Top 10 Part-Time Computer Science Degree Programs 2025

Computer science is a high-demand field, but many roles require a bachelor's degree. If you're a student who wants to go into computer science but can't attend school full-time, you may want to consider a part-time option.

Earning a computer science degree part-time gives you more flexibility and a less intense workload. Keep reading to learn more about part-time bachelor's degrees in computer science.

Can You Earn a Computer Science Degree Part-Time?

Yes, it's possible to earn a part-time computer science degree. Many colleges and universities offer part-time options to accommodate busy students, and computer science is a common area of study.

How Long Does It Take to Finish a Part-Time Computer Science Degree?

Bachelor's degrees require 120 total credits, which most full-time students complete in four years. If you're studying part-time, you can typically complete your studies within six to eight years.

The length of time it takes you to complete your computer science part-time degree will depend on several factors, like how many credit hours you need, how many classes you take each term, and whether or not you take courses during the summer.

How Does a Part-Time Degree in Computer Science Work?

Most colleges consider 12 credits per term to be full-time, although some lower that to nine. Typically, full-time students take a course load of 12 to 15 credits per semester, or three to five courses.

In a part-time program, you'll take one to two courses per term. This reduces your course load and gives you more flexibility for work or other obligations.

Some schools may also offer these programs specifically online or on campus, with evening or weekend classes to accommodate working students.

Best Part-Time Computer Science Degree Programs

Multiple schools allow students to earn a bachelor's in computer science part-time. We've featured some of the top part-time computer science options below.

1. Boston University

Boston University is a private, nonprofit research institution in Boston. It offers a part-time Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer science degree completion program through its Metropolitan College.

The on-campus program includes coursework on Java, advanced programming, computer architecture, and operating systems. Many students can finish within 36 months, but it will depend on how many transfer credits you have.

• Estimated tuition cost: $567 per credit
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Bridgewater State University

At Bridgewater State University (BSU), students can earn a BS in computer science on a part-time schedule. The program prepares students to design, implement, and evaluate computer systems across industries.

BSU, a public university, is located in Bridgewater, MA. It also offers a cybersecurity and digital forensics degree that can be completed part-time.

• Estimated tuition cost: $12,194 per year (in-state); $18,334 per year (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: NECHE

3. Dakota State University

Dakota State University (DSU) offers a BS in computer science that can be earned part-time or full-time, online or on-campus. DSU is a public university in Madison, SD.

The computer science program offers concentrations in AI and machine learning and software engineering. Core courses cover topics like networking, algorithms, programming languages, and software engineering.

• Estimated tuition cost: $302.85 per credit (in-state); $409.25 per credit (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Franklin University

The BS in computer science at Franklin University is completely online. The program is offered in a flexible schedule, with six and 12-week courses, so you can go as fast or slow as you prefer.

Franklin, located in Columbus, OH, is a nonprofit, public university. It's geared toward adult learners and accepts up to 94 transfer credits.

• Estimated tuition cost: $398 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution in Manchester, NH. It offers an online BS in computer science with optional concentrations in data analysis, information security, project management for STEM, and software engineering.

Online courses at SNHU run on eight-week terms. Full-time students take at least two courses per term, while part-time students take one each term. Students can transfer up to 90 credits.

• Estimated tuition cost: $342 per credit
• Accreditation: NECHE

6. Syracuse University

Students at Syracuse University can choose from various part-time degrees, including a BS in computer science. This on-campus program includes courses on data structures, programming languages, operating systems, and network programming.

Syracuse University is a nonprofit, private research institution located in Syracuse, NY. It also offers a fully online bachelor's in computer programming to part-time students.

• Estimated tuition cost: $750 per credit
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

7. University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) offers a BS in computer science that can be completed on a full-time or part-time timeline. UAB is a public research university in Birmingham, AL.

While the majority of students in this program choose to study on a full-time schedule, there are many part-time students as well. Courses for the on-campus degree cover topics such as systems programming, database security, software engineering, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,310 per year (in-state); $28,140 per year (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. University of Central Missouri

The BS in computer science at the University of Central Missouri (UCMO) can be earned through a full-time or part-time schedule. Courses cover topics like computer programming, database applications, operating systems, and programming languages.

UCMO, located in Warrensburg, MO, is a public university. While the computer science degree is primarily in-person, some courses are available online.

• Estimated tuition cost: $297 per credit (in-state); $594 per credit (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

9. University of the People

Students do not pay tuition at the University of the People; instead, they pay an assessment fee per course. University of the People is a private, nonprofit online university in Pasadena. It offers a BS in computer science for both full-time and part-time students.

The program offers concentrations in data science and network and application security.

• Estimated tuition cost: $160 assessment fee per course
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WASCUC)

10. Western Governors University

Through Western Governors University (WGU), students can earn a BS in computer science online at their own pace. The program covers topics like web development, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

WGU, a nonprofit, private online school, is based in Salt Lake City. All programs here are self-paced, allowing students to move through the curriculum as quickly or slowly as they prefer.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,125 per six-month term
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

How We Rank Schools

To choose the colleges with part-time bachelor's in computer science degrees listed above, we focused on:

• Accreditation: All degrees on this list are regionally accredited.
• Program flexibility: Every program allows students to study part-time.
• Program reputation: Each institution is a nonprofit school and known for offering high-quality degrees.

FAQs About Part-Time Computer Science Degrees

A part-time bachelor's degree in computer science can help you break into a high-demand field through a schedule that works best for you. We've answered some frequently asked questions about these programs to help you decide if this is a good option for your life.

How Much Does a Part-Time Computer Science Degree Cost?

Computer science degrees can range from less than $100 per credit at schools like University of the People to over $1,000 per credit at some institutions. The cost of a part-time computer science degree will depend on multiple factors, such as:

• what school you choose
• whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• how many credit hours you need
• what financial aid you qualify for

All students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what they're eligible for. Note that some financial aid programs may not cover part-time students.

What Careers Can I Pursue With a Part-Time Computer Science Degree?

A computer science degree will allow you to pursue multiple jobs, such as:

• computer programmer
• computer systems analyst
• full-stack developer
• software developer
• software tester
• web developer

Is Computer Science a Flexible Degree?

Computer science can be a flexible degree, depending on the school you choose. Some schools require all students to move through the program together, but many allow you to choose a part-time or even self-paced schedule.

Is a Two-Year Computer Science Degree Worth It?

A two-year computer science degree is usually an associate degree. These degrees can help you land entry-level roles in computer science, or you can transfer your credits into a four-year institution to finish your bachelor's.

Can I Make $100k With a Computer Science Degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are several roles for those with a computer science degree that make over $100,000 per year. These include:

• computer and information systems managers: $171,200
• computer network analysts: $130,390
• computer systems analysts: $103,790
• software developers: $131,450

Find Flexible Degree Programs

Start your journey toward a computer science career by exploring the part-time programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about flexible learning options.