With the high demand for computer science experts, it’s no wonder that related professions count among the best-paid jobs worldwide. If this career path sounds exciting to you, enlisting in an online computer science degree program would be the best choice.


Explore our list of suggestions of the top BSc programs in Europe and pick the one that looks like the ideal option based on your interests and goals.


Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Computer Science Degree Program


The key factors to take into account when weighing up your MSc in Computer Science options include:

  • University accreditation
  • Program curriculum
  • Schedule flexibility and studying format
  • University faculty and student/career support
  • Expenses and scholarship/financial aid possibilities

Top Online BSc Computer Science Bachelor Programs


International University of Applied Sciences


Description

The BSc Computer Science online program from the International University of Applied Sciences (IU) offers a thorough education in the field. The program includes introductory lessons in mathematics and programming, as well as specialized modules for computer science, software development, and IT security.


Key Features

  • Full or part-time studying models
  • Accredited program
  • Recognition of previous education and experience
  • Full studying flexibility

Requirements and Application


You’ll need a higher subject-related education and secondary school diploma to apply for this program. Some applicants may need to take an entrance examination. English proficiency is necessary with one of the following certificates as proof:

  • Level 6 on IELTS
  • 80 points on TOEFL
  • Grade B Cambridge Certificate
  • 95 points on Duolingo

Career Prospects


The degree from this program will open numerous career opportunities, including:

  • Software developer
  • Business analyst
  • Project manager in software development

University of London


Description


The online computer science degree from the University of London gives you an opportunity to study with leading experts and researchers. You’ll learn high-demand skills with a particular focus on problem-solving and practical application. The program offers seven specializations in areas like machine learning, mobile and game development, and AI.


Key Features

  • Study full or part-time
  • Accredited program
  • Performance-based or direct admission
  • Flexible studying schedule

Requirements and Application


When you apply for this program, you’ll either be accepted directly based on previous academic achievements or based on previous experience in the field. Choosing the application path won’t be necessary: The institution will automatically transfer your application on the performance-based path if you lack the required prior education.


You may need to pass several exams, including a mathematics, programming, and English proficiency test.


Career Prospects


This program will help you build a strong portfolio for job applications. You can also access the university’s career service for support in your future career.


Saarland University


Description


Enrolling in the computer science bachelor degree online program from Saarland University provides access to leading tech authorities in Germany and Europe. The Saarland Informatics Campus collaborates with reputable institutions like the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, the Cluster for Multimodal Computing and Interaction, and the renowned Max Planck Institute.


Key Features

  • Full or part-time study available
  • Accredited program
  • No tuition fees
  • Flexibility – study at your own pace

Requirements and Application


The basic application requirement for this program will be a school certificate. The certificate must be recognizable as a qualification for university enrollment in Germany. Apart from that, you’ll need to prove your English proficiency and provide one of the following:

  • Pass an aptitude test
  • Provide proof of participation in an international Olympiad in mathematics, computer science, or science
  • Complete an entrance test in interview form

Career Prospects


The cooperation between Saarland University and high-tech institutions gives you as a student the opportunity to interact with leading employers in the computer science field. The university also offers particular support for entrepreneurs.



Comparison of Top Online Computer Science Degree Programs


Curriculum and Course Offerings


The first two modules of each program on our list feature introductory courses in mathematics, computer science, web app development, and programming. At this stage, the curricula will have slight differences in additional courses:

  • IU: Introduction to Academic Work, Intercultural and Ethical Decision-Making, Collaborative Work, Statistics, and programming in Java environments
  • University of London: Software projects and web applications
  • Saarland University: Perspectives in Computer Science, System Architecture, and Language Course

In module three, the programs will start differing significantly:

  • IU: Focus on database management, computer networks, and SQL programming
  • University of London: Specialization modules and a software development individual project
  • Saarland University: The basics of theoretical computer science, algorithms, and data structure

The fourth module is where the three curricula diverge completely, focusing on different stages of computer science expertise:

  • IU: Theoretical computer science, Python programming, and two projects – IT services and software engineering
  • University of London: Introduction to programming, advanced mathematics, computer science fundamentals, data structures, and algorithms
  • Saarland University: Concurrent programming, big data, a core lecture, plus a seminar project

In the fifth module, the IU and Saarland University programs become more closely defined, while the University of London explores the essential components of computer science in more detail:

  • IU: Cryptography, Introduction to Data Protection and IT Security, two electives (out of nine available), and a seminar on computer science current topics
  • University of London: Advanced programming (data, graphics, and object-oriented), software design, networking, databases, cybersecurity, and projects in Agile software development
  • Saarland University: Machine learning, two core lectures (out of 22 available), and an elective course

The final module in all three programs will, of course, contain your Bachelor thesis. Apart from that, the classes offered will represent a natural conclusion of each curriculum:

  • IU: Project management in Agile, computer science in society, IT law, and an elective
  • University of London: Six electives (out of 12 available)
  • Saarland University: One core lecture

Flexibility and Format


The IU program provides exceptional flexibility, allowing students to mix and match modules and create a unique schedule. Furthermore, the six-module structure represents the fast-track options. If you wish so, it’s possible to break down the curriculum into a maximum of 12 modules.


University of London offers learners complete control over course timing and study intensity. You can wrap up the curriculum within 36 to 72 months. Additionally, this program gives you full freedom of specialization in module six, which contains only elective lectures.


Finally, Saarland University has a part-time study track, which requires you to complete between 50% and 60% of the scheduled courses every semester. In other words, you can extend the studying time to a maximum of 12 semesters while working through the same program as full-time learners.


Faculty and Support Services


All three institutions employ faculty members with a proven track record, expertise, and advanced experience in their fields. Each program also features extensive student support:

  • IU: Optional monthly live sessions covering the entire content of each course
  • University of London: Guided hands-on projects and full access to all learning tools and content
  • Saarland University: Mentoring services and guided lab exercises combined with the support of the guidance service and student council

Cost and Financial Aid


IU’s tuition fees will differ depending on the studying pace you choose. Full-time students will pay monthly fees of €195, while the monthly amount for part-time learners will be either €163 (48-month study time) or €120 (72 months). Additionally, there’s a €699 graduation fee, which may be subject to a discount.


University of London charges between £14,135 and £18,915 for the complete BSc Computer Science online program. The exact pricing will depend on your country, and all applicants are eligible for discounts when paying upfront. You may also pay for each module separately, in which case the installments will be between £1,113 and £1,482. Additional expenses include an application fee of £125 and an assessment resit fee of £424.


Saarland University is state-funded, which means that the institution doesn’t request tuition fees. However, there’s a semester fee that you’ll need to pay before starting each module. This fee covers administrative costs and student services, amounting to a total of €296.


In terms of financial aid, IU doesn’t offer any assistance on that front except for the possible discount on the graduation fee. The University of London has student loans for UK students and scholarships for displaced persons and refugees. Finally, there’s no financial aid for the already quite affordable Saarland University program.


Tips for Success in an Online Computer Science Degree Program


If you wish to excel in your chosen computer science bachelor degree online program, you’d do well to employ certain proven techniques. Here are some of the best tips to help you pursue your educational and career goals.


Firstly, make sure to stay organized and manage your time efficiently. Studying for an online computer science degree is a demanding task, whether you opt for the full or part-time model. Reserve enough time weekly for studying and adjust your schedule accordingly.


Next, once you’ve enrolled in a program, make the most out of the networking possibilities. Connect with other students, mentors, lecturers, and, if possible, the institution’s company partners. The connections you establish during your studies will pay dividends when starting your career.


Avoid relying exclusively on your own faculties and resources. Each institution on our list has plenty of basic and additional resources to help you along the way. Utilize those options in full and take advantage of the support structure at your disposal.


Finally, do your best to stay motivated throughout the program. This may be particularly challenging for part-time students due to the prolonged duration. Keeping your long-term goals in mind and focusing on career opportunities upon graduation will go a long way in this regard.


Apply for a BSc Computer Science Online Program Today


Choosing one of the suggested online computer science degree programs will be the first step toward a thriving career in the field. You’ll gain the necessary skills and knowledge to get professionally involved in the high-paying IT sector. Plus, the BSc degree may be the starting point for postgraduate studies.


With the potential of a successful computer science career, a certified degree represents a more than appealing prospect. Apply for a program that aligns with your interests and goals and start your professional journey in the most lucrative industry today.

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Il Sole 24 Ore: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Enterprise – Challenges and Opportunities for CEOs and Management
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
Apr 14, 2025 6 min read

Source:


Expert Pierluigi Casale analyzes the adoption of AI by companies, the ethical and regulatory challenges and the differentiated approach between large companies and SMEs

By Gianni Rusconi

Easier said than done: to paraphrase the well-known proverb, and to place it in the increasingly large collection of critical issues and opportunities related to artificial intelligence, the task that CEOs and management have to adequately integrate this technology into the company is indeed difficult. Pierluigi Casale, professor at OPIT (Open Institute of Technology, an academic institution founded two years ago and specialized in the field of Computer Science) and technical consultant to the European Parliament for the implementation and regulation of AI, is among those who contributed to the definition of the AI ​​Act, providing advice on aspects of safety and civil liability. His task, in short, is to ensure that the adoption of artificial intelligence (primarily within the parliamentary committees operating in Brussels) is not only efficient, but also ethical and compliant with regulations. And, obviously, his is not an easy task.

The experience gained over the last 15 years in the field of machine learning and the role played in organizations such as Europol and in leading technology companies are the requirements that Casale brings to the table to balance the needs of EU bodies with the pressure exerted by American Big Tech and to preserve an independent approach to the regulation of artificial intelligence. A technology, it is worth remembering, that implies broad and diversified knowledge, ranging from the regulatory/application spectrum to geopolitical issues, from computational limitations (common to European companies and public institutions) to the challenges related to training large-format language models.

CEOs and AI

When we specifically asked how CEOs and C-suites are “digesting” AI in terms of ethics, safety and responsibility, Casale did not shy away, framing the topic based on his own professional career. “I have noticed two trends in particular: the first concerns companies that started using artificial intelligence before the AI ​​Act and that today have the need, as well as the obligation, to adapt to the new ethical framework to be compliant and avoid sanctions; the second concerns companies, like the Italian ones, that are only now approaching this topic, often in terms of experimental and incomplete projects (the expression used literally is “proof of concept”, ed.) and without these having produced value. In this case, the ethical and regulatory component is integrated into the adoption process.”

In general, according to Casale, there is still a lot to do even from a purely regulatory perspective, due to the fact that there is not a total coherence of vision among the different countries and there is not the same speed in implementing the indications. Spain, in this regard, is setting an example, having established (with a royal decree of 8 November 2023) a dedicated “sandbox”, i.e. a regulatory experimentation space for artificial intelligence through the creation of a controlled test environment in the development and pre-marketing phase of some artificial intelligence systems, in order to verify compliance with the requirements and obligations set out in the AI ​​Act and to guide companies towards a path of regulated adoption of the technology.

Read the full article below (in Italian):

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The Lucky Future: How AI Aims to Change Everything
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
Apr 10, 2025 7 min read

There is no question that the spread of artificial intelligence (AI) is having a profound impact on nearly every aspect of our lives.

But is an AI-powered future one to be feared, or does AI offer the promise of a “lucky future.”

That “lucky future” prediction comes from Zorina Alliata, principal AI Strategist at Amazon and AI faculty member at Georgetown University and the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT), in her recent webinar “The Lucky Future: How AI Aims to Change Everything” (February 18, 2025).

However, according to Alliata, such a future depends on how the technology develops and whether strategies can be implemented to mitigate the risks.

How AI Aims to Change Everything

For many people, AI is already changing the way they work. However, more broadly, AI has profoundly impacted how we consume information.

From the curation of a social media feed and the summary answer to a search query from Gemini at the top of your Google results page to the AI-powered chatbot that resolves your customer service issues, AI has quickly and quietly infiltrated nearly every aspect of our lives in the past few years.

While there have been significant concerns recently about the possibly negative impact of AI, Alliata’s “lucky future” prediction takes these fears into account. As she detailed in her webinar, a future with AI will have to take into consideration:

  • Where we are currently with AI and future trajectories
  • The impact AI is having on the job landscape
  • Sustainability concerns and ethical dilemmas
  • The fundamental risks associated with current AI technology

According to Alliata, by addressing these risks, we can craft a future in which AI helps individuals better align their needs with potential opportunities and limitations of the new technology.

Industry Applications of AI

While AI has been in development for decades, Alliata describes a period known as the “AI winter” during which educators like herself studied AI technology, but hadn’t arrived at a point of practical applications. Contributing to this period of uncertainty were concerns over how to make AI profitable as well.

That all changed about 10-15 years ago when machine learning (ML) improved significantly. This development led to a surge in the creation of business applications for AI. Beginning with automation and robotics for repetitive tasks, the technology progressed to data analysis – taking a deep dive into data and finding not only new information but new opportunities as well.

This further developed into generative AI capable of completing creative tasks. Generative AI now produces around one billion words per day, compared to the one trillion produced by humans.

We are now at the stage where AI can complete complex tasks involving multiple steps. In her webinar, Alliata gave the example of a team creating storyboards and user pathways for a new app they wanted to develop. Using photos and rough images, they were able to use AI to generate the code for the app, saving hundreds of hours of manpower.

The next step in AI evolution is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), an extremely autonomous level of AI that can replicate or in some cases exceed human intelligence. While the benefits of such technology may readily be obvious to some, the industry itself is divided as to not only whether this form of AI is close at hand or simply unachievable with current tools and technology, but also whether it should be developed at all.

This unpredictability, according to Alliata, represents both the excitement and the concerns about AI.

The AI Revolution and the Job Market

According to Alliata, the job market is the next area where the AI revolution can profoundly impact our lives.

To date, the AI revolution has not resulted in widespread layoffs as initially feared. Instead of making employees redundant, many jobs have evolved to allow them to work alongside AI. In fact, AI has also created new jobs such as AI prompt writer.

However, the prediction is that as AI becomes more sophisticated, it will need less human support, resulting in a greater job churn. Alliata shared statistics from various studies predicting as many as 27% of all jobs being at high risk of becoming redundant from AI and 40% of working hours being impacted by language learning models (LLMs) like Chat GPT.

Furthermore, AI may impact some roles and industries more than others. For example, one study suggests that in high-income countries, 8.5% of jobs held by women were likely to be impacted by potential automation, compared to just 3.9% of jobs held by men.

Is AI Sustainable?

While Alliata shared the many ways in which AI can potentially save businesses time and money, she also highlighted that it is an expensive technology in terms of sustainability.

Conducting AI training and processing puts a heavy strain on central processing units (CPUs), requiring a great deal of energy. According to estimates, Chat GPT 3 alone uses as much electricity per day as 121 U.S. households in an entire year. Gartner predicts that by 2030, AI could consume 3.5% of the world’s electricity.

To reduce the energy requirements, Alliata highlighted potential paths forward in terms of hardware optimization, such as more energy-efficient chips, greater use of renewable energy sources, and algorithm optimization. For example, models that can be applied to a variety of uses based on prompt engineering and parameter-efficient tuning are more energy-efficient than training models from scratch.

Risks of Using Generative AI

While Alliata is clearly an advocate for the benefits of AI, she also highlighted the risks associated with using generative AI, particularly LLMs.

  • Uncertainty – While we rely on AI for answers, we aren’t always sure that the answers provided are accurate.
  • Hallucinations – Technology designed to answer questions can make up facts when it does not know the answer.
  • Copyright – The training of LLMs often uses copyrighted data for training without permission from the creator.
  • Bias – Biased data often trains LLMs, and that bias becomes part of the LLM’s programming and production.
  • Vulnerability – Users can bypass the original functionality of an LLM and use it for a different purpose.
  • Ethical Risks – AI applications pose significant ethical risks, including the creation of deepfakes, the erosion of human creativity, and the aforementioned risks of unemployment.

Mitigating these risks relies on pillars of responsibility for using AI, including value alignment of the application, accountability, transparency, and explainability.

The last one, according to Alliata, is vital on a human level. Imagine you work for a bank using AI to assess loan applications. If a loan is denied, the explanation you give to the customer can’t simply be “Because the AI said so.” There needs to be firm and explainable data behind the reasoning.

OPIT’s Masters in Responsible Artificial Intelligence explores the risks and responsibilities inherent in AI, as well as others.

A Lucky Future

Despite the potential risks, Alliata concludes that AI presents even more opportunities and solutions in the future.

Information overload and decision fatigue are major challenges today. Imagine you want to buy a new car. You have a dozen features you desire, alongside hundreds of options, as well as thousands of websites containing the relevant information. AI can help you cut through the noise and narrow the information down to what you need based on your specific requirements.

Alliata also shared how AI is changing healthcare, allowing patients to understand their health data, make informed choices, and find healthcare professionals who meet their needs.

It is this functionality that can lead to the “lucky future.” Personalized guidance based on an analysis of vast amounts of data means that each person is more likely to make the right decision with the right information at the right time.

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