Best Free & Low-Cost Computer Science Degrees 2025

A computer science degree is one of the most valuable qualifications to earn in the digital economy. Computer science graduates will be ready to enter numerous growing fields of employment.

The cost of a college degree can still be a barrier for many students. While accredited college degrees almost always have some cost, many low-cost programs and financial aid programs can lower or eliminate students' out-of-pocket costs. Find out more about free and low-cost computer science degrees and how you can achieve your career goals on a budget.

Can You Earn a Computer Science Degree for Free?

The cost associated with a computer science bachelor's degree will depend on several key factors. While many free online courses exist, accredited degree programs typically charge tuition. The process of earning accreditation and paying qualified instructors creates expenses that institutions must cover to remain viable.

Students looking for free computer science degrees can pursue one of two paths. First, students who wish to gain foundational skills can enroll in free online computer science courses.

Second, students can target a traditional accredited undergraduate or graduate degree and seek to eliminate their out-of-pocket costs entirely. Grants and scholarships can sometimes make a degree effectively free for the student.

Top Schools Offering Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees

Identifying affordable online computer science degree programs with low tuition rates is one of the best ways to reduce the financial burden. Here are some respected and accredited computer science programs that offer low-cost online degrees.

1. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a natural choice for an affordable online computer science degree. The 120-credit undergraduate program is fully accredited and designed to save students as much money as possible.

Students will master high-impact skills in engaging courses such as:

• database structures & algorithms
• programming fundamentals
• analytical geometry
• calculus
• computational linear algebra

2. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) offers bachelor's and master's degrees online and in-person. FHSU is a great option for low-cost computer science training.

All degree programs are aligned with industry standards and designed to position students to enter growing job markets with high demand for skilled work.

3. Regis University

Students who want to complete an accredited computer science program for less time and money should explore Regis University's attractive online degrees.

The online bachelor's degree is offered in an accelerated format and covers key topics, such as data structure, systems security, database administration, and algorithms. The program has won awards for the career success of its graduates.

4. Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in computer science through its dynamic Ecampus program. It boasts world-class faculty and industry-relevant specializations.

The program costs $428 per credit and offers four flexible start dates each year. Students can take advantage of numerous financial aid incentives to lower their out-of-pocket costs.

5. Maryville University

Accessibility and innovation values motivated the creation of Maryville University's online computer science program. Students receive the hands-on training they need to enter the field at a reduced cost.

Students will learn about key topics such as:

• computer architecture
• web development
• big data
• artificial intelligence
• cybersecurity

Graduates have gone on to succeed as software engineers, web developers, IT professionals, and more.

6. University of Illinois Springfield

Whether you are looking for an online bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, the University of Illinois Springfield has you covered. The university offers undergraduate degrees in both cybersecurity and computer science. The master's program is centered on software design and analysis.

The University of Illinois Springfield offers students several unique opportunities. Both undergraduate and graduate students will have the chance to participate in ongoing research projects. The department also maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders and has placed many students in jobs and internships.

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is famous for its low-cost online degree programs. The bachelor's degree in computer science costs only $330 per credit hour and allows motivated learners to enter their careers with minimal financial burden.

SNHU uses interactive learning design to keep coursework fresh and engaging. Students will learn important frameworks under the guidance of experienced programmers and computer scientists. The program goes beyond computer science 101 to teach students advanced skills and help them develop a professional portfolio.

8. Bellevue University

Bellevue University's online computer science degree will give students the versatility and relational skills they need to succeed in the technology industry.

The program offers a generous transfer policy that helps students take advantage of previous learning and save money on the degree. The degree provides a well-rounded education and is flexible enough to allow graduates to enter adjacent fields such as information technology, data science, and robotics.

9. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an excellent online computer science program at a reasonable cost. The program is ABET-accredited, and it prepares students for a wide range of computer and tech-related careers.

The program won ninth place on a recent ranking of the most affordable computer science degrees. It allows students to graduate with minimal debt and stress. In this program, they can learn about topics such as:

• computational modeling
• cryptography
• web science
• data science
• cloud computing
• social media

10. National University

National University is a great source of efficient and affordable college degrees. The bachelor's degree in computer science is formatted in flexible four-week courses and offers year-round enrollment. Students will gain strong, all-around academic skills in addition to their computer science training.

The program allows students to choose a concentration in software development to gain more specialized skills. Students can apply for the Key Grant scholarship to help reduce their costs.

FAQs About Free Computer Science Degree Programs

Students should consider many factors as they enroll in degree programs. Here are some questions students often ask about free computer science degrees.

What Will I Learn in a Free Computer Science Course?

A computer science degree is an intro to digital problem-solving. You will learn the fundamental principles that underpin modern digital computers to design, program, and troubleshoot both hardware and software. Here are some common topics covered in a computer science bachelor's degree:

• cybersecurity
• computer architecture
• programming languages (Python, Java, HTML, Javascript, SQL)
• software engineering
• data structures
• machine learning
• computer systems management
• software development
• operating systems
• cloud computing
• functional programming
• object-oriented programming

Are Free Computer Science Degrees Legit?

Yes, free online courses are an excellent way to learn real-world computer skills and complete important prerequisites. Reputable institutions like MIT, Stanford University, Princeton, and Harvard University offer many high-quality online courses.

Students looking for high-quality free online courses should explore platforms with these offerings, such as EdX. Host platforms often house educational content created by well-known computer scientists. Keep in mind that these free courses typically won't offer college credit.

How Can I Make My Online Degree More Affordable?

Once a low-cost program has been identified, the best way to reduce your costs is to maximize all types of financial aid. Each university has financial aid representatives dedicated to helping you find the best options, so be sure to speak with a representative at any potential university.

Students must fill out the FAFSA online form to determine their eligibility for federal forms of funding, such as the Pell Grant. Need-based financial aid is awarded based on personal finances.

Merit-based forms of aid, such as academic scholarships, are another important funding source. Students with excellent GPAs or standardized test scores may receive full or partial tuition scholarships.