Compare 584 accredited computer programming degree programs using data from IPEDS 2024 and BLS 2024. Our rankings analyze graduation rates, tuition costs, student-faculty ratios, and career outcomes for aspiring software developers.
$100,390 median salary · 84% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 75% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 68% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 67% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 70% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 58% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 75% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 53% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 65% graduation rate
$100,390 median salary · 78% graduation rate
Hakia ranks Syracuse University's online bachelor's computer programming program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Syracuse, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $63,710/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 92.3
Hakia ranks University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's online bachelor's computer programming program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Cincinnati, OH | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,685/year | Graduation Rate: 75% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 87.9
Hakia ranks DePaul University's bachelor's computer programming program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $44,601/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 87.5
Hakia ranks Rowan University's bachelor's computer programming program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Glassboro, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,812/year | Graduation Rate: 67% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 87.4
Hakia ranks Mercer University's bachelor's computer programming program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Macon, GA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $31,265/year | Graduation Rate: 70% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 87.2
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Dearborn's bachelor's computer programming program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Dearborn, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $15,240/year | Graduation Rate: 58% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 86.1
Hakia ranks Siena College's bachelor's computer programming program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Loudonville, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $44,505/year | Graduation Rate: 75% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 85.7
Hakia ranks Farmingdale State College's bachelor's computer programming program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Farmingdale, NY | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,070/year | Graduation Rate: 53% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 85.7
Hakia ranks University of Utah's bachelor's computer programming program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,461/year | Graduation Rate: 65% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 85.0
Hakia ranks Dominican University of California's bachelor's computer programming program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: San Rafael, CA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $51,316/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Median Salary: $100,390 | Score: 83.1
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | N/A | 77/100 |
| #2 Rowan University | Glassboro, NJ | Public | $11,250 | 97% | 63.2/100 |
| #3 Yale University | New Haven, CT | Private | $64,700 | 96% | 62.7/100 |
| #4 Farmingdale State College | Farmingdale, NY | Public | $7,070 | 79% | 62.3/100 |
| #5 DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | 60.7/100 |
Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.
| Rank | Program & School | Delivery | Annual Tuition | Grad Rate | Median Salary | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Syracuse UniversitySyracuse, NY · Private nonprofit | Online | $63,710 | 84% | $100,390 | 92.3 |
| #2 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati, OH · Public | Online | $11,685 | 75% | $100,390 | 87.9 |
| #3 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming DePaul UniversityChicago, IL · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $44,601 | 68% | $100,390 | 87.5 |
| #4 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Rowan UniversityGlassboro, NJ · Public | On-campus | $11,812 | 67% | $100,390 | 87.4 |
| #5 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Mercer UniversityMacon, GA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $31,265 | 70% | $100,390 | 87.2 |
| #6 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of Michigan-DearbornDearborn, MI · Public | On-campus | $15,240 | 58% | $100,390 | 86.1 |
| #7 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Siena CollegeLoudonville, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $44,505 | 75% | $100,390 | 85.7 |
| #8 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Farmingdale State CollegeFarmingdale, NY · Public | On-campus | $7,070 | 53% | $100,390 | 85.7 |
| #9 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT · Public | On-campus | $8,461 | 65% | $100,390 | 85.0 |
| #10 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Dominican University of CaliforniaSan Rafael, CA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $51,316 | 78% | $100,390 | 83.1 |
| #11 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming New England Institute of TechnologyEast Greenwich, RI · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $34,875 | 60% | $100,390 | 83.1 |
| #12 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Champlain CollegeBurlington, VT · Private nonprofit | Online | $47,400 | 65% | $100,390 | 82.7 |
| #13 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Western Governors UniversitySalt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit | Online | $8,180 | 46% | $100,390 | 82.5 |
| #14 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Olivet Nazarene UniversityBourbonnais, IL · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $37,910 | 61% | $100,390 | 82.3 |
| #15 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming NUC UniversityBayamon, PR · Private for-profit | On-campus | $11,885 | 54% | $100,390 | 82.3 |
| #16 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Le Moyne CollegeSyracuse, NY · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $39,090 | 73% | $100,390 | 80.6 |
| #17 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of Akron Main CampusAkron, OH · Public | On-campus | $10,735 | 52% | $100,390 | 80.3 |
| #18 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Utah Valley UniversityOrem, UT · Public | On-campus | $5,818 | 45% | $100,390 | 80.0 |
| #19 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Husson UniversityBangor, ME · Private nonprofit | Online | $22,072 | 59% | $100,390 | 79.0 |
| #20 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Mount Vernon Nazarene UniversityMount Vernon, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $26,719 | 68% | $100,390 | 77.9 |
| #21 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Winthrop UniversityRock Hill, SC · Public | On-campus | $13,998 | 57% | $100,390 | 76.7 |
| #22 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of Mount UnionAlliance, OH · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $36,100 | 59% | $100,390 | 76.5 |
| #23 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Morningside UniversitySioux City, IA · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $38,017 | 50% | $100,390 | 76.0 |
| #24 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Dewey University-CarolinaCarolina, PR · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $7,080 | 62% | $100,390 | 75.8 |
| #25 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Shawnee State UniversityPortsmouth, OH · Public | On-campus | $9,448 | 48% | $100,390 | 75.3 |
| #26 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Brigham Young University-IdahoRexburg, ID · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $4,800 | 55% | $100,390 | 75.0 |
| #27 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Green River CollegeAuburn, WA · Public | On-campus | $4,205 | 39% | $100,390 | 75.0 |
| #28 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Grand Canyon UniversityPhoenix, AZ · Private for-profit | Online | $16,473 | 43% | $100,390 | 74.6 |
| #29 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Minnesota State University-MankatoMankato, MN · Public | On-campus | $8,355 | 54% | $100,390 | 73.7 |
| #30 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Youngstown State UniversityYoungstown, OH · Public | On-campus | $9,790 | 50% | $100,390 | 73.4 |
| #31 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Western Connecticut State UniversityDanbury, CT · Public | On-campus | $6,998 | 52% | $100,390 | 72.6 |
| #32 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Bellevue CollegeBellevue, WA · Public | On-campus | $4,205 | 36% | $100,390 | 71.9 |
| #33 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming University of Silicon ValleySan Jose, CA · Private for-profit | On-campus | $21,480 | 29% | $100,390 | 71.7 |
| #34 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Neumont College of Computer ScienceSalt Lake City, UT · Private for-profit | On-campus | $25,500 | 63% | $100,390 | 71.2 |
| #35 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Fort Hays State UniversityHays, KS · Public | Online | $4,704 | 48% | $100,390 | 71.0 |
| #36 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Lake Washington Institute of TechnologyKirkland, WA · Public | On-campus | $3,291 | 37% | $100,390 | 71.0 |
| #37 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Columbia College ChicagoChicago, IL · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $32,272 | 52% | $100,390 | 70.5 |
| #38 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Indiana Wesleyan University-MarionMarion, IN · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $32,104 | 67% | $100,390 | 70.5 |
| #39 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Bellevue UniversityBellevue, NE · Private nonprofit | Online | $12,123 | 33% | $100,390 | 70.5 |
| #40 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Austin Community College DistrictAustin, TX · Public | On-campus | $2,010 | 20% | $100,390 | 70.1 |
| #41 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming South CollegeKnoxville, TN · Private for-profit | Online | $16,450 | 42% | $100,390 | 69.7 |
| #42 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Southwestern CollegeWinfield, KS · Private nonprofit | Online | $39,672 | 36% | $100,390 | 68.5 |
| #43 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Baker CollegeOwosso, MI · Private nonprofit | Online | $12,600 | 36% | $100,390 | 68.1 |
| #44 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Blue Mountain Christian UniversityBlue Mountain, MS · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $19,980 | 55% | $100,390 | 68.0 |
| #45 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Siena Heights UniversityAdrian, MI · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $29,500 | 39% | $100,390 | 67.6 |
| #46 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Caribbean University-BayamonBayamon, PR · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $7,344 | 43% | $100,390 | 67.2 |
| #47 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Hardin-Simmons UniversityAbilene, TX · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $31,920 | 46% | $100,390 | 65.9 |
| #48 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Missouri Valley CollegeMarshall, MO · Private nonprofit | On-campus | $22,000 | 22% | $100,390 | 65.1 |
| #49 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Metropolitan State UniversitySaint Paul, MN · Public | On-campus | $8,571 | 44% | $100,390 | 64.2 |
| #50 | Bachelor's in Computer Programming Edmonds CollegeLynnwood, WA · Public | On-campus | $4,206 | 29% | $100,390 | 63.9 |
Showing all 50 ranked programs.
Create and maintain websites and web applications using programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various frameworks.
Develop applications for mobile devices including iOS and Android platforms using specialized programming languages and development environments.
Design, implement, and maintain database systems. Write complex queries, optimize database performance, and ensure data integrity.
Test software applications to identify bugs, ensure functionality, and verify that programs meet specifications and user requirements.
Analyze business requirements and design technology solutions. Bridge the gap between business needs and technical implementation.
Provide technical assistance and support for software applications, troubleshoot issues, and help users resolve technical problems.
Computer programming students have access to numerous financial aid options including federal grants, state aid, and technology-specific scholarships. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step for most students, providing access to Pell Grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Many programming students qualify for STEM-focused aid programs.
Technology companies increasingly offer scholarship programs for programming students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Major employers like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon provide scholarships ranging from $5,000-$10,000 annually. Women in technology and minority students have access to additional scholarship opportunities through organizations like the National Center for Women & Information Technology.
Many programming students also benefit from employer tuition reimbursement programs, making part-time or online degrees particularly attractive for career changers. Companies often pay 100% of tuition costs for employees pursuing programming degrees, especially if the education directly relates to job responsibilities.
Computer programming degrees focus on practical coding skills, software development methodologies, and application building - offering a more hands-on alternative to theoretical computer science programs. With the tech job market continuing to grow, programming graduates enjoy strong career prospects with median starting salaries around $72,000.
Across 584 accredited programs, there are significant variations in quality, cost, and outcomes. Public universities dominate the top rankings, offering excellent value with in-state tuition averaging $11,750 compared to $38,450 at private institutions. Programs emphasizing internships and industry partnerships consistently produce graduates with higher starting salaries and faster job placement.
The distinction between computer programming and computer science degrees lies in practical focus versus theoretical depth. Programming degrees emphasize immediate job readiness through hands-on coding experience, while computer science programs include more mathematical foundations and research components. Both paths lead to similar software engineer career opportunities, though programming graduates often enter the workforce sooner.
The top-ranked computer programming programs share several key characteristics that set them apart from the competition. University of Washington leads with its strong industry connections in Seattle's tech ecosystem, while Virginia Tech excels in hands-on learning with excellent job placement rates. Cal Poly's learn-by-doing philosophy produces immediately employable graduates.
Public universities dominate the rankings due to their combination of quality education and affordability. The top 10 programs average just $12,890 in annual tuition for in-state students, compared to $52,000+ at equivalent private institutions. This value proposition is especially important for programming students who often prefer practical skills over prestige.
Geographic location significantly impacts program quality and graduate outcomes. Schools in major tech hubs like Seattle, Austin, and Raleigh benefit from industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and higher starting salaries for graduates. However, excellent programs also exist in smaller markets, often offering better student-faculty ratios and more personalized attention.
Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024
Ranking 50 computer programming programs by graduation rate, selectivity, outcomes, and price, Syracuse University's Bachelor's in Computer Programming comes out first. The Hakia Score is computed from IPEDS 2024 and BLS data with no paid placement. In-state tuition across the list spans $2,010 to $63,710.
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
National salary data for computer programming graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Federal database providing graduation rates, tuition costs, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics for all accredited colleges and universities.
National employment and wage data for computer programming and software development occupations, including salary percentiles and job growth projections.
Long-term employment projections for technology occupations, including expected job growth rates and annual job openings.
Comprehensive database of college and university information including accreditation status, program offerings, and student outcomes.
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.