Best Computer Programming Schools Online For Seniors
The world of online education has created many exciting opportunities in both learning and job possibilities for seniors. Now the campus comes to your home via the internet and allows you to learn in convenience, safety and usually on your own schedule. Plus, these online degree programs open up new job opportunities as well.
Related Topics (Sponsored Ads):
In addition to online learning, modern internet and computer technologies allow seniors to do jobs from their own home also. Some of the most common and best paying such work from home jobs are in the field of computers, including computer programming. And contrary to popular belief, seniors are very capable and interested in using high-tech, especially with the proper training. Some of the typical jobs that seniors can do after getting their online programming degree includes:
– Computer Programmer: Computer programmers write the code that makes software programs function. After writing the code, programmers test it to make sure it works correctly. They troubleshoot programs to find any errors and correct them.
– Web Developers: Web developers create and update websites. They perform maintenance to ensure that everything works the way it should. Web developers consult with management to determine the functionality required for the website before designing it.
– Software Developers: Software developers analyze the needs of users and develop software that meets those needs. They create the design for the software, which is often handed off to a computer programmer for coding. Software developers plan how the parts of a software program will work together and recommend updates for existing programs.
Following are the five best schools offering an online degree in computer programming.
Fort Hays State University
Located in Hays, Kansas, FHSU educates about 16,000 learners annually. The university offers dozens of degree and certificate programs to distance learners, including an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Plus, FHSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Students complete 55 credits of general education requirements, as well as 65 credits dedicated to their major. Coursework covers topics like foundations of computing, front-end and back-end web development, and analytic geometry and calculus. Students also complete a seminar course towards the end of their program. Students can transfer up to 90 already earned college credits into this program.
Baker College
This school is located in Owosso, Michigan, and they offer a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in computer programming. While applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent to qualify for admission, they do not need to submit standardized test scores – which should be very helpful for seniors. Baker is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Along with general education course requirements, students take courses such as emerging programming languages, computer architecture, computer operating systems and maintenance, and data structures and algorithms. Learners receive a comprehensive introduction to several different programming languages, and computer programming concentration courses cover in-demand topics such as IoT or artificial intelligence. Students also complete a year-long senior project and 150 hours of work experience with an approved company.
Davenport University
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Davenport offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students choose one of three concentrations: artificial intelligence, computer theory and algorithms, or gaming and simulation.
Admitted students need a high school diploma or the equivalent to qualify for admission, but they do not need to submit standardized test scores. Davenport is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This degree program is comprised of general education courses as well as computer science foundation courses, which include object-oriented programming with C#, database design, data structures and algorithms, and software engineering. After completing foundational requirements, students take specific courses in their concentration and complete a computer science capstone experience to demonstrate skills mastery in key development areas.
Limestone University
Based in Gaffney, South Carolina, Limestone offers an online Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in programming. Students complete courses on an asynchronous (self-paced) schedule and focus on just two classes per eight-week term – a nice feature for senior students.
While applicants must hold a high school diploma (or the equivalent) and submit SAT or ACT scores, this program does not require students to possess any previous training in computer science – again a very helpful feature for most senior students. Limestone is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Course requirements cover basic concepts of the internet and the world wide web, information systems analysis and design, and internet programming. A capstone project allows students to plan, research, and execute a computer science project and produce a formal research paper.
Bellevue University
Based in eastern Nebraska, BU offers an online Bachelor of Science in software development. This program operates as a degree completion program, and thus can be completed in an accelerated manner. Applicants must transfer in an associate degree or at least 60 previously earned college credits. BU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Required courses include the foundation of software development, database development and use, programming with Java, and interactive development with Javascript. Students also complete a capstone project in software development where they plan and execute a project that addresses a real-world challenge.
