Data and computer science curriculums

An online bachelor’s in data or computer science can take four years or less to complete. Timelines vary depending on your program of choice as well as your preferred schedule — full time or part time — and if you enroll with prior college credits.

In addition to foundational coursework, some programs may allow you to specialize your online bachelor’s degree in a variety of immersive topics.

Data science career paths and skills

Data and computer scientists are conduits for innovation. They tackle real-world problems with sophisticated solutions, algorithms, and technologies.

As a data scientist, you will analyze and interpret complex datasets to create practical strategies for companies and organizations. Data scientists are active in a range of industries, from finance to marketing. Potential job titles include:

• Data scientist: Collect, analyze, and compile data to better understand business outcomes. Build research-backed plans to advance your company in the competitive marketplace.

• Data analyst: Utilize your technical expertise to guarantee the validity and quality of data from various sources. Design and present easy-to-follow charts and graphs to help business stakeholders make better decisions.

• Data engineer: Locate hidden trends in raw datasets with modern algorithms and techniques.

• Data architect: Build, maintain, and secure your company’s data framework, the digital structure that ensures data flow and organization.

• Data storyteller: Leverage your data literacy to communicate new insights as clear narratives and visualizations.

• Machine learning scientist: Blend data insights and algorithms to create machine learning models.

• Database administrator: Manage and monitor high volumes of data with cutting-edge software.

Data scientists need to understand topics like data mining and machine learning to perform at their highest potential. Other important skills include:

• Communication: Utilize accessible language and visuals to clearly express your data findings to other business stakeholders.

• Empathy: Build trust with your fellow stakeholders and identify biases hidden within your data research.

• Teamwork: Collaborate with teams from diverse segments of business to achieve company goals.

• Business mindset: Understand business goals and operations to present your data insights more accurately.

As a computer scientist, you will leverage conceptual ideas and mathematical theory to create high-powered computer systems and software. Potential job titles include:

• Computer scientist: Develop conceptual ideas and conduct experiments to design advanced software and technology.

• Web developer: Ensure website functionality, collaborate with designers, and meet technical problems with expert solutions.

• Computer systems analyst: Teach companies to efficiently use their current technology and introduce them to new, cost-effective alternatives.

• Network architect: Design and maintain local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets for your company or organization.

• Software engineer: Leverage your creativity and technical abilities to develop innovative software or to modify existing applications.

• Software tester: Analyze software quality through manual and automated tests. Remove bugs and develop preventative measures to reduce future hiccups.

• Full-stack developer: Design, develop, and maintain the front end and back end of computer systems and processes.

To excel as a computer scientist, you need to leverage programming languages and other technical skills to solve problems as they arise. Other important qualities include:

• Creativity: Leverage your creativity to build streamlined software and hardware.

• Curiosity: Develop new algorithms and explore fresh conceptual ideas to push innovation forward.

• Collaboration: Collaborate with team members and consider their ideas and methods to strengthen your projects.

• Independence: Take the initiative to solve problems, fix bugs, and monitor security threats as a confident professional.

What are average data and computer science salaries?

A career in data or computer science could feature six-figure salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists’ overall median salary was $100,910 in 2021.¹ In comparison, computer scientists’ overall median salary was $131,490 that same year.² Join these fast-paced industries and jumpstart your career as a future-focused innovator.

Median salary in data science settings (2021)³

• Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing: $148,290

• Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing: $142,150

• Other information services: $139,600

• Data processing, hosting, and related services: $126,160

• Accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services: $124,440

Median pay in computer and information research settings (2021)⁴

• Computer systems design and related services: $161,870

• Software publishers: $152,940

• Research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences: $132,810

• Federal government, excluding postal service: $112,310

• Colleges, universities, and professional school: state, local, and private: $79,510

How long does it take to become a data or computer scientist online?

Everyone’s path to graduation is different. In general, it will take you four years or less to complete your online Bachelor’s in Data or Computer Science. Some degree-completion programs offer even shorter timelines. However, they require previous, transferable college credits to apply.

You may also be wondering: Do you need a degree to become a data or computer scientist? The short answer is no. Some employers will hire you if you have the right work experience and previous training. However, if you prefer a more structured learning atmosphere, an online degree may be the path for you. Some employers will only consider your application if you have a bachelor’s degree and, in some instances, a master’s degree in a field like data science, depending on the job requirements.

Find the best online data or computer science program for you

Discover an online data or computer science program that checks every box. You may consider these factors along with others when you’re evaluating which program is best for you:

• School prestige: Explore top-ranked universities and accredited programs that will challenge you and develop you into a world-class data or computer science professional.

• Length of study: Choose an online bachelor’s program with a length of study that best suits your busy schedule: full time or part time.

• Degree-completion programs: Want to complete your online bachelor’s degree? Pick up where you left off and discover robust degree-completion programs online.

• Graduation rates: Review graduation rates to better understand the quality of an online bachelor’s program.

• Career outcomes: Learn what to expect from the job market and research post-graduation employment rates of program alumni.

¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Data Scientists, at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes152051.htm#(3) (visited May 2022).

² Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Research Scientists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm (visited May 2022).

³ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Data Scientists, at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes152051.htm#(3) (visited May 2022).

⁴ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Research Scientists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm (visited May 2022).

⁵ U.S. News and World Report, Online Computer Science Bachelor's Degree, at https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/computer-science-bachelors-degree (visited May 2022).