- 1.Computer Science professionals earn a median salary of $136,620/year, with 25% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
- 2.Our top-ranked computer science programs are University of California-Berkeley, University of Washington-Seattle Campus, and Carnegie Mellon University—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers computer science degrees at just $3,812/year with a 76% graduation rate.
- 4.726 accredited computer science programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Source: A CS degree is worth it for most students. With $130,160 median salary, 25% job growth, and 140,000+ annual job openings, CS offers among the best career outcomes of any major. ROI analysis shows graduates recoup tuition costs within 2-4 years of employment.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10
These are the best computer science programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10
University of California-Berkeley
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Berkeley EECS created BAIR, one of the world's most influential AI research labs, and maintains unique Silicon Valley connections where the most exceptional teachers are often also the most exceptional researchers, unlike many peer institutions.
Program Overview
UC Berkeley's Computer Science program stands as one of the world's most prestigious and influential CS programs, housed within the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS). The program offers multiple pathways including a PhD in Computer Science, MS in Computer Science, and the innovative one-year Master of Engineering (MEng) designed for industry professionals. Berkeley's CS program is uniquely positioned in the Bay Area, where regular faculty - many of whom are leading researchers - teach the majority of courses, ensuring students learn from the most exceptional minds in the field. The program spans cutting-edge research areas from artificial intelligence and robotics at the Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research Lab (BAIR) to quantum computing at the Berkeley Quantum Information and Computation Center (BQIC). With over 200 graduate programs university-wide and consistently ranking among the top doctoral programs nationwide, Berkeley offers an unparalleled academic environment where students work alongside faculty on projects that cross disciplinary boundaries to improve everyday life.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Brings together researchers across computer vision, machine learning, NLP, planning, and robotics with over two dozen faculty and hundreds of graduate students
Quantum information processing investigating computational tasks like integer factorization and secure quantum communication
Research center focused on communications, information and coding theory, optimization, statistics and control
Research at intersection of computer security, online privacy, and human-computer interaction
Brings together domain experts from life, social, and physical sciences with methodological experts from computer science and statistics
Location Advantages
- •Silicon Valley proximity with direct access to tech industry leaders
- •Bay Area innovation ecosystem
- •Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory collaboration opportunities
- •Strong connections to San Francisco tech corridor
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UW Allen School uniquely eliminates the traditional standalone master's degree in favor of specialized pathways: a fully-funded Ph.D. track, an exclusive fifth-year master's for their own undergraduates, and a part-time professional program for regional tech workers, all housed in the state-of-the-art Paul G. Allen Center and Bill & Melinda Gates Center facilities.
Program Overview
The University of Washington's Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering operates as one of the nation's premier computer science programs, consistently ranking among the top programs nationally. The school offers a comprehensive graduate education ecosystem that uniquely serves different student populations without a traditional standalone master's degree. Instead, UW provides a research-intensive Ph.D. program where students earn both master's and doctoral degrees with full financial support, a Combined B.S./M.S. program (also called the Fifth Year Master's Program) exclusively for current Allen School undergraduates, and a Professional Master's Program designed as a part-time evening option for working professionals in the Puget Sound region. The school recently launched a Graduate Certificate in Modern AI Methods starting fall 2025, designed for working professionals across industries seeking to leverage cutting-edge AI and machine learning techniques.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Core AI research and applications
Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and life sciences
Technology design and human-computer interaction
Location Advantages
- •Located in Seattle, a major technology hub with thriving software and life sciences sectors
- •Close proximity to Microsoft, Amazon, and other major tech companies
- •Access to Puget Sound region's robust technology industry for PMP students
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Major technology companies, Academic institutions, Research laboratories
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
CMU Computer Science Department is home to the birthplace of the emoticon smiley :-) created by faculty member Scott Fahlman, and consistently produces graduates with median starting salaries of $135,000 who secure positions at elite firms like Jane Street (13 hires in 2023), with the program's flexible, advisor-guided curriculum allowing students to craft personalized study paths rather than following fixed course sequences.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University's Computer Science Department offers a flagship Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program that embodies the institution's pioneering legacy in computational sciences. Established in 1965 with a $5 million grant from the Richard K. Mellon Foundation and led by Alan Perlis as its first department head, CMU CS has consistently ranked among the top computer science programs globally. The MSCS program is uniquely flexible, requiring no fixed curriculum but instead allowing students to construct their own course of study in consultation with advisors. Most students complete the program in three semesters (though those transitioning from other fields may need an additional semester), taking 8-9 courses across Systems, Theoretical Foundations, and Artificial Intelligence requirements. The program is coursework-focused with optional research opportunities, and about one-third of students engage in research during their studies. The department spans six major research areas including Artificial Intelligence, Graphics, Programming Languages, Security, Systems, and Theory, with faculty maintaining individual research summaries available through their comprehensive Faculty Research Guide.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Six major research divisions: Artificial Intelligence, Graphics, Programming Languages, Security, Systems, and Theory
Location Advantages
- •Pittsburgh tech ecosystem access
- •Strong industry partnerships with major tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Jane Street, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta
Admissions
Cornell University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Cornell uniquely offers both a fully-funded research MS in Ithaca with mandatory teaching experience and a one-year industry-focused MEng at Cornell Tech in NYC, where students build actual products for real companies through the first-of-its-kind Studio curriculum.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Illinois created one of the first and most extensive CS + X blended degree programs in the nation, allowing students to combine computer science with fields ranging from crop sciences to music, while maintaining guaranteed admission pathways for Illinois graduates into their nationally-ranked MCS programs.
University of Southern California
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
USC launched the School of Advanced Computing in 2024 as the university's 23rd school, making it the hub for advanced computing research across USC and positioning computer science at the center of an unprecedented interdisciplinary computing initiative.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
MIT EECS is home to CSAIL, the largest interdepartmental laboratory at MIT, and uniquely structures computer science within three overlapping domains including a dedicated AI and decision-making unit, reflecting MIT's pioneering role in artificial intelligence research.
University of California-San Diego
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UCSD's CS program uniquely combines access to the San Diego Supercomputer Center's national-scale computing infrastructure with an interdisciplinary curriculum option, while maintaining direct pathways for exceptional MS students to transition into the PhD program.
Purdue University-Main Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Purdue CS faculty have had research collaborations with every other college at Purdue in the past five years, demonstrating the program's unique interdisciplinary reach and practical application across all fields of study.
Columbia University in the City of New York
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Columbia CS uniquely combines Ivy League academic rigor with Manhattan's tech ecosystem, offering specialized pathways like the dual MS in Journalism and Computer Science and faculty-invite-only personalized tracks that leverage the university's position as a global research hub in one of the world's major technology centers.
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Computer Science?
Computer science is ideal for students who enjoy logical problem-solving, have curiosity about how technology works, and are comfortable with mathematics. You don't need prior programming experience—most programs start with introductory courses—but you should enjoy analytical thinking.
- Problem solvers who enjoy breaking down complex challenges into logical steps
- Math-comfortable students willing to engage with discrete math, algorithms, and some calculus
- Curious builders who want to understand how software, systems, and technology work
- Career-focused students seeking high-paying, in-demand jobs with strong growth
- Flexible thinkers who want a degree that opens doors across many industries
CS is also excellent for career changers who want to transition to tech from other fields, as the analytical skills transfer well from backgrounds in engineering, mathematics, science, or business.
Computer Science Degree Levels Compared
CS degrees are available at multiple levels, each suited to different goals and career paths.
Computer Science Programs by Degree Level
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
PhD programs for research and academic careers
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Computer Science Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in computer science is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
University of California-Berkeley
994 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
495 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 97.4
Carnegie Mellon University
270 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 95.1
4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 94.1, Tuition: $65,204
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 89.8, Tuition: $59,750
6. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 88.8, Tuition: $11,834
7. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 88.2, Tuition: $9,718
8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 87.5, Tuition: $14,768
9. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 87.0, Tuition: $66,640
10. University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) - Score: 85.8, Tuition: $11,834
Best Computer Science Programs - Master's
A master's degree in computer science prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Master's
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
840 graduates, 90% grad rate, Score: 92.8
University of Southern California
1185 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 92.5
University of California-San Diego
499 graduates, 81% grad rate, Score: 88.8
4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 88.1, Tuition: $65,204
5. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) - Score: 88.0, Tuition: $64,526
6. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) - Score: 86.5, Tuition: $61,731
7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 85.9, Tuition: $59,750
8. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) - Score: 85.5, Tuition: $62,260
9. University of California-Berkeley (Berkeley, CA) - Score: 82.0, Tuition: $11,834
10. University of Washington-Seattle Campus (Seattle, WA) - Score: 81.1, Tuition: $11,524
Best Computer Science Programs - Online
Online computer science programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Online
University of California-Berkeley
994 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
495 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 97.4
Carnegie Mellon University
270 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 95.1
4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 94.1, Tuition: $65,204
5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 92.5, Tuition: $14,768
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 89.8, Tuition: $59,750
7. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 88.8, Tuition: $11,834
8. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 88.2, Tuition: $9,718
9. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 87.0, Tuition: $66,640
10. University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) - Score: 85.8, Tuition: $11,834
Best Computer Science Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in computer science provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Weber State University
139 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 64.5
Santa Monica College
46 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 55.7
Southern New Hampshire University
122 graduates, 67% grad rate, Score: 54.4
4. Green River College (Auburn, WA) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $4,074
5. Utah Valley University (Orem, UT) - Score: 53.0, Tuition: $5,614
6. CUNY New York City College of Technology (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.5, Tuition: $6,930
7. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 52.4, Tuition: $1,104
8. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 51.3, Tuition: $5,514
9. De Anza College (Cupertino, CA) - Score: 51.0, Tuition: $1,395
10. Edmonds College (Lynnwood, WA) - Score: 50.9, Tuition: $4,073
Best Computer Science Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in computer science (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Graduate
University of California-Berkeley
46 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 95.5
Carnegie Mellon University
23 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 88.7
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
68 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 88.4
4. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 85.7, Tuition: $66,640
5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 83.8, Tuition: $14,768
6. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) - Score: 82.8, Tuition: $61,731
7. Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) - Score: 82.6, Tuition: $59,710
8. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 81.8, Tuition: $65,204
9. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 79.2, Tuition: $11,834
10. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 78.6, Tuition: $9,718
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs
Looking for quality computer science education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Computer Science Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | 151.6 | 76% |
| 2 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | 132.6 | 85% |
| 3 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | $5,742 | 125.7 | 100% |
| 4 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | $5,742 | 125.2 | 83% |
| 5 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | $4,450 | 123.2 | 66% |
Computer Science Career Outcomes
Computer science graduates have access to some of the highest-paying and fastest-growing careers in the economy. The BLS projects 25% job growth for software developers through 2032—much faster than average. For detailed salary breakdowns, see our software engineer salary guide and data scientist salary guide.
Career Paths
Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems using various programming languages.
Analyze complex data using statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights.
Build and deploy machine learning models and artificial intelligence systems.
Protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats and security breaches.
Automate and streamline software development and deployment processes.
Computer Science Curriculum Overview
CS programs typically include core courses in programming, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, computer organization/architecture, operating systems, databases, and software engineering. Upper-level courses allow specialization in high-demand areas.
- Core Programming: Python, Java, C/C++, functional programming concepts
- Mathematics: Discrete math, linear algebra, probability, calculus (1-2 courses)
- Theory: Algorithms, data structures, computation theory, complexity
- Systems: Operating systems, networks, databases, computer architecture
- Software Engineering: Development methodology, testing, version control, teamwork
- Electives: AI/ML, security, graphics, HCI, distributed systems, mobile development
Most programs also require capstone projects, internships, or research experiences. For details on what you'll learn, see our CS curriculum guide and CS fundamentals you need.
Computer Science Programs by State
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Computer Science vs Related Fields
Computer science provides the broadest foundation in computing theory—algorithms, data structures, computation theory, and systems design. This theoretical depth translates to versatility: CS graduates can pivot between software development, data science, security, AI research, and technical management throughout their careers.
The key differentiator is abstraction level. CS teaches you to think about problems at multiple levels—from low-level memory management to high-level system architecture. This makes CS graduates particularly strong at debugging complex systems, optimizing performance, and designing scalable solutions.
If you're uncertain about your specific tech career path, CS is often the safest choice. The foundational knowledge transfers across specializations, and you can narrow your focus through electives, projects, and work experience rather than committing to a specialization before you understand the field.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want broad foundations in computing theory and practice
- You're interested in algorithms, systems, or research
- You want maximum career flexibility across tech roles
- You enjoy math and abstract problem-solving
- You want to focus specifically on building software products
- You prefer practical engineering methodology over theory
- Your primary goal is becoming a developer quickly
- You're less interested in algorithms/theory
- You're specifically interested in analytics and ML
- You want to work with data rather than build systems
- You have strong statistics and math interest
- You want to focus on insights over infrastructure
- You prefer managing technology over creating it
- You're interested in networking or systems administration
- You want an IT management career path
- You prefer less programming and more operations
Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?
For most students, yes. The combination of high starting salaries ($75,000+ for new grads), strong job growth (25% through 2032), career flexibility, and 140,000+ annual job openings makes CS one of the highest-ROI degrees available.
When it's worth it: You're interested in tech careers, comfortable with math, and willing to engage with challenging coursework. The credential opens doors at top companies, provides structured learning, and offers networking and internship opportunities bootcamps can't replicate.
When to consider alternatives: You're certain you only want web development (bootcamps may be faster), you have significant financial constraints (start at community college), or you're already working in tech and just need specific skills (certifications or online courses).
Consider the tech job market trends for 2025 and whether self-taught paths might work better for your situation.
Alternative Paths to Tech Careers
While a CS degree is the most common path, alternatives exist for those with different goals, timelines, or budgets
- Software Engineering Bootcamps — 12-24 week intensive programs for career switchers
- Data Science Bootcamps — Fast-track to data and analytics roles
- AWS Certifications Roadmap — Cloud credentials for career advancement
- Self-Taught Programming — Combining online resources with portfolio building
- IT Certifications — CompTIA, Cisco, and other vendor-neutral credentials
Many successful developers combine paths—starting with a bootcamp or self-study, then adding a degree later for advancement. For career-specific guidance, see how to become an AI engineer or transitioning to tech.
Computer Science Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of computer science graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.