Bachelor of Science
3rd Party Certifications Included in this Degree
OVERVIEW
An Online Computer Science Degree That Ensures You're Ready for an Exciting Career
Solving problems, impacting industries, taking on a new challenge every day. If you're looking for excitement in your career, computer science could be for you. And an online bachelor's degree in computer science is a crucial step to helping you be ready for this always-changing industry. WGU's B.S. in Computer Science prepares you to design, develop, and optimize systems that will meet current and future industry needs. We strive to make it one of the most applicable computer science degrees available.
And with this online computer science degree, you can earn while you learn! While you are completing coursework for your bachelor's degree in computer science, you will be prepared and qualified toearn top industry certifications at no extra cost, helping you boost your résumé before you graduate.These certifications and the skills you learn in this online computer science degree will allow you to impress employers and colleagues with your knowledge and credentials. Flexibility helps you earn as you learn by letting you continue to work while you pursue your online computer science degree. With completely online coursework that you can complete at any time, you can keep your full-time job while attending school and earning your computer science degree online. You'll gain vital skills in logic, architecture and systems, data structures, AI, and computer theory making you a highly qualified, and in-demand professional in a diverse and promising industry.
71% of students finish within
27 Months
WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish your degree faster.
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$3,625
Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of your computer science degree. Finish faster, pay less!
Income growth after two years
$18,200
Just two years after graduation, WGU grads report earning $18,200 more per year. Four years after graduation, WGU grads report earning $25,900.*
Career Outlook
*2021 Harris Poll survey of 1,252 WGU graduates.
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?
Next Start Date:December 1
Start Dates the 1st of Every Month
COURSES & COMPETENCIES
Computer Science Courses
Earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science online designed by industry experts combines theoretical depth and technical know-how, all adding to the practical knowledge you've acquired through experience and certifications. The experts who make up our IT Program Council know exactly what it takes for an online degree program to help you be successful in the field of computer science.
This program focuses on the skills you need to become a linchpin in your organization. In addition to core IT skills, the program focuses on algorithms and data structures, artificial intelligence and robotics, database and information retrieval, human-computer communication, numerical and symbolic computation, and more. Start earning your degree online today.
The B.S. Computer Science degree program is an all-online program that you will complete by studying and working independently with instruction and support from WGU faculty. You will be expected to complete at least 12 competency units each 6-month term. (One course is typically 3 or 4 units.)
Computer Science
Computer Architecture
Computer Architecture introduces students to concepts and characteristics of organization and architecture applied to modern computer systems including performance, processor, memory, input/output, and multiprocessors to optimize system design, performance, and efficiency.
Data Structures and Algorithms I
Data Structures and Algorithms I covers the fundamentals of dynamic data structures, such as bags, lists, stacks, queues, trees, hash tables, and their associated algorithms. With Python software as the basis, the course discusses object-oriented design and abstract data types as a design paradigm. The course emphasizes problem solving and techniques for designing efficient, maintainable software applications. Students will implement simple applications using the techniques learned.
Data Structures and Algorithms II
Data Structures and Algorithms II explores the analysis and implementation of high-performance data structures and supporting algorithms, including graphs, hashing, self-adjusting data structures, set representations, and dynamic programming. The course also introduces students to NP-complete problems. The course discusses how to use Python techniques to implement software solutions for problems of memory management and data compression. This course has two prerequisites: Data Structures and Algorithms I and Discrete Math II.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence explores the foundational principles and practices of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robotics. The course prepares students to analyze relationships, build agents, and create models relevant to AI problems. The prerequisites for this course are Introduction to Probability and Statistics as well as Data Structures and Algorithms II.
Computer Science Capstone
The Computer Science Capstone course allows the student to demonstrate their application of the academic and professional abilities developed during the BSCS program. The capstone challenges students to integrate skills and knowledge from all program domains into one project.
Software
Scripting and Programming - Applications
Scripting and Programming - Applications for undergraduates explores the various aspects of the C++ programming language by examining its syntax, the development environment, and tools and techniques to solve some real-world problems.
Software I
Software I builds object-oriented programming expertise and introduces powerful new tools for Java application development. You will learn about and put into action class design, exception handling, and other object-oriented principles and constructs to develop software that meets business requirements. This course requires foundational knowledge of object-oriented programming and the Java language.
Software II - Advanced Java Concepts
Software II – Advanced Java Concepts refines object-oriented programming expertise and builds database and file server application development skills. You will learn about and put into action lambda expressions, collections, input/output, advanced error handling, and the newest features of Java 11 to develop software that meets business requirements. This course requires intermediate expertise in object-oriented programming and the Java language.
Software Engineering
This course introduces the concepts of software engineering to students who have completed the core courses in programming and project management. The principles build on previously acquired concepts, switching the emphasis from programming simple routines, to engineering robust and scalable software solutions. This course does not cover programming, but provides an overview of software engineering processes, and their challenging nature focusing on the need for a disciplined approach to software engineering. A generic process framework provides the groundwork for formal process models. Prescriptive process models such as the Waterfall Model and Agile Development are included. An introduction to the elements and phases of software engineering is included which explores requirements engineering, design concepts, and software quality.
Software Quality Assurance
Software Quality Assurance applies a QA focus to every phase of the software development life cycle. This course investigates best practices for quality analysis, quality planning, and testing strategies as they pertain to the everyday practice of software development. Students will come to understand how their work fits into the bigger picture: how QA, testing, and code-writing practices interact within specific process models; the potential impact of new code on existing code or on other applications; the importance of usability and the influence users have on the ultimate success of an application. Students will explore test plans, test cases, unit tests, integration tests, regression tests, usability tests, and test and review tools.
Data Management
Data Management - Foundations
This course introduces students to the concepts and terminology used in the field of data management. Students will be introduced to Structured Query Language (SQL) and will learn how to use Data Definition Language (DDL) and Data Manipulation Language (DML) commands to define, retrieve, and manipulate data. This course covers differentiations of data—structured vs. unstructured and quasi-structured (relational, hierarchical, XML, textual, visual, etc); it also covers aspects of data management (quality, policy, storage methodologies). Foundational concepts of data security are included.
Data Management - Applications
This course covers conceptual data modeling and provides an introduction to MySQL. Students will learn how to create simple to complex SELECT queries including subqueries and joins, and students will also learn how to use SQL to update and delete data. Topics covered in this course include exposure to MySQL; developing physical schemas; creating and modifying databases, tables, views, foreign keys/primary keys (FKs/PKs), and indexes; populating tables; and developing simple Select-From-Where (SFW) queries to complex 3+ table join queries.
Advanced Data Management
Advanced Data Management enables organizations to extract and analyze raw data. Skillful data management allows organizations to discover and explore data in ways that uncover trends, issues, and their root causes. In turn, businesses are better equipped to capitalize on opportunities and more accurately plan for the future. As organizations continue to extract larger and more detailed volumes of data, the need is rapidly growing for IT professionals possessing data management skills. These skills include performing advanced relational data modeling as well as designing data marts, lakes, and warehouses. This course will empower software developers with the skills to build business logic at the database layer to employ more stability and higher data-processing speeds. Data analysts will gain the ability to automate common tasks to summarize and integrate data as they prepare it for analysis. Data Management is a prerequisite for this course.
Secure Systems Analysis & Design
Fundamentals of Information Security
This course lays the foundation for understanding terminology, principles, processes and best practices of information security at local and global levels. It further provides an overview of basic security vulnerabilities and countermeasures for protecting information assets through planning and administrative controls within an organization.
Operating Systems
Operating Systems for Programmers
This course covers operating systems from the perspective of a programmer, including the placement of the operating system in the layered application development model. Primarily, OSs provide memory management, task scheduling, and CPU allocation. Secondarily, OSs provide tools for file storage/access, permission control, event handling, network access, and cross-process interaction. OSs also provide tools for debugging problems within a single process or within groups of programs. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Technical Writing
Technical Communication
This course covers basic elements of technical communication, including professional written communication proficiency; the ability to strategize approaches for differing audiences; and technical style, grammar, and syntax proficiency.
Scripting and Programming
Scripting and Programming - Foundations
Scripting and Programming - Foundations provides an introduction to programming, covering basic elements such as variables, data types, flow control, and design concepts. The course is language-agnostic in nature, ending in a survey of languages and introduces the distinction between interpreted and compiled languages. There are no prerequisites for this course.
General Education
Applied Probability and Statistics
Applied Probability and Statistics is designed to help students develop competence in the fundamental concepts of basic statistics including: introductory algebra and graphing; descriptive statistics; regression and correlation; and probability. Statistical data and probability are often used in everyday life, science, business, information technology, and educational settings to make informed decisions about the validity of studies and the effect of data on decisions. This course discusses what constitutes sound research design and how to appropriately model phenomena using statistical data. Additionally, the content covers simple probability calculations, based on events that occur in the business and IT industries. No prerequisites are required for this course.
Introduction to Geography
This course will discuss geographic concepts, places and regions, physical and human systems, and the environment.
Calculus I
This course guides candidates to apply theoretical concepts of calculus to real-world situations, demonstrating a developing mathematical mindset. This course focuses on limits, derivatives, integrals, and differential equations; it also prepares students for Discrete Mathematics. Prerequisites may include an entrance exam that assesses pre-calculus skills, or readiness; alternatively, completion of pre-calculus within the past 3 – 5 years.
English Composition I
English Composition I introduces candidates to the types of writing and thinking that are valued in college and beyond. Candidates will practice writing in several genres with emphasis placed on writing and revising academic arguments. Instruction and exercises in grammar, mechanics, research documentation, and style are paired with each module so that writers can practice these skills as necessary. Composition I is a foundational course designed to help candidates prepare for success at the college level. There are no prerequisites for English Composition I.
Integrated Physical Sciences
This course provides students with an overview of the basic principles and unifying ideas of the physical sciences: physics, chemistry, and earth sciences. Course materials focus on scientific reasoning and practical, everyday applications of physical science concepts to help students integrate conceptual knowledge with practical skills.
Discrete Mathematics I
Discrete Mathematics I helps candidates develop competence in the use of abstract, discrete structures fundamental to computer science. In particular, this course will introduce candidates to logic and proofs; Boolean algebra and functions; set theory; finite and infinite sequences and series; and relations, graphs, and trees. The course emphasizes applications in computer science. Calculus I is a prerequisite for this course.
Discrete Mathematics II
Discrete Mathematics II addresses abstract, discrete, computational methods used in computer science. In particular, this class introduces searching and sorting algorithms; big-O estimates; number theory and cryptography; recursion and induction; counting and advanced counting techniques; discrete probability; and modeling computation. This course emphasizes applications in computer science. Discrete Mathematics I is a prerequisite for this course.
Natural Science Lab
This course provides students an introduction to using the scientific method and engaging in scientific research to reach conclusions about the natural world. Students will design and carry out an experiment to investigate a hypothesis by gathering quantitative data. They will also research a specific ecosystem using academic sources and draw conclusions from their findings.
Introduction to Communication
This introductory communication course allows candidates to become familiar with the fundamental communication theories and practices necessary to engage in healthy professional and personal relationships. Candidates will survey human communication on multiple levels and critically apply the theoretical grounding of the course to interpersonal, intercultural, small group, and public presentational contexts. The course also encourages candidates to consider the influence of language, perception, culture, and media on their daily communicative interactions. In addition to theory, candidates will engage in the application of effective communication skills through systematically preparing and delivering an oral presentation. By practicing these fundamental skills in human communication, candidates become more competent communicators as they develop more flexible, useful, and discriminatory communicative practices in a variety of contexts. Note: There are references within this video to Taskstream. If Taskstream is not part of your student experience, please disregard, and locate your task(s) within your course.
American Politics and the US Constitution
American Politics and the U.S. Constitution examines the evolution of representative government in the United States and the changing interpretations of the civil rights and civil liberties protected by the Constitution. This course will give candidates an understanding of the powers of the branches of the federal government, the continual tensions inherent in a federal system, the shifting relationship between state and federal governments, and the interactions between elected officials and the ever-changing electorate. This course will focus on such topics as the role of a free press in a democracy, the impact of changing demographics on American politics, and the debates over and expansion of civil rights. Upon completion of the course, candidates should be able to explain the basic functions of the federal government, describe the forces that shape American policy and politics, and be better prepared to participate in America’s civic institutions. This course has no prerequisite.
Introduction to Humanities
This introductory humanities course allows candidates to practice essential writing, communication, and critical thinking skills necessary to engage in civic and professional interactions as mature, informed adults. Whether through studying literature, visual and performing arts, or philosophy, all humanities courses stress the need to form reasoned, analytical, and articulate responses to cultural and creative works. Studying a wide variety of creative works allows candidates to more effectively enter the global community with a broad and enlightened perspective.
Ethics in Technology
Ethics in Technology examines the ethical considerations of technology in each of four categories: privacy, accuracy, property, and access. The course presents a range of technologies and issues that challenge technologists in the field of information ethics. Students are introduced to a decision-making process as informed by ethical frameworks that outline key ethical considerations within the technologies presented. Students will study specific cases to help inform their professional responsibilities in how to navigate the important controversies in topics such as surveillance, social media, hacking, data manipulation, plagiarism and piracy, artificial intelligence, responsible innovation, and the digital divide. This course has no prerequisites.
IT Fundamentals
Introduction to IT
Introduction to IT examines information technology as a discipline and the various roles and functions of the IT department as business support. Students are presented with various IT disciplines including systems and services, network and security, scripting and programming, data management, and business of IT, with a survey of technologies in every area and how they relate to each other and to the business.
Business of IT
IT Leadership Foundations
IT Leadership Foundations is an introductory course that provides students with an overview of organizational structures, communication, and leadership styles specific to information technology in organizations. It also introduces students to some of the power skills that help make successful IT professionals, including time management, problem solving, and emotional intelligence. Students in this course explore their own strengths and passions in relation to the field. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Business of IT - Project Management
In this course, students will build on industry standard concepts, techniques, and processes to develop a comprehensive foundation for project management activities. During a project's life cycle, students will develop the critical skills necessary to initiate, plan, execute, monitor, control, and close a project. Students will apply best practices in areas such as scope management, resource allocation, project planning, project scheduling, quality control, risk management, performance measurement, and project reporting. This course prepares students for the following certification exam: CompTIA Project+.
Business of IT - Applications
Business of IT—Applications examines Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL®) terminology, structure, policies, and concepts. Focusing on the management of information technology (IT) infrastructure, development, and operations, students will explore the core principles of ITIL practices for service management to prepare them for careers as IT professionals, business managers, and business process owners. This course has no prerequisites. This course prepares students for the Axelos ITIL v4 certification exam.
Web Development
Web Development Foundations
This course introduces students to web design and development by presenting them with HTML5 and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), the foundational languages of the web, by reviewing media strategies and by using tools and techniques commonly employed in web development.
Network and Security
Network and Security - Foundations
Network and Security - Foundations introduces students to the components of a computer network and the concept and role of communication protocols. The course covers widely used categorical classifications of networks (e.g., LAN, MAN, WAN, WLAN, PAN, SAN, CAN, and VPN) as well as network topologies, physical devices, and layered abstraction. The course also introduces students to basic concepts of security, covering vulnerabilities of networks and mitigation techniques, security of physical media, and security policies and procedures. This course has no prerequisites.
35 Courses
Program consists of35 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to ensure your degree is proof you really know your stuff.
Program Guide
Capstone Project
Special requirements for this program
At the end of your program, you will complete a capstone project that represents the culmination of all your hard work—a project that allows you to take what you’ve learned and apply it to a real-world situation, proposing a solution to an actual issue faced in an actual place of business.
“I truly enjoyed my experience with, and time at, WGU. I appreciate the innovative approach to education making it competency-based. Especially compared to a traditional university that would rather I instead pointlessly sit in a class for 6 months even if I am already competent in the areas the class is aiming to educate me in. My mentor was also amazing and helped me power through the program at the pace I expected. Couldn't have done it without him. Literally can't recommend WGU enough!”
—Steven Christensen
B.S. Computer Science
Why WGU?
Affordability
WGU tuition is charged per six-month term, not per credit. That means if you want to move faster through the online computer science degree program, you'll pay less.
On Your Schedule
No class times, no assignment deadlines. You are in charge of your learning and schedule. You can move through your courses as quickly as you master the material, meaning you can graduate faster.
Entirely Online
The computer science bachelor's degree at WGU is 100% online, which means it works wherever you are. You can do your coursework at night after working at your full-time job, on weekends, while you're traveling the world or on vacation—it's entirely up to you.
Accredited, Respected,
Recognized
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.
IT CERTIFICATIONS
3rd Party Computer Science Certifications Included
In the IT field, certifications are extremely valuable along with your degree. That's why all of our IT degrees include the opportunity to earn top industry certifications, at no additional cost! We want to make sure your computer science degree is as beneficial to you and your career as possible.
- Project+
- ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
*Subject to vendor availability.
^ITIL® is a registered trade mark of AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. All rights reserved.
COST & TIME
An Affordable CS Degree
By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.
Tuition Calculator
Pay less by completing your program faster
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A College Degree Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2019 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Competency-Based Education Puts Busy Adult Students in the Driver’s Seat of Their Computer Science Degree
Your unique experience gives you something unique to offer. Maybe you’ve worked in tech for years. Maybe you have some certifications but no college experience.
Wherever you've been, the next step requires something you don't have: your degree. We believe your experience should count for something. You deserve a bachelor’s degree program that will take into account all the know-how you’ve already gained, allowing you to move through courses as quickly as you can prove you've mastered the material. No waiting for other students or the end of the semester. No sitting through classes you could teach. Just a smart, direct path to the degree your career needs and the respect you deserve.
"Online classes were great. Sometimes I would have difficulty on a subject and was able to promptly contact my instructor for further help. Scheduling a phone call was also easy.”
—Lehi Toskin
B.S. Computer Science
CAREER OUTLOOK
Computer Scientists Are in High Demand
The field of computer science is rapidly expanding into some truly exciting areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, intelligent systems, and human-computer interaction. It's a high-demand field that taps some of America's best and brightest for extraordinarily successful and rewarding careers.
This online degree in computer science puts you in a position to have a lucrative, exciting, and rewarding career. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are almost 10 times more U.S. computing jobs open than there were students who graduated with a computer science degree in 2015. This means an online computer science degree puts you in a position of strength in the industry. Stand out from the competition and become a vital player on a team with the help of the right program.
Return on Your Investment
15%
The market for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 15% through 2029.
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Learn About Careers for Computer Science Graduates
Some of the job titles a graduate of this computer science bachelor’s degree program are qualified for include:
- Information Manager
- Data Engineer
- NLP Scientist
- Computer Vision Engineer
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Human-centered Machine Learning Specialist
- Algorithm Engineer
- Computational Linguist
- IT Consultant
- Machine Learning Engineer
WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers
Explore More
ADMISSIONS
Admissions Requirements Unique to Computer Science
Students must be able to use key Calculus principles, rules, and applications while in the B.S. Computer Science program. Students must meet the following admission requirements for admittance to this program:
- Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Demonstrate readiness through completion of one of the following:
- Successful and verifiable completion of a pre-calculus course from a WGU approved third-party provider
- Successful and verifiable completion of a pre-calculus, calculus, or higher than Calculus math course from an accredited post-secondary academic institution.
- A high school GPA of 2.75, or higher, AND a B grade, or better, in a high school honors, IB, or AP level advanced mathematics course.
NOTE: You do not need to take the ACT or SAT to be admitted to this program.Learn why we don't require these tests.
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
Questions about Computer Science at WGU
General IT Program Questions
Computer Science Program Questions
You should speak with an Enrollment Counselor. WGU can often provide advice or resources to help a prospective student fulfill enrollment prerequisites.
When you enroll in a WGU degree program, our goal is to see you through to graduation. Admission requirements are designed to increase your likelihood of success. Years of data and experience with the nontraditional students WGU serves have shown us how various types of academic and professional experience can be highly important in helping a student persist to graduation. Industry certifications are one of many ways a student can meet eligibility.
WGU has an obligation to our graduates—and their current and future employers—to ensure WGU alumni have mastered the most up-to-date, current competencies and skills needed in the workplace. Recency of certifications helps us ensure that students have demonstrated competency in skills as they are needed in today's working world.
As a full-time student, you will be required to maintain a minimum pace of 12 competency units (CUs) per term for undergraduate programs or 8 CUs per term for graduate programs. However, there is no maximum speed—once you complete a course, you move immediately to the next, and you complete a course not by waiting for the syllabus, the professor, or the rest of the class. You progress by learning the material and proving it—so you can move through your coursework at the speed of your own learning and experience.
Instructors are highly educated, experienced experts in the subject matter of a course. Unlike in a traditional university where going to class means listening to an instructor lecture while you take notes and try to learn in a group setting, WGU's Instructors provide one-on-one instruction and support when you need it—tailoring the instruction to your precise needs when you need it. Instructors also provide additional resources, lead topical discussions in online communities, and find countless other ways to bring a specific course to life for students.
Computer science is the study of computers, systems, networks, and servers. Computer science analyzes the performance of computer hardware and software. Computer scientists design and analyze algorithms, programs, and operations of computers.
There are many job opportunities available for those who have a degree in computer science, including:
- Data scientist
- Software tester
- Web developer
- Systems analyst
- Business analyst
- Product manager
- Network architect
- Software engineer
- Computer engineering
- Machine learning
- Data scientist
- Network architecture
Computer science can be a challenging degree and career path. It involves learning about lots of coding, which can be like another language. It also involves understanding complex network systems and programs. The world of computer science is unique and can be foreign for some. But for many, the reason they love IT is because something clicks and makes sense. If you enjoy languages, math, science, and the idea of computer,s computer science will likely be a challenging but exciting degree.
There are many job opportunities available for those who have a degree in computer science, including:
- Data scientist
- Software tester
- Web developer
- Systems analyst
- Business analyst
- Product manager
- Network architect
- Software engineer
- Computer engineering
- Machine learning
- Data scientist
- Network architecture
A computer science degrees should cover important topics that will prepare you for your future. In order for a computer science degree to be successful and relevant it should include scripting, programming languages, computer architecture. network fundamentals, and more.
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?