If you’ve ever been intrigued by artificial intelligence or cybersecurity then a career in computer science might be the perfect career for you. Computer science involves detailed work and somebody with intense accuracy. You’ll gain math, technology, and analytical skills. Professionals in this occupation are kept on their toes as they work on complicated problems and develop differing solutions. On average individuals in this career field make $81,0000 a year with many opportunities to advance in their profession.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the top ten most affordable schools to attend while seeking a master’s degree in computer science. These programs are unique and bring new light to the world of computer science. You’ll learn from the best in the industry, these professors spent years in the field and keep relevant information circulating their lessons. Not only will you be taught by the best in these programs but you’ll gain hands-on experience while taking classes 100% online. Students get to use new technology and build their own programs to work from. Earning a master’s degree in computer science will allow you to apply to more advanced jobs and positions, fueling your career success.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online master’s in computer science degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in 2022
Accredited Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.2023 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Master’s in Computer Science
| #1 | The University of West Florida | $7,089 |
| #2 | Georgia Southwestern State University | $11,831 |
| #3 | University of Illinois at Springfield | $12,034 |
| #4 | Columbus State University | $12,385 |
| #5 | University of Louisiana-Lafayette | $13,094 |
| #6 | Arizona State University | $13,107 |
| #7 | Southeast Missouri State University | $13,568 |
| #8 | University of Idaho | $13,964 |
| #9 | University of Illinois Urbana – Champaign | $14,321 |
| #10 | Georgia Institute of Technology | $14,974 |
| #11 | Southern Arkansas University | $15,321 |
| #12 | Frostburg State University | $15,748 |
| #13 | Mississippi State University | $16,122 |
| #14 | University of Louisville | $16,828 |
| #15 | University of North Dakota | $16,966 |
| #16 | Old Dominion University | $17,204 |
| #17 | Dakota State University | $18,630 |
| #18 | Campbellsville University | $19,819 |
| #19 | University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | $20,050 |
| #20 | University of South Carolina-Columbia | $20,559 |
| #21 | Capitol Technology University | $23,982 |
| #22 | University of Bridgeport | $25,084 |
| #23 | Nova Southeastern University | $25,833 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Master’s in Computer Science
1. The University of West Florida
Average Net Price: $7,089
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 3,114
The University of West Florida offers an online Master of Science in Computer Science degree program. The curriculum is tailored to equip learners with the aptitude and expertise required for prosperous pursuits in diverse professional paths of computer science, encompassing software development, data analysis, and cyber protection.
It’s possible to finish the program in a mere 18 months, and it’s available entirely through online means. Students can choose from two concentrations: software engineering or data analytics. The software engineering concentration focuses on developing software applications, while the data analytics concentration focuses on analyzing large data sets.
Through online discussion boards, live lectures, and group projects, students can engage with their professors and classmates, creating an opportunity for interaction. Online discussion boards, live lectures, and group projects present students with the chance to engage with their professors and classmates.
For students seeking to progress in computer science, the online Master of Science program in Computer Science at UWF is a beneficial investment. In a fiercely competitive job market, the program equips students with the essential expertise and knowledge necessary to thrive.
2. Georgia Southwestern State University
Average Net Price: $11,831
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 440
The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) online program at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) is a 30-credit hour program that prepares students for a career in computer science. Students can learn from anywhere in the world and at their own pace since the program is completely available online.
The MSCS program at GSW covers a wide range of topics in computer science, including:
Programming languages
Data structures and algorithms
Software engineering
Computer architecture
Operating systems
Database systems
Artificial intelligence
Machine learning
Cybersecurity
Included in the program is a capstone project that provides students with the opportunity to employ their abilities to tackle a genuine issue in the world.
The MSCS program at GSW is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. ABET is a recognized accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.
If students aspire to boost their career in computer science, they may find the MSCS program at GSW to be an excellent choice. The program is affordable, convenient, and rigorous. Employers in diverse industries have a strong desire for graduates from the program.
3. The University of Illinois at Springfield
Average Net Price: $12,034
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,761
The online program for Master of Science in Computer Science is available at the University of Illinois at Springfield. The curriculum aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for pursuing professions in software development, information security, and various other computer-centric domains.
The MSCS program comprises 32 credits and offers flexibility in terms of study duration, with the option of completing it in either two years on a full-time basis or spreading it out over four years part-time. With the program being completely online, students are afforded the convenience of finishing their coursework from any location across the globe.
The MSCS program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The program is also a member of the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (NCAE-C).
The MSCS program at UIS offers a variety of specializations, including:
Software Development
Information Security
Data Science
Cybersecurity
Computer Networking
Computer Graphics
Machine Learning
At UIS, the MSCS students are given the chance to collaborate with faculty members and industry partners on authentic projects. The program also offers a variety of student support services, including:
Academic advising
Career counseling
Financial aid
Tutoring
For those seeking a master’s degree in computer science, the MSCS program at UIS presents an excellent alternative that eliminates the need for job displacement or relocation. The program is affordable, flexible, and accredited.
4. Columbus State University
Average Net Price: $12,385
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,436
Columbus State University offers a Master of Science in Applied Computer Science online program. This curriculum caters to those students who aspire to enhance their computer science proficiency and put it into practical use for addressing real-life issues. The program is offered in three concentrations:
Software Development
AI and Data Science
General
The 30-credit hour MSCS program is designed to be completed within a two year period. Students take a mix of core and concentration courses, as well as a capstone project. The fundamental classes delve into various computer science subjects such as algorithms, data structures, and software development. The concentration courses focus on machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data. The capstone project allows students to apply their skills to real-world problems.
The MSCS program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their field. This program is also supported by academic advisors who can help students with coursework and career planning.
The MSCS program provides an exceptional chance for individuals aiming to refine their computer science expertise and use it to address real-world problems. The program is also affordable, and students can qualify for financial aid.
5. University of Louisiana-Lafayette
Average Net Price: $13,094
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 2,050
An online program for a Master of Science in Computer Science comprising of 33 credit hours is provided by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Intended for individuals seeking career progression in the field of computer science, the program has been specifically tailored for working professionals.
The MSCS online program is offered in a 100% online format, with no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are offered in eight-week modules; students can complete the program in as little as two years.
The MSCS online program curriculum includes courses in computer science fundamentals, such as:
Algorithms and data structures
Computer architecture
Operating systems
Programming languages
Software engineering
The program also includes courses in emerging areas of computer science, such as:
Cloud computing
Data Science
Cybersecurity
The MSCS online program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.
An accredited academic institution is required to have granted applicants a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. A minimum GPA of 3.0 and satisfactory GRE scores are also required from applicants.
For individuals seeking to progress in the field of computer science while juggling work commitments, the MSCS online program presents an excellent opportunity. A versatile arrangement of the program is presented, providing students with the opportunity to finish their degree at their own pace. The program also offers a variety of courses in computer science fundamentals and emerging areas of computer science.
6. Arizona State University
Average Net Price: $13,107
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 21,361
The Arizona State University Master of Computer Science Online is a 30-credit hour program that is delivered 100% online. The program is designed for students with undergraduate degrees in computer science or related areas.
Encompassed within the program are an extensive array of subjects, comprising:
Artificial intelligence
Big data
Blockchain
Cybersecurity
Software engineering
Within the program, students can collaborate with globally-renowned professors on computing and augmented intelligence initiatives spanning various domains. They may also opt for a thesis or non-thesis option as their culminating event.
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
Analyze key theories, algorithms and software modules used in the field of computer science.
Pursue careers in research and education, including academia, government and industry.
The program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Admission Requirements:
Students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.0. They must also submit GRE scores and letters of recommendation.
7. Southeast Missouri State University
Average Net Price: $13,568
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,030
Southeast Missouri State University offers a Master of Science in Applied Computer Science online degree program. The program caters to students seeking to enrich their technical and professional competencies in computer science. Encompassed within the program are an extensive array of subjects, comprising:
Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
Software Engineering
The MSCS online program is fully accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The online program ensures that students are well-prepared for their future professional endeavors.
Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree in computer science, or computer information systems, or a field of study closely related to these subjects for enrollment in the online program. Admission of students from different fields with bachelor’s degrees is possible on a provisional basis, provided that they fulfill the prerequisite course requirements.
The MSCS online program is offered in a 30-credit hour format. With full-time commitment, the program can be finished by students within a minimum of 2 years. Asynchronous classes are available, allowing students to engage in course discussions and access study materials at their preferred speed.
8. University of Idaho
Average Net Price: $13,964
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: NWCCU
Total Graduate Enrollment: 2,273
Online Master of Science in Computer Science degree is offered by the University of Idaho. The program caters to students aspiring to delve deeper into the theoretical and practical aspects of computer science, while also aiming to hone their abilities in critical thinking, investigation, and exposition.
The M.S. in Computer Science online program is offered through the University of Idaho’s Engineering Outreach distance learning program. The program’s enrollees receive identical course material to on-campus students, taught by the same instructors and covering the same curriculum. Courses are offered through a mix of live zoom and recorded lectures to fit students’ schedules.
Students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-related field may be admitted if they have completed sufficient computer science courses.
The M.S. in Computer Science online program is a 30-credit hour program. Students must complete a core of courses in computer science theory and application, as well as a focused plan of study in an area of their interest. Students may choose from a variety of emphasis areas, including:
Cyber security
Survivable systems (fault-tolerant computing)
Artificial intelligence & machine learning
Collaborative virtual environments
Data Science
The M.S. in Computer Science online program can be completed in two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study. Students who complete the program in two years are eligible for a tuition scholarship.
9. University of Illinois Urbana – Champaign
Average Net Price: $14,321
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 929
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Master of Computer Science online degree program. The program is a non-thesis, coursework-only degree that requires 32 credit hours of graduate coursework. The degree program can be finished in one to five years, depending on the student’s pace.
The MCS program is offered through the Coursera MOOC platform. Students receive lectures through Coursera, but are advised and assessed by Illinois faculty and teaching assistants on a rigorous set of assignments, projects, and exams required for university degree credit.
The MCS program offers a variety of specializations, including:
Artificial intelligence
Data Science
Databases
Human-computer interaction
Software engineering
Scientific computing
High-performance computing
For those who aspire to obtain a Master of Computer Science degree but prefer not to move, the MCS program provides an excellent alternative. For students with a desire to concentrate on a particular aspect of computer science, the program proves to be a favorable choice.
Completing an accredited undergraduate program in computer science or a related field is a requirement for applicants. A minimum GPA of 3.0 and satisfactory GRE scores are also required from applicants.
10. Georgia Institute of Technology
Average Net Price: $14,974
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: MSCHE
Total Graduate Enrollment: 656
An online Master of Science in Computer Science program is offered at Georgia Institute of Technology. The program is delivered through the massive open online course format, and is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.
For individuals seeking to elevate their careers in computer science, the OMSCS curriculum is tailored specifically for those who are currently employed. The entirety of the program is available online, enabling students to accomplish it within two years at the very least.
The OMSCS program offers a variety of specializations, including:
Artificial intelligence
Computer graphics
Computer networks
Data Science
Machine learning
Software engineering
Completing an undergraduate program in computer science or another related field that is accredited, with a GPA of at least 3.0, is required for applicants. They must also submit GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The OMSCS curriculum is demanding, necessitating students to dedicate 10-15 hours weekly to their academic pursuits. The program includes a combination of lectures, readings, assignments, and exams.
The OMSCS program is a valuable investment for working professionals who want to advance their careers in computer science. One can acquire a master’s degree from a highly regarded university through the program, which provides a reasonably priced and adaptable approach.