WGU Computer Science Degree: Curriculum, Difficulty & Career Outcomes

Attending WGU’s computer science degree is an online BS program that’s flat rate, term-by-term and accredited by ABET. WGU BSCS is a competency-based program with flexible start and end dates and no set class times or due dates for assignments. There’s a balance to be struck between flexibility and control, and it’s a balance that requires self-discipline. In this guide, you’ll find information regarding the WGU computer science degree, what WGU is and how it works, its curriculum, certifications, difficulty, completion time, and career prospects.

What is the Degree Actually Is?

The WGU computer science degree bachelor’s program is 100% online, and the program currently contains 37 courses. The courses are 3 or 4 units, and students are expected to finish 13 competency units every six months, according to WGU.

The program is accredited by ABET – Computing Accreditation Commission. At this time, ABET only accredits WGU’s Computer Science BS for online delivery. WGU is also institutionally accredited, in addition to programmatic accreditation by ABET.

The student is studying on their own and is being assisted by the teacher. Students who are eligible and desiring to pursue graduate study may have the option to move into a graduate program with WGU’s accelerated BS-to-MS program. So, is WGU accredited? Learn more about it thoroughly.

Curriculum Breakdown

The WGU CS curriculum’s emphasis is on both theory and development, the traditional aspects of the WGU computer science degree.

As of now, there are 37 courses in the WGU CS curriculum, according to WGU. WGU admission requirements and transfer credits can minimise the number of courses that you will have to take. In addition, WGU does not base its pricing on credit hours. WGU also offers competency-based pricing instead of credit hour pricing.

Certifications Included in the Program

One of the big benefits of WGU computer science is the fact that several certifications are incorporated into the program. WGU BSCS currently offers Linux Essentials and ITIL Foundation, along with other WGU credentials, including Artificial Intelligence Optimisation Developer, Back-End Developer and Java Developer.

There are no certificate exam fees in tuition with WGU vouchers; however, there are some certificate requirements that do carry a membership fee. Do not forget to learn about how WGU exams prepare you for industry certifications.

To verify if any changes have been made to the exact certification to be included in the current catalogue, students are encouraged to check with the best certifications included in WGU degree programs.

How Hard Is It, Really?

So, is WGU computer science difficult? Yes, particularly if you are not that skilled in any programming or math.

The most challenging topics may involve the data structures, algorithms, discrete topics, work with AI, and the final project. But, is the difficulty level of WGU computer science hard? Not necessarily. The more difficult part is getting the delivery model right.

There are no regular weekly lectures, weekly assignment deadlines or class schedules. Studying and test-taking time is flexible and up to you. It can make the WGU computer science degree more manageable for those who prefer a structured classroom environment, and less so for those who prefer it not to be structured.

WGU is competency-based, meaning that there is no such thing as partial credit. Pre-assessment activities can identify areas for further work, and subject leaders provide support.

The good news is that WGU is flexible, but it’s not easy!

Online resources, such as passing WGU objective assessments on the first attempt, can aid in planning and understanding the written project format for students who are preparing for assessments, and WGU performance assessments explained can clarify the written assessments.

How long does it take?

The current WGU average for similar programs is 62% of graduates in WGU computer science completing the program in 25 months. This is WGU data and not an independent study.

The length of your timeline will be influenced by transfer credits, any programming experience and time for study. The time may vary from student to student, as one with extensive background knowledge can go through at a much faster pace than another at a slower pace.

Financial model is also of importance. The tuition rate for the undergraduate student is $4,125 per 6-month term plus an e-books and resources fee of $200. By completing earlier, you may therefore be able to save on the number of terms to be paid. We also suggest that students practice the best study routine for WGU students who work full-time, so they can function better.

Career Outcomes and Salary

WGU computer science jobs options encompass software developer, software engineer, business intelligence analyst, machine learning specialist and computer/information systems jobs. Among possible outcomes, specifically listed by WGU computer science jobs, are software development and related technology.

The average salary increase for Computer Science graduates is reported to be $24,565 by WGU. This is WGU internal data – should not be considered a separate salary study.

If you’re wondering, is WGU worth it: salary outcomes and ROI? Just know that, generally, the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) shows that software developers earned a median annual wage of $133,080 in May 2024 and expect to see a national growth rate of 16% between 2024 and 2034.

Experience, projects, internships, performance at interviews and technical skills will still be important factors in your WGU computer science job prospects. The degree can be more valuable if accompanied by a portfolio and GitHub history.

Who This Degree Suits — and Who It Doesn’t?

The WGU computer science degree applies to anyone who is self-motivated, working in the IT field, making a career change or wants flexibility with a job.

If you require regular classes, more teaching by the instructor, campus life, or accountability in the traditional class setting, it may not be a good choice for you.

Therefore, is the WGU degree worth it? It might be a sensible choice for someone who prefers flexibility and can operate on their own. If you’re looking for structure, another university might be better suited.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the WGU computer science degree ABET-accredited?

Yes. WGU’s BS Computer Science program is accredited by ABET’s Computing Accreditation Commission.

• Do employers respect a WGU computer science degree?

Accreditation, projects, skills and experience add to your profile, but this will vary between employers.

• How much math is in the WGU CS program?

Accreditation, projects, skills and experience add to your profile, but this will vary between employers.

• Can I finish WGU computer science in one year?

It is possible to have a substantial amount of transfer credit and prior knowledge and still take the WGU computer science degree course, but not realistic for most of the newbies.

• Is WGU CS harder than a traditional university?

The truth about WGU’s recognition and career value is that the technical content remains challenging, but the one thing that is different is that you will have to pace and schedule yourself.

Conclusion + CTA

The WGU computer science degree provides accredited CS training, flexible pacing and career-focused credentials, but the value of this degree depends on your discipline.