Online Computer Science Degree

The world we live in is deeply influenced and driven by technology. Computers form an integral part of our day to day lives, and there are a number of jobs and career paths which are heavily dependent on the use of computers. Computer science degrees can open up a number of different doors for a wide variety of careers. Read on to learn more about the opportunities available in computer science.



What is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of the theory and practice involved in the use of computers. A professional who has studied computer science can take part in the design, manipulation, and improvement of computer systems in a number of different settings and for a variety of different industries.

If you pursue computer science as a degree, upon graduating you would have a wide array of career paths available for you to choose from. Computer science can open doors for you to study artificial intelligence, graphics, computer games, and so much more.

Those interested in this degree must also possess the following:
what can you do with a degree in computer science
  • Analytical skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Mathematical skills

Computer Science Degree Programs

Associate Degree of Computer Scienc

An associate’s degree in computer science is a two year degree which gives students an introduction to the theory and practice involved in computer usage.

Entry Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Background in science and mathematical courses
Curriculum

This two year program offers students the chance to take part in both classroom and computer lab work in order to gain hands on experience. Some programs also offer students the chance to take part in internships to practically apply the knowledge that they have gained.

Some of the courses that students could expect to take include:

  • Java for computer science
  • Database management systems
  • Visual programming
  • Object-oriented programming
  • Data structures and algorithms

Bachelor of Computer Science Degree Programs

A bachelor’s degree in computer science could prepare you for entry into a number of different industries related to computer science. This four year degree program offers students the chance to get a solid education in the fundamentals of computer science and its applications. This degree may be pursued online and students may be given the opportunity to pursue specific areas of interest in the field, such as e-commerce, Internet applications, managing networked computers or programming.

Entry Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED or Associate’s degree in computer science
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Background in science and mathematical courses
Curriculum

The curriculum of this four year undergraduate program is designed to give students the knowledge and skills required to understand the fundamentals of computer science.

Some of the courses that students could expect to take in this degree program include:

  • Computer Science
  • Network Systems
  • Network Administration
  • Computer Architecture
  • Fundamentals of Computer Applications

Master of Science in Computer Science

The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science degree program is intended for those individuals who wish to gain advanced knowledge in computer science such as software design, networks, computer language theory, and much more.

Entry Requirements
  • A bachelor’s degree in computer science
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Some programs may require candidates to have prior work experience in the field
Curriculum

The MS in Computer Science is an intensive program which teaches students about complex aspects of computer science. This includes software development, management of networks and security, the fundamentals of operating systems, and proficiency in algorithms.

Some of the courses that students could expect to take include:

  • Computer Networks
  • Data Analysis and Visualization
  • Enterprise Systems
  • Computer Graphics
  • Quantitative Methods for Information Systems

Doctoral Degree Program in Computer Science

A doctoral degree in computer science is intended for those individuals who wish to seek advanced positions in the field or pursue academic posts. This program equips individuals with the ability to develop and improve the software process, design and implement software experiments, and evaluate computer security systems and predict industry trends based on current data.

Entry Requirements
  • A bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer science from an accredited institution
  • Relevant work experience in the field
Curriculum

The curriculum of a computer science doctoral degree is highly intensive and culminates in a written dissertation on an aspect of computer science of your choosing.

Some of the courses offered in this program include:

  • Computer network systems
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Integrated Circuits and Systems
  • Machine Learning
  • Advanced Algorithms
  • Project Management

Job Prospects and Salary

The precise job outlook and potential salary earnings for individuals with computer science degrees will vary depending upon the specific career path they choose. As mentioned earlier, there are a large number of career paths available to those with a computer science degree.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook and potential salaries for the following professionals is as follows:

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Projected employment growth between 2012-22: 15% (this is slightly higher than the average rate of growth for other professions which is 11%)
Annual Median Salary (as of May 2012): $102,190
Top ten percent of professional in this field earned: more than $151,900

Software Developers

Projected employment growth between 2012-22: 22% (this is much higher than the average rate of growth for other professions which is 11%)
Annual Median Salary (as of May 2012): $93,350
Top ten percent of professional in this field earned: more than $148,850

 

Computer science is a challenging and rewarding field with a side scope of application. Those individuals interested in pursuing a career in computer sciences must possess certain skills, such as strong analytical and mathematical capabilities, and gain the required educational qualifications for their specific career choice. Studying computer sciences could open up a number of different doors for you to explore a wide range of careers.

 

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

State

Employment

Employment per thousand jobs

Location quotient

Hourly mean wage

Annual mean wage

California 16600.111.2618.1337720
Florida 11300.141.6817.9737370
Illinois 9600.161.9217.937240
Texas 7600.070.7816.6234570
New York 6500.070.8520.1241840

Source: bls.gov

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:I want to get a computer science degree. How do i earn this degree?

A:Computer science degrees are offered both online and on-campus. To get associate or bachelor degrees in computer science, you need to have a high school diploma. Admission into master or doctoral degrees in computer science will at least require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institute. Students may further opt for diplomas and certificates in computer science. You can further explore our website for detailed information.

Q:Are there any online Computer Support Specialist schools?

A:There are quite a few online schools listed on our website offering the computer support specialist degrees. Please see the list of institutes, colleges and universities mentioned above

Q:Which courses are taught in the Computer Science Degrees?

A:The curriculum of computer science degrees focuses on courses like logic and computation, algebra, calculus, data structures, programming paradigms, differential equations, and algorithms. The course structure may vary between institutes. Also, the topics are determined by the level of degree chosen.

Q:What are the contents of the course on Statistical Analysis in the Computer Engineering software degree?

A:The computer engineering software programs have dedicated courses on statistical analysis. This course is worth 2 credits in total and is designed to provide students with understanding of the foundational level statistical analysis. Practical experience is also provided to the students.

Q:Which is the best online computer science degree?

A:There are various levels of degrees available in this field, from associates, bachelors, masters to doctorate. Each degree offers a higher level of knowledge and understanding of the subjects studied. Whether you chose to pursue this degree online or on campus you will get to study subjects like coding, computing, computer algorithms, computer management, databases, and understanding of various operating systems and coding applications.

Q:What will I learn in computer science classes?

A:Broadly speaking, students will learn how to build software packages, use of algorithms in computer games, and the technology that is used in making of various computing devices. The classes will focus upon skill development, practical learning, and theoretical learning.

Q:Are computer science courses mostly about programming?

A:Although programming is an essential part of computer science programs it is not the only thing that is taught to students. Most bachelor level programs usually have three to four courses that are devoted to programming and this leaves plenty of space for other courses in algorithms, parallel computing, networks, graphics and robotics.

Q:What are the computer science degree requirements for admission?

A:Various schools have their own admission requirements, however generally speaking for students to get admitted into a bachelors program they should have a high school diploma and letters of recommendation. Some schools also require applicants to write personal essays, etc.

Q:Can online computer science programs be completed from home?

A:The purpose of any online program is that you should be able to study from the comfort of your home without having to worry about going to college. A major part of the curriculum is completed through online instruction. However most programs also include some hands on training and students will need to go on campus for that.

Q:What is the enrollment criteria for online computer science classes?

A:The prerequisite for pursuing a diploma, certification, associates or bachelors degree in this field is the same: a high school diploma. Numerous colleges and universities also offer a more specialized level of degree, a masters degree in computer science as well as courses which can lead on to a PhD in computer science. A computer science degree offers a wide variety in specialization for masters level programs or PHD programs.

Q:Should I go for accredited online computer science courses only?

A:Yes. Students should look for accredited programs as these have better teaching facilities and other provisions. In addition to this, many employers only hire graduates who have accredited degrees.

Q:While searching for online computer science degree, I discovered programming degrees. Could you tell me about these?

A:Computer sciences in the most commonly offered degree in this area. In this course students are taught theory and applications of computers in equal amounts. Some of the other degrees in this discipline include computer engineering, software engineering and information systems. Since now a days the element of programming is a must in every technical field, even students of economics, psychology, engineering and science are given some exposure to computer programming and data analysis.

Q:Why should I choose a computer science certificate program online?

A:Online computer science certificate programs will offer you the same courses and knowledge that is covered in the on-campus programs. Online courses and certificates may be relatively cheaper than their on-campus counterparts. Online certificate programs can be pursued from the comfort of home and the course material may be accessible from anywhere in the world.

Q:What do I need to qualify for the top colleges for computer engineering?

A:The admission requirements of the top computer engineering schools will vary slightly from place to place. Generally, students planning to enroll in undergraduate computer engineering programs must provide a high school transcript, meet a minim CGPA requirement, and also provide letters of recommendation. On the other hand, to get into a graduate program, an official bachelor degree transcript will be required.

Q:What can you do with a computer science degree?

A:A computer science degree focuses on establishing a scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications. As such, common career options for holders of this degree include Information Technology (IT) Architect, Senior Database Administrator, Network Architect, Data Manager, and Information Systems Security Engineer. Computer and Information Research Scientists made $102,190 in 2012 as an annual median salary. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

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