A Guide to Online Computer Science Degrees in Washington

Washington State seems to have it all- the Pacific Ocean, mountains, national forests, islands, and a diverse capital city. Residents of Washington State enjoy active volcanoes with glaciers and meadows at the Mount Rainer National Park, nearly a million acres of lush rain forests and dramatic Pacific coastline at Olympic National Parks, the Columbia River Gorge, Puget Sound, and magnificent lakes for fishing clean salmon, and other fresh water fish. The economy is as diverse as the landscape, as Washington is one of the leading agricultural states, a significant trade point with Asia, and home to some of the largest Fortune 500 companies like Starbucks, Amazon, and Microsoft. Seattle alone is the home to six Fortune 500 companies, and continues to diversify and expand each year.

Largely thanks to Microsoft and Amazon, Seattle is one of the largest technology cities in the United States.Computer Science jobs are booming in Seattle with the presence of companies like Amazon, Leafly, PayScale, Allrecipes.com, Zillow, Turbo, and more. Computer science jobs are so diverse they interact with all industries including some prominent employers in the fields of Biotechology, computer hardware, food and beverage (Starbucks), healthcare, Insurance, retail, transportation and architecture. Along with a diverse economy comes plenty of job opportunities in computer science. And with so many interests, there’s literally something for everyone. You could focus on sustainability engineering, cyber security, game design, create your own start up, research and develop virtual reality, or get involved with information technology in relation to the emerging cannabis industry. If you have a degree in computer science, the world is your for the taking in Washington State.

Washington State Educational Costs

Even with its high number of of prestigious colleges and universities, Washington State public institutions cost far below than the national average, $4,936 compared to $9,404 at four-year schools for 2015-16.From 2015-2917 Washington colleges experienced and historic reduction in tuition rates. In fact, under the new state budget tuition rates dropped between 5 and as much as 20%. Most state institutions’ tuition rates dropped 10% in that time period. This is great news for Washington State residents. And, by comparison the national average was actually an increase of about 17 percent. The conclusion is clear, anyone paying in-state tuition in Washington is getting a great value.

Washington State Tech Salaries

  • Web Developer: $65,476
  • Software Applications Developer: $86,000
  • Computer Systems Analyst: $87,220
  • Database Administrator: $85,653
  • Data Scientist:$131,112
  • Information Technology Manager:$120,818
1
University of Washington
CSZ Score: 98/100
Online CS Degrees:5
University of Washington (UW) is a public research university located in Seattle. Seattle is known for its strong computer science industry, local artists, and coffee. It’s a great town for students who wish to immerse themselves in culture and work. There are 45,591 students enrolled at UW, and the student to faculty ratio is 17:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits UW to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as post-master’s certification. According to U.S. News UW ranks as the 56th best university in the nation, 18th best public university in the nation, and 11th best university for computer science. When it comes to global recognition, UW really shines- recognized as the 10th best university in the world along with Johns Hopkins University. The Academic offerings are robust at UW, and students of nearly all disciplines will find something of interest here. Some of the unique offerings include: Paper Technology, Jewish Studies, Health Law, Slavic Languages and Literature, Apparel and Textile Manufacturing and Latin Teacher Education. There are 10 online degrees including their Master of Science in Computational Finance And Risk Management, Master of Science in Clinical Informatics And Patient-Centered Technologies, Master of Science in Computational Linguistics, >Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems, and Master of Science in Library Science.

UW offers five degrees in computer science:

  • Master of Science in Computational Finance And Risk Management
  • Master of Science in Clinical Informatics And Patient-Centered Technologies
  • Master of Science in Computational Linguistics
  • Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
  • Master of Science in Library Science

University of Washington made it to our number one spot for the high number of online computer science degrees available and for its outstanding academic programming. As one of the top Computer Science Departments in the nation, you might have guessed that their online courses are rigorous and excellent. The Master of Science in Computational Finance And Risk Management addresses the need for financial services of the next generation. All students start with prerequisite material that focuses intensely on mathematics, and statistics as well as R-programming. This is an interdisciplinary course that includes core materials, electives, an internship, and a master’s thesis. The Master of Science in Clinical Informatics And Patient-Centered Technologies requires 15 months to two years for completion, and all applicants must have worked for one year in a health-related field. This is and intensive 49 credit hour course that includes system design and project management, health informatics, interactive health communication technology, and culminates with a scholarly project. The Master of Science in Computational Linguistic is available both full time and part time and focuses on the way machines process human language. You will work with emerging technology like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The Online Master of Geographic Information Systems focuses on sustainability management. All students will culminate their experience with an exciting capstone project with a community partnership in the Puget Sound region. The Library Science Master’s Program is ranked number 2 in the US. Students will learn about archival and manuscript services, the history of recorded information, information behavior, government publication, collection development, and principles of information services. As you can see UW offers a wide-range of online master’s degrees in computer science .

  • Homepage
  • Computer Science Zone Score: 97.5/100
  • Total Number of Degrees: 9
2
City University of Seattle
CSZ Score: 97.5/100
Online CS Degrees:9
City University of Seattle is a private institution located in Seattle. Seattle has a large computer information technology industry. There are just 1,874 student enrolled at City University (City U) and the student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities- the highest accrediting agency in the region-accredits City U to award associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorates as well as postbaccalaureate certifications. According to U.S. News City U ranks 31st for best online bachelor’s programs, and 40th for best online graduate computer information technology programs. When it comes to online education, not only does City U provide some of the best, they also offer a wide-range of programs for undergraduate and graduate students alike. There are 40 fully online degrees that range from the associate’s to doctoral level, as well as online professional certifications. Some of the most popular online programs by enrollment include the online MBA and the online master’s in curriculum and instruction. There are 8 online degrees in computer science and related fields.

City U Offers 7 online computer science-related degrees including the following undergraduate degrees:

  • Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Corporate Risk Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with Cyber Forensic Investigation Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

And the following online graduate degrees:

  • Master of Science in Computer Systems
  • Master of Science in Information Security
  • Master of Business Administration with Emphasis in Technology Management

City University of Seattle made it to our top picks for the high number of online degrees in computer science available to both undergraduates and graduates. The online BS in Applied Computing requires 180 credits for completion and will teach students fundamentals of computing as well as network technologies. Student will take 4 preparatory courses: foundational statistics, fundamental computing, programming with python, and an introduction to Web Design. The core courses provide a sweeping overview including IT ethics, project management, information security, operating systems, and more. This program culminates with a technology capstone experience. The online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance follows a similar format but includes courses like “Cybercrime, Technology, and Social Change” “Homeland Security and Espionage” as well as “Internet Technologies” and “Information Security.” This is a cross-disciplinary program. We recommend taking a look through all of their online bachelor’s degrees in computer science to find one that matches your interests.

City U also offers three fully online master’s degrees in computer science including their Master of Science in Computer Science that will help you become an effective and highly desired technology expert. You will study: computer science, data management communications and networking, C++, operating systems, principles of software engineering, cloud computing, software testing, and more. This program culminate with a computer science capstone. The MBA with an Emphasis in Technology Management is a much more interdisciplinary program, and in addition to their MBA program you will study: information security, senior management and information security, managing the technology project, managing process innovation, maintaining the technology infrastructure, leveraging emerging technologies and more. Their third online master’s degree in computer science focuses on information security. There’s a lot to choose from at City U.

  • Homepage
  • Computer Science Zone Score: 97/100
  • Total Number of Degrees: 6
3
South Puget Sound CC
CSZ Score: 97/100
Online CS Degrees:6
South Puget Sound Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Olympia, Washington. There are ,861 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is just 16:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits South Puget Sound CC to award associate’s degrees as well as one-year certifications. The college offers the full gambit of student support services like AP credits, credit for life experience, remedial help, academic and career counseling and on-campus day are for students’ children. Academic programming focuses centrally one career-ready discipline like health, welding, automotive repair, fire-fighting, computer science, and elementary education. Their online offerings in computer science are extensive including 9 associate’s degrees in related fields.

South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) offers 9 online associate’s degrees in computer science:

  • Computer Programming
  • Database Management
  • Computer Network Administration
  • Information Technology Computer Support
  • Office Technology and Administration – Administrative Assistant
  • Office Technology and Administration – Legal Administrative Assistant
  • Office Technology and Administration – Medical Administrative Assistant
  • Computer Aided Drafting/Building Information Modeling – Associate in Applied Science
  • Computer Aided Drafting/Building Information Modeling AAS-T

We selected SPSCC for the high number of online computer science degrees available. The computer programming course helps students learn computer programming skills like HTML, JavaScript, CSS, C#, and how to read write and debug programs and databases in Microsoft. The Associate of Applied Science in Database Management prepares students for myriad computer science careers including database administration, software development, computer programming, and computer networks and systems administration. You will learn about C#, JavaScript, and structured query language, as well as how business use this information for decision-making. For those more interested in an administrative position in computer science you could try SPSCC’s AAS in Legal Administration where you’ll learn about keyboarding, Microsoft Office, business English, Excel, Digital Productivity, PowePoint, Technical Writing, Legal Procedures, and more. This is an exciting interdiciplinary degree that blends computer science, secretarial skills, and law. Yet another great option in a computer science-related field is Computer Aided Drafting. This AAS is for anyone interested in manufacturing and industrial design- how project move from digital/virtual concepts into the physical “real-world.” This computer science degree has an architectural component. As you can see SPSCC has a wide-range of options to match a variety of interests.

  • Homepage
  • Computer Science Zone Score: 97.5/100
  • Total Number of Degrees: 3
4
Washington State University
CSZ Score: 97.5/100
Online CS Degrees:3
Washington State University (WSU) is a public research university located in Pullman, Washington. There are 30,142 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1. The Northwest Commission on College and Universities accredits WSU to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. According to U.S News, WSU ranks as the 140th best school in the nation, 89th best college for veterans, 12th for best online MBA programs, 23rd for best online bachelor’s programs, and 29th for best online graduate engineering programs. Carnegie lists WSU as and R1 Research university with the “highest level of research activity.” It may come as no surprise therefore that WSU offers robust academic offerings that include molecular biology, viticulture, higher education, human nutrition, chemical physics, and music theory. Their online offerings include programs for both undergraduates and graduates alike. Some of their online degrees include a bachelor’s in social sciences, master’s in sport and fitness administration, a bachelor’s in management information systems, and a master of science in software engineering.

We selected Washington State University (WSU) for their high academic ranking along with the number of online degrees in computer science-related fields:

  • Bachelor in Management Information Systems
  • Software Engineering MS
  • Engineering & Technology Management (METM)

The undergraduate programs is a Bachelors in Business Administration with a major in Management Information Systems (MIS). This 120 credit hour degree is interdisciplinary in nature- requiring coursework in management and information systems. Students will cover marketing, finance, business, management and entrepreneurship as well as web technologies and innovation, managing information technology, business systems development, enterprise business process analysis, information technology infrastructure, strategic information systems leadership and more. For the tech savvy, and business savvy, this is a great option. WSU also offers a Online Master of Science in Software Engineering. Student have the flexibility to study this program full-time or part time. All student will study: software requirements, advanced algorithms, leadership, supervision, and management, software maintenance, software testing, and culminate with a capstone experience. Additionally, student may opt to study METM- a Master’s in Engineering Technology Management. This diverse degree prepares students for careers in business, engineering, and computer science. You will learn to manage local and global projects as well as become a leader in organizations. One of the most crucial skills developed in this online course is the ability to manage changing technology. As you can see, WSU offer a wide-range of quality computer science degrees .

  • Homepage
  • Computer Science Zone Score: 97/100
  • Total Number of Degrees: 3
5
Central Washington University
CSZ Score: 97/100
Online CS Degrees:3
Central Washington University (CWU) is a public instiution located in Ellensburg. Ellensburg is about 2 hours Southeast of Seattle. There are 11,971 students enrolled at CWU and the student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1. The Northwest Commission on College and Universities accredits CWU to award bachelor, and master’s degrees as well as post-master’s certifications. According to U.S. News CWU ranks as the 44th best school in the region, 51st best value school, and 10th top public school. CWU offers the full range of student support services including dual credit, remedial help, employment services for students, on-campus day care, and academic and career counseling. There are nearly 20 online degrees and professional certificates available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Bachelor’s may study an online degree in sociology, human services, psychology, criminal justice, writing and more. Graduate students can select from online degrees in fields such as business, computer information sciences, education, sports and fitness administration among others.

We selected Central Washington University both for its high quality academic programming and for the number of online degrees in computer science:

  • Bachelor of Applied Science – Information Technology And Administrative Management
  • Bachelor of Science – Information Technology And Administrative Management (Itam)
  • Master of Science in Information Technology And Administrative Management

Undergraduate interested in completing an online degree in computer science may want to try their Bachelor of Applied Science Information Technology and Administrative Management. This program is interdisciplinary including courses in: business, business math, administrative management, project management, IT management career planning, computer application, integrate IT Applications, Advanced Spreadsheet applications and more. If you are business and tech savvy, look into this course. The Bachelor of Science program is similar with a heavier focus on IT over business though does offer specializations in: administrative management, cybersecurity, network administration and management, retail management and technology, and web and database administration and management.

Graduate students may study their online Master of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management. There are a variety of specializations available including in: administrative management, cybersecurity management, information technology, and structure of data analytics for IT Managers. All online degrees require 46 credit hours for completion, and regardless of specialization all students will study global managerial communications, global leadership and supervision, global project management, and more. This is an interdisciplinary course that offers a lot of flexibility through the online format and areas of specialization.

  • Homepage
  • Computer Science Zone Score: 96.5/100
  • Total Number of Degrees: 3

Directory of Online Computer Science Degrees in Washington

University of Washington-Seattle Campus Seattle, WA Online CS Degrees: 5


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(206) 543-2100
Seattle, WA
GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Science in Computational Finance And Risk Management
  • Master of Science in Clinical Informatics And Patient-Centered Technologies
  • Master of Science in Computational Linguistics
  • Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
  • Master of Science in Library Science
City University of Seattle Seattle, WA Online CS Degrees: 9


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(206) 239-4500
521 Wall St, Seattle, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
  • Master of Business Administration with Emphasis in Technology Management
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Corporate Risk Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with Cyber Forensic Investigation Emphasis
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Science in Computer Systems
  • Master of Science in Information Security
South Puget Sound Community College Olympia, WA Online CS Degrees: 6


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(360) 754-7711
2011 Mottman Road SW, Olympia, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Computer Programming
  • Database Management
  • Computer Network Administration
  • Information Technology Computer Support
  • Office Technology and Administration – Administrative Assistant
  • Office Technology and Administration – Legal Administrative Assistant
  • Office Technology and Administration – Medical Administrative Assistant
  • Computer Aided Drafting/Building Information Modeling – Associate in Applied Science
  • Computer Aided Drafting/Building Information Modeling AAS-T
Washington State University Pullman, WA Online CS Degrees: 3


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(509) 335-3564
Pullman, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor in Management Information Systems

GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Software Engineering MS
  • Engineering & Technology Management (METM)
Central Washington University Ellensburg, WA Online CS Degrees: 3


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(509) 963-1111
400 E University Way, Ellensburg, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Applied Science – Information Technology And Administrative Management
  • Bachelor of Science – Information Technology And Administrative Management (Itam)

GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Science in Information Technology And Administrative Management
Shoreline Community College Shoreline, WA Online CS Degrees: 3


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(206) 546-4101
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Associate in Applied Arts & Sciences in Business Technology
  • Associate in Applied Arts & Sciences in Health Information Technology
  • Associate in Arts of Health Information Technology
Spokane Community College Spokane, WA Online CS Degrees: 2


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(509) 533-7000
1810 N Greene St, Spokane, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Associate in Applied Science in Health Information Technology
  • Associate in Applied Science in Office Information Systems
Spokane Falls Community College Spokane, WA Online CS Degrees: 2


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(509) 533-3500
3410 W Fort George Wright Dr, Spokane, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Associate in Applied Science in Health Information Technology
  • Associate in Applied Science in Office Information Systems
Edmonds Community College Lynnwood, WA Online CS Degrees: 1


ADDRESS & CONTACT INFO
(425) 640-1459
20000 68th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration – Management Information Systems