One might imagine that computer science degrees are one of the ideal candidates for an online course of study. Undoubtedly, online learning programs would not exist were it not for the work of well-trained computer science grads! In fact, online learning has its roots in a computer-assisted training program developed in the 1960s at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Online Learning: Becoming Mainstream
Over the course of the past decade, online learning has truly become a viable option, especially for those students whose schedules demand flexibility. Many well-established computer science programs now offer computer degrees online as well as combination on-campus/online programs. Both options allow busy students the benefit of being able to better balance school and work. In addition, learners who are more self-directed tend to thrive as online computing majors.
Is Online Learning Right For You?
For all of the benefits of online learning, however, it may or may not be the right option for you. As you assess your options—whether you’re preparing for an undergraduate computer science program or a graduate computer science program—it is essential to consider your needs as a student. If you are the type of learner who requires a healthy amount of face-to-face time with a professor, a classroom-based program may be better suited to your needs.
In terms of technology, however, computer science majors may be better prepared than most for an online learning experience. Barriers that exist for other students, whether relative to computer equipment or technological awareness, tend to be less of an issue for computer science majors. In addition, having regular online access to professors can be advantageous when most of your class work is being completed on a computer!
Choosing a Computer Science Program
If you decide that an online program is the right path for earning your computer science degree, be sure to look into the accreditation status of each school on your list. Recognized accrediting agencies for institutions of higher education can be researched on the U.S. Department of Education Web site, which includes the Distance Education and Training Council. In addition, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Most importantly, however, you should think about your career goals and choose your computer science degree accordingly, whether online or on-campus. Future database administrators should seek a bachelor’s degree at minimum, whereas those who aim to be an information scientist will most certainly need to advance to the graduate level. Two-year technical degrees may suit those seeking a position as a Webmaster, while others will need the further training provided by a four-year program.
As you narrow down your list of online computer degree programs, be sure to research the particular emphasis and strengths of each. Especially at the graduate level, computer science programs tend to be specialized. Whatever your chosen course, the right program for you will be the one that prepares you for the computer science career that you envision.
