Best Computer Programming Degree Programs

Best Computer Programming Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data

1. #1. DePaul University Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #1 in computer programming degree program. Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $43,379/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 74.1

   What makes DePaul University stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: DePaul University graduates earn $800,002,024, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer programming curriculum.

   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: BS in Computer Science (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); Combined BS+MS in Computer Science (5 years total)

   Research Labs: DePaul Center for Data Science - Data mining, predictive analytics, machine learning applications in healthcare, business intelligence, and social computing; Medical Informatics (MedIX) Laboratory - Visual computing applications in medical field research led by Professor Daniela Stan Raicu; Innovation Development (iD) Lab - Technology innovation partnerships between university and corporate entities, directed by Associate Professor Yele Adelakun

   Industry Partners: Sinai Chicago, Home Depot, NSLE, Inc.

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 89% of undergraduate Computer Science graduates employed, continuing education, or not seeking employment within 6 months of graduation | Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, PayPal, TransUnion | Common Roles: Applications development, Computer engineering, Software architecture, Software engineering, Database administration, Programming

   Notable Faculty: Casey Bennett (AI in healthcare, wearable technology, clinical decision support); Daniela Stan Raicu (Medical imaging, computer vision, biomedical informatics); Oliver Alonzo (Human-computer interaction, accessibility research); Bamshad Mobasher (Data mining, web analytics, intelligent agents)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program

2. #2. Marist College Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Marist College as the #2 in computer programming degree program. Location: Poughkeepsie, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $45,330/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 64.4

   What makes Marist College stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Marist College's Enterprise Computing Research Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with IBM Corporation, bridging academic research and industry practice.

   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: Computer Science/Software Development B.S./M.S. (5 years)

   Research Labs: Enterprise Computing Research Lab - Enterprise-level computing solutions; Security Operations Center - Cybersecurity research and operations; New York State Cloud Computing and Analytics Center - Cloud computing services for businesses

   Industry Partners: IBM Corporation

   Career Outcomes:

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Eitel Lauria

   Admissions: GPA: 3.0 cumulative and major GPA required for acceptance and continuation

3. #3. Rowan University Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Rowan University as the #3 in computer programming degree program. Location: Glassboro, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,250/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 63.9

   What makes Rowan University stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Located in Glassboro, New Jersey with proximity to Philadelphia and New York tech corridors

   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: MS in Computer Science - Thesis Track (31 credit hours); MS in Computer Science - Non-Thesis Track (31 credit hours)

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, AI/ML Engineer

   Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA

   Accreditations: Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

4. #4. Yale University Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Yale University as the #4 in computer programming degree program. Location: New Haven, CT | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,700/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 63.9

   What makes Yale University stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Yale University leverages partnerships with Google and Microsoft to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

   Program Overview: Yale's Computer Science program offers both B.S. and B.A. degree options alongside four distinctive combined majors with Economics, Mathematics, Psychology, and Electrical Engineering. Under the direction of undergraduate studies Theodore Kim, the program maintains a rigorous core curriculum covering discrete mathematics, data structures, systems programming, and algorithm design, while allowing substantial flexibility for interdisciplinary exploration. What sets Yale apart is its liberal arts integration - many students leverage the program's lower course requirements to complete second majors in fields like Economics, Music, Political Science, or Theater Studies. The capstone senior project (CPSC 4900) provides hands-on research experience under faculty guidance, while the department's educational facility, affectionately known as 'the Zoo,' offers 24/7 access to Intel workstations and serves as the hub for late-night pizza parties that build community among students.

   Degree Programs: B.S. in Computer Science (4 years); B.A. in Computer Science (4 years); Combined B.S./M.S. in Computer Science (4 years (8 terms)); Computer Science & Economics (4 years); Computer Science & Mathematics (4 years); Computer Science & Psychology (4 years)

   Research Labs: Yale Computer Vision Lab - Computer vision and image understanding; Systems and Networking Lab - Distributed systems, networks, and security

   Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Leading software companies, Consulting firms, Wall Street firms | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Consultant, Financial Analyst, Graduate School

   Notable Faculty: Theodore Kim (Director of undergraduate studies)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

5. #5. Rochester Institute of Technology Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Rochester Institute of Technology as the #5 in computer programming degree program. Location: Rochester, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $55,784/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 62.9

   What makes Rochester Institute of Technology stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Rochester Institute of Technology graduates earn $90,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer programming curriculum.

   Program Overview: Rochester Institute of Technology's Computer Science Bachelor of Science program offers a distinctive blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on application, consistently ranking among the nation's top computer science programs at #54 according to U.S. News & World Report. The four-year program emphasizes both breadth and depth, with core computer science courses providing a solid foundation before students explore specializations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computer graphics, data management, and systems software during their third through fifth years. What sets RIT apart is its mandatory cooperative education requirement - students must complete three blocks of co-op experience, gaining real-world professional experience while earning their degree. The program operates within RIT's renowned Center for Imaging Science and benefits from the university's strong research culture, with faculty conducting cutting-edge research in areas like multi-messenger astronomy, cybersecurity, and AI. Students engage in significant programming projects, software development work, and both traditional and applied research opportunities, preparing them not just as programmers but as well-rounded computer scientists who understand mathematical theory, design principles, and industry applications.

   Degree Programs: Computer Science BS (4-5 years); Computer Science BS/MS (5 years); Computer Science BS/Cybersecurity MS (5 years); Computer Science BS/Software Engineering MS (5 years)

   Research Labs: Center for Imaging Science - Imaging science research and education with ties to computer science applications; ESL Global Cybersecurity Institute - Cybersecurity research and education; Center for Human-aware AI (CHAI) - Human-centered artificial intelligence research

   Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, NASA

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 93% within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, L3Harris Technologies, HubSpot, Paychex Inc., Tesla, Lockheed Martin | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Software Developer, Full Stack Developer, Associate Software Engineer, Technology Analyst, QA Test Engineer

   Notable Faculty: Faculty at Center for Imaging Science (Imaging science and computer vision research)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM-OPT Visa Eligible, ABET Accredited Computing Program

6. #6. Western Governors University Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Western Governors University as the #6 in computer programming degree program. Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Type: Private | Tuition: $7,710/year | Score: 62.8

   What makes Western Governors University stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Fully online accessibility from anywhere

   Program Overview: Western Governors University's Computer Science program represents a pioneering approach to competency-based education, offering both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees entirely online. The Bachelor's program holds prestigious ABET accreditation and features an AI-focused curriculum covering artificial intelligence, machine learning, data structures, computer theory, version control, and Linux systems. The Master's program provides three distinct specialization tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (focusing on natural language processing and deep learning), Computing Systems (emphasizing cloud computing, IoT, and network architecture), and Human-Computer Interaction (combining user experience design with hands-on research). What sets WGU apart is its revolutionary competency-based model where students pay a flat rate per six-month term and can accelerate through coursework as quickly as they master the material. An impressive 62% of bachelor's students complete their degree within 25 months, with some master's students finishing in just six months. The program integrates industry certifications directly into coursework—including Linux Essentials, ITIL Foundation, Java Developer, and AI Optimization Developer certificates—adding immediate resume value without additional cost or time. WGU also offers an innovative accelerated Bachelor's to Master's pathway for students seeking both degrees in compressed timeframes.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (25 months average (62% complete within this timeframe)); Master of Science in Computer Science - AI and Machine Learning (flexible, some complete in 6 months); Master of Science in Computer Science - Computing Systems (flexible, some complete in 6 months); Master of Science in Computer Science - Human-Computer Interaction (flexible, some complete in 6 months); Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's (compressed timeline for both degrees)

   Industry Partners: CodeSignal

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Software Developer, System Administrator, Network Engineer, AI Engineer, Security Engineer

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET Accredited (Bachelor's program), Linux Essentials, ITIL Foundation Certificate, Java Developer (with CodeSignal), Front End Web Developer (with CodeSignal), Artificial Intelligence Optimization Developer, Back-End Developer, ServiceNow Application Developer

7. #7. Clemson University Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Clemson University as the #7 in computer programming degree program. Location: Clemson, SC | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,038/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 62.7

   What makes Clemson University stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Through ties with Michelin and BMW, Clemson University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.

   Program Overview: Clemson University's School of Computing offers a comprehensive suite of computer science and programming degrees through its College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. The program spans from undergraduate Computer Science degrees to advanced graduate offerings including MS and PhD programs in Computer Science, Biomedical Data Science & Informatics, Digital Production Arts, and Human-Centered Computing. The school also provides a unique Master of Applied Computing (MAC) program designed for students without CS backgrounds, featuring specialized tracks in AI/machine learning, cybersecurity, data science, human-computer interaction, software engineering, and visual computing. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including the Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET), advanced electron microscopy facilities, and the Palmetto Cluster supercomputing infrastructure. The program offers both traditional on-campus experiences and online electrical engineering options, with strong connections to Clemson's innovation campuses including CU-ICAR in Greenville and the Dominion Energy Innovation Center in Charleston.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; Master of Science in Computer Science (2 years); Master of Applied Computing; PhD in Computer Science; MS in Biomedical Data Science & Informatics; MS/MFA in Digital Production Arts; PhD in Human-Centered Computing; MSCS Readiness Program (1 year); Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

   Research Labs: Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) - Advanced materials, devices, and systems for light-based technologies in a $7.5 trillion global market; Electron Microscopy Facility - High-resolution transmission and scanning electron microscopes with combined Focused Ion Beam capabilities; Institute for Biological Interfaces of Engineering (IBIOE) - Advanced biomaterials, tissue fabrication and instrumentation, tissue simulation; Palmetto Cluster - High-performance computing serving university-wide research needs

   Industry Partners: Michelin, BMW, General Motors, Google, Microsoft

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Digital Arts Specialist, Biomedical Informaticist

   Notable Faculty: Amy Apon (Cloud computing and resource management)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET Accredited programs

8. #8. Maryville University of Saint Louis Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Maryville University of Saint Louis as the #8 in computer programming degree program. Location: Saint Louis, MO | Type: Private | Tuition: $24,766/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 61.3

   What makes Maryville University of Saint Louis stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Maryville University of Saint Louis's direct partnerships with Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.

   Program Overview: Maryville University of Saint Louis offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science designed with remarkable flexibility through six distinct tracks: Game Design, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Development, and User Experience. The program stands out with its project-based learning approach, where students work on real-world scenarios in every class, and its innovative METAL (Maryville Emerging Technology Application Lab) - an experiential internship opportunity where students develop and deploy AI solutions for the university itself. All on-campus students receive iPads with over 200 apps, and work with life coaches to personalize their education. The program boasts an impressive 98% career outcomes rate within six months of graduation, with an average class size of just 14 students ensuring personalized attention. Students can also accelerate their path to graduate school through early access programs, taking graduate-level credits that count toward both undergraduate and master's degrees in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and data science.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Game Design Track (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence Track (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Track (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Data Science Track (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Software Development Track (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - User Experience Track (4 years)

   Research Labs: METAL (Maryville Emerging Technology Application Lab) - AI tooling and solutions development for university and learner community

   Industry Partners: Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, IBM Watson

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 98% within 6 months | Common Roles: AI Engineer, Game Designer, UX Engineer, Software Developer, Data Engineer, Security Engineer

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Akanksha Maurya (AI, machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, healthcare AI research)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission - HLC Accredited, Apple Distinguished School (three times), Ranked among best values in private colleges by Kiplinger's Personal Finance

9. #9. Farmingdale State College Computer Programming Program

   Hakia ranks Farmingdale State College as the #9 in computer programming degree program. Location: Farmingdale, NY | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,070/year | Graduation Rate: 79% | Score: 57.1

   What makes Farmingdale State College stand out: 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.

   Hakia Insight: Farmingdale State College's direct partnerships with Cisco Systems and Adelphi University give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.

   Program Overview: Farmingdale State College's Computer Programming and Information Systems (CPIS) Bachelor of Science program offers a comprehensive 121-124 credit curriculum that combines practical, hands-on programming experience with essential business problem-solving skills. The program is housed within the Pasternack School of Engineering Technology and provides students with a diverse foundation in technology through core courses, plus specialized electives in programming, systems development, networking, web development, database management, and artificial intelligence. What sets this program apart is its practical approach—students work on real-world business problems while gaining technical depth across multiple computing domains. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and capstone projects, with strong connections to industry through partnerships like the Cisco Networking Academy, which provides direct certification pathways for students pursuing network administration careers.

   Degree Programs: AAS in Computer Programming (2 years); AS in Computer Science (2 years); AAS in Information Technology (2 years)

   Industry Partners: Cisco Systems, Adelphi University

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Software development companies, Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies, Technology startups | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Mobile Application Developer, Programmer/Analyst, Web Developer, Database Administrator, Network Administrator, AI Engineer, Quality Assurance Technician, Systems Analyst, IT Support Engineer

   Notable Faculty: Dr. David Gerstl (Program Director, Computer Programming and Information Systems)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) preparation through academy partnership

10. #10. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Computer Programming Program

    Hakia ranks University of Cincinnati-Main Campus as the #10 in computer programming degree program. Location: Cincinnati, OH | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,228/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 57.1

    What makes University of Cincinnati-Main Campus stand out: 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.

    Hakia Insight: University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's industry network — including P&G and Siemens — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

    Program Overview: The University of Cincinnati's computer programming landscape spans multiple colleges, offering diverse pathways into the technology sector. The College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) houses the Computer Science Department, which provides the traditional B.S. in Computer Science along with M.S., M.Eng, and Ph.D. programs in Computer Science & Engineering. Meanwhile, the College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology through its School of Information Technology. This multi-college approach means students can choose between theoretical computer science foundations or applied technology management depending on their career goals. What sets UC apart is its mandatory cooperative education program - students alternate between academic semesters and full-time work experiences, graduating with up to 18 months of professional experience and often job offers from their co-op employers.

    Degree Programs: B.S. in Computer Science (5 years with co-op); B.S. in Information Technology (4 years); M.S. in Computer Science (2 years); M.Eng in Computer Science (1-2 years); Ph.D in Computer Science & Engineering (4-6 years)

    Research Labs: Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations - Cybersecurity research and education; Center for Hardware and Embedded Systems Security and Trust (CHEST) - Hardware security and embedded systems; Database Group - Database systems and data management research; Cooperative Distributed Systems Lab - Distributed computing and systems research

    Industry Partners: P&G, Siemens, NSA

    Career Outcomes:

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: ABET Accredited, NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations