Penn State Univeristy World Campus & Colorado State University Global Campus (bachelor's, computer science)

[ecsdude]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone has any information about online 2nd bachelor's and master's degree programs like the ones offered at Penn State Univeristy World Campus & Colorado State University Global Campus. It seems to me that their degrees may be looked upon with higher regard than degrees from University of Phoenix, Devry and the like. But I was wondering how solid and rigorous their online programs actually are.
I am looking at distance programs w/ reputable accredited universities that are as close to "brick and mortar" counterparts as possible in rigor, quality, and depth.

If I go with a 2nd bachelor's degree, undergrad courses are usually scheduled in the day time (my work hours), so it will be difficult to have a workable course schedule consistently each semester, as I have to keep my work hours fixed at 8-5 or 9-6.

If I go with a master's program, class schedules are going to be more work-friendly, as they tend to offer more night and weekend courses at this level. But I'm wondering if there'd be some crucial element missing from the graduate experience if I were to go the online route.

This is the dilemma I am currently facing. My first choice would be to go to a local university, with physical class rooms with other students and get the full experience. But unfortunately my 1st BA was in psychology, so I do not have the undergraduate foundation in computer science or engineering that is needed in a graduate program. This is why I am considering a 2nd bachelor's degree. Is it generally true that a master's program in CS or engineering requires a solid undergrad foundation in either to be successful, otherwise you're setting yourself up for failure?

Thanks in advance.

[Serious Conversation]

I checked into the PSU programs several years back and it looked very reputable. The CSU website looks a bit cheesy, but I would think the program quality would also be fine. Neither school is likely to label the degree as "online."

I don't think that simply going online is going to waive any requirements. If you were able to even get conditional enrollment to a CS graduate program, the undergrad prerequisites are likely going to be most of that second bachelor's.

[L210]

A degree from PSU will not be labeled "online," but it can come from any of the Penn State branches. You would have to research which branch houses your program of interest. They are all reputable, but not all of them are highly ranked.