Best Online Programming Schools: List of Top Schools

Computer programmers turn software plans designed by software engineers into written codes that computers can logically follow. Programmers are usually required to have a bachelor's degree, but a certificate or an associate degree is sufficient for some careers. Certificate and associate programs are commonly offered in a distance learning format, though choices for online bachelor's degree programs are limited.

Top Online Programs in Computer Programming and Software Engineering

1. Florida State University

Founded in 1823, Florida State University (FSU) is one of the oldest colleges in the State University System of Florida. The Princeton Review named FSU a top value in public education in the 2011 edition of The Best 373 Colleges. Students who already hold an associate degree can earn a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor Arts in Software Engineering in a distance learning, part-time format. The programs cover programming languages, such as C, Java, Alda and HTML, as well as topics in hardware and computer science theory. Each accepted applicant is assigned a mentor who helps facilitate the student's successful completion of the program.

Contact Information

• Phone Number: (850) 644-2525

2. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

North Carolina State University (NCSU) was named the 52nd best public college in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in 2010. NCSU is home to Centennial Campus, a unique research center with over 130 corporate and government entities that collaborate with the school's faculty, students and researchers. The Department of Computer Science and the Engineering Online Program jointly operate the Computer Programming Certificate Program. Applicants are required to already hold a bachelor's degree and must complete an introduction course to C++ programming as a prerequisite. The program focuses on Java programming, but also offers courses in data structures, Web development and game design.

Contact Information

• Phone Number: (919) 515-2011

List of Schools with Distance Learning Programs in Computer Programming

School Name	Total Student Enrollment	Phone Number
Florida State University	39,785	(850) 644-2525
North Carolina State University at Raleigh	33,819	(919) 515-2011
University of Toledo	23,064	(419) 530-4636
Wake Technical Community College	15,203	(919) 866-5000
Greenville Technical College	15,089	(864) 250-8111
California State University - East Bay	14,749	(510) 885-3000
SUNY Westchester Community College	14,147	(914) 606-6600
Pitt Community College	7,512	(252) 493-7200
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College	7,330	(704) 216-3602
George C. Wallace State Community College - Hanceville	6,311	(256) 352-8000
Mountain State University	5,951	(304) 253-7351
Catawba Valley Community College	5,528	(828) 327-7000
Central Carolina Community College	5,381	(919) 775-5401
Craven Community College	3,458	(252) 638-7200
Champlain College	2,938	(802) 860-2700