Scholarships for Computer Science Students
Types of Computer Science Degrees
The type of degree you pursue directly affects tuition costs. While prices vary by school, associate degrees and certification programs typically cost less than graduate or postgraduate degrees. The table below examines the most common types of computer science degrees and career paths associated with each.
Certificate/Diploma
Students with no prior knowledge of programming or computer science learn the fundamentals of computing and information technology, including programming languages, operating system design, and software engineering.
Development Team Member
Applications Developer
In addition to programming techniques and languages, networking maintenance, and hardware, coursework covers mathematical concepts integral to the field of computer science. Students develop web pages and apps.
Computer User Support Specialist
Bachelor's programs offer in-depth instruction in network architecture, software construction, data structures, and algorithms. Some programs allow students to pursue specific learning tracks, such as engineering or security.
Software Applications Developer
Network Systems Administrator
Graduate programs explore advanced concepts in computer science and introduce topics such as artificial intelligence, systems security, and machine learning. Students may be required to complete a thesis or final project.
Information Technology Auditor
PhD candidates must demonstrate competency in multiple subfields of computer science. In addition to completing advanced coursework, they must defend a dissertation and/or pass a final exam.
How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?
A program's cost depends on more than the type of degree awarded. Students seeking a traditional, on-campus college experience pay more than those pursuing online education, particularly at for-profit colleges. These institutions, which operate like businesses, are known for frequent tuition hikes and higher fees. Like private colleges, the bulk of for-profit institutions' funding comes from tuition. Public schools, on the other hand, run mainly on federal contributions. Grants and endowments allow public and nonprofit schools to keep tuition rates steady and relatively low. Additionally, some public universities offer distance learning programs, which can often be completed much more quickly than traditional programs.
Financing Your Computer Science Degree
Comparing financial aid options — such as grants, loans, and scholarships — for computer science programs can be overwhelming. Completing the FAFSA helps you determine what kind and how much federal financial aid you are eligible to receive. Many students cover remaining expenses with private loans, although high interest rates and inflexible repayment plans should make them a last resort.
Scholarships are the most economical way to finance your degree. There's no limit to the number you can apply for and receive, and unlike student loans, they don't need to be paid back. You are not limited to computer science scholarships, either. There are many types of scholarships, and you may be eligible for more than one.
There is a scholarship for every student, regardless of academic or career aspirations. While some scholarships are awarded according to financial need, others are merit-based and reward exceptional academic, artistic, or athletic performance. Many colleges and universities offer institutional scholarships, but institutions such as nonprofit groups, religious denominations, private organizations, and city governments also grant awards. Research scholarships such as those listed below to discover all the options available to you.
These scholarships are awarded to students who excel in one or more academic subjects, achieve exceptional standardized test scores, or maintain a high GPA. Computer science scholarships often fall into this category.
Highly competitive and frequently generous, athletic scholarships are reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional talent in a particular sport. Coveted full-ride scholarships cover all of a student-athlete's expenses.
Scholarships for Minorities
Minority scholarships are awarded to distinguished students who identify as a member of an underrepresented group, such as racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ students, disabled individuals, and low-income students.
Creative Scholarships
These scholarships reward talent and originality in the fine and performing arts, creative writing, and graphic design.
Niche Scholarships
No matter your interests, hobbies, or skills, there is a niche scholarship that fits — including scholarships for computer science.
Offered to students who make a difference in their community, these awards are often sponsored by nonprofit organizations and service groups. Many have academic requirements.
Leadership scholarships reward entrepreneurship and the drive to inspire and motivate others.
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