several graduate and professional schools. It is also known as a hub of liberal student activism: the Free Speech Movement.

    Berkeley’s EECS (Electrical Engineering and Computer Science) graduate programs are ranked first and second in the US for excellence. Its Computer Engineering and Computer Science department hosts one the strongest research and instructional programs in this field anywhere in the world. Tuition is $11,502.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: 5-6 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about the University of California, Berkeley

    Berkeley is famous for the depth and breadth of its 120+ graduate programs.

    The University of California, Berkeley is great for students who:

    Are open-minded to all types of people, or students who want a large campus atmosphere.

    The University of California, Berkeley might not be a great fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable brushing elbows with a very diverse student body.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Columbia University

    New York , NY
    #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    What is Columbia University known for?

    Columbia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Columbia University is a private research university located in New York City. It offers 91 undergraduate degrees in 71 majors across 21 broad fields of study.

    Columbia University offers a Computer Science doctorate that is delivered partially online. It is offered exclusively to students who have completed their online master’s in computer science degree in Columbia. The tuition rate for estimated at $1,913 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Columbia University

    As a globally recognized research center, Columbia University offers a distinctive learning environment for undergraduate and graduate students.

    Columbia University is great for students who:

    Prefer an urban academic setting and a school that values diversity.

    Columbia University might not be a great fit for students who:

    Find big universities too expensive. That said, the university offers excellent financial aid programs.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    What is University of Pennsylvania known for?

    University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Pennsylvania, also known as UPenn, is a private research university located in Philadelphia. This Ivy League institution has four undergraduate schools and twelve graduate and professional schools.

    UPenn Engineering offers a computer and information (CIS) doctorate that offers students wide possibilities for exploration. The Penn Computer and Information Science, which shapes the next CS innovators, is a research leader in several areas, influencing the products and services of tech giants Google and Apple. Tuition is $33,604.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Pennsylvania

    The school has a solid focus on interdisciplinary learning and research and also offers double-degree majors.

    The University of Pennsylvania is great for students who:

    Are looking for many extracurricular opportunities.

    The University of Pennsylvania might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot handle too much pressure. Being an Ivy League school, UPenn classes are very difficult.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    University of Minnesota

    Minneapolis , MN
    #6 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #6 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #21 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    61K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/29

    What is University of Minnesota known for?

    University of Minnesota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities is organized into 19 colleges, schools, and other major academic units. It is a public land-grant research institution with six university-wide interdisciplinary centers and institutes working across collegiate lines.

    The Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Minnesota is a research program culminating in a distinct dissertation that demonstrates the candidate’s original and creative research. It consists of three components: coursework, research, and thesis preparation. The tuition fee is $14,448.

    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Minnesota

    The classes are very rigorous but there is so much help available since the professors have lots of help hours.

    The University of Minnesota is great for students who:

    Are looking to go into any health science or medical-related field.

    The University of Minnesota might not be a great fit for students who:

    Are looking for Greek life. There is none in UM.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    Indiana University Bloomington

    Bloomington , IN
    #10 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #10 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #10 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/29

    What is Indiana University Bloomington known for?

    Indiana University Bloomington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Indiana University Bloomington is located in Bloomington, Indiana. This public research university is the flagship campus of Indiana University, and with more than 40,000 students, it is also its largest campus.

    IU Bloomington offers its Ph.D. in Computer Science that provides learners the chance to conduct practical and theoretical research in a broad range of subfields of computer science or the intersection of computer science and other disciplines like cognitive science, biology, or statistics.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Indiana University Bloomington

    Enrolling at IU Bloomington gives you that classic college experience, with more than 750 student organizations and a small campus environment that feels like home.

    Indiana University Bloomington is best for students who:

    Want a great education, love being involved, and want to be challenged.

    Indiana University Bloomington might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot handle pressure considering the school is very tough with its academic standards.

    Compare school
    7. Man with glasses working with code
  7. #6

    Purdue University

    West Lafayette , IN
    #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #11 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1335/30

    What is Purdue University known for?

    Purdue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Located in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University is a public land-grant research university, and is the flagship campus of the Purdue University system. It offers 147 undergrad programs concentrated into 108 majors within 26 broad fields of study.

    Purdue University offers a Computer Science doctoral program delivered online, designed to prepare students for a career in computer science research. The tuition fee is $5,558 for residents and $14,959 for non-residents.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Purdue University

    The great thing about Purdue is its location. Being in an area crowded with manufacturing industries, students have lots of opportunities to actually practice the knowledge they learned in class.

    Purdue University is great for students who:

    Are looking for a college where they can mix fun and education.

    Purdue University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot commit. Purdue is not the type of school to slack off in, especially for engineering. Either you keep up, or you fall behind.

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  8. #7

    Syracuse University

    Syracuse , NY
    #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #5 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1345/30

    What is Syracuse University known for?

    Syracuse University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    A New-York based private research school, Syracuse University is home to over 13 schools and colleges. It offers more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs.

    Syracuse University offers its Doctor of Philosophy in Computer/Information Science and Engineering that targets students with research interests in topics associated with computer and information science.

    • Required Credits: 52
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Syracuse University

    The academic rigor is very high since it is a private university but the professors are always willing to help.

    Syracuse University is best for students who:

    Are extroverts. The campus community is very inclusive and socially active.

    Syracuse University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable with a large school, as this makes it difficult to find your place.

    Compare school
  10. #8

    Pennsylvania State University

    #5 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings
    What is Pennsylvania State University known for?

    Pennsylvania State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Pennsylvania State University offers more than 270 majors, with four-year degree programs offered at all 20 of its undergraduate campuses. This land-grant research school also offers more than 190 graduate major programs and several stand-alone graduate minor programs.

    The Doctoral Program - Computer and Information Science develops the intellectual skills needed for the constantly changing character of research. The program strives to prepare researchers to serve as leaders in the field of communication sciences and disorders. The tuition fee is $1,007 per credit.

    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Pennsylvania State University

    Penn State has so many programs to prepare students for the future like externships, internships, study abroad, and co-ops.

    Pennsylvania State University is great for students who:

    Want to have the total college experience (crazy party scene, intense finals, crazy amounts of fun)

    Pennsylvania State University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are tight on budget, as Penn State is expensive but worth it.

    Compare school
  11. #9

    University of Utah

    Salt Lake City , UT
    #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/25

    What is University of Utah known for?

    University of Utah’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Utah, located in Salt Lake City is a public research university. The flagship academic institution of the Utah System of Higher Education, it has more than 80 undergraduate majors to choose from, and nearly as many certificates and minors. Most of its academic programs—from physics to computer science to dance—rank in the top 100 by U.S. News & World Report.

    The Kahlert School of Computing at the University of Utah offers a Ph.D. Degree in Computer Science, designed to educate students in systems, theory, and hardware while providing them with lots of flexibility beyond the required courses. The tuition fee is $8,355 per semester.

    • Required Credits: 24
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Utah

    The school is very prestigious and offers lots of opportunities for undergraduates to get involved in their personal research in a lab of their choice.

    The University of Utah is great for students who:

    Are the outdoorsy type, and those who love a large campus, surrounded by lots of people.

    The University of Utah may not be a great fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable with a big campus. It takes roughly 15 minutes to walk from one building to the next.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    University of Rhode Island

    Kingston , RI
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Rhode Island 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Rhode Island 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Rhode Island 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Rhode Island 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1160/27

    What is University of Rhode Island known for?

    University of Rhode Island’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Rhode Island, located in Kingston, is a public land-grant research university and the flagship university of the state. It offers programs in more than 90 academic fields featuring 76 graduate programs, 97 undergraduate programs, and 22 non-degree programs of study.

    URI offers its Ph.D. in Computer Science program that allows students to complete a major research project that hones the field of Computer Science. In-state tuition and fee are $16,322 for in-state students, and $29,774 for out-of-state enrollees.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: within seven years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Rhode Island

    The University of Rhode Island offers the most affordable out-of-state tuition of all state flagship research institutions in New England.

    The University of Rhode Island is great for students who:

    Like to go out and have some fun on the weekend as there is always something going on.

    The University of Rhode Island might not be the best fit for students who:

    Aren’t comfortable at a busy school.

    Compare school
    13. Female professional working with code
  14. #11

    Mississippi State University

    Mississippi State , MS
    #2 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Mississippi 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/25

    What is Mississippi State University known for?

    Mississippi State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Mississippi State University is a public land-grant research university adjacent to Starkville, Mississippi. It offers more than 175 programs leading to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.

    MSU’s online Ph.D. in Computer Science provides students with extensive opportunities to make connections between practice and research and to experience interactive teaching and learning. The tuition fee is $9,110.

    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Mississippi State University

    MSU takes pride in its preparation programs that launch students into their dream careers.

    Mississippi State University is great for students who:

    Prefer small-town living, or studying in a quiet learning environment.

    Mississippi State University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Aren’t social butterflies. The school is packed with numerous clubs and organizations—fun enough to not miss.

    Compare school
  15. #12

    University of Idaho

    Moscow , ID
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    What is University of Idaho known for?

    University of Idaho’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Idaho in Moscow offers 142 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and specialist degrees, and an accompanying honors program.

    This public land-grant research university school offers an online PhD in Computer Science. Students will work alongside faculty on leader research and study high-level concepts in computation biology. The tuition is $38,480.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Idaho

    The school offers an Outdoor Program where adventure trips for activities are done, including rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and backpacking.

    The University of Idaho is great for students who:

    Are hardworking, dedicated, and want to succeed.

    The University of Idaho might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are not fans of walking from one building to another. Be ready to walk and walk and walk.

    Compare school
  16. #13

    University of South Dakota

    Vermillion , SD
    #1 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1160/22

    What is University of South Dakota known for?

    University of South Dakota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of South Carolina, based in Columbia is a public research university. The flagship school of the University of South Carolina System, the school offers more than 300 undergraduate majors and over 250 graduate programs, including 50 online study options.

    The online Computer Science Ph.D. program at UofSC provides courses of study that emphasize the acquisition of advanced computer science knowledge, student involvement in research initiatives, and master of computing techniques. The tuition fee is $692.25 (cohort rate, out-of-state students), and $572.25 for residents.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of South Carolina

    The biggest attribute of the University of South Carolina is its massive quantities of classes that are available.

    The University of South Carolina is great for students who:

    Love to have a school with a city feel without the drawbacks of a big city.

    The University of South Carolina might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot control their partying, as the school has endless parties.

    Compare school
  17. #14

    Wright State University

    Dayton , OH
    #10 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    What is Wright State University known for?

    Wright State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Wright State University, a Fairborn, Ohio-based public research institution, offers 295 degree programs. It is made up of eight colleges and three schools. It maintains a branch campus in Celina, Ohio.

    WSU offers its online Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering that prepares students for a career as independent and productive scholars. Students work closely with faculty members on crucial technological challenges of importance and mutual interest. The tuition is $7,149 for Ohio residents and $12,143 for non-residents.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Wright State University

    WSU is very affordable. It is dedicated to helping make college affordable for all students.

    Wright State University is great for students who:

    Are looking to earn a good education in a friendly environment.

    Wright State University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Prefer not to live on-campus. The drive from the city proper to the campus takes about 45 minutes.

    Compare school
  18. #15

    Clarkson University

    Potsdam , NY
    #12 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #8 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #15 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/27

    What is Clarkson University known for?

    Clarkson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York, is a private research university and is the leader in technological education offering bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs in more than 95 fields.

    The school offers its online graduate program in computer science and provides students with an education beyond the fundamentals and explores advances in computational theory, software systems, and programming languages. The tuition fee is $1,500 per credit.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 7 years after admission to candidacy
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Clarkson University

    The school allows plenty of extracurricular activities for students, with more than 200 clubs available.

    Clarkson University is great for students who:

    Don’t like to study in a big city.

    Clarkson University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are looking for a diversified school. It is predominantly a male campus.

    Compare school
  20. #16

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    What is Nova Southeastern University known for?

    Nova Southeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Nova Southeastern University is a private nonprofit research university in Davie, Florida. It consists of 14 total college centers and schools that offer more than 150 programs.

    The online Ph.D. in Computer Science at NSU is designed for students with a bachelor’s or master’s in computer science, or a closely related field. This program emphasizes core computer science knowledge in operating systems, programming languages, and more. The tuition fee is $30,843.

    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion Time: 10 years from the date of entering the program
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Nova Southeastern University

    Academic excellence and innovation are the hallmarks of the school, and it continues to flourish in its fifth decade!

    Nova Southeastern University is best or students who:

    Need extra attention in their academics because the classes are small.

    Nova Southeastern University might not be ideal for students who:

    Will have a hard time balancing their studies and extra-curricular activities as there are so many clubs and organizations to join, and it can be tempting at times.

    Compare school
    21. Man with glasses smiling and coding
  21. #17

    Aspen University

    Phoenix , AZ
    #5 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Colorado 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Student body

    14K

    What is Aspen University known for?

    Aspen University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Aspen University is a US-based private for-profit, nationally-accredited online university established in 1987. The school offers degrees at various levels in Computer Science, Information Technology, and many more.

    The school offers its Doctor of Science in Computer Science designed to improve each student’s technical abilities and research skills and prepare them for careers as technological innovators in the field of computer science. The cost per credit of the program is $450.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 30-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Aspen University

    Aspen University is focused on offering the highest quality degrees at the lowest possible cost per credit.

    Aspen University is great for students who:

    Need flexible and quality education at a lower cost.

    Aspen University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Need to be constantly pushed. Motivation is quite lacking in school.

    Compare school
  22. #18

    Capella University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #8 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity #6 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    68K

    What is Capella University known for?

    Capella University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Capella University is a private for-profit online university based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is owned by the publicly traded Strategic Education Inc. and delivers most of its education online. It offers 52 programs with over 1,900 online courses.

    The online Doctor of Information Technology from Capella University helps students earn advanced IT competencies and real-world knowledge relevant to today’s fast-changing technology settings. The tuition per credit hour ranges from $630 to $728

    • Required Credits: 70
    • Completion Time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Capella University

    For three decades, the school has been dedicated to transforming higher education to support working students.

    Capella University is great for students who:

    Want an easy graduate-level online program to advance their careers.

    Capella University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Do not agree with having too many assignments. The school assigns overwhelming tasks that prove to be very challenging, especially for working professionals.

    Compare school
  24. #19

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    50K

    What is Colorado Technical University known for?

    Colorado Technical University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Colorado Technical University is a private for-profit university located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The school offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and concentrations.

    The online doctor of Computer Science at CTU provides students with an intensive study of specialized subjects related to computer science so they can predict trends and contribute to the field. The tuition for the entire program is $29,280.

    • Required Credits: 100
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Colorado Technical University

    CTU is a career-focused college that is dedicated to providing innovation, excellence, and flexibility in education.

    Colorado Technical University is great for students who:

    Are very focused, and those who can persevere. This is also perfect for those with a full-time job

    Colorado Technical University might not be a great fit for students who:

    Are looking for on-campus living. There are no dorms at CTU.

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  25. #20

    Northcentral University

    San Diego , CA
    #6 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time 2025 #5 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #6 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024 #8 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Student body

    16K

    What is Northcentral University known for?

    Northcentral University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Northcentral University is a private online university headquartered in San Diego, California. Students seeking online, on-campus, and blended learning opportunities can choose from the school’s more than 60 programs.

    NCU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science is designed to improve one’s existing area of expertise by exploring subjects in artificial intelligence, software engineering, and many more. The tuition is $3,282.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 83 months
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Northcentral University

    NU prepares students to fulfill their academic goals in a Bible-based and Pentecostal foundation. Students get to fulfill biblical models of ministry and leadership all across the globe.

    Northcentral University is great for students who:

    Are outgoing and love to help. Since the school is in the heart of Minneapolis, there is so much room for volunteer work.

    Northcentral University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are keen on the Greek life, which the school isn’t home to.

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Career Outlook for Students with Computer Science Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Computer Science

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers17.42%$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists25.68%$145,080
Database Architects10.75%$134,700
Software Developers17.94%$132,270
Information Security Analysts32.71%$120,360

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists$145,080
Database Architects$134,700
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.

Job Opportunities for PhD Graduates in Computer Science

The Bureau of US Labor Statistics foresees a faster-than-average job growth in information technology and computer jobs.

With a terminal degree in these fields, the chances of maximizing your earning potential are higher. Also, the acquisition of greater skills bring greater responsibilities in research, academic, and leadership positions.

The jobs prospects for graduates with a PhD in computer science include:

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Professionals with PhD in computer science degrees are adept at developing innovative solutions out of existing and new technologies. Computer scientists create new programming languages, develop new algorithms, design software systems, and conduct experiments on computing systems. Their focus areas are data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

Postsecondary Teacher

Also known as college professors, these professionals instruct graduate and undergraduate students. They teach algorithms, programming languages, data analytics, and database management.

By completing a doctoral program, they become better qualified to spearhead research projects in their specialized area or publish their findings in academic journals.

Earning a PhD in Computer Science Online

Doctorate programs in computer science are a little harder to find online because the programs typically require direct use of the advanced equipment that is located on campus.

Computer science may still be offered in online programs, although most classroom sessions are hosted on campus, with accreditation from a relevant colleges and schools commission or agency.

A computer science online program at the PhD level prepares future computer science professionals for advanced research in this area.

Typical research focus areas include:

  • Computer systems
  • Software engineering
  • Hardware architecture
  • Virtual reality
  • Robotics

Can I find an affordable PhD in computer science degree program?

Yes, finding an accredited and affordable quality online PhD in computer science degree program is possible.

Many top-ranked schools offer affordable online doctoral programs in computer science.

A growing number of highly reputable universities have hybrid or fully online doctoral programs in computer science. These programs are perfect for busy graduate students trying to manage their time and balancing coursework, career, and family demands. This makes an affordable online PhD program especially attractive.

We have even more cheap degree options in our Guide to Affordable Degrees.

There are ways to ensure that an online Phd in computer science degree program is as affordable as possible.

In-state Tuition

The cost of an online computer science degree varies based on several factors. Most colleges and universities charge more for out-of-state students. However, there are some schools that offer flat-rate tuition, which means that in-state and out-of-state students pay the same per credit cost.

Other Expenses

Earning an online degree in computer science degree as opposed to a traditional on-campus doctorate degree makes it possible to save money on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees.

Continue Working

Online PhD programs also make it possible to continue working in your field, which means you can complete your degree program while still earning a living. This can ultimately reduce your dependence on student loan debt.

Earning an online degree in computer science is a great option for busy professionals who want to continue their education while juggling work and family life.

Financial Aid, Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue a PhD in computer science, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website. It is especially important that you choose an online program that is accredited in order to qualify.

Assistantships

Many schools offering an online PhD in computer science also have assistantship opportunities for their graduate students. Assistantships may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so check into the online computer science doctorate degree program you are interested in.

Bottom Line: Affordable online PhD computer science degrees are possible when you factor in things like in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assistantships.

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