# Online Computer Science Degree [Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info?programcode=BSCS) ## 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 #### Industry programming languages Your online computer science degree helps you learn relevant programming languages. Build your SQL skills to manage big data. Learn Python so you’re prepared for tasks such as back-end development and software development and hone your programming capability with Java Programming I and II. #### Preparation for IT industry exams Passing industry exams allows you to add proven skills to your resume and enhance your IT career. Four elective courses in the program are aligned with requirements of the CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 industry certification exams. [Benefits of tech-aligned learning](/online-information-technology-degrees/tech-aligned-learning.html) #### Real-world IT experience The capstone course of your CS degree gives you the opportunity to create an application and present it to your peers. Develop communication and presentation skills that take you beyond programming. Build leadership capabilities so you can showcase the viability and marketability of the applications you create. ### 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. [Learn about transfer credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html) ## 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. ### Core Courses ### General Education Courses ### Electives --- ### Requirements and course details Your course schedule may vary based on[transfer credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)or credits earned through the University’s [Prior Learning Assessment](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment.html). #### Degree requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Completion of a minimum of 120 credits, including: - General education: 49 credits - Information Systems and Technology Electives: 18 credits - Core courses: 53 credits - A minimum of 39 upper division credits - A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 #### What are core courses? Core courses build your knowledge of all aspects of computer science including the design of computer systems, computer science theory, concepts in algorithms and logic, programming, computer and network architecture, and software development. You’ll learn how to: - Analyze a complex computing problem to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions. - Evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline. - Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles. - Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions. #### What are elective courses? Elective courses expand your computer science core knowledge, exploring topics such as network troubleshooting and support, PC and mobile operating systems, cloud services, data analytics and more. #### What are general education courses? General education courses enhance your education for potential growth in the IT field. You develop soft skills that can contribute to management and leadership roles within an IT department or organization. ##### You'll learn these soft skills sought by employers: - Problem solving - Information literacy - Decision making - Innovation - Strategic thinking - Research - Investigation - Written communication [Learn about general education](/online-degrees/general-education.html) ## 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. ### Scripted & Compiled Programming Languages [Scripted & Compiled Programming Languages](/online-information-technology-certificates/scripted-compiled-programming-languages.html)** **help you** **gain a solid foundation in Python and Java to create programs for applications in fields like data analysis and cybersecurity. ### Advanced Software Developer The [Advanced Software Developer](/online-information-technology-certificates/advanced-software-developer.html) certificate helps you learn, design and implement software solutions. You will explore multiple programming languages and software architecture principles. ### Cyber & Network Defense With the [Cyber & Network Defense](/online-information-technology-certificates/cyber-network-defense.html) certificate, you will learn how to take a proactive approach to network security by spotting weaknesses before hackers can exploit them.** This certificate helps you prepare for the EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam.** ### Cloud Computing Choose the [Cloud Computing](/online-information-technology-certificates/cloud-computing.html) certificate to gain the foundational knowledge and skills to help organizations build and manage cloud services. ### Advanced Cybersecurity With the[Advanced Cybersecurity](/online-information-technology-certificates/advanced-cybersecurity.html)certificate, you can develop technical knowledge in the fast-growing field of IT security, helping keep information systems safe from data breaches and cyberattacks. ## 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. [Learn about skills curriculum](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html) ## 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. ### Job-ready skills Skills learned in this program: - Complex problem solving - Integration - Leadership - Software engineering   [Learn about skills](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html) ### Career opportunities A BSCS can prepare you to be a: - Application developer - Computer consultant - Information technology analyst (IT analyst) - [Software developer](/career-guides/information-technology/software-developer.html) - Technical consultant [Learn about Career Navigator](https://www.phoenix.edu/career-services.html#career-navigator2) ### Work environments You may work in:  - Computer system design and related services - Software publishers - Finance and insurance - Manufacturing   [Browse our career guides](/career-guides.html) ### 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. [Explore this career](/career-guides/information-technology/software-developer.html) ### Career outlook 15% growth According to the [Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm), job growth for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected to be much faster than average between 2024 and 2034. --- ((edu.BLSdisclaimer)) ### 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. [Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#bachelor-non-cbe) ### Undergrad cost per course $1,364 / course Cost breakdown Cost per credit  Credits per course Resource fee **$398** x3 + $170 --- Estimated cost per course $1,364 **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:** [Go to Savings Explorer®](https://www.phoenix.edu/cost-savings)[Explore scholarships](/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships.html) --- [Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#bachelor-non-cbe) ## Save money and time with transfer credits Your prior eligible college credits could lower your cost and help you graduate sooner. Click to calculate your potential savings $6,820&25 weeks[[1]](#transfer-credits-first-superscript) Select your transfer credits 15 credits[[2]](#transfer-credits-second-superscript)30 credits[[2]](#transfer-credits-second-superscript)45 credits[[2]](#transfer-credits-second-superscript)60 credits[[2]](#transfer-credits-second-superscript) If15of your prior college credits are accepted toward your bachelor's degree, you may save$6,820and25 weeks. ### Get every eligible transfer credit you deserve [How to transfer](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)Schedule a call As a transfer-friendly university, we’ll request transcripts for you, at no cost to you, when possible, and accept eligible credits from 5,000+ accredited institutions. [1] Money savings based on prevailing cost per undergraduate course at $1,364 ($398 cost per credit x 3 credits + $170 resource fee). Time savings based on a five-week course. [2] The average number of applied transfer credits for undergraduate IT degrees is 29.2. Credits may not always apply to specific courses or institutional policy may limit the number of credits that can be applied. ### 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.  [Transfer your credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html) #### 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.   [Check employer benefits](/tuition-financial-aid/employer-tuition-benefits.html) #### 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. [Earn college credit](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment.html) #### Alumni savings Are you a Phoenix alum? If so, you’re eligible for special tuition rates and can save up to $2,880 on a bachelor’s degree. You can also save with an alumni scholarship.  [Save with exclusive rates](/tuition-financial-aid/alumni-offer.html) #### Military savings If you’re an active-duty service member in the U.S. Armed Forces or an eligible spouse or dependent, you may be eligible for a lower, military tuition rate and can save on tuition.   [Get military savings](/military.html) #### National testing providers Do you have expertise in a specific subject? Earn college credit based on your performance on national, standardized tests to save time and money on tuition.  [Take tests for credit](/tuition-financial-aid/prior-learning-assessment/national-testing-programs.html) #### We can help you get started Chat with an experienced advisor who can guide you through tuition, financial aid, scholarships, transfer credits and more. [Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)PreviousNext 1. View 1 2. View 2 3. 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. [Explore federal financial aid](/tuition-financial-aid/federal-financial-aid.html) ## 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. [Learn about skills](/online-degrees/skills-aligned-learning.html) #### 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. [Meet our faculty](/about/faculty.html) #### 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. [Learn about flexibility](/life-as-a-phoenix/time-management.html) #### 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. [Learn about career services](/career-services.html) ### 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 [Learn more](/about/faculty/daniel-durso.html) ## Accreditation ### Accredited for 45+ years Since 1978, University of Phoenix has maintained institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), [hlcommission.org](https://www.hlcommission.org/). Learn more about the value of University of Phoenix accreditation and how it benefits our students. [Learn more](/about/accreditation.html) ## Frequently asked questions about the online computer science degree ### Is computer science oversaturated? The field of computer science continues to grow so it may appear oversaturated to those entering the job market. However, factors such as a focus on specialization within a specific IT field and hands-on experience in computer science can affect a career outcome. That’s why University of Phoenix focuses on real-world experience in the classroom including a capstone course in which you build and present an app as you would in the IT workplace. We also offer additional certificates that help you specialize in your CS degree field. ### What kinds of jobs does an online computer science degree prepare you for? An online computer science degree provides you with the knowledge and skills for opportunities including application developer, computer consultant and IT analyst for organizations. ### What programming languages are taught in an online computer science degree program? Coursework for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program covers the three most popular data programming languages: Python, Java and SQL. Students will be introduced at a high level to the programming languages as they relate to database design, development, and management. Learn more about the [Data Programming Languages](/online-courses/dat210.html) course. ### Are industry certifications included in a computer science degree? While the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program does not include industry certifications, some of the electives in the program align with third-party industry certification exams.  Electives that align with CompTIA A+ exam: [PC and Device Fundamentals](/online-courses/cis291.html) [Network Troubleshooting and Support](/online-courses/cis293.html) [Introduction to PC and Mobile Operating Systems](/online-courses/cis295.html) [Computer Security and Operational Support Fundamentals](/online-courses/cis297.html) ## Articles related to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - [Tech Terms For IT Professionals](/articles/it/tech-terms-every-it-professional-should-know) — Online Degrees | April 01, 2026 • 12 minutes - [What Is Information Security?](/articles/it/what-is-information-security) — Online Degrees | March 31, 2026 • 5 minutes - [What is Data Management?](/articles/it/what-is-data-management) — Online Degrees | November 13, 2025 • 9 minutes Load More... 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