Best Computer Science Degree Programs In North Dakota (2025)
Imagine advancing your career without putting your life on hold. North Dakota’s growing tech sector offers opportunities to build high-paying roles in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis—all accessible through online computer science programs. With major employers like Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and local tech startups expanding their presence, your skills could land you in a field projected to grow 15% statewide over the next decade. The average salary for computer science professionals here exceeds $85,000 annually, with specialized roles like information security analysts earning over $100,000.
You don’t need to relocate to thrive. Online programs let you balance coursework with existing commitments while gaining hands-on experience in coding, AI, or network security—skills directly applicable to North Dakota’s energy, agriculture, and healthcare industries. Employers like Sanford Health and John Deere’s Fargo-based operations increasingly seek talent fluent in cloud computing and automation, areas where targeted coursework can set you apart.
With one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S. and a tech scene hungry for skilled professionals, positioning yourself now could mean faster career growth without competing in overcrowded coastal hubs. Whether you’re upskilling or starting fresh, an online computer science degree aligns with North Dakota’s economic priorities—and your potential to lead in its digital transformation. Explore options that fit your goals and connect you to a state where tech innovation meets opportunity.
Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs in North Dakota
Below are the top-ranked Online Computer Science programs in North Dakota, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of North Dakota
Computer Science (B.S.)
Key Highlights
- The University of North Dakota's Computer Science (B.S.) program teaches students to model and analyze problems and design solutions.
- Students can develop expertise in cybersecurity, big data, software engineering, information technology, computer animation, and game design.
- The program provides opportunities to create web and mobile apps and develop computer animations and virtual reality systems.
- Students will gain skills in C++, HTML, Java, JavaScript, Python, and SQL.
- The program includes courses in Object Oriented Programming, Algorithms and Data Structures, and User Interface Design.
- The Computer Science (B.S.) program is ABET accredited.
Program Description
The University of North Dakota's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program teaches students to model and analyze problems, design solutions, and verify results using modern technology. The program offers opportunities to create web and mobile apps, develop computer animations and virtual reality systems, analyze imagery and data from unmanned and manned aircraft systems, and influence the design of systems for aerospace. Students can also develop expertise in cybersecurity, big data, software engineering, information technology, computer animation, and game design. Flexible courses are offered 100% online and specializations allow for a tailored educational experience.
Program Features
- Accreditation: ABET
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
C++, HTML, Java, JavaScript, Python, SQL
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $9,237/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $13,856/year
- Additional Cost Information:We offer affordable online tuition for everyone, regardless of residency.
Contact Information
Sample Courses
Object Oriented Programming, Algorithms and Data Structures, User Interface Design, Concurrent and Distributed Programming, Database Management Systems...
Why Study Computer Science Online in North Dakota?
North Dakota’s tech sector is accelerating faster than national trends, positioning online computer science students to capitalize on a wave of high-demand roles through 2030. With over 6,320 new and replacement technology positions needed statewide in the next decade, you’ll enter a job market where local demand outpaces supply, particularly in Fargo—the state’s largest tech hub, which alone hosts 149,100 active positions across industries like agricultural tech and healthcare IT. Employers here prioritize candidates who understand regional challenges, and online programs let you align projects with real-world needs—like optimizing precision farming systems or securing energy infrastructure—while building connections through virtual career fairs hosted by local industry groups.
The state’s projected 15% growth in tech roles through 2030 surpasses the national average of 11%, with specialized fields like cloud architecture and IoT development driving hiring surges. By studying online, you can immediately apply emerging skills to internships or part-time roles at Fargo-based innovators like Enkonix or Valley IT Solutions, which actively recruit developers familiar with automation tools critical to North Dakota’s economy. Programs like the University of North Dakota's online computer science options integrate regional employer partnerships, giving you direct access to mentors at companies expanding their tech teams.
With fewer candidates competing for each role compared to coastal markets, your online degree becomes a strategic advantage in a state where tech salaries often exceed national averages when adjusted for lower living costs. Remote coursework flexibility allows you to participate in Fargo’s tech meetups or contribute to open-source projects used by local startups, strengthening your portfolio with regionally relevant experience. As industries like energy and healthcare accelerate digital transformation, your ability to solve problems specific to North Dakota’s landscape—from data-driven oil extraction to telemedicine platforms for rural communities—positions you as a preferred candidate.
Now is the time to build skills aligned with the state’s economic priorities. Start an online computer science program today, and position yourself at the forefront of North Dakota’s tech expansion—where your expertise will shape industries fundamental to the region’s future.
Where Can You Work With a Computer Science Degree in North Dakota?
North Dakota offers diverse opportunities for computer science graduates, with employers ranging from established software firms to growing tech startups. Enkonix, ranked among the state’s top software companies by DesignRush’s 2025 rankings, specializes in custom enterprise solutions and frequently hires full-stack developers and cloud architects. Their teams emphasize agile workflows and collaborative problem-solving, with mentorship programs for recent graduates. Hash Interactive, another standout from the same rankings, focuses on UX design and mobile app development, offering hybrid roles that blend coding with client-facing projects. Their Fargo office hosts quarterly hackathons to foster innovation and skill development.
Fargo serves as a regional tech hub, with multiple companies actively recruiting software engineers. Glassdoor’s Fargo software engineering list highlights employers prioritizing flexible work arrangements, including remote-friendly roles for backend developers and DevOps specialists. Startups like Valley IT Solutions, recognized for agricultural tech innovations, provide opportunities to work on IoT projects tailored to North Dakota’s farming industry. Established firms such as Pranshtech Solutions leverage global partnerships to offer roles in cybersecurity and AI development, often with tuition reimbursement for ongoing education.
Job boards like Indeed’s North Dakota listings show consistent demand for automation engineers and database administrators, particularly in healthcare and energy sectors. Many employers in Bismarck and Grand Forks value hands-on experience with legacy systems, making internships or contract roles a practical entry point. To maximize opportunities, attend local tech meetups in Fargo or virtual career fairs hosted by regional industry groups. Building a portfolio with projects relevant to North Dakota’s key industries—such as precision agriculture or energy management software—can help you stand out in applications.
How Much Do Software Engineers Earn in North Dakota?
If you’re considering a software engineering career in North Dakota, salary expectations depend heavily on experience and specialization. Indeed’s 2024 data shows an average base salary of $86,978 for software engineers across the state, reflecting mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience. Entry-level roles often start 15-20% lower, typically ranging from $65,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on the employer and technical stack. At the senior level, ZipRecruiter’s 2025 projections suggest earnings averaging $156,092 per year for those with 8+ years of experience, particularly in fields like cloud architecture or cybersecurity. This upper range often includes bonuses, stock options, or leadership responsibilities not always captured in base salary figures.
North Dakota salaries generally trend slightly below the national median of $124,200 for software engineers, but senior roles here can compete with coastal tech hubs when accounting for lower living costs. Specialized certifications like AWS Certified Developer or Certified Kubernetes Administrator can boost earnings by 10-15%, as noted in CompTool’s industry comparisons. Industries like energy technology and agricultural automation—key sectors in the state—also tend to pay premiums for engineers familiar with IoT or data analytics tools.
Looking ahead, demand for software engineers in North Dakota is expected to grow as industries modernize infrastructure and adopt AI-driven systems. Remote work opportunities with national employers further blur regional salary boundaries, allowing local professionals to access higher-paying roles without relocating. By focusing on emerging technologies and industry-specific expertise, you can position yourself for salaries that outpace statewide averages while contributing to North Dakota’s expanding tech ecosystem.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Degree Programs in North Dakota
Common Questions About North Dakota Computer Science Degrees
Q: Is the University of North Dakota's program ABET-accredited?
A: Yes, the University of North Dakota’s Computer Science B.S. program holds ABET accreditation, ensuring it meets industry standards for technical education.
Q: Can you complete these programs fully online?
A: UND’s computer science program is fully online, with identical curriculum and faculty as on-campus options. A Reddit thread from former students confirms the program’s remote flexibility.
Q: How long does it typically take to finish a computer science degree?
A: Most students complete a bachelor’s in 4 years full-time. UND’s online program allows faster progress through year-round courses or slower pacing for working professionals.
Q: What career support do these programs offer?
A: UND connects online students with virtual career fairs, resume reviews, and employer networking events. Specific support details are best confirmed directly with the university’s career services.
Q: Are there prerequisites for enrolling in these programs?
A: UND requires high school algebra and trigonometry for admission. Transfer students may need prerequisite courses like calculus or programming fundamentals.
Q: Do online students pay the same tuition as in-state students?
A: Yes—UND charges all online students the same affordable tuition rate regardless of residency, saving out-of-state learners approximately $10,000/year compared to on-campus non-resident rates.
Q: What job placement rates do these programs have?
A: While UND doesn’t publish specific placement rates, ABET accreditation signals strong employer recognition. North Dakota’s tech sector has a 15% projected job growth rate through 2030, favoring graduates with relevant skills.