
Online Computer Science Degree
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Choose an online computer science degree to prepare for the foundational knowledge you need in the field of IT. Develop core skills in programming and deepen your understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. Learn to apply computer science theory to real-world challenges by writing and presenting applications to gain hands-on experience. You can also use elective courses to earn a certificate in cybersecurity, networking, cloud computing and more to enhance your IT skills.
Job-ready skills for your professional profile

Complex problem solving: Analyze a complex computing problem to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
Integration: Evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.

Complex problem solving: Analyze a complex computing problem to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
Integration: Evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
Software engineering: Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
Software engineering: Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Career-relevant education with real-world value
Program at a glance



Program by the numbers
4 years
Average program length

120 credits
Number of credits required

5 weeks
Course length for the BSCS

24/7/365
Online class availability

Time is valuable – don’t spend it repeating coursework. Finish what you started.
Courses for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Find what you'll learn in a course – look for the skills-aligned trophy cup
Using labor analytics data, we embed skills you’ll need in the growing information technology field into each course of your online computer science degree. You’ll learn about complex problem-solving, integration, software engineering and leadership.
Requirements and course details
Your course schedule may vary based on transfer credits or credits earned through the University’s Prior Learning Assessment.

Add one or more IT certificates to your online computer science degree
IT certificates can help you pursue an IT career specialized to your goals. Many IT certificates align with skillsets employers want. They can also be applied toward your computer science degree requirements, saving you time and money while adding no extra time to completing your degree. Add a certificate as an elective and enhance your computer science specialization.

How skills-aligned learning works
What’s something employers are looking for in job candidates? Skills! That’s why we believe in career-focused education. Our programs are designed to help you demonstrate career-relevant skills and put them into practice within weeks, not years. Here’s how:

Curriculum
We work with a labor market analyst to identify skills today’s employers want in job candidates and embed those skills in our program’s curriculum.

Courses
Each course you take teaches specific career-relevant skills – one skill per credit, on average. For a 3-credit course, you can earn 3 career-relevant skills.

Careers
Demonstrate your newly acquired skills, earn badges, build your professional profile and show potential employers what you bring to the table.
Career opportunities with an online computer science degree
Our program isn’t just about earning a CS degree – it’s about getting ready for your career. Learn practical knowledge and develop skills to prepare for roles as application designer, computer consultant and software developer.




Career guide
Software Developer
Increased demand for software developers stems from the continued expansion of software development for artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and other automation applications. Pursue your interest in designing software and focus your CS degree.


Career outlook
140,100 job openings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , about 140,100 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected each year, on average, from 2023 to 2033.
The BLS Projected Growth for 2023-2033 is published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects the BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.

Career story
“
I was inspired to go to college to better myself in another industry. I loved electronics and wanted to know more if I could learn coding, computer science, and forensics."
DaJeannette M. BSIT, 2023

Cost and savings
Paying for school
Tuition is based on number of credit hours per course. Courses are typically 3 credits, but can range from 1-6 credits. Costs do not include savings opportunities like transfer credits and scholarships.
What affects the overall cost of my program?
Your full program cost can vary by:
- Savings opportunities. Your cost could be reduced with eligible transfer credits, scholarships, employer discounts and more. Students with eligible credits and relevant experience on average saved $11K and 1 year off their undergraduate degree at University of Phoenix.
With our Tuition Guarantee, you pay one flat, affordable rate from the moment you enroll to the day you graduate from your program.
Discover ways to save time and money on your degree with our Savings Explorer® tool:
Other ways to save on time and tuition
Because we believe everyone deserves an affordable education, we work hard to help our students achieve one. Here’s a few ways you can save time, save money and avoid starting from scratch.
Transfer credits
Your prior eligible college credits can lower your cost and help you graduate sooner. As a transfer-friendly university, we accept eligible credits from 5,000+ accredited institutions.
Employer tuition benefits
Are you employed? Check to see if your employer has an alliance agreement with us for education benefits. This can help you save money while gaining skills that could apply to your job.
Credit for life experience
We look at all your relevant experience, from parenting to past jobs, to help you get the college credits you deserve. For every 3 credits earned, shave 5 weeks off your degree.
- View 1
- View 2
- View 3

Budget & borrow
How to pay for college
Paying for school can be intimidating, but we’re here to help you make sense of it. Our finance advisors can walk you through your options like federal financial aid and savings opportunities to minimize your debt. Plus, we can help you figure out your financial plan.
Why choose us?
Where you earn your degree matters

Career-relevant skills
Every five weeks, you can develop career-relevant skills, track your progress in each class and showcase your achievements using your personal skills profile.

Real-world faculty
Your instructors know what works in the real world. As leaders in the field, they bring a hands-on perspective and practical knowledge to the classroom.

Flexible learning + support
Balance it all — work, family and school — with a university built for busy adults like you. Plus, get personal support by phone, chat or email — day or night.

Career Services for Life® commitment
Because your career never stands still, active students get access to career services and resources, from your first class to graduation and beyond, at no added cost.

Faculty spotlight
Get to know one of our IT instructors
“
I like to involve the students as active participants in the teaching process. Getting them involved through teamwork, presentations, discussion posts, etc., goes a long way to reinforcing learning. And it makes the class more fun, too.
Daniel D'Urso, MBA, MS Computer Science
Faculty, College of Business and Information Technology

Accreditation
Accredited for 45+ years
Since 1978, University of Phoenix has maintained institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org . Learn more about the value of University of Phoenix accreditation and how it benefits our students.
Frequently asked questions about the online computer science degree
Articles related to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
While widely available, not all programs are available to residents of all states. Please check with a University Enrollment Representative.