Best Online Computer Science Programs in North Carolina (2026)

Updated May 3, 2026 Table of Contents

North Carolina Computer Science At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Computer Science Salary$109,723
National ComparisonNorth Carolina salaries are approximately 6.5% higher than the national average for computer science
Primary Licensing BodyNorth Carolina Professional Licensing Board
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online computer science degree in North Carolina offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. North Carolina salaries are approximately 6.5% higher than the national average for computer science roles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, North Carolina students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.

Top Online Computer Science Schools in North Carolina

The following schools offer accredited online computer science programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in North Carolina.

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 87%
Graduation rate 60%
Tuition
In‑state$4,532
Out‑of‑state$8,532
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 19

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 69%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$6,735
Out‑of‑state$17,391
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 10

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

Campbell University

Buies Creek, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 94%
Graduation rate 56%
Tuition
In‑state$40,410
Out‑of‑state$40,410
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Catawba College

Salisbury, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 78%
Graduation rate 54%
Tuition
In‑state$33,400
Out‑of‑state$33,400
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 6

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
TuitionContact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 21

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
TuitionContact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 20

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

Career Outlook and Salaries in North Carolina

Computer Science professionals in North Carolina experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for North Carolina.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (North Carolina)
Software Developer$131,000
Computer Systems Analyst$104,940
Computer Network Architect$126,000
Database Administrator$108,430
Database Architect$130,560
Information Security Analyst$121,070
Computer Network Support Specialist$79,680
Computer User Support Specialist$58,660
Web Developer$94,070
Web and Digital Interface Designer$84,990
Computer and Information Systems Manager$167,550

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.

Why Pursue an Online Computer Science Degree in North Carolina?

Choosing a program in North Carolina can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in North Carolina offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Regional Relevance: Curriculum often incorporates data and case studies relevant to the North Carolina economy and job market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online computer science programs in North Carolina accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For North Carolina, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Computer Science pay in North Carolina compare to other states?

North Carolina salaries are approximately 6.5% higher than the national average for computer science roles. This makes North Carolina a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for computer science in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Professional Licensing Board oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in North Carolina. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.

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