Best Free & Low-Cost Computer Science Degrees 2027

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 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 the People

University of the People is a nonprofit, fully online university that charges no tuition for its computer science degrees, which makes it the most affordable option on this list. You can earn an associate or bachelor's degree in computer science, with coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, and databases, and classes are asynchronous so you can study around work or family commitments.

Instead of tuition, you pay a one-time application fee and an assessment fee for each course, and scholarships are available for students who can't afford those fees. The university's institutional accreditation comes from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and because it doesn't take part in federal financial aid, FAFSA funds won't apply to those charges.

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

Computer science programs involve accreditation, transfer, and pacing decisions that cost alone doesn't settle. These answers cover what to consider as you compare options.

Do You Need ABET Accreditation for a Computer Science Degree?

ABET accredits college programs in computing, applied science, and engineering, and Old Dominion University's program is one example on this list. It isn't required for every career, but some employers, government roles, and graduate programs look for it because it signals that the curriculum meets professional standards. Check whether a program holds ABET accreditation in addition to regional accreditation, especially if you're targeting a job that mentions it.

Can You Transfer Community College Credits Into a Computer Science Program?

Starting at a community college and transferring is one of the most common ways to lower the cost of a computer science degree. Schools with generous transfer policies, such as Bellevue University, can apply prior credits toward your major and general education requirements. Confirm that your credits will transfer before you enroll, since computer science courses sometimes require a minimum grade or specific prerequisites.

Do Accelerated Courses Work for Computer Science?

Accelerated formats, such as National University's four-week courses and Regis University's accelerated bachelor's program, let you move through material faster and finish sooner. The trade-off is intensity, since you cover a full course in a short window and have less time to absorb difficult topics like algorithms or data structures. Consider your work and family schedule honestly before choosing a compressed pace.

Do You Need a Master's Degree for Computer Science Careers?

A bachelor's degree is the typical entry-level requirement for software development and related computing roles. A master's degree can help if you want to move into research, machine learning, or senior technical leadership, though many professionals add graduate study after gaining work experience. Review job postings for the roles you want to see which credentials employers expect.

What Computer Setup Do You Need for an Online Program?

Most online programs expect a reliable laptop or desktop, a stable internet connection, and the ability to install development software. Some courses use virtual machines or cloud platforms, which can require more memory and processing power than basic web browsing. Check your program's technology requirements before the first term so you can budget for any upgrades.

Explore Affordable Online Degrees

Several of these programs pair flexible online formats with prices that keep debt manageable, and financial aid can lower the total further. Browse programs through Learn.org and connect directly with schools to get personalized information about program requirements, financial aid, and enrollment.