Are There Any Free Online Computer Science Degrees?

Students searching for a free online computer science degree or a computer science degree online free often want to break into an in-demand field without taking on significant debt. While fully free computer science degree programs are rare, there are tuition-free online computer science degrees and low-cost pathways that can dramatically reduce the total price of earning an accredited online degree.

This article explains typical costs, clarifies whether tuition-free online computer science degrees truly exist, and explores practical ways learners can access high-quality programs, from intro computer science coursework to full bachelor’s degree pathways, at a significantly reduced cost.

How Much Does an Online Computer Science Degree Cost?

The cost of an online degree in computer science varies depending on the institution, residency status, and enrollment format, but most bachelor’s degree programs range from approximately $15,000 to $60,000 in total tuition. Public universities may offer lower in-state pricing, while private institutions and accelerated programs can differ in structure and cost.

Additional expenses may include technology fees, textbooks, and software tools used for programming languages such as Python and Java, along with coursework in algorithms, data structures, operating systems, and computer architecture. 

Even so, online learners often save compared to in-person programs by avoiding housing and commuting expenses. Coursework often includes practical skills such as scripting, database management with SQL, and hands-on programming assignments that require access to development tools and software environments.

Can I Earn a Free Online Computer Science Degree?

Currently, there are no widely available accredited bachelor’s degree programs in computer science that are entirely free in every circumstance. Most legitimate computer science degree programs require some form of tuition, assessment fee, or enrollment cost, even if the price is significantly reduced.

However, some institutions advertise tuition-free online computer science degrees, meaning students do not pay traditional per-credit tuition but may pay modest administrative or exam fees. In addition, financial aid, scholarships, employer tuition assistance, and military benefits can sometimes cover most or all degree costs, making the program effectively free for eligible learners.

What “Free” Really Means for an Online Computer Science Degree

In higher education, “free” often refers to tuition-free models rather than a completely costless experience. Some accredited institutions operate on alternative funding structures, while others rely on grants, donations, or open enrollment models to reduce upfront tuition costs.

It is also important to distinguish between a free online computer science degree and free online courses offered through platforms such as edX or Coursera. While these self-paced courses may cover fundamentals like programming languages, software development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, they do not typically result in an accredited bachelor’s degree without additional paid enrollment requirements. 

Many learners supplement their studies with open source materials, documentation, and collaborative projects hosted on platforms like GitHub, which can support hands-on learning but do not replace accredited degree programs.

Ways to Make an Online Computer Science Degree Low-Cost

While a completely free computer science degree is rare, there are several proven ways to reduce the cost of an online degree program. Combining financial aid, flexible enrollment options, and alternative learning pathways can significantly lower — and in some cases nearly eliminate — out-of-pocket expenses.

Federal Financial Aid and Grants

Accredited online computer science degree programs typically accept federal financial aid, including grants and low-interest student loans. For eligible learners, grants such as Pell Grants can cover a substantial portion of tuition, especially at low-cost or tuition-free institutions, reducing the overall cost of a bachelor’s degree.

Scholarships and Institutional Aid

Many colleges and universities offer scholarships for computer science learners, particularly those pursuing in-demand fields like software engineering, data science, or information technology. Institutional aid may also be available based on academic merit, financial need, or enrollment status, helping offset tuition and required fees.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Some employers provide tuition reimbursement or direct payment for employees pursuing an online degree related to their role. This option is especially common in software development, cloud computing, and IT fields, where companies invest in upskilling programmers and technical staff.

Transfer Credits and Alternative Coursework

Students may lower costs by transferring credits from prior college coursework, community colleges, or approved alternative providers. In some cases, learners can complete prerequisites or introductory subjects using low-cost or free online courses before enrolling in a full computer science degree program.

Flexible and Part-Time Enrollment

Part-time enrollment and self-paced program structures allow students to spread costs over time and balance education with work or family responsibilities. This approach can make tuition more manageable while still progressing toward an accredited online degree.

Low-Cost Online Colleges With Computer Science Degrees

The schools below offer some of the lowest-cost pathways to earning an accredited online computer science degree. While none are entirely free in all cases, these institutions combine low tuition models, financial aid access, and flexible enrollment to help minimize total degree costs.

1. University of the People

The University of the People is best known for its tuition-free model, making it the closest option to a free online computer science degree. Students complete coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, and software development while paying only modest administrative or assessment-related fees.

Financial aid and institutional scholarships may help reduce remaining costs even further. The University of the People is institutionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring academic oversight and credibility.

2. Western Governors University 

Western Governors University (WGU) structures its online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science around a competency-based format that allows learners to move quickly through material they already understand. The curriculum covers programming languages, software engineering, computer systems, and operating systems, with an emphasis on practical skills.

Because tuition is charged per term rather than per credit, students who accelerate may significantly lower total costs. WGU accepts federal financial aid and is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

3. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University delivers a fully online computer science degree through its Virtual College, offering a traditional public university curriculum at a reduced cost. Students complete coursework in algorithms, data structures, software development, and computer architecture.

The university participates in federal financial aid programs and offers institutional scholarships for qualifying students. Fort Hays State University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

4. Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) combines public university affordability with small-school academic support in its online computer science program. Coursework emphasizes programming fundamentals, databases, computer systems, and hands-on problem solving.

Students may qualify for federal financial aid, state-based assistance, and institutional scholarships. ENMU holds institutional accreditation from HLC.

5. Georgia Southwestern State University

As part of the University System of Georgia, Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) offers an online computer science degree rooted in public university standards. The program focuses on core computing concepts such as programming, data structures, and systems-level understanding.

Eligible students can apply for federal financial aid, state aid, and institutional scholarships to reduce overall costs. GSW is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

6. Southern New Hampshire University 

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a popular choice for learners seeking flexibility and cost control through generous transfer credit policies. Its online computer science degree includes coursework in programming, software engineering, computer systems, and object-oriented programming.

Federal financial aid and institutional scholarships are available, and transferring prior credits can significantly reduce total tuition. SNHU is institutionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

7. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) offers an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science that provides flexibility while maintaining academic rigor. The program allows students to combine computing fundamentals with broader coursework, which may reduce time to completion for some learners.

As a public research university, FIU participates in federal financial aid programs and offers scholarships for eligible online students. Florida International University is institutionally accredited by SACSCOC.

8. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota provides an online computer science degree through a long-established distance education system. Coursework covers programming languages, data structures, operating systems, and software development within a structured academic framework.

Students may access federal financial aid and institutional scholarships to offset costs. The University of North Dakota is institutionally accredited by HLC.

9. Dakota State University

Dakota State University is a technology-focused public institution known for computing and information technology programs. Its online computer science offerings emphasize hands-on learning in software development, computer systems, and emerging technologies.

Federal financial aid and institutional scholarships are available to qualifying students. Dakota State University is institutionally accredited by HLC.

10. Peru State College

Peru State College offers an affordable online pathway to a bachelor’s degree in computer science through a small public institution. The curriculum focuses on foundational programming skills, problem solving, and applied computing concepts.

Students may qualify for federal financial aid and institutional support to reduce overall costs. Peru State College is institutionally accredited by HLC.

How We Rank Schools

To identify low-cost and tuition-free online computer science degree programs, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each institution. Our goal is to highlight accredited online degree programs that reduce financial barriers without compromising academic quality.

Because fully free bachelor’s degrees in computer science are rare, we focus on institutions that offer alternative tuition models, strong financial aid access, and flexible enrollment options that lower total cost. The criteria below help ensure the programs listed provide legitimate academic pathways in an in-demand field.

• Accreditation: Each school holds recognized institutional accreditation, ensuring academic standards and eligibility for federal financial aid.
• Affordability and financial aid: Programs are evaluated based on tuition structure, access to grants and scholarships, and policies that can reduce total out-of-pocket costs.
• Online availability: Degrees must be offered fully online, with formats that accommodate part-time or self-paced learners.
• Student outcomes: When available, we consider graduation support, transfer credit policies, and resources that help students complete degree programs efficiently.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Computer Science Degree Online?

For most students, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science online takes about four years of full-time enrollment, similar to traditional in-person programs. This timeline includes completing core coursework in programming languages, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, and mathematics, along with general education requirements.

However, some learners may graduate more quickly through accelerated or competency-based programs that allow self-paced progression. Students who transfer credits from community college, complete prerequisites after high school, or enroll part-time while working may shorten or extend their timeframe depending on their enrollment pace and prior experience.

How To Choose the Right Low-Cost Computer Science Degree

Choosing a low-cost computer science degree involves more than finding the lowest tuition price. Students should evaluate academic quality, accreditation status, and long-term career value before committing to any online degree program.

• Confirm accreditation: Ensure the institution is accredited, as this affects financial aid eligibility, credit transfer, and employer recognition.
• Evaluate total cost: Look beyond tuition to consider fees, required coursework, textbooks, and potential enrollment or assessment charges.
• Review curriculum fundamentals: Strong programs should include programming languages such as Python and Java, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, debugging practices, and experience working with APIs and real-world software tools.
• Consider flexibility: Self-paced or part-time enrollment options may allow learners to balance education with work or family responsibilities.
• Assess career preparation: Look for hands-on projects, software development experience, and coursework aligned with in-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and cloud computing.

Career Outlook With an Online Computer Science Degree

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. The field generates approximately 317,700 job openings each year, driven by continued expansion in software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data-related roles.

The BLS reports that the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations is $105,990, reflecting strong demand for skilled programmers and technology professionals. Graduates of accredited online computer science degree programs may pursue careers in software engineering, information technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, depending on their coursework and specialization.

FAQs About Free Online Computer Science Degree Programs

Many prospective students have questions about whether a free online computer science degree truly exists and what alternatives may be available. The FAQs below clarify common misconceptions and explain how low-cost and tuition-free pathways compare to traditional degree programs.

Are There Free Online Computer Science Courses?

Yes, many platforms offer free online courses in computer science topics such as programming languages, algorithms, and data science. Providers like edX and Coursera feature introductory and advanced courses that may be self-paced and accessible to beginners. However, these free online courses typically do not result in an accredited bachelor’s degree without additional paid enrollment.

Are There Free Online Computer Science Certificates?

Some institutions and learning platforms offer free or low-cost certificates in areas like Python, software development, or cloud computing. These certificates may help learners build skills or demonstrate knowledge in specific subjects. However, they are not the same as earning a full computer science degree and may not carry the same recognition as accredited degree programs.

Is a Free Online Computer Science Degree Respected by Employers?

Employers generally prioritize accredited credentials and demonstrable technical skills over the delivery format of a degree. A tuition-free or low-cost program that holds recognized accreditation can carry similar credibility to other online degree programs. Demonstrating hands-on experience, strong coursework performance, and real-world projects often matters most in hiring decisions.

Is an Online Computer Science Degree Worth It?

An online computer science degree can be worthwhile for learners seeking entry into an in-demand field with strong earning potential. Accredited programs provide foundational knowledge in programming, data structures, algorithms, and computer systems that support long-term career growth. When combined with financial aid or low-cost tuition models, the return on investment can be substantial.

Can Financial Aid Make a Computer Science Degree Free?

In some cases, grants, scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or military benefits may cover most or all tuition costs. When combined with low-cost institutions, this support can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. Eligibility depends on financial need, academic qualifications, and institutional participation in federal aid programs.

Find Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees

Explore accredited and low-cost online computer science degree programs on Learn.org to compare options and evaluate tuition-saving opportunities. Connect with schools directly to request information and find a pathway that aligns with your budget and career goals.