Are you wondering what a computer science certificate is or where to earn one? This guide discusses what you’ll learn in a computer science certificate program and how it can help you move forward in your career. We’ll also cover the best schools where you can earn a computer science college certificate.
This article has information on both undergraduate certificates and graduate certificates in computer science, typical courses to look out for, and computer science certificate jobs you can apply for after completing your computer science certificate program.
What Is a Computer Science Certificate College Program?
A computer science certificate college program is a set of courses provided by a college or university where students take classes and earn credits in computer science. These programs are shorter and more affordable than acquiring a two or four-year degree.
Graduating from a computer science college certificate program will unlock entry-level computer science jobs or allow graduated students to continue their education and earn a degree. Some students also earn computer science certificates while completing degrees in other subjects to demonstrate that they have completed significant coursework in computer science.
What’s the Difference Between a College Computer Science Certificate and Professional Certification in Computer Science?
The difference between a college certificate and a professional certification in computer science is that a college computer science certificate is a set of college courses that can be a gateway to a degree. Professional certification in computer science, on the other hand, is the result of an assessment process, requires industry experience, and does not lead to a degree.
Both a certificate and a certification can help you in the job market. A certificate will help you land entry-level computer science jobs and a professional certification can help you negotiate a pay raise or find higher-level positions in your chosen career path.
Computer Science College Certificate vs Computer Science Certification: Key Differences
| Computer Science Certificate | Computer Science Certification |
|---|---|
| Made up of multiple college courses. | The program consists of an exam with optional preparation courses. |
| Provided by colleges and universities. | Provided by industry groups and professional organizations. |
| Suitable for students with no work experience in the field. | Designed for working professionals with several years of work experience. |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Computer Science Certificate at College?
It takes between three months and one year to earn a computer science college certificate, depending on your pace of study. Acquiring a degree in computer science takes between two and four years. Enrolling in a certificate instead of a degree program is a logical place to start if you are not sure about committing to computer science long-term and are looking to try out the subject.
Best Computer Science Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science | $520/credit |
| Creighton University | Certificate in Computer Science | $1,367/credit hour |
| College of San Mateo | Certificate of Achievement in Computer Science Applications and Development | $46/credit (in state); $336/credit (out of state) |
| Full Sail University | Certificate in Computer Science | $457/credit hour |
| George Mason University | Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science | $408.15/credit hour (in state); $1415/credit hour (out of state) |
| Kansas State University | Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science | $664.70/credit hour |
| Thomas Edison State University | Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Science | $399/credit (in state); $519/credit (out of state) |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Certificate in Computational Science and Engineering | $735.83/credit (in state); $1,558.83/credit (out of state) |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Certificate in Computer Sciences | $460.73/credit (in state); $1,622.72/credit (out of state) |
| Wright State University | Certificate in Computer Science Essentials | $426/hour (in state); $860/hour (out of state) |
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Certificate Programs: Explained
You have to complete a certain number of credit hours to get a computer science certificate. Certificates may provide students opportunities for career growth or unlock better career options with high-paying salaries. The best undergraduate computer science certificate programs are available at various colleges and universities. Let’s have a closer look at these certificate programs in computer science.
Computer Science College Certificate Program vs Computer Science Associate Degree
Computer science college certificate programs and computer science associate degrees both give an introductory education in computer science. An associate degree is a two-year stand-alone program, while a certificate program is much shorter and is often used as an additional credential for a degree in another subject. Some other differences between computer science certificates and associate degree programs are listed below.
- Duration. Certificate programs usually take three months to a year to complete. Associate degree programs usually take two years to complete.
- Cost. Certificate programs cost less because they require fewer credit hours than an associate degree program.
- Authority. Degrees are considered a stronger qualification because they are more comprehensive. A certificate alone without any other degree might not be enough education depending on the job title you are seeking.
- Credit requirements. Certificate programs usually require 12 to 28 credit hours, while an associate degree requires an average of 60 credit hours.
- Salary. According to Statista, an associate degree holder earns a median salary of $48,753, but a certificate holder with no additional education earns a median wage of $41,222 per year.
Best Online Associate Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-associate-degrees
Best Associate Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-associate-degrees
Is an Undergraduate Computer Science Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate computer science certificate is worth it. You get to increase your knowledge, skills, and expertise for a fraction of the price of a formal degree and it takes much less time. A certificate can also both advance your career and increase your earning potential, depending on your career goals.
Best Computer Science Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science | $1,382/credit hour |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | $257/credit hour |
| North Carolina State University | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | $505.28/credit hour (in state); $1,572.28/credit hour (out of state) |
| Northeastern University | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | $1,626/credit hour |
| Temple University | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | $1,205/credit (in state); $1,567/credit (out of state) |
| University at Buffalo | Advanced Certificate in Computational Science | $471/credit (resident); $963/credit (non-resident) |
| University of Delaware | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science | $1,250/credit hour |
| University of Nebraska Omaha | Graduate Certificate in Computer Science Education | In-person: $356/credit hour (resident); $944/credit hour (non-resident) Online: $375/credit hour (resident); $632/credit hour (non-resident) |
| Stanford University | Graduate Certificate in Foundations in Computer Science | $1,352/credit |
Best Graduate Computer Science Certificate Programs Explained
The best graduate computer science certificate programs can provide competitive students with additional education to enhance their technical skills. A graduate certificate can open up career opportunities beyond entry-level positions. Below we’ll cover 10 of the best graduate computer science certificates in detail.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Computer Science Graduate Certificate Program vs Computer Science Master’s Degree
Both a computer science graduate certificate and master’s degree have valid pros and cons to consider. Both will help you level up in your career, but they are different in a number of ways. Listed below are some criteria to help you decide which qualification is best for you.
- Length. Master’s degrees usually take around two years to complete, whereas a graduate certificate can take a few months to a year complete.
- Tuition. Graduate certificates are more affordable than a master’s degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a master’s degree costs $12,410 per year at a public institution and $26,597 per year at a private institution on average.
- Learning format. Certificate programs are all coursework, while master’s degree programs typically include a capstone project, thesis, original research project, or internship.
- Admission requirements. Master’s degree admissions are usually more competitive than for a graduate certificate. However, both types of programs have prerequisite courses and requirements for admissions.
- Earning potential. A master’s degree is a higher-level credential, which translates to higher earning potential. Statista reports that master’s degree holders earn $92,27 per year on average.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
Best Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-masters-degrees
Is a Graduate Computer Science Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate computer science certificate is worth it. You can increase your computer science skills and acquire advanced knowledge for a lower cost than a formal degree. Graduating with a certificate takes less time than a degree and it may provide opportunities for career advancement and a higher salary.
Computer Science Certificate Program Coursework
The best computer science certificate program coursework will cover several crucial topics used in the broad field of technology. These will enhance your analytic skills, security management of office computer systems, and experience level and unlock a wide variety of technology occupations for application.
Database Concepts
A database course covers the storage, maintenance, and retrieval of datasets. Students learn how to create, design, test, and manage databases that companies might use to store client information or confidential records.
Programming
Students in computer science certificate programs will learn to code in C or Java or other beginner programming languages. Coding is a foundational computer science skill that allows programmers to tell computers what to do.
Software Design
Software design courses teach students how to develop new useful and efficient applications. Software design topics include testing and repairing frameworks, system software, and operating systems.
Operating Systems
In this course, students learn how operating systems connect and manage computer hardware like keyboards, storage devices, and motherboards.
Cyber Security
Cyber security is the practice of protecting digital assets such as devices and networks from outside attacks. Students will learn different techniques for detecting cyber attacks and preventing cyber attacks.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
[query_class_embed] online-college-*subject-courses
What Can You Do With a Computer Science Certificate from College?
A computer science certificate from college can help you land your first job or advance to a higher level in roles like security manager, technology associate, software engineer, network administrator, and network architect.
Best Computer Science Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Network Administrator | $80,600 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
Best Computer Science Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
The best computer science jobs usually require a degree. However, many already in the industry have secured high-paying entry-level positions in computer science with a certificate. Let’s look at some of the best computer science jobs and what they involve.
Should I Also Get a Computer Science Certification?
Yes, you should also get a computer science certification. Computer science certifications provide employers with an authoritative industry verification of your skills and abilities. Candidates with information technology certifications can advance in their careers and earn higher wages.
Best Computer Science Certifications
- CompTIA A+ Certification. Learn beginner IT skills in security, configuring device operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux, troubleshooting, and data backup and recovery techniques. This certification includes two tests that cover nine key skills. The program costs $239 per exam.
- Cisco Certified Technician. Cisco Certified Technicians learn skills to diagnose, fix, and replace Cisco networks and system devices for businesses. The self-paced online training costs $299 and students must pass an exam to receive the certification.
- Project Management Institute Certified Associate in Project Management. Anyone with an associate degree can take this certification exam in project management. Examinations cost $225 for members and $300 for non-members of the Project Management Institute.
- Microsoft Azure IoT Developer Specialty Certification. This specialty certification shows that recipients are competent in Azure services like data storage options, data analysis, and data processing. Preparing online is free and the exam costs $165. You can also choose to pay for an instructor-led preparation course.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate. This program provides associate-level training and verification in technologies used for networks and other IT infrastructure. The preparation course costs $995 and the examination costs $79.
Best Professional Certifications
[query_class_embed] *subject-certifications
Is a College Certificate for Computer Science Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for computer science is worth it because it’s a specialized education that is cost-effective, shorter than a degree, and recognized as a valuable credential by employers and industry leaders. Another excellent option for learning computer science quickly is to attend a coding bootcamp.
Computer Science Certificates FAQ
Yes, there are some financial aid options available to students pursuing computer science certificate programs. However, most forms of federal financial aid are only available to students pursuing a degree in addition to a certificate.
Some computer science certificate programs include building a portfolio. If you want to become a software developer, having a strong software developer portfolio can set your application apart in a crowded job market. If you choose a certificate program without any portfolio-building projects, you should do some software development projects on your own.
Yes, there are several 100 percent online computer science certificates for potential students. However, not all programs have an online option, so you should check the school’s official website or contact the program administrator to check.
Yes, computer science certificates can help you change industries or careers, especially if you already have a degree in a related or complementary field. A computer science certificate shows potential employers that you completed an academic education program.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
