Best Online Computer Science Degrees in 2027
Published: January 2027 | Updated regularly
Computer science remains one of the highest-paying and fastest-growing fields in the world. With AI, cybersecurity, and data science driving demand, a CS degree from a top online program can lead to salaries of $100,000+ within a few years. Here are the best online computer science degrees for 2027.
Top 10 Online Computer Science Programs for 2027
1. Georgia Tech – Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS)
- Tuition: ~$180 per credit → ~$7,000–$10,000 total
- Duration: 2–4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Specializations: Machine Learning, Interactive Intelligence, Computing Systems, Cybersecurity
- Why it's great: The most famous affordable MS in CS in the world. Ranked #5 in the US for computer science.
2. University of Texas at Austin – Online MS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$10,000 total
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Specializations: AI, Machine Learning, Data Science
- Why it's great: Top-ranked CS program with affordable online tuition.
3. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Online MCS
- Tuition: ~$21,000 total
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Accreditation: HLC
- Specializations: Data Science, Machine Learning, Software Engineering
- Why it's great: Ranked #5 in CS in the US, with strong industry ties.
4. Arizona State University – Online BS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$550 per credit → ~$65,000 total
- Duration: 4 years
- Accreditation: HLC
- Specializations: Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, AI
- Why it's great: ABET-accredited and ranked #1 in innovation by US News.
5. Colorado State University – Online BS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$425 per credit → ~$50,000 total
- Duration: 4 years
- Accreditation: HLC
- Specializations: Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Networking
- Why it's great: ABET-accredited and affordable.
6. Oregon State University – Online BS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$350 per credit → ~$30,000–$35,000 total
- Duration: 4 years
- Accreditation: NWCCU
- Specializations: Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science
- Why it's great: One of the most respected online CS degrees in the US.
7. University of Florida – Online BS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$130 per credit (in-state) → ~$15,000 total
- Duration: 4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Specializations: AI, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering
- Why it's great: Extremely affordable for in-state students.
8. Penn State World Campus – Online BS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$600 per credit → ~$60,000 total
- Duration: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Specializations: Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Data Science
- Why it's great: Strong alumni network and reputation.
9. Stanford University – Online MS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$1,300–$1,500 per credit → ~$60,000+ total
- Duration: 3–5 years
- Accreditation: WSCUC
- Specializations: AI, Machine Learning, Systems, Theory
- Why it's great: Stanford's CS program is #1 in the world.
10. Columbia University – Online MS in Computer Science
- Tuition: ~$2,000+ per credit → ~$90,000+ total
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Specializations: Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Computer Vision
- Why it's great: Ivy League degree, strong for research and high-level roles.
Comparison Table: Best Online CS Programs 2027
| University |
Degree |
Total Tuition (Est.) |
Accreditation |
| Georgia Tech | MS in CS | ~$7,000–$10,000 | SACSCOC |
| UT Austin | MS in CS | ~$10,000 | SACSCOC |
| University of Florida | BS in CS | ~$15,000 (in-state) | SACSCOC |
| UIUC | MS in CS | ~$21,000 | HLC |
| Oregon State | BS in CS | ~$30,000–$35,000 | NWCCU |
| Colorado State | BS in CS | ~$50,000 | HLC |
| Penn State | BS in CS | ~$60,000 | MSCHE |
| ASU Online | BS in CS | ~$65,000 | HLC |
| Stanford | MS in CS | ~$60,000+ | WSCUC |
| Columbia | MS in CS | ~$90,000+ | MSCHE |
Specializations to Consider
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Highest-paying specialization. Average salary $150,000+.
- Machine Learning: Closely related to AI. $140,000+ average salary.
- Data Science: Strong demand across tech, finance, healthcare. $120,000+ salary.
- Cybersecurity: Fastest-growing field. $110,000+ salary.
- Software Engineering: Most versatile track. $115,000+ salary.
- Cloud Computing: Growing rapidly. $120,000+ salary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is an online CS degree as good as on-campus?
A: Yes — if the program is accredited and offers hands-on projects. Top programs like Georgia Tech's OMSCS are indistinguishable from on-campus versions on a resume.
Q: Which online CS degree has the best ROI?
A: Georgia Tech's OMSCS ($7,000–$10,000 for an MS) has arguably the best ROI in the world, with graduates earning $150,000+.
Q: Can I work full-time while earning an online CS degree?
A: Yes. Most online CS programs are designed for working professionals, with flexible schedules.
Q: Do I need a CS background to apply?
A: For BS programs — no. For MS programs — most require prerequisite courses in programming, data structures, and math.
Q: Which specialization pays the most in 2027?
A: AI and Machine Learning engineers earn $150,000+, followed by Data Science and Cybersecurity.
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