Online Computer Science Degree Programs & Schools

General Information About Computer Science Degree Programs

The ability to analyze and design new computer systems and complex software programs cannot be disputed. Computer science professionals are crucial in nearly every field. Everything the average person can do with todayís user-friendly computers is dwarfed by the capabilities of a skilled computer science with the right program in his hands. A degree in computer science provides knowledge that can far outweigh the cost of any program.

Computer Science Degree Study Options

A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science will require four years of intensive study, including many computer courses as well as heavy math and science courses in the curriculum. Students learning computer science will have to be committed to the discipline in order to maximize the value of the education they will receive. Students may get associate degrees or certification in computer science. This will make them eligible for certain entry-level positions in computer science, but their options and capabilities may be somewhat limited until they pursue a four year degree.

Advanced Computer Science Degrees

Students who pursue advanced degrees in computer science will naturally increase their job prospects. A masters degree and a record of high-level performance and ability in the computer science field is usually sufficient for a top computer science career.

Master Of Science Degree In Computer Science

Students who already possess a bachelor's degree in computer science can pursue a Master of Science degree online or at a physical university. Students will generally focus on one specific area of computer science, be it computer graphics, human-computer interaction, scientific computing, artificial intelligence or some other area they may encounter over their course of study. Which specialization they choose will depend on what path their career will take, but almost every computer science specialization has lucrative career options.

Further Education In Computer Science

Truly ambitious students may opt for a Ph.D. in Computer Science or a Ph.D. in Informational Science. While many high-paying computer science jobs will not require a doctorate, computer scientists who wish to teach or to obtain research funding will often need doctoral training in order to achieve their goals.

Choosing A Degree In Computer Science

Those looking for a new career path who have some aptitude with computers should give serious consideration to a computer science degree. Computers are ubiquitous in every industry, and individuals who know how to maximize the potential of computers and computer software are in high demand. Employers know that the right computer science professional can significantly increase efficiency and the bottom line for their companies, and that is a service many are willing to pay extremely well for.

Career Opportunities In Computer Science

Computer scientists can work in supervisory control and data acquisition, the science of using robots and computers to collect data and do work in areas where it is unsafe or inefficient for humans to go. They can also work in various multimedia applications, in telecommunications, to help manage computer networks, to manage business applications, to do private or public research and for general data management. Many computer scientists find positions in the private sector for both startup businesses and major corporations, while others may find work in the military or government.

Earning Potential For Computer Science Careers

Like computer programmers, a well-trained, skilled computer scientist can command an impressive salary. In 2006, the median salary of computer and information scientists in research was $93,950 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median earnings of database administrators was $64,670 and network systems and data communication analysts, $64,600.

Getting Your Computer Science Degree Online

A wide variety of computer science degrees are available online. You can get an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems in only two years, which will give you the basic technical computer knowledge for entry-level computer science positions. You can get a Bachelors of Science in Information Technology, Software Development or Computer Systems in four years. You can get certified as an Internet or website developer. You can do all of this without ever leaving your home, allowing you to increase your earning power while maintaining your current obligations.

Getting Your Computer Science Degree Offline

A computer science degree from an accredited university or college can be the gateway to a very bright future, especially if your school has a top computer science program. You should look for programs that have comprehensive computer laboratories and professors who are well established in their particular computer science discipline. Getting a computer science degree, especially a higher degree such as a Master of Science or doctorate, will require a great deal of time and effort, but you will also reap great rewards with the challenging and prosperous career options you will open yourself up to.

Online Computer Science Degree FAQs

What Are the Educational Requirements for a Career in Computer Science?

Jobs in the computer science field require a bachelor's degree at minimum. There are some assistant or entry-level jobs available for those with an associate's degree in computer science, but overall, if you are looking for a career in computer science, you need to earn a degree. Many traditional colleges and online schools offer a bachelor's in computer science, so you can choose which type of learning environment suits your needs.

How Do I Become a Computer Science Specialist?

Becoming a computer specialist is essentially down to the individual, as an appreciation for technology is needed. Working in the computer and technology industry is best for someone with an intimate understanding of the way technology works, as well as someone who pays close attention to detail and enjoys analyzing and solving problems.

Computer science students will be applying models, explaining algorithms and choosing the right programming language to implement development requirements and limits. A strong background in math is also useful.

What Can I Do with a Computer Science Degree?

Students who graduate with a degree in computer science have a number of career opportunities in various technological and computer-related fields. Some possible choices include working for software publishers and finance services, as well as designing computer systems and programming consultation. Computer engineering is another option, along with systems analysts, database administration and networking.

As you take classes online for your computer science degree, think about which area of expertise you prefer. Computer science is a broad subject, so choosing a specialty will make it easier to find a job and utilize your skills.

What Is the Job Outlook for Computer Science?

Computer science is one of the fastest growing occupational fields. Employment for computer specialists will continue to expand as organizations adopt and incorporate sophisticated technology into their businesses.

Why Would Someone Take Online Computer Science Classes?

Although many people are interested in learning more about computer science, some may not have the time or resources to attend a brick-and-mortar educational institution. More than ever, reputable colleges and universities are creating respected online programs specifically for working adults who want to advance academically. With online degree programs, students can choose flexible class schedules and more one-on-one instruction, all while receiving the same quality education as any other place.

Related Computer Science Information

• Online Bachelor Computer Science Degree Programs

Introduction

Computer science is the overarching title attributed to the discipline of utilizing computation and information in computer systems. Whereas computer programmers create source code and use programming language to make software, the computer scientist uses these software applications for practical purposes and to understand and utilize computational systems.

Computer Science Books

To master computer science, you will have to do a lot of reading on the subject. While your specific program may recommend certain computer science books to you, you will do well to read as many of the best computer science books as you can get your hands on. Some good texts to start with include 'The C Programming Language' by Brian W. Kernighan, 'C++ Primer' by Stanley B. Lippman, 'Introduction to Algorithms' by Thomas H. Cormen, 'Introduction to the Theory of Computation' by Michael Sipser and 'Concrete Mathematics, a Foundation for Computer Science' by Ronald L. Graham. Places to find computer science books online include Amazon.com, FreeTechBooks.com and your school library website.

Computer Science Articles And Databases

A terrific source of computer science articles is the Citeseer.Continuity database. This database lists all the most cited articles in computer science from 2006 back to 1990, so you have a great chance of finding the article you need, whether it be for research, information or to verify a theory. The database, is updated on a regular basis.

Online Computer Science Journals

Of course, most of the key computer science articles will be found in leading computer science journals. There is no shortage of computer science journals out there, many of which may be accessible through your school libraryís web page, the web pages of other libraries or through other computer science resources online. Some of these include Artificial Intelligence, Computer Graphics, IEEE Transactions on Evolutionary Computation, the Journal of Web Semantics and Logical Methods in Computer Science.

External Links and Resources

Online Computer Science News

• SIAM News
  "SIAM exists to ensure the strongest interactions between mathematics and other scientific and technological communities through membership activities, publication of journals and books, and conferences."
• MIT News
  Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Computer Science and Technology news page.
• Computer Science News
  "News on Computer Science continually updated from thousands of sources around the net." at topix.com.
• Science Daily
  "ScienceDaily is one of the Internet's leading online magazines and Web portals devoted to science, technology, and medicine."

Online Journals and Journal Databases

Journal of Artificial Intelligence Research
"JAIR covers all areas of artificial intelligence (AI), publishing refereed research articles, survey articles, and technical notes."

Journal of Machine Learning Research
"The Journal of Machine Learning Research (JMLR) provides an international forum for the electronic and paper publication of high-quality scholarly articles in all areas of machine learning. All published papers are freely available online."

International Journal on Artificial Intelligence Tools
The International Journal on Artificial Intelligence Tools (IJAIT) provides an interdisciplinary forum in which AI scientists and professionals can share their research results and report new advances on AI tools or tools that use AI.

On Line Index of Artificial Intelligence Journals
A large database listing artificial intelligence journal, at Iowa State Univeristy.

Journal of Web Semantics: Preprints Server
The preprint server for the Journal of Web Semantics.

Logical Methods in Computer Science
A free open access journal that provides access to papers on theoretical and practical areas in computer science involving logical methods.

Directory of Open Access Journals
"The aim of the Directory of Open Access Journals is to increase the visibility and ease of use of open access scientific and scholarly journals thereby promoting their increased usage and impact."

Math Resources

The Mathematical Atlas
"This is a collection of short articles designed to provide an introduction to the areas of modern mathematics and pointers to further information, as well as answers to some common questions."

Wolfram Mathworld
"MathWorldTM is the web's most extensive mathematical resource, provided as a free service to the world's mathematics and internet communities as part of a commitment to education and educational outreach by Wolfram Research, makers of Mathematica."

Resources for Discrete Mathematics and Theoretical Computer Science
"Center for Discrete Mathematics & Theoretical Computer Science Founded as a National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center"

Scientific Computing and Numerical Analysis FAQ
"Scientific Computing and Numerical Analysis FAQ This is a summary of Internet-related resources for a handful of fields related to Scientific Computing."

Elementary Computer Mathematics
"This hypertextbook is an introduction to the mathematics used in the design of computer and network hardware and software."

Computational Geometry Pages
The Computational Geometry Pages is a comprehensive directory of computational geometry resources, on and off the Internet.

Applied Mathematics
"A resource on applied mathematics, with links to other resources on advanced math"

Programming Language

The Genetic Programming Tutorial
A genetic programming tutorial at the genetic tutorial notebook.

A Gentle Introduction to Haskell
An introduction to Haskell written as a supplement to the Haskell Report.

A Gentle Introduction to Extreme Programming
A written introduction to extreme programming. The entire site is available for download.

Object Oriented Programming in Eiffel
"This page is provided for anyone who is interested in learning Object-Oriented Programming in Eiffel."

An Overview of Cryptography
"This paper has two major purposes. The first is to define some of the terms and concepts behind basic cryptographic methods, and to offer a way to compare the myriad cryptographic schemes in use today. The second is to provide some real examples of cryptography in use today."

Programming Language Research
"A collection of information and resources for research in programming language theory, design, implementation, and related areas."

Web Developers Virtual Library
A virtual library with articles on subjects relevant to web developers.

Educational Resources for the Electronics Engineering Community
TechOnline is a design and engineering resource for engineers and engineering managers involved in the electronics sector.

Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs
"This book is one of a series of texts written by faculty of the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology."

C/C++ Resources
"This is a list of a few C and C++ language tutorials available to a user. This list will include interactive tutorials, public-domain code collections, books etc."

Webster - The place on the internet to learn assembly
"Webster is one of the most popular destinations for individuals wanting to learn 80x86 assembly language programming."

Computer Programming Algorithms Directory
A directory of computer programming algorithm links.

Free Computer Books Online
A site which lists free computer books, some which are available for download. For other free computer and programming books can be found at onlinecomputerbooks.com and programmingebooks.tk

Research Tools

Advanced Computing Systems - Compendium of Best Papers
"Over the past decade, the Program Committees from many of the USENIX conferences and workshops have given out Best Paper, Best Student Paper, and Best Presentation awards. ... Following is a list of these awards, with links to the papers."

Help on how to conduct a Computer Science Research Project
"This page was designed to provide computer science students with basic tips and tricks for their research project."

Research Methods in Computer Science
"The course will present a model of the "research lifecycle" that provides an organizing framework for research problems and research methods."

Ritter's Crypto Glossary and Dictionary of Technical Cryptography
A dictionary on cryptography words and terms.

The Collection of Computer Science Bibliographies
"This is a collection of bibliographies of scientific literature in computer science from various sources, covering most aspects of computer science."

Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures
"This is a dictionary of algorithms, algorithmic techniques, data structures, archetypal problems, and related definitions."

Fortran Library
"A free technical programming resource, with user submitted content."

The Online Books Page
"The Online Books Page is a website that facilitates access to books that are freely readable over the Internet. It also aims to encourage the development of such online books, for the benefit and edification of all."

Webopedia; Online Computer Dictionary
"Webopedia is a free online dictionary for words, phrases and abbreviations that are related to computer and Internet technology. "

Ritter's Crypto Glossary and Dictionary of Technical Cryptograph
A huge glossary of technical cryptography. There are also some great guides and tutorials and introduction iv you navigate around the site.

Writing in Computer Science Guides

• How to Organize your Thesis
• How to write a PdD Thesis
• How To Write A Dissertation
• Graduate study in the Computer and Mathematical Sciences

Organizations, Associations & Societies

• The Computing Research Association
  (www.cra.org)
• Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics
  (www.siam.org)
• American Mathematical Society
  (www.e-math.ams.org)
• IEEE Computer Society
  (www.computer.org)
• Association for Computing Machinery
  (www.acm.org)
• MIT Computer Science and AI laboratory
  (www.csail.mit.edu)
• The Data Management Association International
  (www.dama.org)
• Scholarly Societies Project
  (www.scholarly-societies.org)
• Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence
  (www.aaai.org)

History of Computer Science

Computers: From past to present
An online lecture about the history of computing, ranging from Shamans counting the months of the year to the basic workings of a web server.

The Virtual Museum of Computing
A huge list of 600+ historical resources related to Computers and Computer Science.

A Critical History of Computer Graphics and Animation
A site that takes you through the history of Computer Graphics and Animation, divided in 20 sections

Computer History Museum
"The mission of the Computer History Museum is to preserve and present for posterity the artifacts and stories of the information age. As such, the Museum plays a unique role in the history of the computing revolution and its worldwide impact on the human experience."

Multimedia

Animations to Assist Learning some Key Computer Science Topics
"The purpose of the work presented herein is to provide multimedia course material with animations to assist learning some key Computer Science topics on the World Wide Web."

Introduction to Computers at Berkeley.edu
A video introduction to computers and digital technology and culture, available for streaming or download.

Computer Science 1
A freshman computer science seminar divided in 10 lectures presented at the UCLA Office of Intructional Development. Available for streaming and download.

Computer Aided Instruction Project
"This site contains interactive tutorials for Java, MIPS assembly language, vector algebra for computer graphics, and some other topics."

Other Resources

A Graduate School Survival Guide
"A computer science graduate school survival guide, intended for prospective or novice graduate students."

Computer Science Career Guide
"TExplore careers in Computer Science with the following links to job descriptions, which include information such as daily activities, skill requirements, salary and training required."

Dr Dobbs Electronic Review of Computer Books
This site contains links to computer and computer science book reviews.

List of 200 wikipedia articles on Computer Science
A list of around 200 wikipedia articles on different related computer science topics.

Mathematics & Computer Science at SCU
"Resources for Employment, Internships, Careers after College" at Santa Clara University.

Other Pages Related to Computer Science

Table of Contents

• General Links & Resources
• CS Depts. & Tech. Colleges
• Digital Library
• Programming Languages
• Artificial Intelligence
• Internet Studies
• History Computers/Internet
• Women in Computer Science

See Also

• Engineering
• Information Science
• Linguistics
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Science & Technology