4 Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees in Michigan

Today, almost every aspect of our world is driven by technology, specifically computers. As a result, computer scientists are in demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicting that jobs for computer scientists will grow by 26% over the next decade.

Most computer science professionals need at least a bachelor's degree, and there are many low-cost online computer science degrees that students can pursue. Keep reading to discover the most affordable online computer science programs in Michigan.

Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Michigan

While there are several low-cost online colleges in Michigan, only a few offer computer science programs. We've highlighted these below, all from schools regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

1. Baker College

Baker College is a private, nonprofit school based in Owosso, MI. It offers an online bachelor's degree in computer science with three concentrations:

• artificial intelligence
• computer programming
• data analytics

The tuition rate for this program is $450 per credit hour. Baker offers several financial aid programs, including the BeFree Tuition Guarantee, which covers tuition costs for students eligible for the full Pell Grant.

2. Concordia University Ann Arbor

At Concordia University Ann Arbor, students can earn a bachelor's degree in applied computer science or a master's degree in computer science online. Both programs include specializations in software engineering and information systems, but the bachelor's program also offers concentrations in artificial intelligence, computer animation, and cybersecurity.

Concordia University is a private Christian university system. It charges $490 per hour for the bachelor's program and $840 for the master's, with several financial aid options available.

3. Davenport University

Davenport University offers an online Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in computer science. Both programs include core coursework on topics like computer systems and programming languages, as well as several options for concentrations.

The private, nonprofit institution is located in Grand Rapids, MI. Tuition for undergraduate students is $974 per credit for online programs and $840 for graduate programs. However, the university awards more than $30 million in scholarships every year, with 92% of students receiving some amount of financial aid. Some even cover full tuition costs.

4. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint, a public institution, is located in Flint, MI. It offers an online master's degree in computer science and information systems that offers specializations in:

• artificial intelligence
• cybersecurity
• data science
• digital transformation
• software engineering and cloud computing

The program costs $875.25 per credit hour. Multiple financial aid programs are available to graduate students, some specifically for those studying computer science.

Other Affordable Online Computer Science Programs

Although there are only a few affordable online computer science degrees in Michigan, there are several more across the U.S. that cater to students from all states. We've highlighted a few additional affordable programs below.

1. Franklin University

Students at Franklin University can earn a computer science bachelor's or master's degree online. This private, nonprofit school is based in Columbus, OH.

The bachelor's program offers concentrations in data analytics, mobile and web development, software architecture and engineering, and software development security and costs $398 per credit. The master's offers specializations in cybersecurity, data analytics, and software systems and costs $670. Financial aid is available for both.

2. National University

National University offers a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in computer science. Both include courses on software development, information security, and technology project management.

The university, based in San Diego, is a private institution. It charges online learners $348 per credit for the bachelor's degree and $433 for the master's before financial aid is applied.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a nonprofit private school headquartered in Manchester, NH. It offers an online bachelor's degree in computer science with concentrations in:

• data analysis
• information security
• project management
• software engineering

The program charges $330 per credit hour. Online students can apply for scholarships or use federal or state aid to help pay for their programs.

Our Selection Criteria

To start, we narrowed down our list by looking at schools that:

• are regionally accredited
• offer flexible online bachelor's and master's degrees in computer science
• are located in or have a campus in Michigan

Of those, we looked at which schools offer the lowest-cost tuition, as well as online colleges that accept financial aid or offer financial aid that could significantly reduce tuition costs.

FAQs About Online Computer Science Programs

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

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

Of the bachelor's programs in Michigan listed above, tuition ranges from $450 to nearly $1,000 per credit. However, your final cost will depend on several things, such as whether you enroll full-time or part-time, whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student, the number of transfer credits you bring, and the financial aid you qualify for.

Of the schools listed above, all are online colleges that accept transfer credits, though the number of credits they accept varies. If you already have an associate degree or a large number of college credits, you can put those credits toward a degree completion program, which can reduce your costs.

Additionally, all students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This allows you to qualify for federal, state, and institutional student aid programs at the many online colleges that accept FAFSA.

Can You Get a Good Computer Science Degree Online?

At one time, online degrees weren't considered as impressive as on-campus degrees, but that's no longer true. There are many high-quality online programs available today, including those listed above.

What Can I Expect from an Online Computer Science Degree Program?

Online degree programs usually offer asynchronous courses, meaning that you have due dates for your assignments, but you can complete them at any point before the due date. This is very different from traditional courses, which require in-person meetings.

You'll study a range of topics, such as computer architecture, algorithms and data analytics, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Some programs offer specializations so you can tailor your degree to your career goals.

Your program will prepare you for numerous careers within computer science. These include:

• computer programmer
• cybersecurity analyst
• network administrator
• software engineer
• systems analyst
• web developer

Note that some of these roles may require an advanced degree or an industry credential.

Discover Online Degrees and Pursue Higher Education Today

Start your journey towards a career in computer science today by exploring the online programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools for more information on admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.