The following computer science schools have been ranked according to a matrix using the cost of tuition, graduation rate, and faculty to student ratio. Programs that are more affordable will be ranked higher, programs that have a lower faculty to student ratio and a higher graduation rate will also be ranked higher. Using these numbers we determined the top online associate degree programs in computer science. Every program that made our list is offered in an online delivery method.
Here are the 26 Online Computer Science Associate’s Degree
1. Northwest Iowa Community College Points 11
An affordable college that offers quality programs, Northwest Iowa Community College opened in 1966 and is accredited. One unique and innovative incentive they use to keep students enrolled through graduation is a tuition decrease each semester they remain enrolled. Students can also enroll in one of their online degree programs. The online associate degree in computer science allows students to choose one of three concentrations; programming, networking, or web development programs. Core courses will combine lectures with hands-on experience that builds a students skills and proficiency. Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce at entry level positions or transfer to a larger institution to earn a bachelor’s degree.
At A Glance
- Location: Sheldon, Iowa
- Resident Tuition: $6,240
- Non-Resident Tuition: $6,540
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 13 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 57.7%
2. Hazard Community and Technical College Points 11
A public community college in Kentucky Hazard Community Technical College offers affordable and flexible education opportunities for those seeking certificates or associate degrees. HCTH offers online, hybrid, and in person degree programs to meet the needs of working adults and those that have other obligations that are seeking to earn a degree. HCTC offers an online associate degree in computer science that prepares students to either enter the workforce upon graduation or transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree. Students of this program will take courses in proof techniques, computations, programming, date structures, and more. Out of state residents will pay the same tuition as residents for this online degree program, making it very affordable computer science degree.
At A Glance
- Location: Hazard, Kentucky
- Resident Tuition: $4,368
- Non-Resident Tuition: $14,808
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 17 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 36.9%
3. Panola College Points 11
A public community college, Panola College offers not only an online associate degree in computer science but also multiple certifications online as well. Some of the professional certifications include Adobe CS, CompTIA A+, IC3 as a literary technician, and more. Each course and certification is offered entirely online through Canvas. An important note is that the exams must be proctored at a designated location within their hometown. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. Online learners have access to many online resources such as elibrary, support services, and more.
At A Glance
- Location: Carthage, Texas
- Resident Tuition: $3,432
- Non-Resident Tuition: $4,368
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 28.6%
4. Thomas Edison State University Points 9
A public institution that offers primarily online education for working professionals, Thomas Edison State University helps adult learners advance their careers through increased learning as well as personal fulfillment. Students can accelerate their degree through learning assessment, credit transfer, and credit-bearing exams. Those seeking the online associate degree in computer science will find that it has a strong liberal arts background designed to allow the student to transfer to a bachelor’s program. Students will participate in 16 credits of science electives where students can customize their degree with science courses. Those applying ust be 20 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. The only exception are those on active military duty, they can apply at 18.
At A Glance
- Location: Trenton, New JErsey
- Resident Tuition: $7,926
- Non-Resident Tuition: $9,856
- Faculty to Student Ratio:15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 41.5%
5. Weber State University Points 9
An accredited public institution for higher learning, Weber State University has been instructing students and awarding degrees and certificates since 1889. Weber State offers one of the most affordable online associate’s degrees in computer science. Students will complete 63 credit hours that prepare them to enter the workforce. Students will learn fundamental skills of programming, computing, object-oriented programming, and computational structure. Weber State aims to serve the working adults with multiple flexible learning options from online, to weekend, to evening courses to help meet their needs. Most of the students of Weber State work and attend school part time.
At A Glance
- Location: Ogden, Utah
- Resident Tuition: $5,986
- Non-Resident Tuition: $15,969
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 21 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 39.1%
6. Franklin University Points 9
A private institution founded in 1902, Franklin University has expanded to have over 25 centers of learning across the Midwest and a robust online program. Students desiring to earn an associate degree online will find a fundamental computer science program that emphasizes software development. Admitted students will complete general coursework in writing, learning strategies, interpersonal communication and possible math. Students that do not meet the basic algebra requirements will need to complete a course or two in algebra prior to core courses. Core purses are real world based courses taught by faculty who are experts and actively involved in their field.
At A Glance
- Location: Columbus, Ohio
- Resident Tuition: $9,577
- Non-Resident Tuition: $9,577
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 11 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 33.2%
7. Western Nebraska Community College Points 9
Western Nebraska Community College is a public community college that operates three campuses in Nebraska and brings quality affordable education to many. Those seeking online or hybrid education opportunities will find many certificate and degree programs from Western Nebraska Community College. Those seeking to earn an associate degree in computer science can pursue that program online and will have a foundation for a bachelor’s degree. Students will take courses in computer engineering, computer programming, and similar programs. Students will learn the basics of programming languages and database management. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
At A Glance
- Location: Scottsbluff, Nebraska
- Resident Tuition: $2,916
- Non-Resident Tuition: $2,940
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 13 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 22.4%
8. Ulster County Community College Points 9
A member of the State University of New York system, Ulster County Community College is a public community college that operates two campuses as well as online programs. Ulster enrolls close to 3,500 students each year in their affordable certificate and degree programs. One popular online degree program is the associate degree in computer science that prepares students to either enter the workforce or transfer to a four year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree in a similar field. This program requires 62 credit hours and is offered in a flexible online format. Students will take courses in programming, object-oriented programming, information literacy theory and discrete mathematics.
At A Glance
- Location: Stone Ridge, New York
- Resident Tuition: $5,540
- Non-Resident Tuition: $10,220
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 20 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 29.8%
9. Anne Arundel Community College Points 9
Anne Arundel Community College is a public accredited community college that has won various awards over the years. More recently Anne Arundel Community College has extended its quality certificate and degree programs to an innovative online format. Students seeking to earn an associate degree in computer science will find the online program to include programming and software development courses. This degree is meant to be a springboard to help students transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in the same or related field.
At A Glance
- Location: Arnold, Maryland
- Resident Tuition: $8,240
- Non-Resident Tuition: $13,160
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 17 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 30.6%
10. Wake Technical Community College Points 9
A public community college with multiple locations throughout Wake county, Wake Technical Community College offers affordable in demand degrees. Students can also earn degrees through online programs that are innovative and flexible to meet the needs of adult learners and those with other personal obligations. It is the largest community college in North Carolina with over 70,000 students enrolling either in person or online. Students seeking to earn an associate degree in computer science will complete a 65 credit hour program with courses in Python, Java, C++ and software development. Graduates can either enter the workforce or transfer to a four year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the same or similar field.
At A Glance
- Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
- Resident Tuition: $2,768
- Non-Resident Tuition: $8,912
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 18 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 15.9%
11. Ivy Tech Community College Points 9
Ivy Tech Community College is the community college system of Indiana and has been offering affordable career training and degree programs since 1960. Whether students attend in person or online they can be assured that they will receive an innovative and current education in many in-demand fields. Students seeking ana associate degree in computer science will find they can earn this degree fully online in about 4 semesters. The entire program is 60 credit hours and students will take courses in programming, database system management, calculus, and discrete logic for computers.
At A Glance
- Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
- Resident Tuition: $4,500
- Non-Resident Tuition: $8,661
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 16 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 13.1%
12. Cochise College Points 9
A public institution for higher learning, Cochise College has ranked among the top 150 best community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute. Cochise operates two campuses and three centers as well as an online program. Students seeking to earn an associate degree online will find a quality program at Cochise that will prepare them to either enter the workforce or transfer to a four year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree. Students of this program will complete 64 credit hours and participate in courses like Linux and information security.
At A Glance
- Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona
- Resident Tuition: $2,112
- Non-Resident Tuition: $6,240
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 16 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 10.8%
13. Northern Essex Community College Points 9
A public community college, Northern Essex Community College serves two counties and operates two campuses as well as an online program that students can enroll in. Students enrolled in the online associate degree in computer science will learn the basics of IT and computer science. Students will participate in courses of hardware and software applications, information security data structures, interactive media programming, and computer networks. Students learn how each component and application relates to other components in the network. Graduates are prepared to transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree in the same or similar field. Applicants will need to submit a high school diploma or GED.
At A Glance
- Location: Haverhill, Massachusetts
- Resident Tuition: $5,280
- Non-Resident Tuition: $10,064
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 20 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 28%
14. Bristol Community College Points 9
A public community college, Bristol Community College offers full degree and certificate programs online as well as some hybrid programs. Students pursuing an online associate degree program in computer science will have a seamless transfer to the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth if they choose to continue their education. The program provides courses in technical writing, calculus, and discrete structures. Students will also take general courses in history, science, and humanities. Core courses include programming, software specifications and design as well as object oriented programming.
At A Glance
- Location: Fall River, Massachusetts
- Resident Tuition: $5,018
- Non-Resident Tuition: $9,962
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 28%
15. Jamestown Community College Points 9
A public community college, Jamestown Community College operates a main campus, three extension centers, and a robust online program. Students that enroll in the online associate degree in computer science program will have a solid foundation to transfer to a four year college to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Students of this program will learn about computer hardware and software. Basic LAN, writing computer programs, object oriented programming, and basics of writing software programs. Most students can complete the program in two years. Students must meet the placement requirements for this program or they will need to take courses to help them have the foundational skills.
At A Glance
- Location: Jamestown, New York
- Resident Tuition: $6,100
- Non-Resident Tuition: $11,140
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 36.1%
16. Georgia Military College Points 9
A public Military-focused institution, Georgia Military College is a unique institution that provides education at the secondary levels for middle school, high school, and junior college levels. The online campus serves approximately 1,000 students per year in their online degree and certificate programs. Those seeking an associate degree in computer science will participate in object oriented programming with both Java and Python programming languages, software development, and date structures. Graduates have a solid foundation for transferring to a four year college to complete their computer science degree and earn a bachelor’s degree.
At A Glance
- Location: Millidgeville, Georgia
- Resident Tuition: $6,525
- Non-Resident Tuition: $6.525
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 20 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 25.2%
17. Central Texas College Points 9
A community college founded in Texas in 1965, Central Texas College has expanded to offer many locations and branches including one in Europe. The online associate degree in computer science is 60 credit hours. Students have four choices of concentrations to pick from; information security, information technology, network systems administrator, or programmer analyst. First year courses are similar general courses while the second year students will take courses specific to their concentration. Students gain real world experience as each student is required to participate in a 4 credit internship in their field of study. CTC is also a military friendly institution.
At A Glance
- Location: Killeen, Texas
- Resident Tuition: $3,390
- Non-Resident Tuition: $7,050
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 17 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 4.7%
18. Park University Points 8
A private university, Park University enrolls more that 16,000 students across two campuses, 41 satellite regional centers, and online. Park University is a four year institution that awards degrees and certificates at the associate and bachelor’s levels. Students seeking an associate degree in computer science online will complete 60 credit hours that will include python programming language, data management, and information systems management. Students participating in their degree are strongly encouraged to participate in an internship to utilize their knowledge and gain necessary real world skills.
At A Glance
- Location: Parkville, Missouri
- Resident Tuition: $11,190
- Non-Resident Tuition: $11,190
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 29.1%
19. South Texas College Points 7
South Texas College offers 120 associate degree and certificate programs as well as a handful of bachelor’s degrees. At an affordable cost and accredited degree programs from South Texas provide a great career starting point or a springboard as a transfer degree. The computer science degree will develop and help students obtain skills and best practices for careers or further studies in computer science and computer information systems. To complete the program students will need to complete 60 credit hours. This degree program is available online.
At A Glance
- Location: Mc Allen, Texas
- Resident Tuition: $8,160 for two year online program
- Non-Resident Tuition: $8,160 for two year online program
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 23 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 24.9%
20. Ocean County Community College Points 7
Ocean County Community College operates a main campus in Toms River and multiple others throughout the Oceans County. Nearly 25% of the 13,000 students enrolled are earning their degrees or certificates online. Students seeking to earn their associate degree in computer science online will be prepared with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to transfer to a bachelor’s degree in computer science. The computer science degree is 60 credit hours that will focus on programming, computer architecture, data structures and systems analysis. OCCC uses an open door admissions policy. Students must have a high school transcript or GED.
At A Glance
- Location: Toms River, New Jersey
- Resident Tuition: $5,115 Per Semester
- Non-Resident Tuition: $7,695
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 25 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 37.4%
21. Bucks County Community College Points 7
Bucks County Community College is a public two year institution with three campuses and an online program. The online programs are delivered asynchronously, meaning students can access coursework 24/7. The online associate degree in computer science will require students to complete 62 credit hours as they study database design, application development, basic programming, and calculus. Graduates are prepared to transfer to a bachelor’s degree and enter upper division coursework. With an open enrollment policy all students with a high school diploma or GED are admitted.
At A Glance
- Location: Newton, Pennsylvania
- Resident Tuition: $9,098
- Non-Resident Tuition: $13,298
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 15 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 20.9%
22. Palomar College Points 7
A public college in San Diego County, Palomar College operates three centers and four education sites as well as a large online program. The online associate degree offered by Palomar College helps students gain a foundation in both hardware and software solutions using algorithms, programming languages, and software applications. Students will participate in courses that cover programming languages, computer architecture, data structures, and object oriented programming. Students also have many elective course offerings that include Android programming, iOS development, video game development, and more. Students can either transfer to a four year college and earn their bachelor’s or enter the workforce.
At A Glance
- Location: San Marcos, California
- Resident Tuition: $1,338
- Non-Resident Tuition: $8.898
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 26 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 20.6%
23. West Los Angeles College Points 7
A member of the California Community College system and accredited, West Los Angeles College is a public two year community college that provides opportunities to enter the workforce or transfer to a university. Students seeking to earn an associate degree in computer science can do so online. This program is a 60 credit hour program that includes database programming as well as network operating systems. Students can also take advantage of the career center where they can get help building their resumes and preparing for thier careers.
At A Glance
- Location: Culver City, California
- Resident Tuition: $1,220
- Non-Resident Tuition: $8,110
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 26 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 12.8%
24. Trinity Valley Community College Points 5
Trinity Valley Community College operates a main campus in Athens, Texas as well as three satellite locations in addition to their robus online programs. Approximately 1,600 students pursue a degree or certificate online from TVCC. Students seeking to earn an associate degree in computer science from TVCC will find a 60 credit hour program available entirely online. Students will establish a solid foundation in fundamental concepts of programming, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. With an open admissions policy students can enroll with a high school transcript or GED. There is program placement exams available for those seeking degrees.
At A Glance
- Location: Athens, Texas
- Resident Tuition: $4,920 Per Semester
- Non-Resident Tuition: $5,270 Per Semester
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 22 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 24.2%
25. Montgomery County Community College Points 5
Montgomery County Community College offers over 100 quality certificates and associate degrees across the central campus, west campus, culinary arts institute and through its virtual campus for distance learners. The online associate degree in computer science consists of 61 credit hours covering topics in data structure, algorithms, programming concepts, and database management systems. Students seeking to transfer to a four year institution to earn their bachelor’s can do so seamlessly to an institution in the Pennsylvania state system. Students applying will need to submit their high school transcripts and take placement exams.
At A Glance
- Location: Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
- Resident Tuition: $10,350
- Non-Resident Tuition: $14,970
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 16 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 9.7%
26. Montgomery College Points 5
Montgomery College is a public community college in Maryland with three campuses and online programs. Over 20,000 students enroll each year to take courses and earn degrees or certificates from Montgomery College. Students can earn associate degrees fully online, of those degree options in their online associate degree in computer science. The computer science degree program is designed for students that plan to transfer to a bachelor;d program in computer science or related field. Graduates will show proficiency in a programming language, object-oriented design, and computer algorithms. All high school graduates are admitted, though students will need to take a placement exam.
At A Glance
- Location: Rockville, Maryland
- Resident Tuition: $10,254
- Non-Resident Tuition: $14,034
- Faculty to Student Ratio: 18 to 1
- Financial Aid: Yes
- Graduation Rate: 17.3%
