Arizona State University Online BS CS: Full Review 2026
Last tested: 2026-05-01 · Score: 8.5/10
Disclaimer: Tuition costs, program requirements, and accreditation status change. Verify all details directly with the institution before enrolling or committing funds.
Overview
Arizona State University Online’s BS in Computer Science is the brand-premium option in the online CS market. ASU Online has ranked as the most innovative university in the U.S. for multiple consecutive years (U.S. News), and the degree carries the same credential as the on-campus programme. The cost is meaningfully higher than WGU or SNHU — buyers pay for name recognition and a structured semester system.
Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The CS programme holds ABET-CAC accreditation, making it one of the few online CS programmes with this credential.
Last verified: 2026-05-01
Verdict
Brand-conscious career changers, international students needing U.S. name recognition, and ABET-required roles
Budget-constrained buyers — WGU or SNHU deliver similar credential outcomes at lower cost
$499/credit
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Cost breakdown (as of 2026)
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Per credit hour | $499 |
| Full 120-credit sticker total | $59,880 |
| With 60 accepted transfer credits | $29,940 |
| Estimated books/materials | $1,000-$2,000 |
Total realistic out-of-pocket: $30,000 - $50,000 depending on transfer credits and scholarships. This is substantially higher than WGU or SNHU.
Accreditation details
- Regional accreditation: HLC (qualifies for federal financial aid, credits transfer broadly)
- ABET-CAC: Yes, accredited. Relevant for DoD, aerospace, and federal civilian engineering roles.
- GI Bill: Accepted. Verify BAH rates and Yellow Ribbon participation at VA WEAMS.
Programme structure
ASU Online uses traditional semester structure (fall, spring, summer). This is a meaningful difference from WGU’s self-paced model — you cannot accelerate beyond the semester calendar, but you get structured cohorts, professor access, and a clear timeline.
Course load: Typically 2-3 courses per semester. Full-time students finish in approximately 4 years from scratch; with transfer credits, 2-3 years.
Pros
- + ABET-CAC accredited — one of few online CS programmes with this
- + Strong brand recognition — ASU name resonates with most U.S. employers
- + Structured semesters provide accountability
- + Large alumni network
- + GI Bill eligible
- + Same degree as on-campus students
Cons
- - Significantly higher cost than WGU or SNHU
- - Semester structure limits acceleration potential
- - Competitive admissions — not open access
- - Transfer credit policy less generous than SNHU
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