A degree in Computer Science can pave you a career in lucrative pathways like data sciences, programming, web and software development, cybersecurity, and business analyst, to name a few.
Professionals in this field usually have tremendous quantitative aptitude, technical skills and enjoy solving problems.
These days, many schools offer online computer science degrees. Here are five reasons you should consider.
Growing demand
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the demand for computer and IT professionals to grow by 11 percent between 2019 and 2029. The median annual salary for computer and IT professionals was already $88,240 in 2019.
Quick completion
A bachelor’s degree in computer science typically takes four years to complete. Take note that there are full-time, accelerated programs that can be completed in half the time.
Lower fees
Online degrees usually cost less than on-campus programs. Such students save a lot on room-and-board costs and transportation. Distance learners are also sometimes granted discounted tuition fees or in-state tuition rates.
A working adult can continue working while studying. In the long run, working students will face less financial burden when they graduate.
Another point to note is that students at both nationally and regionally accredited colleges can qualify for federal aid.
Accredited online colleges
Top computer science programs typically hold programmatic accreditation through a member society of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
However, students may also consider a regionally accredited online college program approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
If you plan to pursue a graduate degree in computer science, note that regionally accredited schools do not accept degrees or credits from nationally accredited schools. Be wary of this when enrolling in the program.
Courses and credits
A computer science bachelor’s program will commonly require about 60 major-related and another 60 general education credits.
Students will need to be proficient in programming, systems design and analysis, software development, algorithms, and data structures. Specific courses will generally vary between programs. Computer programming, operating systems, digital technology ethics, and software security courses are usually applicable in most programs.
When considering a career plan, you also need to look into your interest level and passion in the subject. You can find a useful guide here.