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Online Certificate in Computer Science
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science
Drexel’s online Certificate in Computer Science program provides basic theory, programming, and other technical skills. It’s perfect for bachelor’s-prepared students who want to refresh a resume and tackle new challenges. You’ll build the skills needed in modern computing and related areas, many of which are fast-growing sectors with demand for tech-savvy workers.
What is an Online Certificate in Computer Science?
The online graduate certificate in computer science is a four-course (12-credit) program that awards a diploma. It's suitable for people who have a bachelor’s degree in an area outside of computer science.
While targeting the fundamentals, you can customize your study plan through an elective. Because it covers fewer courses than a full master’s program, many online students complete the certificate in one year.
Drexel’s online computer science certificate program also offers an entry point to Master of Science degrees in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science, and Cybersecurity. You must earn a grade of a B or better in each certificate course to be eligible for MS enrollment. Then take 11 classes to earn your master’s degree.
Certificate in Computer Science Program Features
- 12 quarter credits
- Online classes designed to fit into a busy lifestyle
- Transfer credits to one of Drexel’s Master of Science degrees in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science, or Cybersecurity
What Can You Do with a Certificate in Computer Science?
Earning a certificate in computer science leaves you with a credential you can share on your resume and professional profile. It can be useful for professionals who want to update their computer skills or those who want to understand the tools and language of computing and informatics to pursue an entry-level role.
Employment in computer and technology occupations is on the rise with 557,100 new jobs on the horizon by 2026. Having skills in these areas is valuable and may help you become more marketable in the following sectors:
- Computing and Security Technology
- Technology
- Data Science
- Health Informatics
- Library and Information Science Systems
Learn more about the four fastest growing jobs in these fields and how to prepare yourself to succeed through one of Drexel’s online degree programs.
What is the difference between Computer Science and Software Engineering?
Computer science and software engineering may seem like identical programs but there are key differences. Knowing this may help you determine which path aligns with your interests and career goals.
In simple terms, computer science degrees study how computers work through the lens of math and theory. As such, they may appeal to those who like math and logic. They may also be ideal for those who want to pursue a career in a niche field in computer science, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and information security.
Software engineering is the study of how to build, maintain, and develop software systems. This can touch on topics such as quality assurance, project management, and software testing, and focuses on all the elements that go into making software systems that run on computer technology.
Certificate in Computer Science Salary Expectations
Per Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median annual salary for computer and information technology occupations was $86,320 in May 2018. Salaries depend on experience and education as well as location, workplace and type of job.
Job Title
Average Annual Salary
Job Outlook to 2026
Business Intelligence Analyst
$93,350
5 - 9% (As fast as average)
Network Architect
$109,020
6 % (As fast as average)
Computer Systems Analyst
$88,740
9% (As fast as average)
Database Administrator
$90,070
11% (Faster than average)
Information Security Analyst
$98,350
28% (Much faster than average)
Software Developer
$105,950
24% (Much faster than average)
IT Manager
$142,530
12% (Faster than average)
Data Scientist
$118,370
19% (Much faster than average)
Data from BLS.gov
Related Programs
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Computer Security & Privacy
- MS in Software Engineering
- Graduate Certificate in Computing Systems Security and Privacy
- Graduate Certificate in Software Architecture
- Graduate Certificate in Software Management
State restrictions may apply to some programs.
Curriculum
This program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year (as opposed to the traditional two semester system) which means you can take more courses in a shorter time period. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.
| Required Courses | ||
| CS 501 | Introduction to Programming | 3.0 |
| CS 502 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3.0 |
| CS 503 | Systems Basics | 3.0 |
| CS 504 | Introduction to Software Design | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 12.0 | |
Admissions Requirements
- A four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- GPA of 3.2 or higher
- If other graduate work has been completed, the average GPA must be at least 3.2, including a B or better in each course
Required Documents
With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.
- A completed application
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
- One letter of recommendation, two suggested (academic, professional, or both)
- Essay (500 words) on why you wish to pursue the program
- Resume
- Additional requirements for International Students
Certificate students interested in continuing at the Master’s level must apply and be admitted to those programs separately. Completion of the certificate is not an automatic acceptance to a Master's program.
Tuition
The tuition rate for the academic year 2022-2023 is $1382 per credit.
- This program is not eligible for Financial Aid.
- Special tuition rates available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of our Partner Organizations.
- These rates apply only to new online students and students being readmitted.
- These rates apply only to fully online courses. Hybrid or on-campus courses may have different rates.
- Tuition rates are subject to increase with the start of each academic year in the fall term.
- All students must contact applyDUonline@drexel.edu within the first two weeks of the term to request tuition savings for which they qualify.
- Special rates cannot be combined. If you qualify for more than one special rate, you'll be given the one with the largest savings.
- When receiving special tuition plans with Drexel University Online, you may not combine them with other tuition benefits that may be available from Drexel University.
Academic Calendar
2022-2023 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2022
September 19, 2022
December 3, 2022
December 5, 2022
December 10, 2022
Winter 2023
January 9, 2023
March 18, 2023
March 20, 2023
March 25, 2023
Spring 2023
April 3, 2023
June 10, 2023
June 12, 2023
June 17, 2023
Summer 2023
June 26, 2023
September 2, 2023
September 4, 2023
September 9, 2023
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