8 Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees in 2025

Computer programmers write, test, and modify programming languages and code. Computer programmers adapt software programs and applications designed by engineers into instructions that computer systems can properly follow.

Pursuing your computer programming or computer science degree at an accelerated pace allows you to enter this exciting field relatively quickly. Continue reading to learn more about 2-year computer programming degrees, online program costs, and more.

What Is an Online Computer Programming Degree?

An online computer programming degree program is a learning pathway that consists of lectures and coursework conducted via distance learning. Online degree programs from accredited schools follow the same curriculum models as their on-campus counterparts. Earning your programming degree online allows you to pursue your studies at your own pace.

How Fast Can I Earn a Programming Degree Online?

You can earn your online programming degree in as few as two years. One of the fastest ways to get a programming degree is to enroll in an associate degree program, such as an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or an Associate of Arts (AA) program. You can also enroll in a bachelor's degree program, such as a Bachelor of Science (BS), at an accelerated pace.

Can You Get a Computer Programming Degree in Two Years?

Yes, you can earn your computer programming degree in about two years. Traditional associate degree programs are 60 credit hours and take two years to complete on a full-time basis. Bachelor's degree programs are 120 credit hours and typically take four years to complete. If you have eligible transfer credits and take a higher course load each semester, you can graduate in close to two years.

Fastest Online Computer Programming Degrees

The following colleges and universities offer 2-year programming degree programs online. All of the schools listed here are accredited institutions and provide financial aid opportunities.

1. Georgia Military College

Georgia Military College (GMC) is a mid-sized public school in Milledgeville, GA. GMC offers an Associate of Science (AS) in computer science that can be completed in two years. Students may choose to take classes in person or entirely online.

The curriculum covers topics such as Java programming, data structure algorithms, and graphical user interfaces. After earning their AS, students may transition to a bachelor's degree program or move into the professional world, becoming entry-level computer programmers or computer system analysts.

• Estimated tuition cost: $169 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a large public school that offers an online BS in computer science through its Alexandria campus. LSU accepts up to 90 transfer credits, allowing eligible students to earn their BS in two years or fewer.

Students learn how to use mathematics, data structures, and algorithms to solve computational problems. Graduates of LSU's online program can become web developers, hardware engineers, video game designers, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $340 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Based in Manchester, NH, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a large private school specializing in online learning. SNHU offers an online AS in computer science that consists of 20 eight-week courses.

Students can take courses at their own pace, enabling them to graduate in two years or fewer. SNHU's computer science program curriculum includes courses such as operating platforms, software development lifecycle, and system analysis and design.

• Estimated tuition cost: $342 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. Liberty University

Liberty University (LU) is a large private school located in Lynchburg, VA. It offers an online AA in information systems degree program that is 60 credit hours.

The program is conducted entirely online, and students may apply up to 75% of eligible transfer credits toward their degree. Students learn to develop database systems, how to program a wide variety of software applications, and identify cybersecurity risks and recovery methods.

• Estimated tuition cost: $390 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

5. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) is an online learning platform that offers a broad array of degree programs. UAGC's online BS in computer software technology is 120 credits total, consisting of general education courses, major course requirements, and electives. The curriculum includes courses such as system administration and security, software design, and computer networking.

Courses are delivered in accelerated, five-week-long sessions. UAGC allows students to transfer up to 90 credits toward their bachelor's degree, thus enabling eligible students to earn their BS in two years or fewer.

• Estimated tuition cost: $460 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

6. Concordia University Wisconsin

Located in Mequon, WI, Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) is a small private school with an online BS in applied computer science. Students may transfer up to 84 credits toward their bachelor's degree, and the online program has start dates every eight weeks throughout the year.

The curriculum features courses such as operating systems, artificial intelligence, and theories and fundamentals of computer science.

• Estimated tuition cost: $500 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Regis University

Regis University is a Denver, CO-based private school that offers a BS in computer science. Regis University's online bachelor's program was recently ranked second in the nation by Intelligent.com.

The program has six start dates per year. Students may transfer up to 66 credits, thus expediting the timeframe to earn their BS degree. Regis University also offers an accelerated track for students interested in earning their master's degree in computer science.

Coursework is conducted entirely online. Courses include principles of programming languages, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.

• Estimated tuition cost: $599 per credit hour
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

8. Lewis University

Located in Romeoville, IL, Lewis University is a mid-sized private school with an accelerated bachelor's degree program in computer science. Students may pursue their BS or Bachelor of Arts (BA) entirely online. Lewis University accepts transfer credits and awards Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), helping students to graduate at a faster pace.

Students in this online program learn Java, Python, and C++ programming, complicated problem-solving skills, and mobile application development.

• Estimated tuition cost: $38,800 per year
• Program length: Two years
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

We consider factors such as accreditation status, financial aid, and program length when selecting which schools to feature.

• Accreditation: All listed colleges and universities are regionally accredited institutions. Some degree programs feature additional accreditation from industry organizations.
• Program length: Students can complete the listed programs in two years; some via the traditional track, some utilizing transfer credits and higher course loads.
• Affordability: We highlight schools with lower tuition at the top of our list. All schools listed here offer financial aid to help offset education costs.

FAQs About Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees

In this section, we answer questions related to accelerated computer programming degrees, from program costs to financial aid options.

What Is The Fastest Way To Learn Computer Programming?

The fastest way to get a programming degree depends on your prior education and professional experience. If you do not have a background in information technology (IT) or have eligible transfer credits, you can enroll in a traditional associate degree program and graduate in two years.

If you have already earned college credits and/or are eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), you can expedite your bachelor's degree program and earn your BS or BA in about two years.

How Much Does an Accelerated Computer Programming Degree Cost?

Computer programming degree costs vary according to school (e.g., public versus private), your state residency, degree program, transfer credits, and financial aid. Generally speaking, costs range from $10,000 for an associate degree to more than $100,000 for a bachelor's degree. You can help keep costs low by choosing an online program, enrolling in a public school in your state, and applying for financial aid.

Is a 2-Year Computer Programming Degree Worth It?

Computer programmers and other related professionals have in-demand skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer programmers earned a median salary of $98,670 in 2024.

Ultimately, choosing to pursue a degree in computer programming is a highly personal process. You must consider the investment in time and money alongside your personal commitments and professional goals.

Is There Financial Aid for Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees?

Yes, there are financial aid opportunities for students pursuing their accelerated computer programming degrees. You should apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal and state aid. Aid options include grants, scholarships, low-cost loans, and work-study programs.

Are Certificates or Bootcamps Faster Than Computer Programming Degrees?

Generally speaking, computer programming certificate programs or bootcamps are shorter in length and thus are completed more quickly than accredited degree programs. These programs typically have a much smaller scope than degree programs. Whether you choose to take online certificate programs or bootcamps, versus enrolling in a degree program, depends on your professional goals.

Discover More Computer Science Degrees

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