Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Alabama 2025
Auburn University
66 computer programming graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
University of South Alabama
50 computer programming graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Auburn University at Montgomery
157 computer programming graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Alabama offers 8+ accredited computer programming programs across public and private universities
- 2.Auburn University leads with 81% graduation rate
- 3.Alabama software developers earn median $98,520 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile
- 5.Cost of living index: 89.3% of US average (below average)
Computer Programming Education in Alabama: Overview
Alabama offers 8 accredited computer programming programs, producing approximately 296 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile, with major employers including NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
With a median software developer salary of $98,520 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 89.3% compared to the US average, Alabama offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers.
The top computer programming programs in the state are led by Auburn University, University of South Alabama, Auburn University at Montgomery, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Alabama Computer Programming Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Auburn University | Auburn, AL | Public | $10,704 | 81% | 69.7 |
| 2 | University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | Public | $8,976 | 99% | 68.1 |
| 3 | Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | Public | $8,568 | — | 65.5 |
| 4 | Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | Private | $19,594 | 87% | 55.3 |
| 5 | University of Montevallo | Montevallo, AL | Public | $12,090 | 97% | 49.7 |
| 6 | Oakwood University | Huntsville, AL | Private | $20,722 | — | 42.7 |
| 7 | Alabama State University | Montgomery, AL | Public | $8,328 | — | 35.7 |
| 8 | Herzing University-Birmingham | Birmingham, AL | Private | $12,360 | 42% | 28 |
Top 5 Computer Programming Programs in Alabama: Side-by-Side
| School | Auburn | U of South Alabama | Auburn University at... | Tuskegee | U of Montevallo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $10,704 | $8,976 | $8,568 | $19,594 | $12,090 |
| Graduation Rate | 81% | 99% | N/A% | 87% | 97% |
| Annual Graduates | 66 | 50 | 157 | 5 | 1 |
| Acceptance Rate | 50% | 65% | 93% | 31% | 54% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 69.7/100 | 68.1/100 | 65.5/100 | 55.3/100 | 49.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Programming in Alabama
Alabama offers 7 bachelor's-level computer programming programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Auburn University, University of South Alabama, Tuskegee University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $68,964 in the Alabama market.
A bachelor's in computer programming typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs in Alabama
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Auburn | $10,704 | 81% | 66 | 69.7 |
| #2 U of South Alabama | $8,976 | 99% | 50 | 68.1 |
| #3 Tuskegee | $19,594 | 87% | 5 | 55.3 |
Top Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in Alabama
For graduate study, Alabama offers 1 master's-level computer programming programs. Leading institutions include Auburn University at Montgomery. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Alabama reaching $128,076 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer programming master's programs for more options beyond Alabama.
Top 3 Computer Programming Master's Programs in Alabama
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Auburn University at... | $8,568 | N/A% | 157 | 65.5 |
Most Affordable Computer Programming Colleges in Alabama
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in Alabama are at Alabama State University ($8,328/year), Auburn University at Montgomery ($8,568/year), University of South Alabama ($8,976/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Alabama's competitive tech salaries.
At Alabama State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $33,312 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $68,964, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs in Alabama (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Alabama State | $8,328 | $33,312 | 1 years | Public |
| #2 Auburn University at... | $8,568 | $34,272 | 1 years | Public |
| #3 U of South Alabama | $8,976 | $35,904 | 1.1 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Programming Schools in Alabama
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer programming programs in Alabama, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Auburn University
Auburn, AL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,704 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 66 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 69.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 66 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 69.7 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (66 graduates), state salary outcomes ($98,520), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Auburn University's Computer Science program offers flexible online learning options with fast-track opportunities for students with existing bachelor's degrees, combining traditional instruction with modern technology in a supportive Auburn Family community.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •60 hours of prerequisite courses
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
- Capstone Project Required
Rankings & Recognition
- Campus recognized as one of the most beautiful in the nation
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,976 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 50 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 65%
- • Ranking Score: 68.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 50 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 68.1 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (50 graduates), state salary outcomes ($98,520), and selectivity (65% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The provided content does not contain specific information about University of South Alabama's Computer Programming program. The pages show general university information and mention Computer Science and Computer Engineering programs, but no explicit details about Computer Programming curriculum, admissions, or program features are stated.
Auburn University at Montgomery
Montgomery, AL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,568 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 157 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 93%
- • Ranking Score: 65.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 157 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.5 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (157 graduates), state salary outcomes ($98,520), and selectivity (93% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Auburn's Bachelor of Computer Science offers a unique completer degree designed for students with transfer credit, featuring completely online courses delivered in accelerated 7.5-week terms with 5 terms per calendar year. The program includes comprehensive coverage from fundamental programming through advanced topics like mobile development and web development.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
- Capstone Project Required
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $19,594 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 31%
- • Ranking Score: 55.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 5 computer programming graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 55.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($98,520), and selectivity (31% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Tuskegee University offers Computer Science and Information Systems degrees at both bachelor's and master's levels, with the institution ranked as the #4 HBCU in the Nation and being the only HBCU to offer ROTC Programs for all military branches including Space Force.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.00
Rankings & Recognition
- #4 HBCU in the Nation
University of Montevallo
Montevallo, AL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,090 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 1 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 54%
- • Ranking Score: 49.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 1 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 49.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (1 graduates), state salary outcomes ($98,520), and selectivity (54% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Alabama with strong job growth.
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Systems Analyst opportunities in Alabama with strong job growth.
IT Manager
SOC 15-1299IT Manager opportunities in Alabama with strong job growth.
Technical Consultant
SOC 15-1299Technical Consultant opportunities in Alabama with strong job growth.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Database Administrator opportunities in Alabama with strong job growth.
Computer Programming Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile
- You're seeking lower cost of living (89.3% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like NASA Marshall or Boeing
- You prefer Alabama's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Alabama's 8)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration
Computer Programming in Alabama FAQ
Based on 8 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Programming degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Alabama-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Alabama salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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.