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Build a future in computer science
- $330/credit (120 total credits)
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Median annual salary of $127,260 for software developers1
- Accredited by NECHE
- Learn Python, Java and C++
- Use industry-standard software development and testing tools
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Computer Science Degree Overview
Gain the skills you need to enter one of the nation's fastest-growing fields with your online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science from SNHU.
SNHU's online degree program employs industry-standard software development with popular programming languages such as Python, Java and C++. You can further expand your toolbox with experience in full-stack development and cloud integration using JavaScript, NoSQL and Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Armed with these skills, along with fluency in today's most widely used programming languages, you'll be proficient with software employers use – giving you a critical advantage that can help advance your career.
Aligned with industry standards: SNHU's online CS degree program employs industry-standard software development and testing tools like Eclipse, OpenGL, Cucumber with Maven and Junit testing.
Technology resources: SNHU provides cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
What You'll Learn
- Software project planning
- Portfolio creation and management
- Agile software methodologies
- Full-stack development
- Security mindset
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Concentration Options
Data Analysis
Project Management for STEM
Information Security
Software Engineering
Earn Your Computer Science Degree Online at SNHU
Whether you’re new to the field or looking to build your resume, Southern New Hampshire University’s online BS in Computer Science degree offers a perfect pathway to advance your career.
Computer Science Career Outlook
Earning a bachelor's in computer science will also help prepare you for jobs across a number of different industries and organizations.
Graduates like Michael Richards '23 appreciate all of the career opportunities SNHU's online bachelor's in computer science degree has to offer.
“Now I get to completely change my career. Instead of just making a living, I get to do something I’m passionate about," Richards said.
Our online computer science degree helps you position yourself for roles including:
Software Developer
Be the inspiration behind the next software programs and applications. A bachelor's in computer science can give you the skills you need to learn the programming languages essential for success in the job.
Systems Analyst
Develop the knowledge that lets you create more efficient systems, networks and protocols. Your BS in Computer Science prepares you to work with clients and get to the root of their technology issues.
Software Tester
Seek out bugs and defects in software before larger audiences use your product. An online bachelor's in computer science can position you to join a team that understands the importance of quality assurance.
Full-Stack Developer
Take on both front-end and back-end development when you earn your computer science bachelor's degree. Master techniques and the newest technologies with the skills you'll acquire.
"Computer science is enabling technologies that provide the foundation for advancement across all industries," said Dr. Francis J. Manning III, adjunct faculty and academic partner at SNHU. "These technologies support automation, information security, data analytics and all of the necessary capabilities that enable other industries to continue to advance."
Job Growth and Salary
Prospects for software developer occupations appear promising in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this increased demand is due to a growing need for new mobile-friendly applications, as well as innovative software in the health and medical insurance industries.
Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for software developers is expected to grow much faster than average – about 25% through 2032.1 For those looking to break into the field, the BLS also notes that most workers will need a bachelor's degree at the entry level.1
Salary
Although salaries can vary by region and responsibility, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that software developers earned a median annual salary of $127,260 in 2022.1
Understanding the Numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Computer Science Degree
Why SNHU For Your Computer Science Degree
Admission Requirements
How to Apply
Courses to Prepare You for Your Career
Dr. Sharon Kibbe, Associate Dean of STEM programs at SNHU
"As a part of their coursework, students will develop a digital portfolio of artifacts to demonstrate their technical skills to prospective employers."
Computer Science Courses & Curriculum
SNHU's computer science program is designed to help you gain the skills you need to succeed in the modern workforce — with a career-focused curriculum, affordable tuition and the flexibility you need to fit your degree into your busy life.
120 Credits
8-Week Terms
100% Online
No Set Class Times
Students enrolled in the online computer science degree program at Southern New Hampshire University will have the opportunity to develop critical technical and professional skills through work on authentic, collaborative, industry-specific projects, as well as through the exploration of emerging tools, technologies, and environments in the field of computer science.
The program curriculum will help you gain a solid understanding of fundamental programming techniques, algorithms and data structures, as well as the mathematical computation and quantitative reasoning skills that underpin the work done in the field of computer science.
Instructors with real-world experience in their field will help you build skills you can use immediately in your career. Plus, you'll create a portfolio that showcases your work.
SNHU's BS in Computer Science program includes:
Degree-Specific Courses
The courses in this program prepare the learner for a career in software with relevant and emerging topics in the software industry, such as industry-standard programming languages and tools, operating systems, systems architecture and design, algorithms and data structures, software security concepts, agile team development, mobile and full-stack development. You'll gain the experience required to develop professional programs using the full software team development process with career-focused experience that employers expect.
General Education
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Earn IT Credits
If you've earned IT certifications through organizations like Cisco, CompTIA, (ISC)2 or Oracle, you may be eligible to receive credit toward your degree program. If you’re seeking certification, some IT and computer science courses can help you prepare for specific exams.
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| BS in Computer Science |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| BS in Computer Science Online | ||
| CS 210 | Programming Languages | Students will develop functional programs that comply with industry regulations and best practices using various programming languages. Special attention will be paid to the importance of developing code that is not only functional, but also secure, efficient, and professional. |
| CS 230 | Operating Platforms | Students will develop a deeper understanding of operating platforms and architectures through the analysis and evaluation of the characteristics, advantages, and weaknesses of each. Students will learn the value of utilizing software design templates as well as how to utilize them to solve problems. |
| CS 250 | Software Development Lifecycle | Students will explore the stages of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) through the lens of developers and testers to examine the characteristics, documentation, and purpose of each stage. Through applying SDLC stages within an agile development environment, students will learn the principles and best practices used to develop high quality software while also assessing the impact of communication, documentation, and ethics on the SDLC. |
| CS 255 | System Analysis and Design | Students will explore the principles, methods, and techniques used in systems development so that they can create system models using appropriate industry tools. As a part of creating system models, students will also learn to effectively communicate technical concepts and design decisions to various audiences in a professional manner. |
| CS 305 | Software Security | Through the analysis of advanced security concepts, students will learn how to develop secure code that complies with security testing protocols. In addition to exploring and implementing security concepts through code, students will also learn why and how to apply encryption technologies and techniques to communicate securely. |
| CS 320 | Software Testing, Automation, and Quality Assurance | Students will apply software engineering testing strategies and practices as part of the software development lifecycle, including requirements analysis, verification and validation, and quality management. The creation of unit tests and analysis of various testing approaches will also be covered. |
| CS 330 | Computational Graphics and Visualization | Students will create realistic, interactive three-dimensional objects through the use of application programming interface (API) libraries and best practices. Students will also develop fully formed graphic applications that meet project requirements. |
| CS 340 | Client/Server Development | Students will learn how to apply database systems concepts and principles to develop client/server applications that interface client-side code with databases. |
| CS 360 | Mobile Architecture and Programming | Students will apply mobile development principles and best practices to develop mobile applications using user-centered design principles and industry standards. Upon completion of a fully-functional mobile application, students will conduct security, product assuredness, and compatibility checks before launching the application. |
| CS 370 | Current and Emerging Trends in Computer Science | Students will explore advanced topics in Computer Science through analysis of authentic scenarios. Students will analyze the role of ethics in current trends within the field as well as apply fundamental concepts of the field to solve complex problems in new ways. |
| CS 465 | Full Stack Development I | Students will design and develop a full stack application through the utilization of programming language frameworks. In creating a full stack application, students will also be responsible for developing a database as well as the code that interfaces their application to the database. This course is the first course in a two-course sequence. |
| CS 499 | Computer Science Capstone | Taken in the student's final term, the capstone course is the culminating experience for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Integrate previous coursework and practical experience with a focus on authentic demonstration of competencies outlined by the program. Enhance previously submitted programming projects that demonstrates a level of mastery of the stated outcomes of their degree program in computer science. |
| Total Credits: 120 | ||
Computer Science Technical Requirements
What to Expect as an Online Student
No set class times: Asynchronous classes let you do your coursework when and where you want
Pick your pace: Choose between full time (2 courses) or part time (1 course) each term
Student support: 24/7 access to online student services like the library, tech and academic support
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)as well as several other accrediting bodies.
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $990 | $330 | $9,900 |
| Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $693 | $231 | $6,930 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.*Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional CostsNo Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are computer scientists in demand?
What is the difference between computer science and information technology (IT)?
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What’s the difference between a software developer and a software engineer?
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References
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