Does Purdue Global Have An Online Computer Science Degree?

Interested in studying computer science? Hoping to complete your studies through Purdue Global? Perhaps you're wondering if your school of choice has your degree program of choice.

Keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss whether or not Purdue Global offers a computer science degree and answer related questions you may have about majoring in computer science.

Does Purdue Global Have an Online Computer Science Degree?

Purdue Global is affiliated with the Purdue system. It is a fully online public school campus offering nearly 200 degree and certificate programs.

Purdue Global does not offer a specific computer science degree program; however, it offers several related programs that fall under the umbrella term of computer science.

Some of these degree programs include:

• information technology
• cybersecurity
• cloud computing and solutions
• analytics

Many of the programs available can be completed via the ExcelTrack pathway, a flexible competency-based learning model that allows students to progress through the program at their own pace.

Both bachelor's and master's degree programs are available, as well as various certificate programs relative to computer science and information technology.

What Is a Computer Science Degree?

Computer science is a broad term encompassing the study of computers and their systems. A degree in computer science prepares students for careers within this discipline.

Depending on who you ask, computer science may be considered a separate but related discipline to information technology, or information technology may be considered a sub-branch of computer science.

Information technology focuses specifically on internet security and information systems, while computer science includes various additional components such as computer programming, software and hardware development, computer architecture, and more.

Information technology is not the only computer science-related degree program. Other degrees that may be considered sub-branches of computer science include:

• cybersecurity
• cloud computing
• computer programming
• computer information systems
• analytics

All of these programs are interrelated and can all be considered computer science degrees. They simply focus on different specializations, while a generic computer science degree provides a foundation in all of them.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Computer Science Degree?

Computer science degrees vary in length depending on the type of degree. An associate degree typically consists of around 60 credit hours; a bachelor's degree, at least 120; and a master's degree, an additional 30 to 60.

Students progress through their chosen degree program as quickly as they can complete the required credits. For most full-time students, this means completing 12 to 18 credit hours per semester.

Studying at this pace, full-time students can complete an associate degree in two years or a bachelor's degree in four. Anyone pursuing a master's degree will require an additional one to two years of study.

Students enrolled in Purdue's ExcelTrack programs can graduate much more quickly since they are allowed to progress at their own pace and may be able to test out of some of their courses.

Those bringing transfer credits into their degree program may also graduate more quickly since they will already have a head-start on obtaining the necessary number of credits.

On the other hand, students who study part-time (fewer than 12 credit hours per semester) will require more time to graduate. It all depends on how quickly you can meet the requirements for graduation.

What Careers Can You Get with a Computer Science Degree?

There are many careers you can pursue with a degree in computer science. The field of computer science is broad and contains a variety of in-demand specializations.

Some of the many job titles available to those holding computer science degrees include:

• business intelligence analyst
• information security analyst
• computer support specialist
• web developer
• computer systems engineer

Computer science is a rapidly expanding field as businesses and individuals alike come to rely more and more on technology. So, pursuing a computer science degree can help you obtain long-term job security.

What's more, computer scientists are typically well-compensated for their skills. If you are looking for a well-paying industry with plenty of work and a variety of specializations to choose from, computer science may be the field for you.

Should You Get an Online Computer Science Degree from Purdue Global?

So, you've decided to pursue a degree in computer science, but you're still wondering if you you obtain that degree through Purdue Global.

As noted earlier in this article, Purdue Global doesn't offer a generic computer science degree. Instead, it offers several specialized degrees within the field of computer science.

To decide whether you should pursue your degree through Purdue Global or not, think about your particular interests and career goals.

If you are interested in a computer science career focusing on information systems and technology, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, pursuing your degree through Purdue Global is a great idea.

The school offers specialized degrees in each of these fields, and some of them can be further customized with areas of concentration.

What's more, Purdue Global is part of a large and well-respected public school, so you can rest assured that your online degree will be accepted and respected by employers.

That said, if you are looking for a more generic computer science degree, or interested in some other specialization, Purdue Global may not be what you are looking for.

Start Your Online Computer Science Degree at Purdue Global Today

If you're ready to pursue a career in IT, cybersecurity, or another computer science field, check out the degree programs offered by Purdue Global to find out which one best aligns with your career goals.