Accredited Online Computer Science & IT Degrees

Online computer science and IT degrees prepare students for rewarding careers in technology, software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more. As one of the fastest-growing fields, technology offers strong job growth projections, high earning potential, and diverse career opportunities across nearly every industry.

GetEducated’s online degree database allows students to compare over 2,400 accredited online computer science and IT degree programs from colleges and universities across the United States. Whether you’re starting your career or advancing your technical skills, these programs provide flexible pathways into the tech industry, accommodating busy schedules and professional responsibilities.

What Is an Online Computer Science or IT Degree?

Online computer science and information technology degree programs focus on the design, development, and management of technology systems. While the two fields are closely related, they emphasize different aspects of technology.

• Computer Science focuses on programming languages, algorithms, software development, and computing systems.
• Information Technology (IT) focuses on technology management, computer networks, operating systems, network security, and infrastructure.

Students may choose between these paths depending on whether they prefer building computing-based solutions or managing an organization’s computer networks and systems.

Why Choose a Computer Science or IT Degree?

Technology degrees are among the most in-demand educational paths due to rapid digital transformation across industries. According to labor statistics, employment in information technology occupations is expected to grow significantly faster than the average for all occupations between 2023 and 2033.

Students choose this field for:

• Strong job growth projections and career stability
• High salary potential, with average salaries over $104,000 annually in many IT roles
• Opportunities across industries including healthcare, finance, government, education, and manufacturing processes
• Ability to work remotely or freelance, offering flexibility

From startups to large corporations, nearly every organization relies on skilled IT professionals to maintain and secure their technology infrastructure.

Types of Online Computer Science & IT Degrees

Technology programs are offered at multiple academic levels, allowing students to enter or advance in the field.

Associate Degrees in IT or Computer Science

Associate degrees provide foundational technical abilities and typically take about two years to complete.

Students learn:

• Basic programming languages like Python and Java
• IT systems and support, including operating systems and network management
• Fundamentals of computer systems and computer support specialists’ roles

These degrees can lead to entry-level roles such as IT support specialist or junior technician.

Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Science or IT

A bachelor’s degree is the most common credential for technology careers and is often required for many IT positions.

Students develop skills in:

• Programming and software development
• Systems analysis and computer systems administration
• Networking, cybersecurity, and network security
• Data management and database administration
• Project management and technology operations

Graduates are prepared for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, computer systems administrator, network engineer, information security analyst, and database administrator.

Master’s Degrees in Technology Fields

Graduate programs allow students to specialize in advanced areas such as data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These degrees are often pursued for career advancement, leadership roles, and gaining advanced skills in technology management.

Computer Science & IT Degree Concentrations

Technology is a broad field with many specialized areas. Students can focus on specific disciplines depending on their interests and career goals.

Core Technology Fields

• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Software Development
• Network Administration

Data & Emerging Technology Fields

• Data Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• GIS

Security & Infrastructure Fields

• Information Security
• IT Management

Creative & Applied Technology Fields

• Game Design
• Web Design & Development

Each concentration leads to different career paths within the broader technology industry.

What You’ll Learn in a Computer Science or IT Program

While coursework varies by specialization, most programs include:

• Programming languages such as Python, Java, and SQL
• Software development and computing systems
• Networking, operating systems, and systems management
• Cybersecurity fundamentals and network security
• Data analysis, database management, and cloud computing

Students develop both technical skills and critical thinking abilities essential for solving complex, computing-based solutions in modern technology roles. Many programs also include hands-on experience through virtual labs and projects simulating real-world scenarios.

Career Paths in Computer Science & IT

Technology graduates can pursue a wide range of careers across industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many IT roles are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.

Common roles include:

• Software Engineer
• Computer Programmer
• IT Manager
• Systems Engineer and Network Administrator
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Database Administrator

Because technology supports nearly every industry, professionals can work in healthcare, finance, government, education, manufacturing processes, and more.

Students interested in specialized roles may explore areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, or software engineering.

Salary Expectations for Technology Careers

Technology careers are known for competitive salaries and strong growth potential.

Typical salary ranges include:

• Entry-level roles: $60,000 to $80,000
• Mid-level roles: $80,000 to $120,000
• Advanced roles: $120,000+

Highly specialized fields such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity often command higher salaries. Cybersecurity analysts, for example, earn around $90,000 or more depending on expertise and certifications.

If you’re exploring cost-effective pathways at each stage, check out our rankings of the cheapest computer science degrees at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels to find programs that align with your career and salary goals.

Benefits of Earning a Technology Degree Online

Online computer science and IT degree programs offer several advantages:

• Flexible scheduling for working professionals with busy schedules
• Access to accredited programs nationwide
• Ability to learn from anywhere with asynchronous courses
• Opportunities to gain hands-on experience through virtual labs and projects
• Alignment with digital learning environments and industry certifications included in many programs at no additional cost

Because the field is inherently digital, online learning is well-suited for technology education.

How to Choose the Right Computer Science or IT Degree

When comparing programs, consider:

• Accreditation and regional recognition to ensure quality and eligibility for federal financial aid
• Specialization options aligned with your career goals
• Cost, affordability, and potential return on investment (ROI)
• Program flexibility, including course length and pacing options
• Opportunities to gain industry certifications and hands-on experience

Students should also consider whether they prefer a programming-focused path (computer science) or a systems-focused path (information technology).

Compare Online Computer Science & IT Degrees

GetEducated’s database includes thousands of accredited technology programs from U.S. institutions.

You can:

• Compare degree levels from associate to master’s degrees
• Explore various specializations and focus areas
• Evaluate costs and financial aid options
• Review detailed program catalogs and course offerings

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Computer Science & IT Degrees

What is the difference between computer science and IT?

Computer science focuses on programming, software development, and computing systems, while IT focuses on managing computer systems, networks, and infrastructure.

Are online computer science degrees respected?

Yes, when earned from an accredited institution, online computer science and IT degrees are widely recognized and respected by employers.

Which degree is better: IT or computer science?

It depends on your career goals. Choose computer science for software development and programming roles, and IT for systems administration, network security, and technology management roles.

Are technology degrees in demand?

Yes. Technology careers are among the fastest-growing fields globally, with strong job growth projections and competitive salaries.