Can Computer Science Be Self-Taught?
Indeed, computer science can be self-taught. Many developers and tech professionals are autodidacts – meaning that they have built impressive careers by mastering coding, systems, and software architecture through self-guided learning, free online tutorials, and practice.
Platforms like Udemy, edX, and Coursera offer beginner-to-advanced programming resources that can help you become proficient at your own pace.
But how does this compare to getting a formal degree?
In this section, we explore why a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science still holds immense value—especially if you’re aiming for structured career growth, global recognition, and top-paying roles in the computing industry.
Is a Computer Science Degree Still Worth It?
There is no denying that we live in a highly information-driven world. Everything that powers the modern world has some computing behind it.
The demands, challenges, and opportunities that exist in modern life – and particularly the surge of 4iR and particularly AI (Artificial intelligence) and business have created a growing demand for degreed IT personnel, especially those holding a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
In this post, you will learn about the benefits of earning a computer science degree—starting with income, job prospects, and career growth.
So, is a computer science degree worth it? Yes, it is.
Computer Science Degree Holders Earn Strong Salaries
One of the main reasons why people pursue education is so that they can get a solid foundation for their preferred career line. The primary reason why people get jobs is to earn an income and occupy their lives with something productive.
The computing and information technology sectors, where computer science degree holders are employed, remain some of the highest-paying industries globally.
According to updated data from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees with a bachelor’s degree in computer science average a yearly salary of $75,000 to $120,000, depending on location and role.
Specialised roles in software development, cybersecurity, data science, and machine learning—especially when backed by a formal degree—often attract even higher compensation packages.
Platforms like SNHU and University of Phoenix offer online computer science degrees aligned with such high-demand roles.
Growing Job Opportunities for Computer Science Graduates
With the explosion of the information and communication sectors, IT personnel—especially computer science graduates—remain in high demand.
Recent hiring trends continue to show strong placement rates. For instance, figures indicate that more than half of computer science degree holders secure job offers soon after graduation.
This means that if you hold a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, your chances of getting employed are significantly higher than many other fields.
Employment probabilities in other sectors often pale in comparison. From healthcare tech to financial services to AI-driven platforms, CS graduates are in demand across industries.
Fastest Growing Fields in the Digital Economy
Figures released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and other global career outlooks confirm that computing-related sectors are among the fastest-growing industries.
What this implies is that if you are a computer specialist, your chances of being exposed to more job opportunities are incredibly high.
While outsourcing and automation have impacted some traditional roles, software publishing, AI, and cloud computing are experiencing significant expansion.
The software publishing industry, in particular, is on a growth path. Note that this is one of the core areas of focus in a computer science degree curriculum. Employment in this field is projected to grow by over 20% in the coming decade, making it a powerful career move for anyone holding the right qualifications.
Online Computer Science Degrees: A Strategic Career Move
With several accredited institutions now offering flexible online computer science degrees, this is the perfect time to align yourself with greater career opportunities.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science will be your formidable entry point into this lucrative sector—especially when offered through reputable institutions like Coursera (in partnership with top universities), UoPeople, or edX.
Computer Science Is a Brain-Intensive but Rewarding Field
Computing is a brain-intensive field and requires committed individuals to master both the theory and practical application of computing. It is also a fascinating, hands-on discipline—and if you love technology, you can invest your passion into earning a truly rewarding computer science degree.
Whether you choose to be self-taught or earn your credentials online, remember: the best path is the one that aligns with your goals, discipline, and learning style.
Why Choose an Online Computer Science Degree?
Research figures show that computer-related sectors are growing exponentially, further spawning employment opportunities for computing specialists. There has never been a better time to enrol in a computer science degree. The growth of this sector has brought about amazing possibilities in modern life such as ecommerce, eLearning, social networking, cloud computing, and AI innovation.
If you have a full-time commitment—whether it’s a job or another responsibility—you can still feasibly earn a computer science degree online through a flexible and accredited eLearning platform.
Cost-Effective Learning That Fits Your Budget
The object of eLearning is to enable easy access to education. What goes with this is cutting out the costs and limitations that come with onsite education. This results in cost-effective education models where students can access education remotely, often at significantly reduced costs.
If you opt for an online computer science degree, you can save a substantial amount of money. A standard online computer science degree today ranges from $6,000 to over $40,000 per year, depending on the institution you choose.
While the previously mentioned University of Hertfordshire no longer lists £6,000 MSc tuition, similar budget-friendly options still exist. For example:
University of the People (UoPeople) offers a tuition-free online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. You only pay small assessment fees.
Western Governors University (WGU) offers an online BS in Computer Science with tuition starting at around $7,500/year.
SNHU (Southern New Hampshire University) offers a flexible, accredited online CS degree at roughly $330 per credit hour. (Visit: www.snhu.edu)
Coursera partners with top universities (e.g. University of London, Illinois, etc.) to offer full online CS degrees that range between $9,000–$25,000 depending on the programme.
These programs provide high-quality content, academic credibility, and affordability—all key reasons to consider eLearning in the computing space today.
Convenience Without Compromise
Pursuing an online computer science degree means you do not have to quit your job.
If you have had financial limitations hindering your quest to obtain a computer science degree, then eLearning is the best solution for your circumstances.
Online learning means that you can keep your job and, in fact, use it to raise tuition fees for your online computer science degree.
If you study with globally recognised computer science schools, you will have a significant edge in the job market. The best way to do this is to go for accredited institutions that offer computing science degrees online. Platforms such as edX, Udacity, Coursera, and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) are widely respected in the tech hiring space.
Other than giving you an edge in the job market, there are many benefits to getting a computer science degree with an accredited institution.
For example, let’s say you are studying with one university and, for some reason, you need to shift and complete your Bachelor of Science in Computing with another university. You can easily transfer your credits seamlessly if you have been studying with an accredited university.
Accreditation, Flexibility, and Job Market Recognition
Studying with an accredited institution also gives you the assurance that you are with a credible education provider—one that offers a degree with true value in the job market and within computing career paths.
Take time to explore many degree options so that you can settle for a computer science degree that matches the bigger picture of your career goals. Institutions have a way of channeling their degrees in a particular direction—some towards software development, others towards AI, data analytics, or cybersecurity.
That is why you need to ensure you make the right choice—so that you can land the job you want, or pursue the postgraduate qualification you may wish to explore after completing your first degree in computer science.
Self-Taught Computer Science vs Online CS Degrees FAQs
Do employers accept self-taught programmers over online degrees?
Some do—especially if you have a solid project portfolio or GitHub contributions. However, a degree from an accredited institution often opens doors and also enhances your credibility in formal hiring pipelines.
Is an online CS degree respected compared to self-taught skills?
Yup, especially if it is obtained from an accredited university. Institutions like SNHU, Coursera partner universities, and edX offer degrees that are widely recognized by employers.
Can you get a CS job with just online courses and no degree?
While this is possible – it can be more difficult. Most roles in established companies still prefer candidates with formal credentials—though exceptions exist in startups and freelance environments.
Do FAANG companies hire self-taught programmers without degrees?
Yes, Facebook (Now Meta), Amazon, Apple, Netflit and Alphabet do hire self-taught programmers without degrees but it’s highly competitive. If you want to go this route you need to have a strong portfolio featuring open-source contributions, and exceptional coding.
Can you learn computer science from home?
Absolutely. Whether through structured degree programmes or self-paced platforms like Udemy, Khan Academy, or freeCodeCamp, it’s entirely possible to become proficient in some computer science specialty from home.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re self-taught or pursuing a degree online, the goal is to align your learning journey with your long-term career objectives. For those seeking structure, credibility, and career progression, an online computer science degree from an accredited institution remains a powerful choice.