3 Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees in Missouri

Getting a computer science degree is an essential step in pursuing various in-demand career paths. Perhaps you'd like to earn this type of degree, but you're concerned about paying for it. You might be wondering if there are any affordable online computer science degrees available in your state.

Keep reading as we explore some top in-state online programs for Missouri students to consider. We'll also explore some good out-of-state options and answer a few questions you may have.

Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Missouri

There are three low-cost online colleges in Missouri that offer computer science bachelor's degrees. Let's take a closer look at each one.

1. Central Methodist University

Central Methodist University is a private school headquartered in Fayette. It provides both online and on-campus degrees in an array of subjects, including both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science options in computer science. These programs help students develop problem-solving skills as they complete coursework relative to computer programming, data science, and more.

Online undergraduate students at this school pay $275 per credit hour for their studies. Scholarships, financial aid packages, and military benefits are all available to help students pay for their degrees.

2. Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University is a public school located in Cape Girardeau. It provides a wealth of online degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems. This program provides the following specializations so students can tailor their degree to their interests:

• business administration
• artificial intelligence
• cybersecurity

This online bachelor's degree costs $285.29 per credit hour. Students can take advantage of various financial aid and scholarship opportunities to lower their degree costs even further.

3. Columbia College

Columbia College is a private school with locations throughout the U.S., though it is headquartered in Columbia, MO. Students can attend this school either online or in-person to earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in computer science. The program provides advanced training in programming languages, algorithms, and software development to help students thrive in various industries.

The base tuition rate for this program is $375 per credit hour. Discounts are available for qualifying students, and all students can apply for financial aid and scholarships to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.

Other Affordable Online Computer Science Programs

When you study online, you can pursue higher education from anywhere. With this in mind, let's explore some schools outside of Missouri offering affordable academic programs in computer science.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is a public school located in Hays, KS. This school offers a wealth of associate degrees through doctoral programs online. One of the programs available is a Bachelor of Science in computer science. The program teaches the fundamentals of computer programming through courses such as front- and back-end web development, operating systems, computer graphics, and more.

The program is one of the most affordable of its kind in the nation, with both in-state and out-of-state online students paying $257.33 per credit hour. A generous transfer policy combined with financial aid opportunities makes it even easier for students to get their degrees affordably.

2. University of Arkansas Grantham

The University of Arkansas Grantham is a public online college belonging to the University of Arkansas System. It offers an online bachelor's degree in computer science ideal for both full-time and part-time students. The program features a range of courses to help students develop competencies in computer programming and data analytics, culminating in a capstone project to help students gain hands-on skills.

This flexible online degree costs $305 per credit hour. Students can transfer credits to save money as well as apply for scholarships and financial aid to reduce their expenses.

3. Louisiana State University Alexandria

Louisiana State University Alexandria, part of the LSU System, is a public school offering various flexible online degree programs. One of these programs is a Bachelor of Science in computer science. The program offers coursework in data structures, information security, and more, with options to tailor your degree to your interests through free electives.

Students in this program pay $325 per credit hour. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid can help to reduce online students' financial burden.

4. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private, nonprofit online university boasting an impressive enrollment of more than 156,000 students. One of the programs students can pursue is a Bachelor of Science in computer science. The program covers topics such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, architecture and systems, and computer theory while enabling students to pursue various professional credentials before graduation.

Coursework for this program is self-paced, and students can take as many courses as they want for the same tuition rate of $4,085 per six-month term. Scholarships, financial aid, payment plans, and a generous transfer policy make it easy for highly motivated students to earn their degrees fast without breaking the bank.

Our Selection Criteria

We use a rigorous vetting process to choose the schools for our rank articles. The following criteria were used to select the schools discussed above:

• Accreditation: Each school is accredited by a Department of Education-recognized accrediting body like the Higher Learning Commission.
• Tuition rates: All of the schools offer affordable tuition rates, with online courses costing less than $500 per credit hour or less than $12,000 a year.
• Financial aid availability: Each program comes from an online school that accepts financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, and other sources. Many of them offer their own financial aid packages as well.

FAQs About Online Computer Science Degrees

If you still have questions about becoming an online student in a computer science program, you're not alone. Read on as we look at some frequently asked questions.

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

Online degrees are often well-known for affordability, but not all learners pay the same tuition rates. Among the schools discussed above, tuition costs range from around $257 to $375 per credit hour.

Keep in mind, though, that this only accounts for tuition; you may have other expenses as well, such as learning materials and mandatory fees.

How Do I Get a Free Computer Science Degree Online?

Though schools don't offer free degrees in computer science, it is possible to earn your degree for free with the right combination of financial aid options. The funds you earn through scholarships, grants, work-study programs, employer tuition assistance programs, military discounts, and more may be enough to cover most, if not all, of your expenses, helping you earn your degree for free or nearly free. Students can also consider online colleges that accept transfer credits to reduce these costs even further.

What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

A degree in computer science can help you pursue numerous rewarding and high-paying careers. Some job titles to consider as a computer science graduate include:

• database administrator
• computer programmer
• computer systems analyst
• web developer
• software engineer

Discover Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

If you're ready to pursue your career goals and enter the lucrative field of computer science, explore the schools featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the colleges or universities to learn more about their online bachelor's programs and to find one that works for you.