- 1.Our top-ranked computer programming programs are DePaul University, Marist College, and Rowan University—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 2.Best value: Green River College offers computer programming degrees at just $4,074/year with a 99% graduation rate.
- 3.73 accredited computer programming programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, IPEDS 2023
Best Computer Programming Programs - Top 10
These are the best computer programming 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 Programming Programs - Top 10
DePaul University
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
DePaul's Computer Science program uniquely bridges academic rigor with Chicago's thriving tech ecosystem, where many faculty members serve as active industry professionals and consultants, offering students direct access to thought leaders and change-makers in the field.
Program Overview
DePaul University's Computer Science program operates through the Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media (CDM), strategically positioned in Chicago's Loop Campus within the heart of the city's technology and business districts. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science provides comprehensive training in computing foundations, data storage, and information processing, with specialized concentrations in Game Systems and Software Development. Students master programming and software development while exploring cutting-edge areas including robotics, computer vision, intelligent systems, gaming, data mining, and mobile systems. The program uniquely offers an online degree completion option where students can complete their third- and fourth-year courses entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
The graduate Master of Science program allows specialization across seven distinct areas: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Database Systems, Game and Real-Time Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, Software and Systems Development, or Software Engineering. Faculty members actively work as industry professionals and consultants, bringing real-world expertise directly into the classroom. The program also offers a distinctive combined Bachelor's + Master's pathway, allowing students to complete 12 graduate credit hours while still undergraduates, accelerating their path to advanced study.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Data mining, predictive analytics, machine learning applications in healthcare, business intelligence, and social computing
Visual computing applications in medical field research led by Professor Daniela Stan Raicu
Technology innovation partnerships between university and corporate entities, directed by Associate Professor Yele Adelakun
Location Advantages
- •Located in Chicago's Loop technology and business districts
- •Direct access to leading companies in information systems
- •Rich networking opportunities with industry professionals
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Google, Microsoft, PayPal, TransUnion
Certifications & Designations
Marist College
Masters: Larger Programs
Marist offers a unique five-year B.S./M.S. pathway that saves students 9 credits and an entire semester, while housing the New York State Cloud Computing and Analytics Center that provides real-world IT services to growing businesses.
Program Overview
Marist University's Computer Science/Software Development program stands out through its innovative five-year dual degree pathway that allows exceptional students to earn both Bachelor's and Master's degrees in an accelerated timeline. Under the leadership of Dr. Eitel Lauria in the Department of Computing Technology, the program combines rigorous technical training with liberal arts foundation, preparing graduates for leadership roles in technology. The five-year B.S./M.S. program requires only 143 total credits instead of the typical 152, saving students an entire semester while maintaining academic rigor.
What sets Marist's program apart is its two distinct graduate concentrations: Cloud Computing and Artificial Intelligence. The Cloud Computing concentration emphasizes hands-on experience with networking, security protocols, and cloud computing directly applicable to industry scenarios. The newly developed AI concentration offers deep exploration of machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, and applications in natural language processing and computer vision. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities in the $35 million Hancock Center, which houses the Enterprise Computing Research Lab, Security Operations Center, eSports Training rooms, and the New York State Cloud Computing and Analytics Center established with a $3 million state grant.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Enterprise-level computing solutions
Cybersecurity research and operations
Cloud computing services for businesses
Location Advantages
- •Hudson River Valley location
- •Proximity to New York tech corridor
- •IBM Corporation partnership on campus
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Rowan University
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
The program is uniquely positioned within Rowan's strategic focus on artificial intelligence innovation, offering research opportunities at the intersection of AI, life sciences, engineering, and medicine - a distinctive interdisciplinary approach that sets it apart from traditional computer science programs.
Program Overview
Rowan University's Master of Science in Computer Science program offers a comprehensive 31-credit hour graduate education that blends theoretical foundations with hands-on application across diverse technological fields. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, with project-intensive courses providing direct experience in cutting-edge areas like game design, robotics, and computer graphics. The program is uniquely positioned within Rowan's commitment to artificial intelligence innovation, creating opportunities for research at the intersection of AI, life sciences, engineering, and medicine.
The curriculum is structured around five core areas: Algorithms and Theory, Software Design, Cybersecurity, Data Management and Analytics, and Computer Networks. Students must complete at least one course in three of these five areas, ensuring both breadth and depth. The program accommodates both full-time and part-time students, with flexible scheduling that serves working professionals seeking career advancement in education, industry, research, business, and government sectors.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Located in Glassboro, New Jersey with proximity to Philadelphia and New York tech corridors
- •Part of a Carnegie R2 research university with strong industry partnerships
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Yale University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Yale Computer Science uniquely balances rigorous technical education with liberal arts flexibility, requiring fewer total courses than peer institutions to encourage double majors and interdisciplinary study, while maintaining strong industry recruitment from both tech companies and Wall Street firms.
Rochester Institute of Technology
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
RIT pioneered the integration of mandatory cooperative education into computer science education, requiring all students to complete three professional co-op experiences, and operates one of the nation's premier imaging science research centers alongside its computer science program.
Western Governors University
Masters: Larger Programs
WGU pioneered competency-based education in computer science, allowing students to accelerate through material at their own pace while earning industry certifications embedded within coursework at no additional cost.
Clemson University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Clemson uniquely combines computing education with specialized research in biomedical data science through a joint PhD program with the Medical University of South Carolina, while offering one of the few comprehensive Digital Production Arts programs that bridges technical computer graphics with creative applications.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Doctoral/Professional
Maryville's Computer Science program uniquely combines six specialized tracks with built-in certificates, hands-on experience through METAL lab internships, and personalized life coaching - creating 'digital citizens' prepared for emerging tech careers with a 98% job placement rate.
Farmingdale State College
Baccalaureate: Diverse Fields
Farmingdale State is investing $75 million in a brand-new 40,000 square foot Center for Computer Science and Information Technology, fully funded by the state, demonstrating unprecedented commitment to the program's future and positioning it as a flagship technology education hub on Long Island.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UC pioneered cooperative education in 1906 and remains one of the few universities requiring co-op experiences, meaning computer programming students graduate with extensive real-world experience and established industry connections.
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 Programming?
Computer programming is ideal for students who enjoy creating software, solving logical problems through code, and prefer hands-on technical work over theoretical study. You don't need prior experience, but you should have patience for debugging and attention to detail.
- Hands-on learners who prefer building applications over studying algorithms
- Creative problem-solvers who enjoy turning ideas into functional software
- Detail-oriented students comfortable with systematic testing and debugging
- Career-focused individuals seeking direct entry into development roles
- Students who want practical skills without extensive mathematics requirements
Programming degrees require less mathematics than computer science programs, making them accessible to students who want tech careers without calculus and discrete math. The focus is on practical coding ability rather than theoretical foundations.
Computer Programming Degree Levels
Programming degrees are available at multiple levels, each designed for different career goals and time commitments.
Computer Programming 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
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Computer Programming Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in computer programming is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Computer Programming Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
Rowan University
117 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 63.9
Yale University
15 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 63.9
Rochester Institute of Technology
28 graduates, 90% grad rate, Score: 62.9
4. Western Governors University (Salt Lake City, UT) - Score: 62.8, Tuition: $7,710
5. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 61.8, Tuition: $43,379
6. Farmingdale State College (Farmingdale, NY) - Score: 57.1, Tuition: $7,070
7. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Cincinnati, OH) - Score: 57.1, Tuition: $11,228
8. University of Michigan-Dearborn (Dearborn, MI) - Score: 55.2, Tuition: $14,544
9. Dominican University of California (San Rafael, CA) - Score: 53.7, Tuition: $49,821
10. Green River College (Auburn, WA) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $4,074
Best Computer Programming Programs - Master's
A master's degree in computer programming prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Computer Programming Programs - Top 3 Master's
DePaul University
114 graduates, 86% grad rate, Score: 74.1
Marist College
31 graduates, 100% grad rate, Score: 64.4
Clemson University
19 graduates, 81% grad rate, Score: 62.7
4. Maryville University of Saint Louis (Saint Louis, MO) - Score: 61.3, Tuition: $24,766
5. University of Michigan-Dearborn (Dearborn, MI) - Score: 55.9, Tuition: $14,544
6. Maharishi International University (Fairfield, IA) - Score: 50.2, Tuition: $16,000
7. University of Detroit Mercy (Detroit, MI) - Score: 48.9, Tuition: $32,300
8. Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS) - Score: 47.0, Tuition: $9,964
9. Youngstown State University (Youngstown, OH) - Score: 45.9, Tuition: $9,611
10. Aspen University (Phoenix, AZ) - Score: 30.9, Tuition: $6,210
Best Computer Programming Programs - Online
Online computer programming programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Computer Programming Programs - Top 3 Online
Western Governors University
661 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 67.8
Marist College
31 graduates, 100% grad rate, Score: 64.4
Rowan University
117 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 63.9
4. Yale University (New Haven, CT) - Score: 63.9, Tuition: $64,700
5. Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY) - Score: 62.9, Tuition: $55,784
6. Clemson University (Clemson, SC) - Score: 62.7, Tuition: $14,038
7. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 61.8, Tuition: $43,379
8. Maryville University of Saint Louis (Saint Louis, MO) - Score: 61.3, Tuition: $24,766
9. Farmingdale State College (Farmingdale, NY) - Score: 57.1, Tuition: $7,070
10. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Cincinnati, OH) - Score: 57.1, Tuition: $11,228
Best Computer Programming Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in computer programming 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 Programming Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Santa Monica College
38 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 58.5
Green River College
21 graduates, 99% grad rate, Score: 56.0
Valencia College
60 graduates, 86% grad rate, Score: 54.9
4. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 54.2, Tuition: $5,514
5. Bellevue College (Bellevue, WA) - Score: 53.7, Tuition: $4,074
6. Dallas College (Dallas, TX) - Score: 53.2, Tuition: $4,050
7. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 52.3, Tuition: $1,104
8. Palm Beach State College (Lake Worth, FL) - Score: 51.8, Tuition: $3,030
9. Pasco-Hernando State College (New Port Richey, FL) - Score: 51.0, Tuition: $2,297
10. State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota (Bradenton, FL) - Score: 49.7, Tuition: $2,365
Best Computer Programming Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in computer programming (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Computer Programming 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 Programming Programs
Looking for quality computer programming 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 Programming Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Green River College | Auburn, WA | $4,074 | 107.0 | 99% |
| 2 | Brigham Young University-Idaho | Rexburg, ID | $4,656 | 90.6 | — |
| 3 | Caribbean University-Bayamon | Bayamon, PR | $4,742 | 88.6 | 70% |
| 4 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | $5,614 | 88.4 | 92% |
| 5 | Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS | $4,437 | 85.8 | — |
Computer Programming Career Outcomes
Computer programming graduates have strong career prospects with median salaries of $87,220 and 15% job growth through 2032. The field offers diverse specialization opportunities from web development to mobile apps. For detailed compensation data, see our software engineer salary guide.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications using programming languages like Java, Python, and C++.
Web Developer
SOC 15-1254Create and maintain websites and web applications using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and backend technologies.
Mobile App Developer
SOC 15-1252Develop applications for mobile devices using platforms like iOS, Android, and cross-platform frameworks.
Database Developer
SOC 15-1243Design and implement database systems, write SQL queries, and optimize database performance.
Game Developer
SOC 15-1252Create video games for various platforms using game engines and programming languages.
Computer Programming Curriculum Overview
Programming curricula emphasize practical coding skills, software development processes, and hands-on project experience. Students learn multiple programming languages and development environments.
- Core Programming Languages: Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, C#
- Web Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Node.js, databases
- Mobile Development: iOS (Swift), Android (Java/Kotlin), React Native
- Software Engineering: Version control (Git), testing, debugging, deployment
- Database Programming: SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, NoSQL databases
- Project Development: Capstone projects, internships, team collaboration
Programs typically require less mathematics than computer science degrees, focusing instead on practical application development and industry-standard tools and practices.
Computer Programming 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 Programming vs Related Fields
Computer programming degrees focus narrowly on practical coding skills—writing, testing, and debugging code in multiple languages. This applied focus gets you job-ready faster but provides less theoretical depth than computer science programs.
The key tradeoff is breadth versus speed. Programming degrees can be completed faster (especially at the associate level) and require less mathematics, making them accessible entry points into tech careers. However, this comes at the cost of the deeper algorithmic understanding and theoretical foundations that help with career advancement and pivoting between specializations.
For students confident they want hands-on coding roles and prefer learning through building rather than theory, programming degrees offer efficient pathways to employment. Those uncertain about their long-term direction or interested in research, AI, or technical leadership may benefit from the broader foundations a CS degree provides.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want to focus primarily on writing and debugging code
- You prefer hands-on application development over theory
- You want to avoid heavy mathematics requirements
- Your goal is becoming a working developer quickly
- You enjoy mathematics and theoretical foundations
- You want maximum career flexibility in tech
- You're interested in algorithms, AI, or research
- You plan to pursue advanced degrees or research
- You want to learn software development methodology
- You're interested in project management aspects
- You want to lead development teams eventually
- You prefer structured engineering approaches
- You specifically want to build websites and web apps
- You're interested in user interface design
- You want to freelance or work remotely
- You prefer shorter, specialized programs
Is a Computer Programming Degree Worth It?
A programming degree offers good value for students who want focused, practical coding education without the theoretical depth of computer science. With median salaries of $87,220 and strong job growth, it provides a direct path to development careers.
Programming degrees are particularly valuable for students who prefer hands-on learning, want to avoid extensive mathematics, and have clear career goals in software development. The practical focus means graduates are job-ready with portfolio projects and industry-relevant skills.
Consider alternatives like bootcamps if you need faster entry to the job market, or computer science if you want broader theoretical foundations. For detailed analysis, see our comparison of bootcamp vs degree options.
Alternative Paths to Programming Careers
Several alternatives exist for learning programming skills, each with different time commitments, costs, and career outcomes
- Best Software Engineering Bootcamps — 12-24 week intensive programs
- Self-Taught Programming — Online courses and resources
- AWS Certifications — Cloud development credentials
- Technical Interview Prep — Preparing for coding interviews
- Building a Portfolio — Demonstrating programming skills
Many successful programmers combine approaches—starting with online courses or bootcamps, then pursuing degrees for advancement. The key is matching your learning style, timeline, and career goals to the right educational path.
Computer Programming Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of computer programming 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 Programming 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.