2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Computer Science
Compare the cheapest online master's in computer science programs with tuition data manually verified by our researchers.
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Ready to go deeper in tech? An affordable online master's in computer science gives you the advanced expertise to tackle complex problems, lead bigger projects, and compete for the roles you really want and on a schedule that works for you.
Key Takeaways:
- At just $3,375 annually for a two-year program, it is not only the cheapest option on the page, but it also posts a median salary of $179,712 — more than $60K higher than the next reported salary outcome.
- East Carolina ($4,155), Fitchburg State ($4,174), West Florida ($4,250), and North Carolina A&T ($4,680) all keep annual tuition under $5K, showing how aggressively some public universities are pricing online CS degrees to compete nationally.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Computer Science
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology | $3,375 | $3,375 | 95% | $179,712 | |
| East Carolina University | $4,155 | $15,660 | 92% | N/A | |
| Fitchburg State University | $4,174 | $4,174 | 91% | N/A | |
| The University of West Florida | $4,250 | $4,250 | 85% | $106,161 | |
| North Carolina A&T State University | $4,680 | $15,966 | 90% | N/A | |
| Kennesaw State University | $5,895 | $5,895 | 89% | $98,191 | |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $6,666 | $6,666 | 93% | N/A | |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | $6,700 | $6,700 | 95% | $117,171 | |
| University of Missouri | $7,166 | $7,166 | 98% | N/A | |
| Indiana State University | $7,623 | $9,949 | 91% | N/A | |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | $8,340 | $8,340 | 75% | N/A | |
| North Carolina State University | $8,809 | $27,149 | 95% | N/A | |
| University of West Georgia | $9,136 | $9,136 | 83% | N/A | |
| University of Idaho | $9,270 | $25,305 | 79% | N/A | |
| The University of Tennessee - Chattanooga | $9,636 | $10,444 | 100% | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is the #1 cheapest online computer science master's degree in the U.S. based on annual, in-state tuition ($3,375).
- When Georgia Tech launched OMSCS in 2014, it took a genuine risk in testing whether a high-volume, low-cost online model could match the employer credibility of a traditional elite residential program. Over a decade later, with more than 60,000 applications and 12,000 graduates earning the identical M.S. credential as on-campus students, OMSCS stands as concrete proof that elite graduate education can scale globally without an academic trade-off.
- Student reviews we've collected consistently highlight a strong peer network, including global Discord and Slack communities, collaborative troubleshooting, and professional referrals among students already embedded across the tech industry.
7 Student Reviews for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
Genuinely, truly excited with the material and programs on offer. Of the entire nation, they're not only among the few to offer a Computer Graphics concentration, but it's also available online.
It's incredibly affordable (> 2k per term/course), the material... Read More
With a large alumni network, 100% recommend if you're looking to elevate your career.
The OMSC program is a solid, well thought out program. Class offerings are significantly limited to what you would get on the actual campus but the price for the program is extremely affordable in comparison to a typical cost for a post graduate degree... Read More
In my experience, most classes are high quality and very robust. Most can be quite difficult and will take a huge time commitment. Some other classes are not quite as high quality and will essentially throw you to the wolves with little to no help. Keeping interest in those classes is at times harder than the material itself. Overall, I would recommend the school to anyone looking for continued education.
Georgia Tech did an amazing job at teaching the fundamentals of computer science, as well as preparing me for my career in software engineering. I could have not have asked for a better foundation. It also set me up with real-world experience, which is... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviewers describe Georgia Tech as academically demanding, career-oriented, and highly respected, with many saying the rigor translated into internships, strong job prospects, practical problem-solving skills, and long-term professional credibility. Many also valued the Atlanta location, hands-on projects, research exposure, extracurriculars, and friendships formed through a close-knit but ambitious culture. Common frustrations center on intense workload, uneven teaching quality, limited support in some large or online classes, and concerns that certain nontechnical paths receive fewer resources or weaker career alignment. Several also mention high living costs, occasional safety concerns, expensive tuition, and a stressful, sometimes isolating environment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 23,677 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $179,712
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 94%
- Retention Rate: 98%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- ECU backs its curriculum with serious hardware, including an IBM cluster with 128 Xeon nodes, an Nvidia DGX Station with V100 GPUs, and dedicated cognitive computing and data analytics labs. For students targeting machine learning, cloud systems, or computational research, that infrastructure transforms ECU from a bare-bones online option into a genuinely hands-on technical program.
- Students can choose among thesis, project, and coursework-only tracks, which means the degree can serve several different goals, including preparation for doctoral study, an applied portfolio-style project, or a more direct path to completing the credential while working.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray East Carolina University as a largely positive, career-oriented experience shaped by supportive professors, practical coursework, and a campus culture that feels bigger than expected yet still personal. Students frequently praise responsive faculty, strong advising in some departments, abundant clubs, and flexible online options that work well for employed or nontraditional learners. Many say internships, research, and hands-on learning improved job readiness. Repeated drawbacks include inconsistent advising, uneven department quality, safety concerns, limited post-graduation support in certain areas, and online formats that can feel self-taught, fast-paced, or burdened by proctored exams, rigid group work, and occasional unclear communication.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 3,497 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 83%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Fitchburg State's computer science master's has concentrations in Data Science and Cybersecurity, which are uniquely designed for students both inside and outside traditional computing disciplines.
- This program has a six-year completion window. This way, online students are allowed to slow down, step away temporarily, or progress unevenly without the program collapsing around them. It feels more realistic in terms of how adult career transitions actually happen, which is often inconsistently, gradually, and often while balancing full-time employment.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Fitchburg State University are largely favorable, with praise centered on knowledgeable, supportive professors, small classes, and strong value for the cost. Many reviewers say the campus’s smaller size makes it easy to build relationships, get involved, and access resources, while updated facilities and walkability add convenience. Several mention rigorous, practical coursework that builds career-ready skills, especially through hands-on assignments, writing, and professional preparation. The main criticisms focus on uneven advising, poor cross-office communication, limited upper-level course variety, and occasional scheduling gaps. Some also cite safety concerns in the surrounding area, lighter local entertainment options, and mixed career payoff depending on field.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,317 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 69%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is a low-cost CS master’s online that's built around applied computing systems, like software engineering, data analytics, cloud/high-performance computing, machine learning, and large-scale data processing.
- The curriculum keeps the broader computer science frame, but the actual specialization choices point students toward two practical technical lanes, which is building modern software systems or extracting insight from large data sets.
- Course examples such as Agile Software Engineering, Continuous Software Engineering, Data Mining, and Advanced Big Data Analytics using Hadoop, Spark, and MapReduce make the program feel more tied to workplace computing environments than some other peers on this list.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of West Florida are broadly positive, driven by high marks for small classes, approachable professors, and flexible online formats that help those balancing full-time work. Many describe a friendly, personal environment where faculty, advisors, and support staff are accessible, and the campus is scenic, quiet, and community-oriented. Affordability and practical preparation also stand out. Criticism centers on inconsistent advising, limited scholarships and funding, aging facilities, parking, and restricted course availability in some areas. Several negative reviews cite unresponsive or rude faculty, confusing policy changes, outdated materials, and online courses that felt self-taught, overly demanding, or poorly supported.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 4,165 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $106,161
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 89%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The faculty research areas in the computer science department highlight work in cybersecurity, AI, trustworthy cloud computing, multiagent systems, high-performance computing, and virtual reality, with funding tied to agencies like NSF, NSA, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy. This demonstrates how the department is participating in larger national computing and security ecosystems.
- NC A&T is an HBCU a longstanding institutional reputation as a major producer of Black engineers and technical professionals in the United States. Student reviews we've collected repeatedly describe the university experience as identity-shaping, confidence-building, and community-oriented, with strong references to mentorship, belonging, and personal transformation.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe North Carolina A&T as a supportive, career-focused institution with a strong sense of family, pride, and tradition. Many reviewers praise attentive professors, open-door advising, and alumni involvement that extends beyond graduation. Students often say the campus culture, events, and community engagement made the experience transformative, while coursework and internships helped them feel prepared for jobs and further study. Several note useful resources, updated facilities, and strong employment outcomes. Criticism is limited but notable: some mention outdated teaching, uneven quality in introductory classes, long program length, large classes, limited online offerings, resource gaps, higher out-of-state costs, and concerns about the surrounding area.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 667 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 78%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Kennesaw State University are generally positive, with many describing caring, knowledgeable professors, practical instruction, and flexible online options that work well for people balancing jobs or family responsibilities. Students frequently praise approachable faculty, career-focused teaching, strong facilities, and a welcoming campus that still feels personal despite growth. Several also value clubs, research access, study-abroad opportunities, and useful professional networking. Criticism centers on rapid expansion outpacing infrastructure: parking shortages, limited class availability, inconsistent advising, financial aid confusion, and administrative errors. A smaller but notable group felt career services, online course quality, and student support were uneven or impersonal.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
The best part about my graduate program is the opportunity to grow and continue to learn.
- Graduate Online: 2,903 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $98,191
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 77%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Texas at Austin are broadly favorable, driven by strong ratings and repeated praise for rigorous academics, respected faculty, and abundant opportunities in research, internships, clubs, and career networking. Many reviewers say the large campus ultimately feels smaller once they find communities, mentors, or niche groups, and Austin meaningfully enhances the experience through culture, food, music, and access to jobs. Common drawbacks center on bureaucracy, inconsistent advising, large lower-level classes, limited personalization, financial aid frustrations, safety and transportation concerns, and some programs feeling overly theoretical, underfunded, disorganized, or less career-applicable without internships.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
It is a great college to promote research and higher knowledge
My university is academically diverse. It has quality degree programs that will thoroughly prepare graduates to succeed in their respective fields.
- Graduate Online: 12 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 97%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray UIS as a generally well-regarded option for people who value affordability, flexibility, and personal attention, especially in online or smaller-class settings. Many reviewers praise accessible professors, responsive staff, clear course structures, and career benefits such as internships, networking, transfer-friendly policies, and improved employment prospects. Students also highlight diverse learning perspectives, strong academic support, and scheduling that fits work and family obligations. Criticism centers on uneven course quality, some classes relying too heavily on textbooks or slides, limited campus identity for commuters, upper-level offerings that are online only, occasional communication barriers with faculty, expensive materials, and a quieter location with fewer recreational options.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
My experience at University of Illinois in Springfield was good overall despite only being there for two years. My experience was fully online, but going through the classes and having the flexibility to choose which electives I wanted was my favorite... Read More
The curriculum was great and the program allowed me to do it all online.
- Graduate Online: 1,172 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $117,171
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 75%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Missouri are broadly positive, driven by consistently favorable ratings and near-universal recommendations. Students most often praise approachable professors, supportive advisers, strong campus resources, and abundant organizations, research, internships, and networking opportunities that help them build careers and friendships. Many also value the beautiful campus, renovated facilities, lively sports culture, and Columbia’s welcoming college-town atmosphere. Several note that the large-school setting can still feel personal within departments. Criticisms center on high tuition or limited aid, parking, uneven career guidance in some areas, very large intro classes, occasional online disconnection, and isolated concerns about advising quality and prestige.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,371 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 93%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Indiana State University are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students consistently praise accessible, caring professors, small class sizes, and a campus that feels welcoming without being overwhelming. Many say online and hybrid courses are flexible, challenging, and manageable for working adults, with discussion boards and practical assignments reducing distance-learning isolation. The strongest frustrations center on cost, financial aid confusion, weak advising or slow departmental communication, and uneven online execution in some areas. Several reviews also raise career-preparation concerns, including excessive clinical placement burdens, limited local opportunities, and one serious complaint about a nonaccredited technical track hurting long-term employability.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 832 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 66%
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Georgia Southwestern State University as a place where many people value knowledgeable, supportive professors, a welcoming small-town atmosphere, flexible pacing, affordability, and helpful staff. Several reviewers say the environment feels personal, with strong communication, practical instruction, and resources that support career preparation. At the same time, criticism centers heavily on inconsistent online delivery. Reviewers report outdated materials, confusing course design, frequent setup errors, uneven professor engagement, limited feedback, and poor accountability when complaints are raised. The sharpest negative reviews also cite harsh grading practices, perceived favoritism, and an experience that felt like a poor return on time and money.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
Overall, GSW has a great MSCS program. Although small, the faculty are very helpful and supportive. I did a thesis option with my adviser, and it was a very fruitful learning experience. The program was also very affordable compared to other programs... Read More
- Graduate Online: 413 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 58%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of North Carolina State University are overwhelmingly favorable, with most students praising rigorous academics, approachable professors, and strong career outcomes. Many say the university’s large size creates abundant clubs, research, internships, study-abroad options, and employer connections, while smaller departments still feel close-knit and personal. Students frequently credit faculty with mentorship, recommendation letters, networking, and long-term career support. Distinct strengths include hands-on learning, practical coursework, and online flexibility for working adults. Criticisms center on limited personal attention in such a large environment, uneven advising, heavy workloads, administrative slowdowns, parking and cost concerns, inconsistent funding, and a few reports of poor instruction or problematic placements.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.4 Student Reviews for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
NC State is a great school for engineering. It has one of the most varied subjects one can look for like Textile and Nuclear. It's based in Raleigh, so RTP is close by with lot of opportunities for jobs after graduation. The professors are great and the... Read More
NC State Computer Science program is pretty great. The graduates are also well sought after by major companies and the university is also close to the Research Triangle Park which is expanding with new companies. NC State's tuition is reasonable compared... Read More
great professors and course offerings. Many research options. Good experience overall.
- Graduate Online: 2,269 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 94%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of West Georgia are broadly positive, though experiences vary sharply by department. Many describe caring professors, approachable class sizes, and strong mentoring that leads to research opportunities, career preparation, job offers, and graduate-school advancement. Flexibility is a recurring strength, especially through online, hybrid, evening, and cohort-based formats that work well for employed learners and families. Affordability, a pleasant small-campus atmosphere, tutoring, and involvement opportunities are also praised. Criticism centers on inconsistent advising, weak communication, limited feedback on major assignments, underfunded graduate support, and uneven administration. Several reviews also cite parking, safety, commuting, housing, and dining concerns.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.4 Student Reviews for Master's in Computer Science Degrees
I think the pros of my graduate program are that the teachers care about teaching and the education students are getting even though the courses are 100% online. It is a competitive and academically challenging program that is guaranteed to help in the... Read More
I'm in online program so it does let me safe some time and spend it studying. Instructors are greate and have shows deep knowledge of their subjects. I enjoy studing at UWG.
I enjoy flexibility of the online program I'm currently in. Instructors have demonstrated their exceptional knowledge of the subjects and they are always willing to help. This online program has definitely matched my expectations so far and I look forward... Read More
- Graduate Online: 4,771 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 78%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Idaho as a generally positive, affordable campus with a small-college feel, close faculty access, and a friendly community in a scenic rural town. Many reviewers valued engaging professors, supportive advisers, hands-on learning, internships, clubs, and practical opportunities that helped them feel known rather than anonymous. Common drawbacks center on the location being too isolated for some, limited diversity, conservative campus culture, uneven program relevance to current careers, and administrative frustrations. Several reviewers also cited weak health or financial aid support, rising costs, excessive prerequisites, and concerns that some programs did not adapt quickly enough to modern industry expectations.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 942 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 76%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga are broadly positive, with students repeatedly praising caring professors, approachable faculty, and the benefits of a smaller campus with manageable class sizes and strong access to office hours. Many say the campus is attractive, walkable, and closely connected to Chattanooga’s outdoor amenities, downtown spaces, and athletic culture. Students also value affordability, flexible scheduling, online options, and supportive advising that helped them recover academically or balance full-time work. Less favorable feedback centers on uneven career services, limited employer recruitment connections, and, for some, workloads that felt heavy while working.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 611 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 73%
Stories Behind the Cheapest Online Computer Science Master's Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
🏆The Online CS Graduate Program That Forced the Industry To Pay Attention
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech has changed expectations around online graduate education for computer science majors. At just $3,375 annually, it ranks #1 for affordability while simultaneously posting the strongest outcomes on the page: #1 earnings median ($179,712), #1 retention (98%), #1 graduation rate (92%), and the largest online enrollment footprint at ~19,900 students.
🏆 Most Accessible Path Into Graduate Computer Science
Kennesaw State University
KSU stands out because it welcomes students without computer science bachelor's degrees. In a field where many graduate programs intentionally filter out career changers, KSU instead builds its master's program around foundational preparation pathways. Combined with affordable tuition ($5,895), strong earnings ($98,191), and 2,500+ online students, this one feels the most accessible and still points toward more advanced computing careers.
🏆Best Budget-Friendly Entry Into Advanced AI Study
The University of Texas at Austin
UT Austin’s ecosystem approach stands out for connecting AI, data science, and graduate AI certificates into a larger online computing infrastructure. The program feels especially well suited for engineers anticipating long-term shifts toward machine learning, AI engineering, and interdisciplinary technical work.
FAQs for Affordable Online Computer Science Master's Programs
What Should You Expect From an Online CS Master’s Program?
Online master's programs in computer science equip you with both advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills so that you're prepared to take on leadership roles in this rapidly evolving field. Most programs also allow you to choose an area of specialization, such as data structures, computer systems, software engineering, or artificial intelligence, among others.
The master's-level coursework in an online computer science degree program is designed to help you develop technical skills like programming, database management, and machine learning. At the same time, you'll be challenged to think creatively as you hone soft skills, such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication.
Classes often involve innovative projects and assignments that simulate real-world challenges so you can gain practical experience. These projects may include developing a mobile application, creating a cybersecurity strategy for an organization, or designing an efficient database system.
Most computer science master's programs require the completion of 30-33 credit hours. Full-time learners may be able to finish in two to three years, but part-time students may need a bit longer. An internship is often one of the graduation requirements, as is a written thesis or capstone project.
What Are Common Courses in a Computer Science Master's Degree?
The curriculum for an online computer science master's degree varies widely across schools and changes fairly often as the field evolves. However, some of the core courses that may be found in a master's program include:
- Advanced Algorithms: This course delves into the design, analysis, and application of algorithms. Students learn to solve complex computing problems and apply their knowledge to the development of efficient software and systems.
- Software Engineering: Students gain an understanding of the entire lifecycle of software development, from initial design and coding to testing and maintenance. The focus is on best practices for producing high-quality, maintainable software.
- Database Systems: This course provides an in-depth study of database design and management. Students learn to build and manage databases, ensuring their efficiency, security, and ease of use.
- Artificial Intelligence: Here, students learn the fundamentals of AI, exploring concepts such as machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics. They also get to work on designing and implementing intelligent systems.
- Computer Networks: Students learn about the design and implementation of computer networks. This includes understanding protocols, network architecture, and security considerations.
- Cybersecurity: This course offers a comprehensive overview of information security principles and techniques. Students learn to design secure systems and understand the methods and tools used to protect digital assets from threats.
How Can You Afford an Online Computer Science Master’s Degree?
Our list of the most affordable master's in computer science degrees shown above demonstrates that there is a much wider range of cost-effective options that may allow you to save money in college. You could cut your tuition costs by thousands if you study remotely because many schools charge lower tuition rates for online students than for traditional, on-campus students.
Choosing an online program is just one way to reduce the cost of an advanced degree. Other possibilities include earning extra income by working at a full-time or part-time job, relocating to a city or state with a lower cost of living, and seeking support from your employer by using your organization's tuition reimbursement program, if one is available.
Another way to minimize the cost of earning a master's degree is through financial aid. To apply for aid, you simply have to fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Later, you'll be informed if you qualify for funding with a Student Aid Report (SAR), followed by a financial aid letter from your school.
If you're offered a financial aid package, it may contain different types of aid from the federal and state government and from your school. Of these, the best types are grants and scholarships because they typically don't have to be repaid.
Your aid package may also include a student loan, which will have to be paid back with a substantial amount of interest. Before accepting a loan, you may want to use our student loan repayment calculator to determine the total interest owed. Also, if you're given a choice in the type of loan, keep in mind that federal student loans often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms than private student loans.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Affordable Online Computer Science Master’s Degree?
Graduating with an online computer science degree opens a myriad of career opportunities. One option is to become a computer and information research scientist. These professionals look for ways to improve computer usage and solve problems with both new and existing technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for is $140,910, and demand is expected to grow by 20% through 2035.
Master's degree holders are also qualified for high-paying roles as ($131,450), ($124,910), and ($171,200). Although a master's degree is not necessarily required for these jobs, many employers prefer to hire better-educated, more experienced job candidates for these positions.
Furthering your education beyond a master's degree can provide even more opportunities. For example, a PhD in computer science may lead to positions in academia, advanced research, or high-level roles in industry. Pursuing an advanced degree often provides an advantage in the job market and can potentially lead to higher earnings.
How Can You Compare Affordable Computer Science Master’s Degrees Online?
Choosing the best online master's in computer science program requires careful consideration of several factors. For instance, you should evaluate the program's curriculum to see if it aligns with your career goals and interests. Some programs may have a stronger focus on certain areas, like AI, data science, or cybersecurity. Other factors include the faculty and their expertise in the field, the program's reputation, cost, student services, and the availability of financial aid.
One other factor that's extremely important is institutional accreditation. Enrollment in an accredited program ensures you're getting a quality education that meets industry standards. You may also want to seek out programs that have been accredited by the (ABET).
How Long Does It Take To Earn an Online Computer Science Master’s Degree?
Typically, a computer science master's degree takes about two years to complete on a full-time basis. However, the duration can vary based on the specific program and the pace at which you complete courses. Some accelerated programs may allow you to finish in as little as 12-18 months, while part-time programs could take three to four years.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Computer Science Master’s Programs?
Admission requirements for a master's in computer science program can vary, but most schools require a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, preferably a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subject. Without a relevant educational background, you may be required to complete quite a few prerequisite courses. These additional courses need to be factored into your budget.
Additionally, schools typically request a copy of your undergraduate transcripts and possibly GRE scores. You may need to show that you maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be accepted. Other common requirements include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and possibly a resume or CV demonstrating relevant work experience.
Student Reviews of Online Computer Science Programs
My experience at Georgia Tech was strictly part-time online courses I am taking to complete a Master’s degree in Computer Science to further my education and my career. The courses at Georgia Tech provided me with the experience I need to get to further develop my technical skills and I would recommend it to any student like me looking to complete a degree while working full-time.
Review Date: 1/15/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The OMSC program is a solid, well thought out program. Class offerings are significantly limited to what you would get on the actual campus but the price for the program is extremely affordable in comparison to a typical cost for a post graduate degree or any degree, for that matter.
In my experience, most classes are high quality and very robust. Most can be quite difficult and will take a huge time commitment. Some other classes are not quite as high quality and will essentially throw you to the... Read More
Review Date: 3/19/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Genuinely, truly excited with the material and programs on offer. Of the entire nation, they're not only among the few to offer a Computer Graphics concentration, but it's also available online.
It's incredibly affordable (> 2k per term/course), the material is full and comprehensive, and it just feels so good to have the opportunity learn something you're passionate about.
With a large alumni network, 100% recommend if you're looking to elevate your career.
Review Date: 4/24/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Western Governors University was a great option for me to pursue my Master’s while working full time. The ability to go at my own pace and accelerate classes allowed me to finish my program in 6 months, reducing the overall cost and making it extremely affordable. My advisor and instructors were very communicable and helpful and the process from enrollment to graduation was simple and seamless. Most of my classes were very relevant to the current tech space, (ex. AI and machine learning), and were... Read More
Review Date: 4/2/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It took me just over a week to familiarize myself enough with the course and program to know that it is wasn't put together as well I needed it to be for the $1500.00 cash I had paid for this course. By then however, the reimbursement time was over by one day per ASU. I love alternative formats and was impressed with the outward structure of ASU's program (modular certificates leading to a Masters) - but the details were sloppy and all over the place. I couldn't shake the feeling that I would be... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My experience with northcentral was ok, if you're not motivated to work and learn on your own this school is not for you. I was motivated to change my career from social work to the I.T. field. The information I acquired from this school helped me to land my dream job. Actually, I was offered several excellent jobs and picked the one that suited me the best. For one job I had to resolve a made up scenario that had to be at least a few pages long. I used the information I obtained from northcentral... Read More
Review Date: 5/24/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at University of Illinois in Springfield was good overall despite only being there for two years. My experience was fully online, but going through the classes and having the flexibility to choose which electives I wanted was my favorite aspects.
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at University of Illinois in Springfield was good overall despite only being there for two years. My experience was fully online, but going through the classes and having the flexibility to choose which electives I wanted was my favorite aspects.
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a current graduate student in the University of Southern California's computer science program and so far I am very happy with the program. I am a DEN (Distance Education Network) student and so I attend all of my classes online and since I live in the Los Angeles area I take all of the exams on campus. My experience with this so far has gone very well as I have been able to work full time and attend my graduate courses online. I have also been able to make use of the many resources available... Read More
Review Date: 8/28/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Phoenix Online campus is easily accessible to students both new to College and students who are returning to school. The online classroom is easy to navigate, intuitive, and informative at all stages of every class. The online campus offers many workshops and tools for students to use to improve their chances of success in college, all of which are easy to use. What really impressed me was the amount of resources students had access to at any given time. UoPX's staff is extremely... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pros to getting your graduate degree from WGU is the ability to fast track to obtain your degree in less time and less money and still get a quality education.
Review Date: 3/6/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Doing it online you do not have the 1 on 1 contact with professor. Pros: You can work at your own pace during a day
Review Date: 3/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Very disappointed. I took the online degree--just about every semester, a class was canceled because of (according to them) a lack of enrollments. This meant that I had no choice in which class to enroll in--some semesters I could only enroll into ONE class available for my degree. In two different semesters, there wasn't any available open classes for my degree program and I ended up having to sit out until following semester, which resulted in a lot of wasted time. Getting ahold of student advisors... Read More
Review Date: 6/18/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I think the pros of my graduate program are that the teachers care about teaching and the education students are getting even though the courses are 100% online. It is a competitive and academically challenging program that is guaranteed to help in the work field. So far, I have not experienced any cons for my graduate program.
Review Date: 3/24/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The grad program allows me to study at home through their online classes while at the same time still letting me take physical classes when needed. Hofstra is a bit expensive, and while is up and coming competitively, still has some way to go.
Review Date: 1/24/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I had to rank items that I did not experience first hand, since I am an online student. I am a student in the Metropolitan College Master's of Computer Information Systems. So far, the program has been incredible. The accelerated pace is rather enjoyable, and the faculty members are top notch. I enjoy the support structure in the courses, and feel as if my success is a priority to all involved in the program.
Review Date: 3/20/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I took the ece 449 subject which is about object oriented programming for simulation. This was an ultimate course where i learnt the OOP concepts very easily due to the exact examples given by professor. The projects were somewhat difficult but lecture notes always provided some hints to complete the projects
Review Date: 12/15/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The college I'm in is nationally recognized and very flexible for students that work full time. Teachers are very helpful and the new online lecture system is going to be a great improvement for student and teacher collaboration.
Review Date: 12/21/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros - great staff in the CS department; willingness to help the students with any issues; professors knowledgebase regarding course topics Cons - since the MS in CS is online, I don't get the same exposure to the professors as I would on campus.
Review Date: 2/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I'm in the online Master's degree in Computer Science program. The faculty and students are top-notch and the program is rigorous, affordable, well-respected and on the cutting edge. The disadvantages of the online program include reduced accessibility of the faculty, limited interaction with classmates, reduced accessibility of career services, and difficulty securing strong letters of recommendation (since the faculty don't really know you). However, those disadvantages apply to all online programs,... Read More
Review Date: 10/2/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No