What is Computer Science?
Computer science programs are offered at many colleges and universities around the world. A degree in computer science can lead to a career in many different fields including software engineering, web development, and database administration.
There are many different types of computer science programs, each with its own focus. Some programs may emphasize programming languages, while others may focus on artificial intelligence or machine learning. There is no one right way to study computer science; the important thing is to find a program that matches your interests and goals.
When choosing a computer science program, it’s important to consider the faculty, the curriculum, and the opportunities for research and internships. Programs with strong faculty will be able to offer guidance and support throughout your studies. The curriculum should cover the basics of computer science while also allowing you to explore your specific interests.
Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Computer Science Programs in Colorado
Colorado School of Mines
Score: 82.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,186
- Out-of-State:$44,376
- Net Price: $29,425
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 82%
- Total Enrollment: 7,403
- Undergrad Students: 5,714
- Graduate Students: 1,689
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Colorado College
Score: 81.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $67,932
- Out-of-State:$67,932
- Net Price: $33,178
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 2,203
- Undergrad Students: 2,180
- Graduate Students: 23
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Regis University
Score: 80.21
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,980
- Out-of-State:$43,980
- Net Price: $26,377
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,668
- Undergrad Students: 2,398
- Graduate Students: 2,270
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Colorado Boulder
Score: 78.08
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,430
- Out-of-State:$41,943
- Net Price: $21,836
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 39,585
- Undergrad Students: 31,034
- Graduate Students: 8,551
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 77.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,896
- Out-of-State:$33,751
- Net Price: $16,926
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 33,403
- Undergrad Students: 25,777
- Graduate Students: 7,626
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Denver
Score: 72.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,340
- Out-of-State:$59,340
- Net Price: $42,423
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 13,734
- Undergrad Students: 6,151
- Graduate Students: 7,583
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of Colorado Denver
Score: 71.09
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,017
- Out-of-State:$28,209
- Net Price: $16,079
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 23,744
- Undergrad Students: 14,055
- Graduate Students: 9,689
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Northern Colorado
Score: 69.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,010
- Out-of-State:$26,204
- Net Price: $18,310
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 9,380
- Undergrad Students: 6,728
- Graduate Students: 2,652
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Score: 68.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$20,492
- Net Price: $16,990
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 11,431
- Undergrad Students: 9,540
- Graduate Students: 1,891
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Colorado Christian University
Score: 68.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,266
- Out-of-State:$39,266
- Net Price: $23,313
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 8,964
- Undergrad Students: 7,602
- Graduate Students: 1,362
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado Mesa University
Score: 66.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$24,312
- Net Price: $15,085
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 8,905
- Undergrad Students: 8,681
- Graduate Students: 224
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 64.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,780
- Out-of-State:$29,503
- Net Price: $14,805
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 16,995
- Undergrad Students: 15,848
- Graduate Students: 1,147
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Western Colorado University
Score: 63.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,083
- Out-of-State:$23,683
- Net Price: $16,672
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,548
- Undergrad Students: 3,095
- Graduate Students: 453
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado State University-Global
Score: 59.99
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,400
- Out-of-State:$8,400
- Net Price: $14,826
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 33%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 9,565
- Undergrad Students: 6,433
- Graduate Students: 3,132
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Colorado Technical University
Score: 54.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,760
- Out-of-State:$12,760
- Net Price: $16,106
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 46%
- Graduation Rate: 20%
- Total Enrollment: 24,808
- Undergrad Students: 22,393
- Graduate Students: 2,415
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 31:1
Community College of Aurora
Score: 51.86
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,030
- Out-of-State:$15,680
- Net Price: $7,340
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 8,343
- Undergrad Students: 8,343
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,700
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Front Range Community College
Score: 50.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,740
- Out-of-State:$16,974
- Net Price: $9,186
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 19,449
- Undergrad Students: 19,449
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Aims Community College
Score: 50.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,170
- Out-of-State:$11,306
- Net Price: $7,859
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 7,178
- Undergrad Students: 7,178
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,500
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Arapahoe Community College
Score: 49.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,308
- Out-of-State:$16,542
- Net Price: $9,691
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 12,636
- Undergrad Students: 12,636
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $46,400
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Pikes Peak State College
Score: 43.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,302
- Out-of-State:$16,534
- Net Price: $9,629
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 23%
- Total Enrollment: 11,899
- Undergrad Students: 11,899
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,100
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Online Computer Science Education in Colorado
A computer science professional is someone who has a deep understanding of computer systems and how they work. They use their knowledge to develop software applications, create databases, and troubleshoot issues.
Most computer science professionals have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Many also have master's degrees or PhDs. The most important thing for someone looking to enter this field is to have strong problem-solving skills, be able to think creatively and understand multiple coding languages.
Online Associates (AS)
An associate degree in computer science can lead to many different types of careers. Those with an associate degree in computer science may find themselves working as web developers, computer support specialists, or information security analysts, among other positions.
Those interested in pursuing an associate degree in computer science will likely take coursework in programming, software development, and database management, among other topics. It should take around two years to complete an associate degree program of any kind. After completing an associate degree program, students will be prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor’s level.
Online Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's degree in computer science can lead to a career in a number of different computer fields including computer programming, software engineering, and system administration. With a degree in computer science, you'll be able to find work in a variety of industries including information technology, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Some of these are more easily accessed after earning a bachelor’s degree rather than an associate degree.
A bachelor's degree in computer science will give you the skills you need to succeed in any of these fields. You'll learn how to design and develop software applications, as well as how to manage and maintain complex computer systems. You'll also gain an understanding of algorithms and data structures, which will be essential for any career in computing.
If you're interested in a career in computer science, there are many great colleges and universities that offer programs at the undergraduate level. It should take you around four years to complete a bachelor’s program, though you might finish more quickly if you find an accelerated program or if you are able to transfer over any credit hours from an associate degree you have already earned.
Online Masters (MS)
A master’s degree in computer science is a great way to further your career in this rapidly-growing field. With a master’s degree, you can qualify for advanced positions in many organizations, including government agencies and large corporations. Most computer science programs at the graduate level are very research oriented. You’ll take classes focused on specific computer science topics rather than completing core and general education curriculum. The focus these degrees provide are how they offer deeper knowledge in less time than a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree in computer science typically takes two years of full-time study to complete, though you may also be able to find somewhat accelerated programs at this level.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in computer science, a master’s degree is definitely worth considering. With a master’s degree, you can open up doors to many exciting and rewarding career opportunities.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
If you want to pursue a career in computer science, you'll need to get a PhD. A PhD in computer science is the highest degree you can earn in this field. With a PhD, you'll be able to conduct research, teach at the college level, and work in industry.
To get a PhD in computer science, you'll need to complete a four- to six-year doctoral program. During your first two years, you'll take courses and pass qualifying exams. After that, you'll spend time working on your dissertation or doctoral study. Your dissertation or doctoral study must be approved by a committee of faculty members before you can graduate.
Although it takes longer to earn a PhD than any other degree in computer science, it can definitely be worth it. With a PhD, you'll have the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue the career of your dreams.
Online Certifications
There are a number of computer science certifications that can help students and professionals alike to stand out in the job market. These credentials can demonstrate mastery of specific programming languages or platforms and can make an individual more attractive to potential employers.
Some of the most popular computer science certifications include those offered by Microsoft, Adobe, and Oracle. These companies offer exams that test candidates' knowledge of their respective products, and successful completion of these exams can lead to certification. Other vendors, such as CompTIA and Cisco, offer certification programs that cover a broader range of topics related to computer networking and security.
Individuals who possess one or more computer science certifications often enjoy career advancement opportunities and higher salaries throughout their careers. In addition, many employers give preference to candidates with these credentials when making hiring decisions.
Become a Computer Science Professional in Colorado
Computer science is the study of computers and their applications. It is a rapidly growing field with many opportunities for those with the right skills and training. Here are some steps on how to become a computer science professional.
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Step 1: Get a degree in computer science
It is possible to get started in this field without a degree, but earning a degree in computer science can still open up a world of opportunity. With a wealth of knowledge in the field, graduates can go on to work in a number of different industries and roles including software development, systems analysis and design, and information systems management. Students who study computer science will learn about programming languages, algorithms and data structures, software engineering principles, and much more. With such a broad range of topics covered, computer science graduates are well-prepared for a wide variety of careers. For those interested in working in the tech industry, a computer science degree is essential. In recent years, the demand for qualified computer science professionals has grown exponentially, especially those in cyber security positions. Companies are always on the lookout for talented engineers and developers to create the next big thing. So, if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career with endless possibilities, this might be just the thing for you.
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Step 2: Develop your skills
If you want to work in computer science, you will need to develop your skills in the field. There are many ways to do this, but one of the best ways is to attend a computer science college. At these schools, you will learn about the different aspects of computer science and how to apply them in the real world. You will also have the opportunity to take part in internships and research projects, which can give you hands-on experience in the field. After graduation, you can either start your own business or join an existing company as an entry-level employee. Regardless of what path you choose, developing your skills in computer science is essential if you want to be successful in this field. You can do this by gaining certifications, continuing to learn, and joining a professional association.
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Step 3: Stay up to date on new technologies
Computers are a part of everyday life, and they are only becoming more ubiquitous. As such, it’s important for everyone to have at least a basic understanding of how they work. For those looking to further their career prospects, staying up to date on new technologies is essential. There are a number of ways to stay up to date on new technologies. One is to attend conferences and trade shows related to the computer industry. These events are often where new products and services are unveiled, so this is a great way to see what is coming down the pipeline. Another way is to read trade publications that cover the latest news in the industry. These can be found both in print and online. Of course, keeping up with new technologies requires more than just passively consuming information. It’s also important to be proactive and experiment with new software and hardware when it becomes available.
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Step 4: Networking and building relationships with other professionals
As someone pursuing a degree in computer science, it's important to start networking and building relationships with other professionals in the field. Networking can help you find a job after graduation, or even land an internship while you're still in school. It can also be helpful to have contacts in the industry who can offer advice and mentorship. There are a few different ways to go about networking. One is to attend industry events, such as conferences or meet ups. This can be a great way to meet people working in your field and learn about new developments in the industry. Another option is to reach out to people you know or connect with people online.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Computer Science?
A bachelor's degree in computer science can open up a number of career opportunities in a variety of industries. With a degree in computer science, you can become a software developer, system administrator, database administrator, network engineer, and more. The possibilities are endless with a computer science degree. If you're interested in becoming a software developer, you can find jobs developing applications for businesses or consumers. You could also become a web developer and create websites or work on web applications. As a system administrator, you would be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting computer systems. If you're interested in working with databases, you could become a database administrator or help to develop database systems. Network engineers design and implement networks for organizations.