
Online Bachelor's Degree in Applied Computer Science
Complete this form to receive the Purdue Global program guide.
BS in Applied Computer Science Overview
Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. It’s time to get the computer science degree your career deserves and be ready for your next big opportunity.
- Earn your degree 100% online, on your schedule
- Study all aspects of computer science with practical, hands-on learning opportunities
- Prepare to advance in software development, information security, systems research and management, and other computer science fields
- Develop critical skills in mathematics
- Complete an optional micro-credential in artificial intelligence, or another career-related subject, as part of your degree
Move Your Career Forward
In this online computer science degree program, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge that are most important to today’s employers.
You’ll learn to apply fundamental and emerging concepts of computer science, analyze computer systems, create complex software applications, find solutions to challenging IT problems, effectively collaborate with teams, and make ethical decisions.
Throughout this program, you can apply what you learn directly to your current workplace and prepare to advance your career. The BS in Applied Computer Science program culminates in a capstone project based on your professional interests.
Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
The HLC (HLCommission.org) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
See Notes and Conditions below for important information.
Calculate Your Time and Cost
Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.
What Courses Will I Take?
With your applied computer science degree, you’ll have the working knowledge of the concepts, methods, and emerging technologies to design information systems. Most of the courses for your major will include hands-on projects and AI applications.
Plus, all our courses are regularly updated by our dedicated curriculum department and advisory board to ensure they reflect the most recent developments in the field. You’ll be ready to add value to your current workplace and advance in a fast-changing IT industry.
Sample Courses
- Advanced Database Concepts
- Software Engineering
- Network Security Concepts
- Operating Systems
- Computer Architecture
- Programming for Data Analysis (Python, R, and Java)
Program Requirements
1 semester credit hour = 1.5 quarter credit hours
3-Week Trial
Not sure if Purdue Global is right for you? Try an undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week trial period.
There’s no financial obligation and no cost to apply. That’s the Purdue Global Commitment.
Students who choose to continue at Purdue Global will be billed for the full first term's tuition, including the 3-week trial. See Notes and Conditions below.
Admissions Requirements
You must be a high school graduate or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. You must also complete orientation before you start classes.
Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.
Customize Your Degree With a Micro-Credential
Use your elective credits to earn an optional micro-credential that aligns with your career goals and interests. Enhance your skills in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, business, and more, while earning your bachelor’s degree. The micro-credential is seamlessly integrated into your program, if you choose to pursue it.
Featured Micro-Credential
Exploring AI: Core Concepts and Applications
Explore the landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in this micro-credential program. You’ll examine topics including generative AI, ethical considerations about the use of AI, and the use of AI applications in various professions.
Upcoming Start Dates
We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.
Earn Credit for Prior Coursework and Experience
The average bachelor's degree student pays $15k and takes 2.3 years to complete their degree.
Ways to Save on Time and Tuition
Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.
Transfer Credits
Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions, including community colleges.
Prior Work Experience Reduction
You could earn undergraduate credit for your life and professional career experiences.
Financial Aid
Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.
Grants and Loans
Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.
Corporate Partner Benefits
Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions.
Military Tuition Reduction
Undergraduate tuition savings for military include a 55% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and 38% per credit for veterans.
Prior Military Experience
Earn credit for your military training. The average Purdue Global military student is awarded 54% of the credits needed for an associate's and 45% of the credits needed for a bachelor's.
View the total cost of attendance for your program.
Possible Behavioral Interview Questions for This Field of Study
- Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a technical issue under pressure. What was the problem, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
- Describe a time when staying current with industry trends helped you succeed in a project or make an informed decision. What actions did you take to stay informed?
- Tell me about the most impactful achievement in your career. What was the situation, what actions did you take, and what made the outcome meaningful to you?
- Share an example of a time when you experienced a failure or setback on a project. How did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience?
- Tell me about a time when you had multiple competing deadlines or responsibilities. How did you stay organized and ensure the timely completion of your work?
Sample Skills Developed and Used in This Field
- Agile Methodology
- Project Management
- Test Automation
- Problem Solving
- Java (Programming Language)
- SQL (Programming Language)
- Operations
- Planning
- Troubleshooting
- Quality Assurance
- Operating Systems
- Ethical Standards and Conduct
- Auditing
Download the Program Brochure
Download our brochure to learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global.
Get to Know Our Faculty
Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.
Faculty members who have advanced degrees
Faculty members who have terminal degrees
Faculty publications in 2024–2025
Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2024–2025
Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, August 2025. 2024–2025 academic year.