Why This Matters
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$89,190 AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual income for computer programmers as of May 2020 was $89,190, with the highest 10% of earners bringing in more than $146,050.
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9% DECLINE IN EMPLOYMENT
The BLS projects a 9% decline in the need for computer programmers by 2029. This is due to an increasing number of businesses opting for overseas hires.
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HIGHEST EMPLOYMENT LEVEL IN CA, TX, NY
California, Texas, and New York employ the highest number of computer programmers throughout the United States.
Our Research
In our search for the most affordable online computer programming degrees, we considered the cost of each course and the number of credits required to graduate in an effort to determine each program’s cost per credit. Only accredited programs with the lowest costs have been included on this list.
This list features undergraduate and graduate degrees that have been accredited by organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. By enrolling in a program with these accreditations, you can typically transfer credits to another institution and feel confident that your degree will be recognized by employers across the country.
- 77 hours to write this article
- 100 universities and colleges we assessed
- 170 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Affordable Online Computer Programming Degrees
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What You Should Know About This Degree
The cost of education is an important consideration for most students. If you’re hoping to earn an undergraduate degree, you may need to access financial aid to pay for the cost of your program. Likewise, a master’s degree program may require outside financing; however, you might also have outstanding loans to consider from earning your undergraduate degree.
If you plan to work while you obtain your degree, make sure that you have the time-management skills needed to successfully complete coursework on time. In addition to time management skills, completing your degree online also requires a high level of self-discipline and proficiency with technology. Make sure you have the necessary devices, such as a computer or tablet, as well as a reliable internet connection before you enroll in an online program.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online computer programming degrees:
- Am I eligible for this program? Typical requirements for an undergraduate degree in this field include a high school diploma with high marks in mathematics. To be eligible for a master’s degree program, most schools require a bachelor’s degree in a similar field.
- Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? Every online degree program is different, and the way materials are presented throughout your courses may vary. If you’re working while you learn or have other responsibilities, you may want to search for an asynchronous course.
- How long does it take to complete an online computer programming degree? The length of time it takes to earn your degree depends on the type of degree program, as well as the amount of time you’re dedicating to your studies. Plan on taking anywhere from two to eight years to earn your computer programming degree online.
- What tests are required for an online computer programming degree? Some schools require applicants to have a minimum SAT mathematics score for bachelor’s degree programs.