6 Affordable Online Computer Science Degrees in Texas

If you live in Texas and would like to pursue a computer science degree, you may be wondering what it's going to cost. You understand that college can be expensive, and you'd like to know if there are any schools in your state offering affordable online computer science degrees.

Students can enroll in numerous low-cost online colleges in Texas to obtain a computer science degree. Keep reading as we explore some top in-state programs to consider. We'll also provide answers to some frequently asked questions that you may have.

Affordable Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas

There are several affordable online colleges in Texas that provide bachelor's or master's degrees in computer science. Let's look at each program.

1. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship campus of the University of Texas System. This large public school provides an online Master of Science in computer science. This graduate-level distance learning program consists of 30 credit hours, including three required courses and seven electives, and can be completed in one to two years.

This graduate degree is highly affordable, with a total program cost of around $10,000. Financial aid and scholarships can help students save even more money on their education.

2. Lamar University

Lamar University is a public school located in Beaumont enrolling almost 18,000 students. It provides an online Bachelor of Science in computer information sciences. This program covers a variety of fundamental methodologies of computer science, including the use of programming languages, data structures, and software design techniques.

Students in this program pay $314 per credit hour. In addition to utilizing financial aid and scholarship opportunities, students can transfer up to 90 credits into the program to help them finish faster and more affordably.

3. Texas A&M University Central Texas

Texas A&M University Central Texas is a part of the Texas A&M University System. It is located in Killeen and offers both online and in-person degree programs. One of the programs available is a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students in this program study diverse coursework covering topics like software development, database design, and artificial intelligence.

Tuition for this bachelor's program varies, but the starting base rate is about $260 per credit hour. Students at this school can earn scholarships, grants, student loans, and more to help them cover their program costs.

4. LeTourneau University

LeTourneau University is a private school located in Longview, TX. With a small enrollment of around 3,000, it provides various online and on-campus degree programs. Online learners can earn a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems. This program provides flexible seven-week courses, with major-required classes including:

• software engineering
• web development
• operating systems
• data science
• business administration

This four-year degree program costs $380 to $410 per credit hour, depending on the course level. Students can save money through several financial aid and scholarship options.

5. Concordia University Texas

Concordia University Texas is a private school belonging to the nationwide Concordia University System. It is located in Austin and provides various online degree programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in computer science. This well-rounded program helps students develop both technical skills as well as the problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities needed to succeed in a range of computer science fields.

This online bachelor's degree costs $500 per credit hour. All students who attend this school receive financial aid, both through school-based and outside programs.

6. South Texas College

South Texas College is a community college located in McAllen, TX. It offers associate degrees and certificate programs, along with several bachelor's degrees. One of these programs is an online bachelor's degree in computer and information technologies.

This program focuses on computer networks, cybersecurity, and computer engineering to help prepare students for various careers. It is one of the most affordable programs in the state with students paying $164 to $174 per credit hour, depending on whether they are in-district or out-of-district. Financial aid and scholarships can help students save even more money.

Other Affordable Online Computer Science Programs

Online learning gives students the opportunity to study from anywhere, even if they are far from their school's physical location. Let's consider some top out-of-state schools for computer science that provide affordable tuition rates.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is a public school located in Hays, KS. This school provides an online Bachelor of Science in computer science ideal for full-time and part-time students. Coursework covers computing, object-oriented programming, and more to give students a thorough understanding of computer science methodologies.

This bachelor's program is one of the best in the nation for affordability, costing $257.33 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students. Scholarships and other forms of financial aid are available to help reduce costs even further.

2. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private, nonprofit online school headquartered in Millcreek, UT. It boasts a large enrollment of more than 156,000 students and offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. This ABET-accredited program provides flexible, self-paced classes in many topics, such as computer theory, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and more.

The program costs $4,085 per six-month term and allows students to take as many courses as they want for that flat rate. Scholarships, financial aid, a generous transfer policy, and more combine to make this a highly affordable program for self-motivated students.

Our Selection Criteria

We use a rigorous selection process when choosing schools to feature in our rank articles. The following criteria were used to select the schools above:

• Accreditation: All institutions are accredited by U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agencies, such as the Higher Learning Commission.
• Tuition rates: The schools featured in this article offer tuition rates at or below $500 per credit hour or $12,000 per year.
• Financial aid opportunities: Each program comes from an online college that accepts FAFSA and other forms of financial aid. Many of the schools also provide their own internal financial aid packages.

FAQs About Getting Computer Science Degrees Online

If you still have questions about pursuing a computer science degree as an online student, you're not alone. Keep reading as we look at some common questions you may be curious about.

How Much Is an Online Computer Science Degree?

Not all online degree programs cost the same. Among the schools in this article, tuition rates range from $164 to $500 per credit hour for bachelor's degree programs. These rates do not account for mandatory fees or other expenses, which may add to your total college costs.

Consider in-state schools and colleges that are public nonprofit schools for lower tuition rates. Online colleges that accept transfer credits can also reduce the total cost of earning a degree.

Is an Online Computer Science Degree Worth It?

Even affordable online degrees can be expensive, but many students find the investment of time and money worth it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are many computer science professions, including computer programmers, computer systems analysts, and database administrators.

Many of these professionals earn highly lucrative salaries. What's more, computer science professionals are always in demand so you can expect a great deal of job security in your chosen career.

Can I Learn Computer Science Online for Free?

While schools do not offer online computer science degrees free of charge, there are many ways to earn your degree at little or no cost. Consider combining different forms of financial aid, participating in work-study programs, and taking advantage of tuition discounts or assistance programs you qualify for. These methods can help you cover most, or all, of the costs associated with your online computer science degree.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

If you're ready to begin your higher education journey, check out the colleges and universities featured here on Learn.org. Contact any of the schools today to learn more about their computer science programs and to find the one that's right for you.