5 Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees in Minnesota

In today's tech-driven world, computer science professionals are in high demand, especially in states like Minnesota that have many Fortune 500 companies. Typically, these roles require some amount of higher education, often a bachelor's degree.

Low-cost online computer science degrees can make it possible for you to complete your education, even if you struggle to find the time or money to dedicate to a degree. Keep reading to discover affordable online computer science degrees in Minnesota.

Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Minnesota

There are several low-cost online colleges in Minnesota, a handful of which offer affordable computer science degrees. We've highlighted these below, all of which hold regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

1. Capella University

Capella University is a private, for-profit online school headquartered in Minneapolis. It offers a Bachelor of Science in computer science that covers topics like:

• artificial intelligence
• computer programming
• information technology
• web development

Students can choose between two learning options. The standard online format, called the guided path, costs $365 per lower-level credit and $415 per upper-level credit. The self-paced FlexPath format charges $2,500 per 12-week session, during which students can take as many courses as they are able.

2. College of St. Scholastica

At the College of St. Scholastica, students can earn an online bachelor's degree in computer science. CSS is a Catholic institution in Duluth, MN.

This is a degree completion program, designed for those who already have an associate degree or a significant number of transfer credits. The cost is $410 per credit hour, and institutional scholarships as well as government programs like the Minnesota Grant are available to help students pay for their online programs.

3. Concordia University St. Paul

Concordia University St. Paul's global campus offers a bachelor's and a master's degree online in computer science. They cover topics like data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, and programming languages.

CSP, a private Christian school, is based in St. Paul, MN. It charges $420 per credit hour for the bachelor's program and $600 per credit for the master's, and financial aid options are available to online students.

4. Herzing University

Herzing University is based in Milwaukee but has several campuses throughout the states, including one in Minneapolis. It offers several online bachelor's degrees in computer science, with majors like:

• cybersecurity
• computer networking
• computer programming
• software development

The tuition rate at Herzing University is $515 per credit for online undergraduate programs. The university offers several of its own scholarships, but students can use federal and state financial aid as well.

5. University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers an online bachelor's degree in software engineering. While this is a more narrow focus within computer science, it covers many of the same topics, like programming languages, data structures, and algorithms.

The University of Minnesota system is headquartered in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, but it offers most of its online programs through the Crookston campus. The computer science degree is $448 per credit hour, but financial aid, including Minnesota's North Star Promise, which completely covers tuition costs for eligible students, is available.

Other Affordable Online Computer Science Programs

Although only a handful of online colleges in Minnesota offer affordable online computer science degrees, residents can earn their degrees from online colleges across the country. We've highlighted a few additional affordable options below.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

At Southern New Hampshire University, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. SNHU is a private, nonprofit institution based in Manchester, NH.

The online learning program teaches the foundations of computer systems and also offers specializations in data analysis, information security, project management, and software engineering. The cost of tuition is $330 per credit before financial aid is applied.

2. University of Wisconsin�Superior

Just across the harbor from Duluth, MN, is Superior, WI, home of the University of Wisconsin�Superior. The private liberal arts institution offers an online bachelor's degree in computer science.

The program has a tuition rate of $330 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students. Scholarships, some specifically for online learners, are available.

Our Selection Criteria

To choose the affordable online colleges in Minnesota listed above, we focused on institutions that:

• are based in or have a campus in Minnesota
• are regionally accredited
• offer online bachelor's or master's degrees in computer science or closely related fields
• have tuition under $500 per credit or financial aid opportunities to lower costs

Although Minnesota does not have many online colleges with computer science degrees, the majority of the ones it does have fit into the above criteria.

FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about online computer science programs.

What Can I Expect From an Online Computer Science Degree?

Online degrees are typically asynchronous, meaning that you have due dates, but you are able to complete your coursework at any time during the week. This is very different from on-campus programs, which have set meeting times.

A computer science degree will cover the fundamentals of how computer technology works. You'll likely take online courses that cover topics like:

• algorithms and data structures
• artificial intelligence and machine learning
• computer architecture
• computer networks
• computer programming languages, like Java, JavaScript, and Python
• cybersecurity
• information systems
• software development and engineering
• web development

Some programs offer concentrations or specializations. Additionally, many offer hands-on learning experiences and internships.

With a computer science degree, you can pursue careers like database administrator or computer programmer. These programs also teach core skills, like critical thinking and problem-solving, that are imperative to many career paths.

How Much Does It Cost To Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

The cost of the bachelor's degrees listed above ranges from $330 to $515 per credit hour. Most bachelor's degree programs require 120 credits.

However, several things can affect the total cost of your degree program. These include your state of residence, whether you study full-time or part-time, how many credit hours you need, and what financial aid you qualify for.

Some students lower the cost of their degree by first earning an associate degree at a community college and then transferring into an online college that accepts transfer credits. Community colleges often charge lower tuition rates, so this can be a great way to make your degree more affordable.

How Do I Pay for an Online Computer Science Bachelor's Degree?

While colleges are happy to let students pay the cost out-of-pocket, up-front, most students aren't able to do that. In that case, financial aid is usually the best option.

All students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This assesses your eligibility for federal programs, like the Pell Grant, as well as state programs, like the North Star Promise and Minnesota Grant.

It's not too hard to find online colleges that accept FAFSA; all of the colleges listed above do. All colleges above also offer their own scholarships and financial aid programs to help students as well.

Discover Online Colleges and Enroll Today

Start your journey toward a computer science degree by exploring the online colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.