Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in California 2025
University of California-Berkeley
994 Computer Programming graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
University of California-Irvine
467 Computer Programming graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
University of California-Los Angeles
340 Computer Programming graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.California offers 30+ accredited computer programming bachelor's programs across UC, CSU, community colleges, and private universities
- 2.UC Berkeley ranks #1 in California with 93% graduation rate and strong Silicon Valley recruitment partnerships
- 3.Cal Poly SLO provides exceptional value at $9,942 in-state tuition with hands-on programming curriculum
- 4.California programmers earn median $128,350 annually—23% above the national median of $104,420 (BLS California 2024)
- 5.Silicon Valley, LA, and San Diego metro areas host 45,000+ programming jobs with major employers like Apple, Google, and Meta
Computer Programming Education in California: The Tech Capital Advantage
California leads the nation in computer programming education, offering everything from world-renowned university programs to innovative community college pathways. With Silicon Valley at its heart, the state provides unparalleled access to internships, mentorship, and career opportunities at companies like Apple, Google, Meta, and thousands of startups.
The state's programming programs range from theoretical computer science foundations to applied software development skills. Whether you're interested in mobile app development, web programming, or enterprise software, California's diverse program offerings cater to every specialization. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national computer programming rankings.
California's unique advantage lies in its proximity to tech innovation. Students regularly intern at major tech companies, participate in startup incubators, and learn from faculty who are active in the industry. This real-world connection translates to higher starting salaries and faster career progression compared to other states. Consider exploring our software engineer salary guide for California-specific compensation data.
California Computer Programming Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 87 |
| 3 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 85.6 |
| 4 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 84.7 |
| 5 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 84.5 |
| 6 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 83 |
| 7 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 80.7 |
| 8 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 78.4 |
| 9 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | 74.6 |
| 10 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $61,731 | — | — | 74.2 |
| 11 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | 73.5 |
| 12 | California State University-Long Beach | Long Beach, CA | Public | $5,742 | 73% | — | 71.7 |
| 13 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | Public | $11,834 | 83% | — | 71.2 |
| 14 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | Private | $60,816 | 88% | — | 70.6 |
| 15 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 69.5 |
| 16 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona, CA | Public | $5,742 | 87% | — | 68.3 |
| 17 | California State University-Northridge | Northridge, CA | Public | $5,742 | 95% | — | 66 |
| 18 | California State University-Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | Public | $5,742 | 92% | — | 65.5 |
| 19 | California State University-Monterey Bay | Seaside, CA | Public | $5,742 | 99% | — | 64.9 |
| 20 | California State University-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $5,742 | 99% | — | 63.7 |
| 21 | California State University-Fullerton | Fullerton, CA | Public | $5,742 | 65% | — | 63.2 |
| 22 | University of San Diego | San Diego, CA | Private | $55,690 | 97% | — | 62.2 |
| 23 | Pitzer College | Claremont, CA | Private | $62,392 | 96% | — | 62.1 |
| 24 | California State University-San Marcos | San Marcos, CA | Public | $5,742 | 96% | — | 61.5 |
| 25 | Chapman University | Orange, CA | Private | $62,400 | 93% | — | 60.5 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Top 5 Computer Programming Programs in California: Side-by-Side
| School | USC | UC Berkeley | UC Irvine | UCLA | UC San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $66,640 | $11,834 | $11,834 | $11,834 | $11,834 |
| Graduation Rate | 92% | 96% | 96% | 92% | 81% |
| Annual Graduates | 1185 | 994 | 467 | 340 | 518 |
| Acceptance Rate | 10% | 12% | 26% | 9% | 25% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 100.0/100 | 98.4/100 | 84.9/100 | 83.8/100 | 82.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Programming in California
California offers 57 bachelor's-level computer programming programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of California-Berkeley, University of California-Irvine, University of California-Los Angeles. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $102,039 in the California 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 California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UC Berkeley | $11,834 | 96% | 994 | 98.4 |
| #2 UC Irvine | $11,834 | 96% | 467 | 84.9 |
| #3 UCLA | $11,834 | 92% | 340 | 83.8 |
Top Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in California
For graduate study, California offers 36 master's-level computer programming programs. Leading institutions include University of Southern California, University of California-San Diego, University of California-Los Angeles. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in California reaching $189,501 or more.
Top 3 Computer Programming Master's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 USC | $66,640 | 92% | 1185 | 100.0 |
| #2 UC San Diego | $11,834 | 81% | 499 | 82.0 |
| #3 UCLA | $11,834 | 92% | 153 | 77.3 |
Most Affordable Computer Programming Colleges in California
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in California are at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($5,742/year), San Diego State University ($5,742/year), California State University-Long Beach ($5,742/year). These programs offer strong ROI given California's competitive tech salaries.
At California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,968 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $102,039, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs in California (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 California Polytechnic... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 San Diego State | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #3 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 1,185 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 1,185 computer programming graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (1,185 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USC offers a well-rounded Computer Science education through the Viterbi School of Engineering with ABET accreditation and multiple degree tracks. Students benefit from research opportunities, access to world-class faculty, and connections to over 5,000 partner organizations for career placement.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •3 to 5 units of mathematics
- •one unit of science (biology, chemistry or physics)
- •Algebra I
- •Geometry
- •Algebra II (Advanced Algebra)
- •C or better in math requirements
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 128 units
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 994 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 98.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 994 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 98.4 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (994 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 467 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 26%
- • Ranking Score: 84.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 467 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (467 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (26% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 340 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 9%
- • Ranking Score: 83.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 340 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (340 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (9% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 518 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 82.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 518 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (518 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (25% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UCSD's Computer Science program builds strong foundations in software and hardware engineering while preparing students to solve society's most important challenges. The program offers multiple degree tracks including specialized options in Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence, with opportunities for faculty research and industry internships.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •15 yearlong high school courses with a letter grade of C or better
- •Four years of college-preparatory English
- •Two years of history
- •Mathematics
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, web platforms, and mobile apps for tech companies and startups throughout California
Web Developer
Create and maintain websites and web applications for California's diverse business ecosystem, from startups to Fortune 500 companies
Mobile App Developer
Develop iOS and Android applications for Silicon Valley tech companies, gaming studios, and innovative startups
Database Administrator
Manage and optimize database systems for California's tech giants, ensuring data integrity and performance at scale
Bridge development and operations teams, implementing CI/CD pipelines and infrastructure automation
California University Systems: Programming Education Pathways
California's diverse higher education landscape offers multiple pathways to computer programming careers. The University of California system focuses on research and theoretical foundations, while Cal State universities emphasize practical application and industry readiness. Community colleges provide affordable entry points with strong transfer programs.
The UC system includes powerhouses like Berkeley, UCLA, and UCSD, known for rigorous academics and research opportunities. These programs typically require higher GPAs but offer exceptional career outcomes and graduate school preparation. UC programming graduates often pursue software engineering careers at top-tier tech companies.
Cal State universities like San Jose State and Cal Poly focus on hands-on programming skills and industry partnerships. Located in major tech hubs, these programs offer direct pathways to employment with strong alumni networks in Silicon Valley and beyond. Many CSU graduates transition into specialized roles through our recommended bootcamp programs.
California's community colleges offer Associate in Science degrees in computer programming, providing affordable foundations before transferring to four-year universities. This pathway can save students over $40,000 compared to starting at a UC or private university.
Other Tech Degree Programs in California
Computer Programming Programs in Other States
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest concentration of tech companies and startups
- Highest programming salaries in the nation (median $128,350)
- Networking opportunities with Silicon Valley executives and entrepreneurs
- Diverse program options from elite research universities to practical CSU programs
- Year-round mild climate and innovative campus environments
- Strong venture capital ecosystem for future entrepreneurship
- Lower cost of living and housing expenses
- Less competitive admission requirements
- Smaller class sizes and more personal attention
- Regional tech hubs with less intense competition
- Lower in-state tuition at comparable quality institutions
- Different cultural environments and lifestyle preferences
Frequently Asked Questions About California Programming Programs
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Programming degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer programming salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Programming Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data for all accredited colleges and universities
Official state-specific salary data for computer programmers and software developers
Transfer rates, program completion data, and employment outcomes for California community college programming programs
College Navigator data for tuition, admission rates, and student-faculty ratios
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.