Edited By Introduction
An accredited online computer science degree represents the gold standard in distance education, ensuring students receive quality education that meets rigorous academic standards recognized by employers and graduate schools nationwide. These programs undergo comprehensive evaluation by regional accrediting bodies and specialized organizations such as ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), ensuring that the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes align with industry expectations and academic excellence. As the technology sector continues to demand skilled professionals with verified credentials, pursuing an accredited online computer science degree provides students with the assurance that their education will be respected, their credits will transfer, and their degree will qualify them for professional certifications and advanced study opportunities. Leading universities now offer accredited online computer science degree programs that combine the flexibility of distance learning with the credibility of institutional and programmatic accreditation, ensuring graduates possess both the technical skills and the recognized credentials needed to succeed in software development, cybersecurity, data science, and emerging technology fields.
Highly Ranked Accredited Online Computer Science Degree Programs
Selecting an accredited online computer science degree program requires careful verification of both institutional and programmatic accreditation to ensure educational quality and degree recognition throughout your career. These programs have earned accreditation from respected regional bodies such as SACSCOC, NEASC, and the Higher Learning Commission, and many also hold specialized ABET accreditation, which represents the highest standard in computing education. Below are the best accredited online computer science degree programs in 2025, each demonstrating commitment to academic excellence through their accreditation status, rigorous curricula, and proven student outcomes.
Georgia Institute of Technology – Online Master of Science in Computer Science
Location: Atlanta, GA | Tuition: $180 per credit hour | Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET
Georgia Tech’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science is considered a pioneering, accredited online computer science degree program that revolutionized distance education in technology fields. The program maintains the same rigorous standards as the on-campus degree, with accreditation from both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) for institutional quality and ABET for programmatic excellence. As the largest master’s program in computer science globally, it demonstrates that accredited online education can achieve both scale and quality.
Highlights:
- Full ABET accreditation, ensuring the highest engineering education standards
- SACSCOC regional accreditation guaranteeing institutional quality
- Same degree and accreditation status as a prestigious on-campus program
- Over 12,000 graduates maintain the program’s accredited reputation
- Specializations in machine learning, computing systems, and interactive intelligence
Western Governors University – B.S. Computer Science
Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Tuition: $3,985 per six-month term | Accreditation: NWCCU, ABET
Western Governors University’s accredited online computer science degree program holds the distinction of ABET accreditation alongside regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The competency-based education model has earned recognition from accrediting bodies for its innovative approach while maintaining rigorous standards. Industry certifications embedded in the curriculum add additional credentialed value beyond the accredited degree itself.
Highlights:
- ABET accreditation by the Computing Accreditation Commission
- NWCCU regional accreditation ensures credit transferability
- Industry certifications included adding professional credentials
- Competency-based model approved by accrediting bodies
- Regular accreditation reviews confirming program quality
Arizona State University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Tempe, AZ | Tuition: $561-$661 per credit hour | Accreditation: HLC, ABET
Arizona State University’s accredited online computer science degree carries full ABET accreditation through the Computing Accreditation Commission, ensuring the program meets the highest standards in computer science education. The Higher Learning Commission provides institutional accreditation, while ASU’s consistent ranking as the most innovative university demonstrates excellence beyond basic accreditation requirements. The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering maintains separate specialized accreditations across multiple programs.
Highlights:
- ABET accreditation specifically for the computer science program
- Higher Learning Commission regional accreditation
- Same accredited degree as on-campus students receive
- The engineering school holds multiple specialized accreditations
- Accreditation covers all delivery methods, including online
Liberty University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Lynchburg, VA | Tuition: $390 per credit hour ($250 military rate) | Accreditation: SACSCOC, NSA/DHS Recognition
Liberty University’s accredited online computer science degree program holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring broad academic recognition and credit transferability. The program’s cybersecurity concentration has earned the prestigious designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security, providing additional specialized recognition beyond standard accreditation.
Highlights:
- Full SACSCOC regional accreditation for institutional quality
- NSA/DHS Center of Excellence designation for cybersecurity
- Accreditation covers all 121 credit hours of the program
- Military-friendly institution with specialized accreditation recognition
- Eight-week accelerated courses maintain accredited standards
Florida State University – B.S. in Computer Scien
Location: Tallahassee, FL | Tuition: $215.55 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET
Florida State University’s accredited online computer science degree program maintains full ABET accreditation through the Computing Accreditation Commission, the same accreditation held by the prestigious on-campus program. SACSCOC provides comprehensive institutional accreditation, while the program operates from FSU’s Panama City campus and delivers entirely online. The dual accreditation ensures both institutional quality and program-specific excellence in computer science education.
Highlights:
- ABET/CAC accreditation specifically for computer science
- SACSCOC regional accreditation as major research university
- Accreditation covers both online and on-campus delivery
- The same faculty teach both formats
- Regular accreditation reviews maintain standards
Auburn University – Bachelor of Computer Science
Location: Auburn, AL | Tuition: $521 per credit hour | Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET
Auburn University’s accredited online computer science degree is ABET-accredited, ensuring the program meets national standards for quality in computer science education. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools provides institutional accreditation, while Auburn’s engineering programs maintain additional specialized accreditations. The program’s accelerated format, with five terms per year, maintains full accreditation while enabling faster degree completion.
Highlights:
- ABET accreditation through Computing Accreditation Commission
- SACSCOC regional accreditation for the institution
- Accelerated format maintains accredited quality standards
- Military-friendly policies recognized by accrediting bodies
- Portfolio projects meet accreditation outcome requirements
Oregon State University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Corvallis, OR | Tuition: $428 per credit hour | Accreditation: NWCCU, ABET Candidacy
Oregon State University’s accredited online computer science degree program holds regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities while pursuing ABET accreditation for the online program specifically. The post-baccalaureate format maintains the same accredited standards as traditional programs while serving career-changing students. OSU’s established reputation in engineering education supports the program’s accreditation journey.
Highlights:
- NWCCU regional accreditation ensures quality standards
- ABET accreditation candidacy status for online program
- Same curriculum standards as aan ccredited on-campus program
- Four start terms maintain an accredited academic calendar
- Portfolio requirement aligns with accreditation outcomes
University of Florida – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Gainesville, FL | Tuition: $129.18 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: SACSCOC, Program Accreditation
The University of Florida’s accredited online computer science degree carries the full weight of UF’s prestigious SACSCOC accreditation as a major research university. The program maintains the same accreditation standards as the on-campus degree, with no distinction in accreditation status between delivery methods. As part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the program benefits from both institutional and college-level accreditation reviews.
Highlights:
- SACSCOC accreditation as a premier state university
- Same accredited degree as the on-campus program
- Liberal arts integration meets accreditation breadth requirements
- Research university status enhances accreditation standing
- Regular accreditation reaffirmation maintains standards
Southern New Hampshire University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Manchester, NH | Tuition: $330 per credit hour | Accreditation: NEASC
Southern New Hampshire University’s accredited online computer science degree is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, ensuring recognition throughout the United States. With over 150,000 online students, SNHU has developed robust systems to maintain accreditation standards at scale. The program’s multiple concentrations each meet accreditation requirements while providing specialized focus areas.
Highlights:
- NEASC regional accreditation for institutional quality
- Accreditation covers all concentration options
- Regular accreditation reviews confirm online program quality
- Transfer credit policies align with accreditation standards
- Portfolio development meets accreditation outcome assessments
Penn State World Campus – B.S. in Software Engineering
Location: University Park, PA | Tuition: $620-$664 per credit hour | Accreditation: MSCHE, ABET
Pennsylvania State University’s accredited online computer science degree programs through World Campus maintain the same Middle States Commission on Higher Education accreditation as the renowned main campus. The software engineering program holds ABET accreditation, demonstrating specialized program quality. Penn State’s long history with distance education has established strong accreditation practices for online delivery.
Highlights:
- MSCHE regional accreditation for comprehensive quality
- ABET accreditation for engineering programs
- World Campus maintains separate accreditation reviews
- Same accredited faculty as on-campus programs
- Established accreditation history in distance education
Lamar University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Beaumont, TX | Tuition: $293 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET
Lamar University’s accredited online computer science degree program maintains full ABET accreditation through the Computing Accreditation Commission, ensuring the program meets national standards for computer science education. SACSCOC provides regional accreditation supporting credit transfer and federal financial aid eligibility. The requirement for students to take the ETS Major Field Test demonstrates a commitment to accreditation-level outcome assessment.
Highlights:
- Full ABET accreditation for the computer science program
- SACSCOC regional accreditation for institutional quality
- ETS testing requirement validates accreditation outcomes
- Same accreditation status for online and on-campus delivery
- Regular accreditation reviews maintain program currency
Regis University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Denver, CO | Tuition: $510 per credit hour | Accreditation: HLC
Regis University’s accredited online computer science degree is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring broad academic recognition. The Jesuit institution’s commitment to academic excellence aligns with accreditation standards for both educational quality and ethical development. The accelerated eight-week format has explicitly been reviewed and approved through the accreditation process.
Highlights:
- HLC regional accreditation covering all programs
- Accelerated format approved through accreditation review
- Canvas platform meets accreditation technology standards
- Transfer policies align with accreditation requirements
- Regular comprehensive accreditation reviews
University of Maryland Global Campus – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Adelphi, MD | Tuition: $312 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: MSCHE
The University of Maryland Global Campus maintains accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, specifically recognizing its expertise in distance education. As part of the University System of Maryland, UMGC benefits from system-wide accreditation support and review processes. The computer science program aligns with ACM/IEEE curriculum guidelines that complement accreditation standards.
Highlights:
- MSCHE regional accreditation with a distance education focus
- Part of the accredited University System of Maryland
- Curriculum meets ACM/IEEE professional standards
- No-cost materials policy supports accreditation access goals
- Specialized accreditation for cybersecurity components
Old Dominion University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Norfolk, VA | Tuition: $407 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: SACSCOC, ABET
Old Dominion University’s accredited online computer science degree program holds both SACSCOC regional accreditation and ABET program-specific accreditation, demonstrating excellence at both institutional and program levels. As one of the largest distance education providers in the nation, ODU has developed robust systems for maintaining accreditation standards across all delivery methods. The 120-credit program meets all ABET requirements for computer science education.
Highlights:
- Dual accreditation from SACSCOC and ABET
- Pioneer in distance education accreditation standards
- Same ABET accreditation for online and on-campus programs
- Extensive experience with accreditation reviews
- Strong outcomes assessment supporting continued accreditation
Dakota State University – B.S. in Computer Science
Location: Madison, SD | Tuition: $346.82 per credit hour (in-state) | Accreditation: HLC, ABET
Dakota State University’s accredited online computer science degree benefits from the institution’s specialized focus on technology education, with ABET accreditation demonstrating program excellence. The Higher Learning Commission provides regional accreditation, while DSU’s designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations provides additional specialized recognition. Small class sizes facilitate the personalized attention that accreditation standards emphasize.
Highlights:
- ABET accreditation for the computer science program
- HLC regional accreditation ensures quality
- NSA Center of Excellence designation adds credibility
- Specialized technology focus aligns with accreditation mission
- Regular reviews maintain a cutting-edge accredited curriculum
Accredited Online Computer Science Degree Programs: Accreditation Aspects & Considerations
Understanding accreditation for online computer science degree programs requires knowledge of different accrediting bodies, their standards, and the implications for students’ educational and career paths. These considerations help students verify legitimate programs, understand transferability of credits, and ensure their degree will be recognized by employers and graduate schools throughout their careers.
Regional vs. National Accreditation
Regional accreditation represents the gold standard for accredited online computer science degree programs, with six regional bodies covering different geographic areas of the United States, including SACSCOC for the South, NEASC for New England, and the Higher Learning Commission for the central states. Regional accreditation typically involves more rigorous standards than national accreditation, and other regionally accredited schools universally accept credits from regionally accredited institutions. National accreditation often applies to career-focused or religious institutions. It may limit credit transfer options, making regional accreditation preferable for computer science students planning to pursue graduate education or transfer between institutions.
ABET Accreditation Significance
ABET accreditation specifically for computer science programs represents specialized programmatic accreditation that goes beyond institutional accreditation to evaluate the specific curriculum, faculty, facilities, and outcomes of computing programs. While not required for employment in most technology fields, ABET accreditation assures that an accredited online computer science degree meets industry-recognized standards for technical education. Programs seeking ABET accreditation undergo rigorous evaluation of their educational objectives, student outcomes, continuous improvement processes, curriculum content, faculty qualifications, and institutional support, with regular reviews ensuring continued compliance with evolving standards.
Accreditation Verification Process
Students considering an accredited online computer science degree should actively verify accreditation status through official databases rather than relying solely on institutional marketing materials. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a database of recognized accrediting agencies and their member institutions, while individual accrediting bodies like ABET provide searchable databases of accredited programs. Verification should include checking both the current accreditation status and any sanctions or warnings, understanding the difference between accreditation and candidacy status, and confirming that the institution’s accreditation specifically covers online programs.
Impact on Financial Aid and Transfer Credits
Accreditation directly affects students’ ability to receive federal financial aid, as only accredited institutions are eligible to participate in Title IV federal aid programs, including Pell Grants and federal student loans. For accredited online computer science degree programs, regional accreditation ensures the broadest acceptance of transfer credits, while students from nationally accredited institutions may face limitations when transferring to regionally accredited schools. Military benefits, including GI Bill funding also require accreditation, and many scholarship programs specify accreditation requirements, making this a crucial factor in education financing.
Professional Certification and Licensure
While computer science generally doesn’t require professional licensure like engineering or medicine, an accredited online computer science degree provides important advantages for professional development and certification. ABET accreditation specifically qualifies graduates to sit for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and, eventually, to pursue Professional Engineer licensure in software engineering in states that offer it. Additionally, graduates from ABET-accredited programs are eligible to become patent agents after passing the USPTO registration exam, and many professional certifications from organizations like IEEE and ACM recognize accredited degrees for membership and certification eligibility.
Continuous Improvement and Currency
Accredited online computer science degree programs must demonstrate continuous improvement and curriculum currency through regular accreditation reviews, typically every 5-10 years depending on the accrediting body. This process ensures programs adapt to technological changes, maintain current industry relevance, update learning outcomes to match employer needs, and incorporate emerging technologies and methodologies. The continuous improvement requirement of accreditation provides students with assurance that their education remains relevant despite the rapid pace of technological change.
International Recognition
For students planning international careers or further education abroad, accreditation from recognized U.S. bodies provides essential credentials that are recognized globally. Regional accreditation and ABET accreditation are widely recognized internationally, facilitating graduate school applications to foreign universities, employment with multinational corporations, work visa applications that require verified credentials, and participation in international professional organizations. Some accrediting bodies like SACSCOC even accredit international institutions, demonstrating their global recognition and standards.
Employer Perception and Value
Employers increasingly recognize and value accredited online computer science degree programs equally with traditional on-campus programs, particularly from institutions with strong reputations and proper accreditation. Accreditation provides employers confidence in candidates’ preparation, validates the rigor and completeness of technical education, ensures graduates meet industry-standard competencies, and indicates commitment to quality and continuous improvement. Many large employers specifically require accredited degrees for certain positions or advancement opportunities, making accreditation crucial for career development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between institutional and programmatic accreditation for online computer science degrees?
Institutional accreditation evaluates the entire university or college for overall quality and is required for federal financial aid eligibility, while programmatic accreditation, like ABET, specifically evaluates individual computer science programs for technical excellence and industry standards. Both types of accreditation are valuable, with institutional accreditation ensuring broad academic quality and transferability, while programmatic accreditation provides specialized validation of technical education quality that some employers and graduate programs specifically seek.
Is ABET accreditation necessary for an online computer science degree to be valuable?
While ABET accreditation represents the gold standard for computer science programs and provides certain advantages, many excellent programs from prestigious universities operate successfully without it, focusing instead on maintaining strong regional accreditation and industry partnerships. ABET accreditation becomes more important for students planning to pursue professional engineering licensure, patent law, or graduate programs that specifically require it, but most technology employers focus more on skills and knowledge than specific accreditation beyond basic regional accreditation.
How can I verify if an online computer science degree program is properly accredited?
Students should verify accreditation through multiple official sources, including the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, the specific accrediting body’s website for current member lists, and the ABET website for programs claiming ABET accreditation. Additionally, students can contact the institution’s accreditation office for documentation, check for any sanctions or warnings on accrediting body websites, and verify that online programs specifically are covered under the institution’s accreditation scope.
Do employers distinguish between accredited online and on-campus computer science degrees?
Most employers do not distinguish between properly accredited online and on-campus computer science degrees, particularly when both are from the same institution and carry identical accreditation, as diplomas typically don’t indicate delivery method. The key factors employers consider are the institution’s reputation and accreditation status, the graduate’s demonstrated skills and knowledge, and relevant experience and portfolio work, making the accreditation and quality of education more important than the delivery format.
Can credits from an accredited online computer science degree transfer to graduate programs?
Credits from regionally accredited online computer science degree programs are generally accepted by graduate schools just as readily as credits from on-campus programs, with the accreditation status being the primary factor rather than delivery method. Students should ensure their program has regional accreditation for the broadest acceptance, verify any specific programmatic accreditation requirements for their target graduate programs, and maintain strong academic performance as graduate admissions consider both accreditation and academic achievement.
What happens to my degree if a school loses accreditation after I graduate?
If a school loses accreditation after you graduate, your degree remains valid as it was earned while the institution was accredited, though it may affect the institution’s reputation going forward. Your transcripts and degree were earned under accredited status and remain legitimate, employers generally recognize degrees earned during accredited periods, and you maintain eligibility for positions requiring accredited degrees based on your graduation date, though the institution’s loss of accreditation may impact its reputation and your ability to obtain transcripts if it closes.
Are accelerated or competency-based online computer science programs properly accredited?
Many accelerated and competency-based online computer science degree programs maintain full regional accreditation, and even ABET accreditation, with accrediting bodies developing standards to evaluate these innovative delivery methods. Programs like those at WGU demonstrate that competency-based education can meet rigorous accreditation standards, with accreditors evaluating learning outcomes rather than seat time, ensuring academic rigor regardless of pace, and maintaining quality through regular reviews and outcome assessments across delivery models.
How do international students benefit from choosing accredited online computer science degree programs?
International students particularly benefit from choosing properly accredited online computer science degree programs, as accreditation provides crucial credential recognition for visa applications, work permits, and global employment. U.S. regional accreditation is widely recognized worldwide; ABET accreditation provides additional international credibility; accredited degrees facilitate graduate school applications worldwide; and many countries’ qualification recognition frameworks specifically recognize U.S. accredited degrees, making accreditation essential for international career mobility.
