Best Computer Science Degree Programs In Maryland (2025)
Advancing your career in computer science doesn’t require relocating or pausing your current job—Maryland’s thriving tech sector offers opportunities to grow right where you are. With industries like cybersecurity, federal government contracting, and healthcare IT expanding rapidly across the state, employers are actively seeking professionals skilled in programming, data analysis, and systems design. An online computer science degree positions you to tap into this demand while balancing work or personal commitments, giving you the credentials to qualify for roles that often come with six-figure salaries. Software developers in Maryland earn an average of over $120,000 annually, while data scientists and information security analysts see similarly competitive pay, according to recent labor data.
Maryland’s proximity to Washington D.C. and major tech hubs means access to employers like Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab—organizations that regularly recruit local talent for cutting-edge projects. Online programs provide the same rigorous coursework as on-campus counterparts but with scheduling flexibility. You’ll build expertise in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity—skills directly applicable to Maryland’s defense, biotech, and federal contracting sectors.
Whether you’re aiming to transition into tech from another field or move into leadership roles like IT manager or systems architect, an online degree helps you stay relevant in a state where tech jobs are projected to grow faster than the national average. Programs designed for working adults let you apply new coding languages or database management techniques immediately in your current role, making your education a practical investment rather than a theoretical exercise. With options to specialize in high-demand niches and learn from industry-experienced faculty, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re preparing to solve real challenges for employers shaping Maryland’s innovation landscape. Explore how online computer science programs in Maryland align with your goals, and take the next step toward roles that offer both intellectual stimulation and financial stability.
Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
Below are the top-ranked Online Computer Science programs in Maryland, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Key Highlights
- The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program prepares students for roles such as computer scientist, software engineer, and database administrator.
- Skills gained include algorithm design, database administration, and system evaluation.
- The program includes courses such as Compiler Theory and Design (CMSC 430) and Design and Analysis of Computer Algorithms (CMSC 451).
- A minor in Computer Science is available.
- UMGC offers a lower tuition rate for students with a military background.
Program Description
The online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at University of Maryland Global Campus is designed to equip students with essential skills for a career in the growing computer science industry. The curriculum covers introductory to advanced programming, computer systems architecture, software engineering principles, mathematics, computer algorithms, data analysis, and database administration. The program also introduces emerging developments in software and artificial intelligence. The program emphasizes hands-on coursework and real-world skills, preparing students for roles such as computer scientist, software engineer, and database administrator.
Program Features
- Concentrations: Minor in Computer Science
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Analytical skills, problem-solving, computer programming, software development, system evaluation, algorithm design, database administration, communication, application of technical standards
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Cost Per Credit: $324
- Out-of-State Cost Per Credit: $499
- Additional Cost Information:$250/credit (military)
Sample Courses
Introductory Programming (CMSC 115), Intermediate Programming (CMSC 215), Computer Systems and Architecture (CMSC 310), Fundamentals of Networking (CMIT 265), Data Structures and Analysis (CMSC 315)...
Why Pick a Maryland-Based Online Computer Science Degree?
Choosing a Maryland-based online computer science degree positions you to leverage the state’s strategic advantages in high-growth tech sectors while preparing for roles projected to remain critical through 2030. While some tech occupations in Maryland, such as electrical engineering, show steady growth at 2% with 290 annual openings through the decade according to O*NET employment trends, specialized fields like cybersecurity, federal contracting, and healthcare IT are expanding far faster due to the state’s proximity to Washington D.C. and concentration of defense employers. Maryland’s defense contractors—including major players like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin—actively recruit graduates from local online programs. This direct pipeline to federal and defense projects ensures your education aligns with employers seeking security-cleared professionals for cutting-edge work in AI, quantum computing, and secure systems development.
The state’s tech ecosystem thrives on its hybrid workforce model, where remote roles in software engineering and data analysis often intersect with on-site opportunities in Bethesda’s biotech hubs or Columbia’s cybersecurity firms. By studying online through Maryland institutions, you gain access to regional networking events, virtual career fairs, and employer partnerships that prioritize local talent—advantages less accessible in programs based outside the state. While national demand for computer science graduates remains strong, Maryland’s niche in federal contracting and health IT offers stability even during economic shifts, with sectors like regulatory technology and defense innovation less susceptible to market downturns.
Earning your degree here also prepares you for emerging specializations tied to state investments, such as bioinformatics at Johns Hopkins or cloud infrastructure for federal agencies. These focus areas, combined with Maryland’s above-average salaries for tech roles, create a career trajectory where skill development directly matches employer needs. By enrolling in a Maryland-based program, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re integrating into a network where faculty expertise, alumni connections, and local employer demands converge to accelerate your transition into high-impact roles. Start exploring programs that connect you to this dynamic job market today.
Where Can You Work After Graduating?
After completing an online computer science degree in Maryland, you’ll find opportunities with both established tech giants and innovative startups. Companies like Cisco (top software engineer employers) and Lockheed Martin (software development employers) are prominent in the state. Cisco hires for roles in cloud security and network architecture, offering structured mentorship programs and hybrid work models. Lockheed Martin, with three Maryland offices, focuses on defense technology and often requires security clearances, providing pathways into aerospace and government contracting. Both companies emphasize collaborative team environments and professional development through certifications or advanced training.
For roles in regulatory technology, FINRA (software development employers) stands out as a key employer. Located in Rockville, this financial regulatory organization seeks developers for compliance systems and data analytics tools. Their teams prioritize agile methodologies and cross-department collaboration, often supporting remote work flexibility. Startups like Orases and Audacious Inquiry (software companies in Maryland) offer roles in niche areas such as custom software solutions and healthcare IT. Orases, based in Frederick, focuses on web and mobile app development, while Audacious Inquiry in Baltimore specializes in health data exchange platforms, often hiring for full-stack developers and UX designers. These smaller firms provide hands-on project involvement and rapid skill development.
Maryland’s tech landscape clusters around Baltimore, Bethesda, and Columbia, with proximity to Washington D.C. creating demand for cybersecurity and federal contracting roles. To maximize opportunities, engage with local tech meetups in these hubs or join Maryland-based LinkedIn groups focused on software engineering. Many employers in the state participate in virtual career fairs or host hackathons, which can help you showcase skills directly to hiring teams. Prioritize building a portfolio with projects relevant to industries like defense, healthcare, or finance—key sectors driving tech hiring in the region.
How Much Can You Earn as a Software Engineer in Maryland?
As you explore software engineering opportunities in Maryland, salary expectations will likely play a key role in your career planning. Current data shows the state offers competitive compensation, with Indeed reporting an average annual salary of $138,233 for software engineers. This figure reflects base pay and benefits across experience levels, though entry-level roles typically start lower. Levels.fyi provides a broader view, showing Maryland salaries ranging from $92,000 to $150,000 depending on company and seniority. Early-career professionals with 0-2 years of experience often land positions near the lower end of this spectrum, while those in senior roles (8+ years) frequently reach the upper range.
Specialized skills significantly impact earning potential. For example, expertise in cloud computing or machine learning can push salaries 10-20% above standard ranges. Certifications like AWS Solutions Architect or Google Cloud Professional Developer further boost marketability. Regional demand also plays a role: UMBC Training Centers notes that Maryland’s proximity to federal agencies and tech hubs creates opportunities in defense, healthcare, and cybersecurity sectors, which often pay premiums for security-cleared developers.
Maryland’s software engineering salaries generally outpace national averages, particularly for mid-career professionals. While entry-level positions here align closely with U.S. norms, senior roles frequently exceed $150,000—a threshold less common in many other states. The state’s growing biotech sector and increased federal contracting activity suggest continued salary growth, especially for engineers with hybrid skills in software development and domain-specific areas like bioinformatics or quantum computing. Staying current with emerging technologies and industry certifications positions you to capitalize on these trends as Maryland’s tech landscape evolves.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
Common Questions About Maryland Computer Science Degrees
Q: What makes Maryland's online computer science programs stand out?
A: Programs like University of Maryland Global Campus provide cybersecurity specializations and charge military students $250/credit—50% below standard rates. Their courses align with Maryland’s defense sector needs, including secure software development and cloud infrastructure projects for federal contractors.
Q: How long does it typically take to complete these degrees?
A: Full-time students usually finish bachelor’s degrees in 4 years, but UMGC’s program allows 90 transfer credits from Maryland community colleges. This lets students with associate degrees complete their BS in 2-3 years while working.
Q: Are there financial aid options for military students?
A: Yes—UMGC offers military-specific tuition of $250/credit for its computer science degree. Maryland also extends in-state tuition rates to active-duty personnel and veterans using GI Bill® benefits, reducing costs further.
Q: Can you transfer credits from community colleges in Maryland?
A: Most programs accept credits from Maryland community colleges through statewide transfer agreements. UMGC explicitly outlines transfer pathways for core courses like programming and math, letting you avoid repeating coursework.
Q: Do these programs prepare you for cybersecurity roles?
A: Yes—UMGC’s cybersecurity track includes penetration testing and network security labs.
Q: What internship opportunities exist for online students?
A: Universities partner with Maryland employers like NSA and Johns Hopkins APL for remote internships. Online students also access local positions at Columbia cybersecurity firms or Bethesda biotech companies through campus career portals.
Q: How do Maryland's tech salaries compare to nearby states?
A: Maryland software engineers earn 12% more than Pennsylvania peers and 7% above Virginia averages. Cybersecurity roles here pay $128,000+ annually—18% higher than the national median due to federal contractor demand.
Q: Are there networking events for online students in Maryland?
A: Programs host virtual career fairs with employers like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin. Online students can join hybrid events in Baltimore or D.C., including cybersecurity conferences and veteran-focused tech meetups.