Best online computer programming degrees 2021: Top picks

With a computer programming degree, you can create and test the code for software and applications people use daily. 

Computer programmers play an integral role in developing new technology and work closely with software engineers and developers. Because computer science careers often overlap, many of the best computer programming degrees focus on software development or computer science as a whole.

Graduates with a bachelor’s in computer programming can land programming positions in numerous industries or pursue similar occupations like computer systems analysts, network administrators, or software developers. Varied career opportunities combined with the annual median pay of $89,190 attract many aspiring programmers. 

Explore the best online computer programming degrees below to begin a successful computer science career. 

The best online bachelor’s in computer programming degrees

Our experts examined federally-reported datasets and used a proprietary ranking algorithm to create the following list of the best online computer programming degrees. Learn more about the professional contributors and unique formulas behind ZDNet’s ranking methodology here. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, College Scorecard, and each program’s website.

1. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

About the program: FHSU offers a bachelor’s in computer science with four mandatory web development classes. Other courses include programming languages, data structures, and computer graphics.

  • Acceptance rate: 91%
  • Graduation rate: 58%
  • Annual net price: $12,053
  • Years to degree: Four
  • SAT range: 1080 minimum
  • Minimum GPA: 2.5 for high school courses; 2.0 for college courses
  • Enrollment periods per year: Rolling
  • Course delivery methods: Online and asynchronous

Accreditation: Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

2. Champlain College

Burlington, Vermont

About the program: Champlain’s bachelor’s program in software development covers over 20 programming languages, software, and platforms and prepares graduates for C++ programming certification. 

  • Acceptance rate: 85%
  • Graduation rate: 61%
  • Annual net price: $33,561
  • Years to degree: Three to four; part- and full-time options and accelerated 7-week terms available
  • SAT range: 1110-1320
  • Minimum GPA: Recommended 2.5
  • Enrollment periods per year: Three; rolling transfers
  • Course delivery methods: Online and asynchronous

Accreditation: Champlain College is regionally accredited

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Best online web development degrees 2021: Top picks

Professionals with web development degrees build engaging websites that include interactive features and connect with back-end tools. Tech professionals in roles like front-end web developer, back-end web developer, web designer, and full-stack web developer benefit from being in-demand and receiving high salaries. 

An online bachelor’s degree in web development prepares graduates for high-paying tech careers. The degree strengthens technical skills through project-based, experiential learning. Graduates enter the job market with a professional portfolio showcasing their skills. 

Our list ranks the best web development programs that offer an online learning option. Prospective students can use the ranking to identify the programs that match their budget, schedule, and career goals. 

The best online bachelor’s in web development degrees

Our ranking evaluates the top online bachelor’s in web development programs using ZDnet’s ranking methodology. Our list helps prospective web development majors find the right fit for their unique needs by using reliable data sources and metrics like academics and affordability.

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.

1. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

About the program: The 120-credit web and mobile application development program builds strong coding and design skills. Majors in the online program also study electronic media.

  • Acceptance rate: 91%
  • Graduation rate: 58%
  • Annual net price: $12,053
  • Years to degree: Four
  • SAT range: Not publicly available
  • Minimum GPA: 2.0
  • Enrollment periods per year: Four
  • Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous

Accreditation: Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

2. Arizona State University

Scottsdale, Arizona

About the program: The bachelor’s degree in internet and web development emphasizes emerging web technologies and multimedia design. The fully online program prepares majors to build a professional portfolio.

  • Acceptance rate: 64%
  • Graduation rate: 54%
  • Annual net price: $13,971
  • Years to degree: Four
  • SAT range: Not publicly available
  • Minimum GPA: 2.0 (Arizona resident); 2.5 (out-of-state students)
  • Enrollment periods per year: Three
  • Course delivery method: Asynchronous

Accreditation: Arizona State University-Skysong is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

3. Champlain College

Burlington, Vermont

About the program: In the fully

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