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The best computer programming degrees typically require a strong background in math and critical thinking skills. Coursework includes fundamental concepts like algorithms, data structures, and computer architecture to advanced topics such as machine learning (ML), cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
Some degrees also offer specializations in areas like web development or software engineering. Graduates with computer programming degrees can pursue work as software developers, data analysts, and network administrators or venture into emerging fields like artificial intelligence (AI) development.
Discover information on the top computer programming degrees with this in-depth guide, including a ranked list of the best programs in the field.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Computer Programming Degrees 2023
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
#1 Best Computer Programming Degrees
University of Missouri-St. Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public college, the University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a bachelor's in computer science. The school enrolls degree-seekers in on-campus and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive support services.
The computer science curriculum combines upper-division computer programming classes with general education courses. Humanities, math, and natural sciences courses strengthen critical thinking and communication skills. Learners prepare for entry-level roles or further education during advanced computer programming courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.
University of Missouri-St. Louis at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 47
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,328
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,970
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $12,284
Graduation Rate: 56%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,700
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Computer Programming Degrees
Full Sail University
- Winter Park, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private college, Full Sail University offers a bachelor of science in computer science. Degree-seekers can enroll in online classes or take in-person courses on the Winter Park, Florida, campus. The school's flexible course options and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduate students.
Computer science majors take field-specific courses and meet general education requirements to earn their degree. General education requirements introduce learners to academic subjects including math, the humanities, and the natural sciences. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of computer programming and prepare graduates for the job market.
Full Sail University at a Glance:
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 31-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 40
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 32
Undergrad Tuition In State: $21,973
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $21,973
Graduation Rate: 44%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $34,200
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#3 Best Computer Programming Degrees
Holy Family University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Holy Family University, a private institution, offers a bachelor's in computer information systems. Degree-seekers choose from online classes and in-person classes offered on the Philadelphia campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive student support services.
Computer information systems majors earn their bachelor's degree after taking computer programming and general education courses. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Learners prepare for the workforce or further education through advanced computer programming courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.
Holy Family University at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 78%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 53
Undergrad Tuition In State: $30,590
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $30,590
Graduation Rate: 57%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $43,600
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Computer Programming Degrees
North Seattle College
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Campus
North Seattle College offers five bachelor's degrees, including its bachelor's in computer science. Learners gain knowledge and skills to prepare for many career paths. Graduates can also pursue a master's degree or a doctorate, which can lead to additional opportunities.
The curriculum introduces principles and practices in computer programming. In addition to completing major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills during general education courses. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps students stand out on the job market.
Student services support incoming degree candidates academically and socially. For example, academic advisors meet with enrollees to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.
North Seattle College at a Glance:
Location: Seattle, Washington
Type of School: Public
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,727
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,727
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Best Computer Programming Degrees
Lamar University
- Beaumont, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The BS in computer science program, one of 55 bachelor's programs at Lamar University, offers a flexible route to a college degree. Graduates enter the workforce prepared for diverse career paths after earning their computer science degree. A bachelor's degree can also lead to more advanced education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.
The bachelor's curriculum trains learners in foundational computer programming knowledge and practices. In addition to completing major coursework, undergraduates build communication and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students often gain a well-rounded education by declaring a minor or second major.
Incoming degree candidates receive strong support through the school's student services. For example, academic advisors work with students to help them transfer credits into the school and select courses that are relevant to their goals.
Lamar University at a Glance:
Location: Beaumont, Texas
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,129
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,945
Percent Online Enrollment
79%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Get a Degree in Computer Programming?
A computer programming degree can unlock numerous benefits, including diverse career opportunities and high earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for programmers was $93,000 as of May 2021.
Moreover, many schools offer this degree online, providing flexibility for students juggling other commitments. Distance programs often allow students to learn at their own pace, save on commute time, and often provide the same comprehensive curriculum as their on-campus counterparts.
Graduates can navigate the constantly evolving tech industry, harnessing their skills to solve complex problems and innovate in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
How Much Does a Computer Programming Degree Cost?
The cost of a computer programming degree varies depending on whether it's an in-state public university, out-of-state, or private institution.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics for the 2021-2022 academic year, the average undergraduate tuition, fees, room, and board rates charged for full-time students in degree-granting postsecondary institutions was $21,878 at public schools and $51,154 at private nonprofit institutions.
Most computer programming degrees are four-year bachelor's programs, but accelerated paths and two-year associate degrees are also available. You can pursue the degree online or in person, with generally similar costs. There could be additional fees for lab usage or specific software required for certain courses, along with tech fees for distance learners.
Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance can help offset these costs, making the degree more accessible to many students.
Courses in Computer Programming
Computer programming degrees typically include algorithms, data structures, object-oriented programming, and computer architecture classes. These courses develop critical problem-solving skills, allowing students to gain a robust understanding of how software and hardware interact.
Specialized classes may include AI, ML, mobile app development, or cybersecurity. It's important to note that course availability varies among programs. Regardless, each degree provides students with a broad foundation in computer science and deeper expertise in their areas of interest.
This mix of general and specialized coursework prepares enrollees to adapt to the evolving tech landscape. The following section explores typical courses in a computer programming degree.
Data Structures
Enrollees explore ways to organize, store, and retrieve data efficiently. Fundamental to the field, it underpins many areas of programming, including database management and AI. The knowledge gained in this course is foundational to more complex, specialized topics.
Algorithms
This essential course focuses on designing, analyzing, and implementing algorithms to solve problems. These skills are central to efficient software development and optimization. Understanding algorithms can enable students to create more effective code, which plays a vital role in various computer science subfields.
Computer Architecture
Computer architecture covers the design and organization of computer systems, which students need to understand how hardware and software interact. The course offers practical insights into performance optimization and troubleshooting, critical for roles such as systems engineers and developers.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degree?
Graduates with computer programming degrees often become software developers, designing and coding programs for various industries. Others become computer systems analysts to optimize business processes through technology. Database administrators, another available pathway, manage data storage for organizations.
Some pursue cybersecurity roles as information security analysts to protect systems from threats and unauthorized access.
Career Outlook and Salary
Career Outlook (2021-2031):
-10%
Median Annual Salary (May 2021):
$93,000
Explore career paths and their respective median salaries for computer programming graduates below:
CP Jobs and Salaries
| Computer Programming Jobs |
Median Annual Salary (May 2021) |
| Software Developer |
$120,730 |
| Computer Systems Analyst |
$99,270 |
| Database Administrator |
$96,710 |
| Information Security Analyst |
$102,600 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester |
$98,220 |
Source: BLS
Featured Online Bachelor's in Computer Programming Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Become a Computer Programmer
A computer programmer typically holds a bachelor's degree in computer programming. Some have associate degrees or self-taught expertise in many programming languages. People also become computer programmers with degrees in other related fields, such as mathematics.
Employers do not usually require certification for computer programmers. However, programmers can get certifications in specific languages and products to enhance their marketability.
Most computer programmers spend their days writing, updating, and testing programs in different programming languages. Often, they work alongside software developers to design applications and systems interfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Programming Degrees
Is a computer programming degree worth it?
The value of a computer programming degree depends on your individual career goals. Generally, it is worth it due to the diverse job opportunities and the competitive salary that comes with many roles in this field.
Do programming jobs pay well?
Programming jobs typically pay well. The median annual wage for software developers was $120,730 as of May 2021. Factors like geographical location, industry, years of experience, and level of expertise can influence specific salaries.
How long does it take to become a computer programmer?
The timeline to become a computer programmer can vary based on your educational path. A traditional bachelor's degree in computer programming or a related field takes around four years of full-time enrollment. However, many students opt for part-time studies or may need additional time for various reasons. Some individuals attend accelerated programs or coding bootcamps, which can speed up the process.
Is computer programming a bachelor's degree?
Yes — you can pursue computer programming as a bachelor's degree. These programs generally offer coursework in aspects of computer science and programming, including algorithms, data structures, AI, and ML.
What degree do I need to become a computer programmer?
Although there are various paths to becoming a computer programmer, a common route is through a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer programming, or a related field. Many also complete coding bootcamps or self-study.
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