How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in computer science? The answer may not be as long as you think, but you do have options.
Bachelor’s degree in computer science (CS) programmes cover the theoretical and mathematical foundations of computing. Bachelor of arts in computer science, bachelor of applied science in computer science, and bachelor of computing in computer science are all degree titles offered by schools.
Schools may also offer interdisciplinary bachelor's degrees, such as a bachelor of mathematics in computer science, a bachelor of technology in computer science and engineering, or a bachelor of engineering in computer science, to allow CS students to combine interests.
Bachelor of computer science (BCS) courses differ depending on the school and programme, but they typically cover computer programming, software engineering, computer hardware, and artificial intelligence engineering. Topics such as computability, information, automata, and algorithm design may be studied by students.
The following page discusses bachelor's degrees in computer science, including common curricula, potential career paths for graduates, and admission requirements. This degree overview also includes programme rankings and descriptions of useful resources for computer science students, such as professional organisations and scholarships.
What Is a Computer Science Bachelor's Degree?
The majority of CS bachelor's programmes include core courses in computer architecture and programming, data structures, algorithms, logic and computation, and logic and computation. However, because of the breadth of the CS discipline, bachelor's programmes can vary greatly in terms of focus and available specialisations. Some programmes, for example, may place a strong emphasis on math, requiring courses in calculus, statistics, probability, and discrete mathematics.
Students frequently have the opportunity to select from a wide range of electives and specialisations in areas such as data communications, software testing, operating systems, and computer networking. Students who are interested in theory may investigate computation theory, information theory, or human-computer interaction. Others may choose to specialise in artificial intelligence, real-time computing, or computer graphics.
A bachelor's degree in computer science is extremely versatile and prepares students for a wide range of CS and IT careers. Graduates could work as a software developer, hardware engineer, computer systems or information security analyst, or network architect.
Graduates may also choose to pursue a relevant master's degree, which is typically required of computer and information research scientists. These professionals solve complex problems by developing novel computing designs and technological applications. According to the BLS, research scientists earn a median annual salary of $122,840, and employment in the field is expected to grow 16% between 2018 and 2028.
Is a Bachelor’s in Computer Science Degree Worth It?
Associate degree holders can work in technology-related fields such as computer systems analyst, web developer, and computer support specialist. Many entry-level IT and CS job postings, however, expect or require applicants to have a bachelor's degree.
Bachelor's degree holders can pursue careers as software developers, database administrators, information security analysts, hardware engineers, or network architects. Some bachelor's degree holders use their degree to qualify for master's programmes, which allow them to advance in their careers.
Getting a bachelor's degree in computer science can lead to salary advancement or promotion to management-level jobs with more responsibility, such as IT project manager or computer and information systems manager, for professionals already working in the field.
According to PayScale, professionals with a bachelor's degree in computer science earn an average of $85,000 per year, while associate degree graduates in computer science earn approximately $65,000 per year. Computer and information systems managers earn a median annual salary of $146,360, according to the BLS.
Bachelor of Computer Science Admission Requirements
Bachelor's degree in computer science seek candidates with strong academic records and standardised test scores. Typically, applicants must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and a GPA of 2.0-3.0. Most programmes also require SAT or ACT scores from freshmen applicants. Candidates may also be required to have high school prerequisites in English, natural sciences, social sciences, foreign languages, and math.
Prospective students with relevant professional experience and prior college coursework are often viewed favourably by computer science bachelor's programmes, and standardised test score requirements may be waived for such applicants.
The majority of programmes allow applicants to apply online. Official transcripts, standardised test scores, and a nonrefundable application fee, typically between $30 and $75, may be required. Many schools also require recommendation letters and an essay.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in computer science?
A Bachelor's degree in computer science covers the theoretical and mathematical foundations of computers. The curriculum for a bachelor of computer science varies depending on the school and programme, but it typically includes computer programming, computer hardware, software engineering, and artificial intelligence engineering. Students enrolled in a bachelor's programme will learn about algorithm design, computability, automata, information, and other topics. If you attend full-time, a bachelor's degree in computer science will typically take four years to complete.
In terms of admissions, computer science bachelor's degree programmes prefer students with strong academic records and standardised test scores. Applicants must typically have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and a GAP of 2.0-3.0. Applicants to most programmes must also submit SAT or ACT scores. Furthermore, applicants with relevant professional experience and prior college courses are frequently prioritized in computer science bachelor's programmes.
A bachelor's degree in computer science will open many doors in your career because many entry-level IT and CS jobs expect or require a bachelor's degree. Candidates with a bachelor's degree can work as software developers, database administrators, information security analysts, hardware engineers, or network architects. Furthermore, some bachelor's degree holders apply for master's programmes, allowing them to advance in their careers.
A bachelor's degree in computer science can lead to a pay raise or promotion to management-level positions with increased responsibility, such as IT project manager or computer and information systems manager.
How long does it take to get a master's degree in computer science?
A master's degree in computer science is a post-graduate programme that assists current computer scientists and engineers in broadening their knowledge and gaining a more advanced understanding of development, troubleshooting, and other topics. Such master's programmes typically cover topics such as software development, computer language theory, complex algorithms, and other field-related issues. In terms of time required to complete, a Master of Computer Science typically requires 30 to 45 credits, which full-time students can complete in anywhere from 18 months to two years.
Furthermore, what you study in such programmes will be determined by your prior education and future job goals. For candidates who have completed a similar curriculum during their undergraduate education, some computer science master's programmes waive introductory courses. Additional courses, however, will be required depending on your emphasis and post-graduate goals. Finally, plan on writing a master's thesis, as most universities require a capstone project to complete your degree.
When it comes to career advancement, a master's degree may be ideal if you want to work as a computer and information research scientist at a high level. Many master's degree students in computer science have already worked for several years. As a result, these students frequently select a professional master's degree programme designed for students who are already working professionals in the field.
How long does it take to get a PhD in computer science?
The highest degree in the field is usually a Doctor of Computer Science, or Ph.D. Doctorate in computer science enhances your problem-solving, analytical, and research abilities. The degree necessitates advanced computational and technological skills and typically prepares graduate students for research and academic positions.
The admission requirements differ depending on the institution. A bachelor's degree in the discipline is required for admission to a Ph.D. programme; however, a master's degree is typically preferred. GRE scores and letters of recommendation are also required for doctoral candidates.
Many Ph.D. programmes place a strong emphasis on research and theory, and the vast majority of graduates go on to careers in teaching, research, or writing. Furthermore, a Ph.D. degree in computer science takes four to five years to complete. Doctoral graduates can go on to become computer science professors, computer and information research scientists, or senior computer scientists.
Because computer science occupations have a promising job outlook, a Ph.D. in computer science frequently leads to increased responsibility and higher earning potential. Ph.D. holders in computer science can advance to academic, research, and leadership positions.
Individuals who enroll in these programmes usually want to work in highly specialised computer science fields or teach at the college level. They must have demonstrated academic excellence in previous college programmes as well as a desire to learn more about a specific topic through additional study and research.
What exactly is an associate degree in computer science?
The field of computer science is concerned with the study of computers, networks, and computing systems. An associate degree in computer science introduces students to fundamental computer science concepts and programming languages. The degree prepares graduates for careers in computer science or further education.
Majors study in-demand programming languages, web development skills, and computer systems analysis during a two-year computer science associate degree. The degree develops the fundamental knowledge and skills required for entry-level technical careers.
Many colleges offer computer science programmes online. The flexible format of online colleges appeals to working professionals and busy students. Transfer credits are frequently accepted by students with prior college experience toward their associate degree.
How long does it take to get an associate degree in computer science?
For full-time students, most associate degree programmes last two years. Part-time students may take up to three years to complete the 60 credits required for an associate degree.
Computer science majors can choose between on-campus and online degrees. Both options necessitate a comparable time commitment and number of credits. Some colleges provide accelerated online formats for students who need a degree quickly.
What is the cost of an associate degree in computer science?
According to National Centre for Education Statistics data for 2019/2020, an associate degree at a community college costs an average of $6,750 for in-state students. Students must budget for textbooks, technology, and living expenses in addition to tuition and fees. Some schools offer computers to distance learners.
An associate in computer science is a good investment because of the low cost of the degree in comparison to the high earning potential in computer and technology occupations.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in computer science online?
A computer science degree online typically takes four years to complete. Online education and traditional education take nearly the same amount of time to complete. Students must not take any additional breaks during the semesters and must stick to the schedule. A bachelor's degree in computer science online takes four years and consists of eight semesters.
The timely completion of the degree is also dependent on the smooth progress of the course study. Failures and semester freezes will shorten the duration of the degree. The student will gain professional and skilled knowledge of the field during the four-year online computer science degree programme.
What jobs are available with a computer science degree?
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, computer science is one of the most in-demand bachelor's degree majors (NACE). Furthermore, computer science jobs are growing faster than the average. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer science and information technology jobs will grow by 13% between 2020 and 2030.
A number of factors have contributed to an increase in demand for computer science degree holders. With the world's ever-increasing reliance on technology comes an increased demand for virtual capabilities. Another factor at work is the increased emphasis on cloud computing, information security, and big data collection, storage, and analysis.
Computer science jobs can be found in nearly every industry. Your interests, skills, values, and goals will determine which opportunities are best for you. Among the positions to consider are:
Create software programmes and applications as a software developer.
- Database administrator: Create data resources used to retrieve and store information, as well as analyse and evaluate users' data requirements.
- Computer hardware engineer: Creates computer components such as routers and circuit boards.
- Computer systems analyst : Analyse and assess computer systems for organisations and advise them on how to improve efficiency.
- Web developer: Design the technical structure of websites and ensure that all pages are easily accessible. Work as an information security analyst to safeguard networks, websites, businesses, and individuals against security breaches and cyberattacks.
- Computer and information research scientists: Create technology that is used to solve complex problems in business, medicine, science, and other fields.
- Manager of computer and information systems: Assesses companies' technology needs and existing technology while also implementing new data systems.
Salary for a Computer Science Degree
- These in-demand jobs typically pay above-average wages. According to NACE data, computer science is the highest paid bachelor's degree major, with new CS graduates expected to earn $75,900, a 5.2 percent increase over the class of 2021.
- According to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations across all career stages is $97,430, which is significantly higher than the national average of $45,760.
- Your expected salary will depend on your specific computer science role. Computer and information research scientists, for example, earn a median annual salary of $131,490, while computer programmers in the United States earn a median annual salary of $93,000.
What is an accelerated computer science degree?
Computer science majors in an accelerated programme must complete the same graduation requirements as traditional programs.
Computer Science majors must complete the same requirements as traditional programmes to graduate. However, they progress through the programme faster.
That can mean finishing your degree months or even years faster than in a traditional programme.
Accelerated computer science degree require focus and dedication. But for students who thrive in that environment, that commitment pays off. Majors complete their degree in less time. They also see the payoff of their degree sooner. An accelerated CS degree can jumpstart your tech career or help you advance in your current role.
How long does it take to get an accelerated computer science degree?
Difference between Single Accelerated bachelor’s degree in computer science and double bachelor’s degree in computer science;1. Accelerated computer science degree single-degree
If you're earning an accelerated computer science degree online, you might take one or two classes at a time on an accelerated timeline. That entails concentrating on a subject for approximately eight weeks before moving on to the next class.
An accelerated degree may also require summer or winter term classes in order for majors to complete more than the standard 30 credits per year. In an accelerated master's programme, for example, you can complete your degree in 12-18 months.
Finally, degree-completion programmes provide an expedited path to a degree. With a degree-completion programme, transfer students with prior credits or an associate degree can earn a bachelor's degree in one to two years.
Dual-degree programmes are available
Dual-degree programmes allow students to earn their bachelor's and master's degrees in a shorter amount of time.
A "4+1" programme is used by many computer science dual degrees. That means students can earn a bachelor's degree in four years and a master's degree in one year. A bachelor's degree and a master's degree in computer science in a non-4+1 programme typically take six years.
These programmes are appealing to students who are certain they want to pursue a master's degree. Graduate courses that meet degree requirements for both degrees will be taken as part of your bachelor's coursework. This saves you time and money on your undergraduate and graduate computer science degrees.
Is a bachelor’s degree in computer science hard?
Computer science has a reputation for being a difficult major to pursue, but why is it so hard? It is most likely because computer science entails learning statistical algorithms and programming languages. Although coding is not difficult to learn on its own, combining it with statistics complicates the process, making computer science difficult.
While these fundamentals may appear daunting to newcomers, the level of difficulty in computer science is determined by the type of job you seek. Some technical roles only require a basic understanding of these CS fundamentals. Alternatively, if you work with AI and machine learning, you will need advanced computer science knowledge. Continue reading to learn why computer science is difficult to learn.
- There's a lot of math involved: The amount of math involved is one of the main reasons why computer science is difficult. Learners must be familiar with algebra, calculus, discrete mathematics, and statistics. If you struggled with math in high school, you will quickly fall behind and fail to understand the fundamentals of computer science.
- Learning Programming Is an Important Component: Coding is critical in computer science. Typically, you will need a thorough understanding of C and C++, but other languages such as Python and Java may be required. Learning to code is not difficult, even for those with limited technical experience. However, computer science is difficult because you must learn coding as well as math.
- Computer Science necessitates the study of difficult subjects: If you want to study computer science, you must be prepared for difficult subjects that cover a wide range of topics. Students will engage in hands-on, practical, and theoretical learning about advanced topics. In addition, the subjects in computer science courses are quite advanced.
FAQ
Is computer science 3 or 4 years?
A Three years (BA) or four years (MS) can be spent studying computer science (Master of Computer Science). In the fourth year, you can study advanced topics and do a detailed research project.
Is computer science hardest major?
Yes, is the short answer. If you look at a list of majors to study, computer science will probably be at the top as one of the hardest to learn. Computer science is different from other fields of study because it requires both technical and analytical skills.
Is computer science a high paying job?
With a degree in computer science, you can work as a computer network architect, a software developer, or a computer and information research scientist, which are all high-paying jobs. Computer scientists make $68,000 when they first start out, $100,000 when they are in the middle of their careers, and $121,000 when they are at the top of their field.
Does computer science degree require math?
the answer is yes, so if you want to get a degree in it, you'll need to know different kinds of math depending on your programme and career path. But in general, most degree programmes want you to know the basics of calculus, algebra, discrete math, and statistics.
Does computer science require coding?
Programming: Programming is not what computer scientists do most of the time, but it is an important skill to have. You will need to know about different programming languages, algorithms, and data structures if you want to move up in your career. Computer scientists must be able to deal with all kinds of data.
Which field in computer science is highest paid?
Engineer of software of course; Software engineers are among the best-paid jobs for people with a degree in computer science