Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Indiana 2025
Purdue University-Main Campus
560 computer programming graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
Indiana University-Bloomington
242 computer programming graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
Purdue University Northwest
28 computer programming graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.Indiana offers 26+ accredited computer programming programs across public and private universities
- 2.Purdue University-Main Campus leads with 83% graduation rate
- 3.Indiana software developers earn median $103,570 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- 5.Cost of living index: 91.5% of US average (below average)
Computer Programming Education in Indiana: Overview
Indiana offers 26 accredited computer programming programs, producing approximately 1,333 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne, with major employers including Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.
With a median software developer salary of $103,570 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 91.5% compared to the US average, Indiana offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top computer programming programs in the state are led by Purdue University-Main Campus, Indiana University-Bloomington, Purdue University Northwest, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 25 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)
Indiana-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Indiana Computer Programming Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | 83.9 |
| 2 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | Public | $10,312 | 84% | 65.3 |
| 3 | Purdue University Northwest | Hammond, IN | Public | $7,259 | 92% | 50.7 |
| 4 | Indiana University-Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $9,241 | — | 47.6 |
| 5 | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Terre Haute, IN | Private | $52,998 | — | 46 |
| 6 | DePauw University | Greencastle, IN | Private | $56,030 | — | 45.9 |
| 7 | Ball State University | Muncie, IN | Public | $8,688 | — | 45.3 |
| 8 | University of Evansville | Evansville, IN | Private | $41,400 | 96% | 44.6 |
| 9 | Taylor University | Upland, IN | Private | $38,140 | 80% | 44.3 |
| 10 | Purdue University Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, IN | Public | $8,049 | — | 43.7 |
| 11 | Anderson University | Anderson, IN | Private | $34,590 | — | 40.3 |
| 12 | Wabash College | Crawfordsville, IN | Private | $48,200 | — | 39 |
| 13 | Indiana Institute of Technology | Fort Wayne, IN | Private | $29,936 | — | 38.6 |
| 14 | University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $34,416 | — | 37.4 |
| 15 | Indiana University-Southeast | New Albany, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 36.9 |
| 16 | Earlham College | Richmond, IN | Private | $50,970 | — | 35.5 |
| 17 | University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | Public | $8,751 | — | 35.4 |
| 18 | Indiana State University | Terre Haute, IN | Public | $9,712 | — | 34.9 |
| 19 | Indiana University-South Bend | South Bend, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 34.6 |
| 20 | Indiana University-Kokomo | Kokomo, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 34.1 |
| 21 | Franklin College | Franklin, IN | Private | $36,600 | — | 34 |
| 22 | Valparaiso University | Valparaiso, IN | Private | $45,136 | — | 33.8 |
| 23 | Hanover College | Hanover, IN | Private | $41,092 | — | 33.2 |
| 24 | Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion | Marion, IN | Private | $31,168 | — | 32.4 |
| 25 | Goshen College | Goshen, IN | Private | $37,760 | — | 30.4 |
Top 5 Computer Programming Programs in Indiana: Side-by-Side
| School | Purdue | IU Bloomington | Purdue University Northwest | Indiana University-Indian... | Rose-Hulman Institute of... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,718 | $10,312 | $7,259 | $9,241 | $52,998 |
| Graduation Rate | 83% | 84% | 92% | N/A% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 560 | 242 | 28 | 101 | 63 |
| Acceptance Rate | 50% | 80% | 71% | 81% | 73% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 83.9/100 | 65.3/100 | 50.7/100 | 47.6/100 | 46.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Programming in Indiana
Indiana offers 25 bachelor's-level computer programming programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Purdue University-Main Campus, Indiana University-Bloomington, Purdue University Northwest. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,499 in the Indiana 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 Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 560 | 83.9 |
| #2 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 184 | 62.2 |
| #3 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | 92% | 30 | 51.0 |
Top Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in Indiana
For graduate study, Indiana offers 6 master's-level computer programming programs. Leading institutions include Indiana University-Bloomington, Purdue University-Main Campus, Purdue University Northwest. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Indiana reaching $134,641 or more.
Top 3 Computer Programming Master's Programs in Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 242 | 65.3 |
| #2 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 123 | 73.4 |
| #3 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | 92% | 28 | 50.7 |
Most Affordable Computer Programming Colleges in Indiana
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in Indiana are at Purdue University Northwest ($7,259/year), Indiana University-Southeast ($7,492/year), Indiana University-South Bend ($7,492/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Indiana's competitive tech salaries.
At Purdue University Northwest, a 4-year degree costs approximately $29,036 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,499, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.8 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs in Indiana (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | $29,036 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #2 Indiana University-Southeast | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #3 Indiana University-South... | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Programming Schools in Indiana
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer programming programs in Indiana, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,718 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 560 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 83.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 560 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (560 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Purdue's Computer Science program offers strong foundational courses in the first two years followed by flexible track-based specialization, with undergraduate research opportunities and BS/MS accelerated degree options available.
Admission Prerequisites
- •understanding of foundational concepts of computer science
- •familiarity with data structures
- •understanding of computer architecture, compilers, analysis of algorithms, operating systems, distributed systems, networks, and programming languages
- •knowledge of mathematics through differential equations, linear and matrix algebra, and numerical methods
- •proficiency in a programming language such as Java, C, or C++
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.5/4.0, 8.5/10.0 or 85/100
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,312 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 242 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 65.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 242 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (242 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
IU's Computer Science program produces graduates in high demand with 93% employment/education placement rates and an average starting salary of $81,209. The program offers accelerated master's options and places graduates at top companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $81,209
- Job Placement: 93% secured employment or continued their education
- Top Employers: Amazon, ServiceNow, Microsoft, GE, IBM, JPMorgan Chase & Co
Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,259 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 28 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 71%
- • Ranking Score: 50.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 28 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.7 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (28 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (71% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers a 4+1 combined BS/MS degree option allowing students to complete both undergraduate and graduate degrees in 5 years. Students can take graduate courses during their senior year that count toward both degrees, providing an accelerated path to advanced education.
Admission Prerequisites
- •grade of B or higher in all major core courses for BS/MS program
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.20/4.0 for combined BS/MS program
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,241 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 101 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 47.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 101 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 47.6 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (101 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees with flexible learning options including online and hybrid formats, plus an accelerated 5-year bachelor's to master's pathway. Students gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and internships while having access to industry certification preparation for major tech companies.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $69,515
- Top Employers: IU Health, IU Indianapolis, Community Health Network, Eskenazi Health, Ascension, Eli Lilly & Company, Charles Schwab & Company, Amazon
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Terre Haute, IN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $52,998 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 63 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 73%
- • Ranking Score: 46.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 63 computer programming graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 46.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (63 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (73% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Rose-Hulman's Computer Science program offers hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs with research opportunities from first year through senior thesis, leading to a 93% placement rate with graduates earning an average starting salary of $91,276 at top employers like Google, Tesla, and Goldman Sachs. Students benefit from being part of the #1 ranked undergraduate engineering program for 27 consecutive years with nearly 100% career placement rates.
Available Scholarships
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $91,276
- Job Placement: 93% placement rate
- Top Employers: Amazon Web Services, Applied Research Lab, BAE Systems, Baker McKenzie, Bank of America, Capital One Financial Corporation, Caterpillar, CME Group, Collins Aerospace, Deutsche Bank, Discover Financial Services, Epic Systems, Google, Goldman Sachs, Tesla, National Security Agency, Northrop Grumman, State Farm Insurance
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (91.5% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Salesforce or Angie
- You prefer Indiana's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Indiana's 26)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Indiana
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Computer Programming Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Programming in Indiana FAQ
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 - Indiana 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.