University campus in Ohio
Updated January 2026

Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio — 2026 Rankings

Explore 57 accredited computer programming degree programs in Ohio. Compare schools by graduation rate, salary outcomes, and tuition—from Columbus State Community College to Case Western Reserve University.

#1 ProgramCase Western Reserve
Avg Salary$100,180
Tuition From$5,338/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Top 3 ranked: Case Western Reserve, Miami University-Oxford, Denison

Based on graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $3,036 to $64,100/year

Columbus State Community ... offers the most affordable option at $5,338/yr

IPEDS 2023

Degree levels: 22 associate's, 10 master's, 3 doctoral programs available in Ohio

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

25 Ohio programs offer online or hybrid formats

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

Ohio community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

22 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance, CoverMyMeds

Tech hubs in Columbus and Cleveland

Hakia Research 2026

Computer Programming programs available near 140+ cities across Ohio

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$100,180
Is Computer Programming in Ohio Worth It?
Yes. Computer Programming degrees in Ohio deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $100,180 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,881/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

37 programs$100,180 median salary86% avg grad rate
37
Programs
$100,180
Median Salary
$30,546/yr
Avg Tuition
86%
Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

Ohio ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer programming education, with 37 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 9 public and 28 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Case Western Reserve, Miami University-Oxford, Denison, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Ohio computer programming programs earn a median salary of $85,153—13% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $5,404 to $64,100 annually, with an average of $30,546/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 86%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Ohio's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer programming degrees in Ohio, these top-ranked computer programming schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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Case Western Reserve University

Private
Cleveland, OH
$64,100
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad Rate
72.5
Score
Website
🥈

Miami University-Oxford

Public
Oxford, OH
$14,052
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
66.5
Score
Website
🥉

Denison University

Private
Granville, OH
$64,000
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
61.5
Score
Website
#4

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Public
Cincinnati, OH
$11,228
Tuition/yr
78%
Grad Rate
52.7
Score
Website
#5

Ohio University-Main Campus

Public
Athens, OH
$13,746
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
53.8
Score
Website
#6

Cedarville University

Private
Cedarville, OH
$35,878
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad Rate
51.7
Score
Website
#7

Kent State University at Kent

Public
Kent, OH
$11,595
Tuition/yr
45.7
Score
Website
#8

Cleveland State University

Public
Cleveland, OH
$12,503
Tuition/yr
51.3
Score
Website
#9

Mount St. Joseph University

Private
Cincinnati, OH
$35,450
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad Rate
47.8
Score
Website
#10

University of Dayton

Private
Dayton, OH
$47,600
Tuition/yr
48.5
Score
Website

Complete Computer Programming Degree Program Rankings in Ohio

Best Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Program Landscape Ohio offers **22 accredited** associate's degree programs in computer programming, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Columbus State Community ...**, **Cincinnati State Technica...**, **Cuyahoga Community Colleg...**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in Ohio offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$6,967/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$55,099** in Ohio. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Ohio's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer programming schools in Ohio, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer programming degrees in Ohio.

  1. #1. Columbus State Community College

    Hakia ranks Columbus State Community College as the #1 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $5,338. Ranking score: 46.1.

  2. #2. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

    Hakia ranks Cincinnati State Technical and Community College as the #2 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Cincinnati, OH has annual tuition of $4,410. Ranking score: 39.4.

  3. #3. Cuyahoga Community College District

    Hakia ranks Cuyahoga Community College District as the #3 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $4,622. Ranking score: 38.0.

  4. #4. Sinclair Community College

    Hakia ranks Sinclair Community College as the #4 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Dayton, OH has annual tuition of $3,889. Ranking score: 37.9.

  5. #5. Stark State College

    Hakia ranks Stark State College as the #5 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in North Canton, OH has annual tuition of $3,036. Ranking score: 44.0.

  6. #6. Terra State Community College

    Hakia ranks Terra State Community College as the #6 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Fremont, OH has annual tuition of $4,656. Ranking score: 36.2.

  7. #7. Owens Community College

    Hakia ranks Owens Community College as the #7 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Perrysburg, OH has annual tuition of $4,512. Ranking score: 35.6.

  8. #8. Belmont College

    Hakia ranks Belmont College as the #8 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in St Clairsville, OH has annual tuition of $3,140. Ranking score: 40.5.

  9. #9. Lakeland Community College

    Hakia ranks Lakeland Community College as the #9 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Kirtland, OH has annual tuition of $4,057. Ranking score: 33.9.

  10. #10. James A. Rhodes State College

    Hakia ranks James A. Rhodes State College as the #10 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Lima, OH has annual tuition of $4,560. Ranking score: 39.9.

  11. #11. University of Akron Main Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Akron Main Campus as the #11 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Akron, OH has annual tuition of $10,399. Ranking score: 36.9.

  12. #12. Clark State College

    Hakia ranks Clark State College as the #12 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Springfield, OH has annual tuition of $3,536. Ranking score: 39.5.

  13. #13. University of Toledo

    Hakia ranks University of Toledo as the #13 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Toledo, OH has annual tuition of $9,753. Ranking score: 28.9.

  14. #14. Central Ohio Technical College

    Hakia ranks Central Ohio Technical College as the #14 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Newark, OH has annual tuition of $5,136. Ranking score: 39.9.

  15. #15. Northwest State Community College

    Hakia ranks Northwest State Community College as the #15 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Archbold, OH has annual tuition of $4,496. Ranking score: 33.6.

  16. #16. Edison State Community College

    Hakia ranks Edison State Community College as the #16 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Piqua, OH has annual tuition of $3,728. Ranking score: 32.2.

  17. #17. Lorain County Community College

    Hakia ranks Lorain County Community College as the #17 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Elyria, OH has annual tuition of $4,310. Ranking score: 32.2.

  18. #18. Kent State University at Geauga

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at Geauga as the #18 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Burton, OH has annual tuition of $7,325. Ranking score: 38.5.

  19. #19. Franklin University

    Hakia ranks Franklin University as the #19 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $9,552. Ranking score: 39.1.

  20. #20. Kent State University at East Liverpool

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at East Liverpool as the #20 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in East Liverpool, OH has annual tuition of $7,325. Ranking score: 37.9.

  21. #21. Kent State University at Salem

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at Salem as the #21 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Salem, OH has annual tuition of $7,325. Ranking score: 37.9.

  22. #22. The University of Findlay

    Hakia ranks The University of Findlay as the #22 associate's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Findlay, OH has annual tuition of $38,176 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 44.3.

Online Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Online Program Options Ohio's community colleges offer 12 online associate's computer programming programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Cincinnati State Technica...**, **Sinclair Community College**, **Stark State College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Ohio employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online associate's programs average **$8,271/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Ohio-based employers including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online computer programming degrees in Ohio, these accredited computer programming schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Cincinnati State Technical and Community College - Cincinnati, OH - Tuition: $4,410/year
  • Sinclair Community College - Dayton, OH - Tuition: $3,889/year
  • Stark State College - North Canton, OH - Tuition: $3,036/year
  • Owens Community College - Perrysburg, OH - Tuition: $4,512/year
  • Lakeland Community College - Kirtland, OH - Tuition: $4,057/year
  • University of Toledo - Toledo, OH - Tuition: $9,753/year
  • Central Ohio Technical College - Newark, OH - Tuition: $5,136/year
  • Kent State University at Geauga - Burton, OH - Tuition: $7,325/year
  • Lorain County Community College - Elyria, OH - Tuition: $4,310/year
  • Kent State University at East Liverpool - East Liverpool, OH - Tuition: $7,325/year
  • Kent State University at Salem - Salem, OH - Tuition: $7,325/year
  • The University of Findlay - Findlay, OH - Tuition: $38,176/year

Best Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Program Landscape Ohio ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer programming education, with **37 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **9 public** and **28 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Case Western Reserve**, **Miami University-Oxford**, **Denison**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Ohio computer programming programs earn a median salary of **$85,153**—13% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$5,404** to **$64,100** annually, with an average of **$30,546/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **86%**, with the highest reaching **97%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Ohio's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer programming degrees in Ohio, these top-ranked computer programming schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. Case Western Reserve University

    Hakia ranks Case Western Reserve University as the #1 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $64,100 and a 85% graduation rate. Ranking score: 72.5.

  2. #2. Miami University-Oxford

    Hakia ranks Miami University-Oxford as the #2 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Oxford, OH has annual tuition of $14,052 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.5.

  3. #3. Denison University

    Hakia ranks Denison University as the #3 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Granville, OH has annual tuition of $64,000 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.5.

  4. #4. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Cincinnati-Main Campus as the #4 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Cincinnati, OH has annual tuition of $11,228 and a 78% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.7.

  5. #5. Ohio University-Main Campus

    Hakia ranks Ohio University-Main Campus as the #5 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Athens, OH has annual tuition of $13,746 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.8.

  6. #6. Cedarville University

    Hakia ranks Cedarville University as the #6 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cedarville, OH has annual tuition of $35,878 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 51.7.

  7. #7. Kent State University at Kent

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at Kent as the #7 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Kent, OH has annual tuition of $11,595. Ranking score: 45.7.

  8. #8. Cleveland State University

    Hakia ranks Cleveland State University as the #8 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $12,503. Ranking score: 51.3.

  9. #9. Mount St. Joseph University

    Hakia ranks Mount St. Joseph University as the #9 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cincinnati, OH has annual tuition of $35,450 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.8.

  10. #10. University of Dayton

    Hakia ranks University of Dayton as the #10 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Dayton, OH has annual tuition of $47,600. Ranking score: 48.5.

  11. #11. The College of Wooster

    Hakia ranks The College of Wooster as the #11 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Wooster, OH has annual tuition of $59,050. Ranking score: 43.4.

  12. #12. Baldwin Wallace University

    Hakia ranks Baldwin Wallace University as the #12 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Berea, OH has annual tuition of $37,686 and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 45.8.

  13. #13. Marietta College

    Hakia ranks Marietta College as the #13 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Marietta, OH has annual tuition of $37,752 and a 87% graduation rate. Ranking score: 44.5.

  14. #14. Franklin University

    Hakia ranks Franklin University as the #14 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $9,552. Ranking score: 47.4.

  15. #15. Shawnee State University

    Hakia ranks Shawnee State University as the #15 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Portsmouth, OH has annual tuition of $9,622. Ranking score: 43.0.

  16. #16. The University of Findlay

    Hakia ranks The University of Findlay as the #16 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Findlay, OH has annual tuition of $38,176 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 44.0.

  17. #17. Franciscan University of Steubenville

    Hakia ranks Franciscan University of Steubenville as the #17 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Steubenville, OH has annual tuition of $32,070 and a 73% graduation rate. Ranking score: 42.6.

  18. #18. University of Akron Main Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Akron Main Campus as the #18 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Akron, OH has annual tuition of $10,399. Ranking score: 44.6.

  19. #19. Youngstown State University

    Hakia ranks Youngstown State University as the #19 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Youngstown, OH has annual tuition of $9,611. Ranking score: 38.9.

  20. #20. Ohio Wesleyan University

    Hakia ranks Ohio Wesleyan University as the #20 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Delaware, OH has annual tuition of $51,710. Ranking score: 40.9.

  21. #21. Central State University

    Hakia ranks Central State University as the #21 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Wilberforce, OH has annual tuition of $5,404. Ranking score: 41.0.

  22. #22. Capital University

    Hakia ranks Capital University as the #22 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $41,298. Ranking score: 38.9.

  23. #23. University of Rio Grande

    Hakia ranks University of Rio Grande as the #23 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Rio Grande, OH has annual tuition of $19,600. Ranking score: 39.9.

  24. #24. Xavier University

    Hakia ranks Xavier University as the #24 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cincinnati, OH has annual tuition of $47,896. Ranking score: 36.8.

  25. #25. John Carroll University

    Hakia ranks John Carroll University as the #25 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in University Heights, OH has annual tuition of $47,300. Ranking score: 37.3.

  26. #26. Heidelberg University

    Hakia ranks Heidelberg University as the #26 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Tiffin, OH has annual tuition of $32,900. Ranking score: 38.3.

  27. #27. Walsh University

    Hakia ranks Walsh University as the #27 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in North Canton, OH has annual tuition of $31,153. Ranking score: 37.4.

  28. #28. Ohio Northern University

    Hakia ranks Ohio Northern University as the #28 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Ada, OH has annual tuition of $36,500. Ranking score: 37.0.

  29. #29. Ohio Dominican University

    Hakia ranks Ohio Dominican University as the #29 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $33,760. Ranking score: 34.9.

  30. #30. Ashland University

    Hakia ranks Ashland University as the #30 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Ashland, OH has annual tuition of $25,200. Ranking score: 34.6.

  31. #31. University of Mount Union

    Hakia ranks University of Mount Union as the #31 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Alliance, OH has annual tuition of $35,000. Ranking score: 34.5.

  32. #32. Malone University

    Hakia ranks Malone University as the #32 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Canton, OH has annual tuition of $34,800. Ranking score: 34.7.

  33. #33. Wittenberg University

    Hakia ranks Wittenberg University as the #33 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Springfield, OH has annual tuition of $43,656. Ranking score: 32.6.

  34. #34. Herzing University-Akron

    Hakia ranks Herzing University-Akron as the #34 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Akron, OH has annual tuition of $12,360 and a 65% graduation rate. Ranking score: 33.4.

  35. #35. Lourdes University

    Hakia ranks Lourdes University as the #35 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Sylvania, OH has annual tuition of $26,010. Ranking score: 33.1.

  36. #36. Mount Vernon Nazarene University

    Hakia ranks Mount Vernon Nazarene University as the #36 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Mount Vernon, OH has annual tuition of $25,309. Ranking score: 31.7.

  37. #37. Hiram College

    Hakia ranks Hiram College as the #37 bachelor's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Hiram, OH has annual tuition of $26,265. Ranking score: 30.5.

Online Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Online Program Options 19 Ohio institutions offer bachelor's computer programming degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **Case Western Reserve**, **Kent State University at ...**, **Cleveland State**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Ohio employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online bachelor's programs average **$29,802/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Ohio-based employers including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online computer programming degrees in Ohio, these accredited computer programming schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Case Western Reserve University - Cleveland, OH - Tuition: $64,100/year
  • Kent State University at Kent - Kent, OH - Tuition: $11,595/year
  • Cleveland State University - Cleveland, OH - Tuition: $12,503/year
  • The University of Findlay - Findlay, OH - Tuition: $38,176/year
  • Marietta College - Marietta, OH - Tuition: $37,752/year
  • Shawnee State University - Portsmouth, OH - Tuition: $9,622/year
  • Franciscan University of Steubenville - Steubenville, OH - Tuition: $32,070/year
  • John Carroll University - University Heights, OH - Tuition: $47,300/year
  • University of Rio Grande - Rio Grande, OH - Tuition: $19,600/year
  • Walsh University - North Canton, OH - Tuition: $31,153/year
  • Ohio Dominican University - Columbus, OH - Tuition: $33,760/year
  • Ashland University - Ashland, OH - Tuition: $25,200/year
  • University of Mount Union - Alliance, OH - Tuition: $35,000/year
  • Malone University - Canton, OH - Tuition: $34,800/year
  • Wittenberg University - Springfield, OH - Tuition: $43,656/year
  • Herzing University-Akron - Akron, OH - Tuition: $12,360/year
  • Lourdes University - Sylvania, OH - Tuition: $26,010/year
  • Mount Vernon Nazarene University - Mount Vernon, OH - Tuition: $25,309/year
  • Hiram College - Hiram, OH - Tuition: $26,265/year

Best Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Program Landscape Ohio offers **10** master's degree programs in computer programming, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Dayton**, **Case Western Reserve**, **Cleveland State**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Ohio earn a median salary of **$100,180**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$21,462/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Ohio's computer programming schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. University of Dayton

    Hakia ranks University of Dayton as the #1 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Dayton, OH has annual tuition of $47,600. Ranking score: 72.3.

  2. #2. Case Western Reserve University

    Hakia ranks Case Western Reserve University as the #2 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $64,100 and a 85% graduation rate. Ranking score: 60.0.

  3. #3. Cleveland State University

    Hakia ranks Cleveland State University as the #3 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $12,503. Ranking score: 49.9.

  4. #4. Miami University-Oxford

    Hakia ranks Miami University-Oxford as the #4 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Oxford, OH has annual tuition of $14,052 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.2.

  5. #5. Kent State University at Kent

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at Kent as the #5 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Kent, OH has annual tuition of $11,595. Ranking score: 51.0.

  6. #6. Ohio University-Main Campus

    Hakia ranks Ohio University-Main Campus as the #6 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Athens, OH has annual tuition of $13,746 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.6.

  7. #7. Franklin University

    Hakia ranks Franklin University as the #7 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Columbus, OH has annual tuition of $9,552. Ranking score: 46.0.

  8. #8. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management

    Hakia ranks Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management as the #8 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Wright-Patterson AFB, OH has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 45.4.

  9. #9. Youngstown State University

    Hakia ranks Youngstown State University as the #9 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Youngstown, OH has annual tuition of $9,611. Ranking score: 42.8.

  10. #10. University of Akron Main Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Akron Main Campus as the #10 master's in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Akron, OH has annual tuition of $10,399. Ranking score: 41.9.

Online Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Online Program Options Working professionals can advance their careers through 3 online master's computer programming programs from Ohio universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include **Cleveland State**, **Case Western Reserve**, **Kent State University at ...**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Ohio employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online master's programs average **$29,399/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Ohio-based employers including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **30-36 credit hours** in 18-24 months while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online computer programming degrees in Ohio, these accredited computer programming schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Cleveland State University - Cleveland, OH - Tuition: $12,503/year
  • Case Western Reserve University - Cleveland, OH - Tuition: $64,100/year
  • Kent State University at Kent - Kent, OH - Tuition: $11,595/year

Best Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Program Landscape Ohio is home to **3** doctoral programs in computer programming, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **Case Western Reserve**, **Air Force Institute of Te...**, **Kent State University at ...** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages. ### Career Outcomes Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Ohio PhD holders earning a median of **$125,225**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance. ### Costs & Value PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually. ### Curriculum & Specializations Research strengths across Ohio programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer programming degrees in Ohio, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

  1. #1. Case Western Reserve University

    Hakia ranks Case Western Reserve University as the #1 doctoral in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This private institution in Cleveland, OH has annual tuition of $64,100 and a 85% graduation rate. Ranking score: 77.3.

  2. #2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management

    Hakia ranks Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management as the #2 doctoral in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Wright-Patterson AFB, OH has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 39.1.

  3. #3. Kent State University at Kent

    Hakia ranks Kent State University at Kent as the #3 doctoral in computer programming degree program in Ohio. This public institution in Kent, OH has annual tuition of $11,595. Ranking score: 47.9.

Online Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

### Online Program Options 2 Ohio universities offer doctoral computer programming programs with online or hybrid components, accommodating established professionals pursuing terminal degrees. Top-ranked online programs include **Case Western Reserve**, **Kent State University at ...**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Ohio employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online doctoral programs average **$37,848/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Ohio-based employers including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, Root Insurance value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete doctoral requirements in 3-5 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online computer programming degrees in Ohio, these accredited computer programming schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Case Western Reserve University - Cleveland, OH - Tuition: $64,100/year
  • Kent State University at Kent - Kent, OH - Tuition: $11,595/year

Computer Programming Tuition in Ohio

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$21,881/year
Average out-of-state tuition$54,703/year
Community college tuition$5,470/year
4-year savings for residents$131,288
2+2 transfer pathway savings$32,822

Source: IPEDS 2023

Computer Programming Financial Aid & Scholarships in Ohio

State Aid Programs

The Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) provides up to $5,000 annually for Ohio residents with demonstrated financial need (Ohio Higher Ed). Eligibility requires a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 3,750 or less and maximum household income of $96,000. Students are limited to ten full-time semesters of eligibility. The Choose Ohio First program supports STEM students including those pursuing computing degrees, with awards varying by institution and program.

Key Programs & Amounts

The College Technology Internship Program reimburses companies two-thirds of intern wages up to $7,500 per student, connecting programming students with paid internships at Ohio tech companies (Ohio Tech Internship). Minimum wages start at $15/hour, with technical positions often paying $20-$30/hour. This program reduces educational costs while providing valuable work experience. Applications open twice yearly for summer and winter/spring placements.

Institutional Scholarships

Federal and institutional aid complement state programs.

Federal Pell Grants provide up to $7,395 for students with financial need. Ohio State, Case Western Reserve, and other universities offer merit scholarships of $2,000-$20,000+ for strong applicants. Graduate assistantships cover tuition plus provide stipends for teaching or research support. Complete the FAFSA by October 1 to maximize eligibility for all aid programs. For coding bootcamps, some programs offer income share agreements (ISAs) or deferred tuition options for students unable to pay upfront, though terms vary significantly by provider.

Calculate Your Computer Programming Degree ROI in Ohio

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree in Ohio. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+802%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,483,492

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$123,810

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,518,900

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Chicago, IL)$130,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.5%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Career Paths

Design and develop software applications and systems

Median Salary:$113,203

Analyze complex datasets and build predictive models

Median Salary:$94,169

Protect computer networks from cyber threats

Median Salary:$105,189

Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines

Median Salary:$111,200

Design and maintain cloud computing infrastructure

Median Salary:$108,194

Build and deploy machine learning models

Median Salary:$126,227
Computer Programming Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Ohio metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Columbus$110K
Cleveland$105K
Cincinnati$100K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Computer Programming Jobs in Ohio: Top Employers Hiring

Find computer programming jobs in Ohio. These major employers across Ohio metro areas are actively hiring computer programming graduates. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Computer Programming Jobs in Columbus

OH

Columbus is Ohio's tech hub with a strong insurtech and fintech presence, plus major data center investments.

Nearby cities: Dublin, Westerville, Worthington, Grove City

Amazon
E-commerce/Cloud (AWS)
Google
Search/Cloud/AI
Meta
Social/VR/AI
JPMorgan Chase
Financial Technology
Nationwide Insurance
Insurance Tech
CoverMyMeds
Healthcare Tech
Upstart
Fintech/AI Lending

Computer Programming Jobs in Cleveland

OH

Cleveland combines healthcare IT innovation with industrial automation and aerospace research.

Nearby cities: Akron, Parma, Independence, Beachwood

IBM
Enterprise IT/Cloud
Key Bank
Financial Technology
Progressive Insurance
Insurance Tech
Hyland Software
Enterprise Content
Rockwell Automation
Industrial IoT

How to Apply to Computer Programming Programs in Ohio

1

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for computer programming programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

2

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

3

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

4

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

5

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Computer Programming Transfer Pathways in Ohio

State Transfer System

Ohio's transfer system enables efficient degree completion for students beginning at community colleges. The Ohio Transfer Module (OTM) guarantees transfer of 36-40 general education credit hours among all public institutions (Ohio Higher Ed). Individual courses within the OTM transfer on a course-by-course basis even without completing the full module. The Ohio Guaranteed Transfer Pathways (OGTPs) confirm that community college programming courses meet major preparation requirements and count toward bachelor's degrees in computing fields.

How Transfers Work

Transfer Assurance Guides (TAGs) provide advising tools including the Ohio Transfer 36, pre-major courses, and advising notes. There are 52 TAG pathways in 13 discipline areas with close to 4,000 approved course matches guaranteed to transfer and apply to major requirements. Programming students should complete introductory programming sequences, data structures, and mathematics requirements at community college while verifying equivalencies with intended receiving institutions.

Transfer Planning Tips

Community college to university partnerships include: Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) agreements with Cleveland State and Case Western Reserve; Columbus State pathways to Ohio State and Ohio University; Sinclair (Dayton) agreements with Wright State and University of Dayton; Cincinnati State pathways to University of Cincinnati. Students completing associate degrees with strong academic performance (3.0+ GPA) receive guaranteed admission with full credit transfer at most public universities. The 2+2 pathway can save $20,000-$40,000 in total degree costs while maintaining access to ABET-accredited completion programs.

Why Study Computer Programming in Ohio?

Industry & Workforce

Ohio produces 2,893 computer science graduates annually, representing 2.12% of all U.S. CS graduates, with Cleveland, Dayton, and Columbus generating 49.22% of the state's programming talent (BairesDev Reports). Columbus has emerged as a legitimate tech hub, hosting over 18,000 tech companies with 22% job growth over the past five years. Intel's $28 billion semiconductor investment, the $1.1 billion Columbus Innovation District creating 20,000+ STEM jobs, and major corporate headquarters from JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, and Cardinal Health drive exceptional demand for programmers.

Salary Outlook

Programming salaries in Ohio offer strong value.

Software developers earn median salaries of $126,846-$169,000 in Columbus, while data scientists command $110,000-$152,000 and cloud architects earn $60-$89.62/hour (Nucamp). Ohio's 40% lower cost of living compared to Silicon Valley means programmers build wealth faster. Cleveland's $95,000 median and Cincinnati's $98,000 median still provide excellent purchasing power in cities with affordable housing and minimal commutes.

Regional Tech Hubs

Educational pathways span every budget and timeline.

Ohio State University's Computer Science and Engineering program provides rigorous four-year preparation. Coding bootcamps offer 12-16 week accelerated paths to entry-level positions. Community colleges provide affordable associate degrees transferable through Ohio's Guaranteed Transfer Pathways. Whether pursuing application development, systems programming, web development, or mobile apps, Ohio provides diverse educational options and robust hiring demand. Compare programs in Texas or view our national rankings.

Computer Programming Job Market in Ohio

Employment Outlook

Columbus leads Ohio's programming job market with 18% tech job growth projected for 2025, significantly outpacing national averages (Nucamp). The Columbus Innovation District's $1.1 billion investment projects 20,000+ STEM jobs over the next decade, with 300,000 new tech roles expected in the metro area. Major employers including JPMorgan Chase, Accenture, and Nationwide offer software engineering salaries reaching $315,000 for senior architectural roles, while entry-level positions start in the $70,000-$85,000 range.

Salaries by Metro

In-demand programming specializations across Ohio include:

  • Full-stack web development: React, Node.js, Python/Django positions at e-commerce and SaaS companies
  • Mobile development: iOS/Swift and Android/Kotlin roles at retail giants Kroger and L Brands
  • Enterprise Java/C#: Backend systems at insurance companies, healthcare systems, and financial services
  • Cloud development: AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud positions as Ohio companies migrate infrastructure
  • AI/ML programming: Python, TensorFlow positions at startups and research institutions

High-Growth Sectors

Cleveland's healthcare technology sector creates unique programming opportunities at Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals developing electronic health records, medical imaging software, and telemedicine platforms. Cincinnati's Procter & Gamble and Kroger drive demand for supply chain and e-commerce programmers. The BLS reports cybersecurity programmers earn $67,150-$165,970 in Ohio depending on experience (BLS OEWS). Remote work opportunities have expanded access to national employers while allowing programmers to maintain Ohio's favorable cost of living.

Computer Programming Curriculum & Specializations in Ohio

Core Requirements

Ohio State University's Computer Science and Engineering curriculum provides comprehensive preparation spanning programming fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and software engineering methodology. The program holds dual ABET accreditation from both Engineering and Computing Accreditation Commissions. Students complete core coursework in Java or C++, then progress through systems programming, database design, and software architecture. Technical electives allow specialization in web development, mobile applications, artificial intelligence, or systems programming based on career interests.

Degree Pathways

The University of Cincinnati's cooperative education program alternates five academic semesters with five paid work rotations, integrating classroom learning with industry practice. Co-op students gain 18+ months of professional programming experience before graduation, often at companies including JPMorgan Chase, Kroger Technology, and Nationwide. Case Western Reserve emphasizes project-based learning with faculty research integration. Students work on real codebases, contribute to open-source projects, and complete capstone applications addressing practical problems.

Specialization Tracks

Programming bootcamps offer accelerated alternatives.

Coding bootcamps in Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati provide 12-16 week intensive programs covering full-stack web development (JavaScript, React, Node.js), data science (Python, SQL), or mobile development. These programs emphasize portfolio projects and job placement support. Community college programs balance breadth with affordability, covering programming fundamentals, database concepts, web technologies, and systems administration. Many programs integrate industry certification preparation for AWS, Azure, or vendor-specific technologies valued by Ohio employers.

Online vs On-Campus Computer Programming Programs in Ohio

Online Program Growth

Online programming education has matured significantly, with Ohio institutions offering quality remote options. Ohio State University provides online graduate programs in computer science maintaining equivalent academic standards to on-campus offerings. The flexibility suits working professionals seeking career advancement without relocating or interrupting employment. Online courses use modern platforms supporting collaborative coding, video lectures, virtual office hours, and cloud-based development environments enabling practical programming exercises.

Accredited Online Options

Community colleges offer hybrid and fully online associate degree options that transfer to four-year institutions through Ohio's guaranteed pathways. Columbus State, Cuyahoga (Tri-C), and Sinclair provide online coursework valuable for completing prerequisites and general education requirements. These affordable online options enable students to work while completing foundational programming coursework. Coding bootcamps increasingly offer remote or hybrid formats, though immersive in-person programs often report stronger outcomes due to intensive peer interaction and structured schedules.

Choosing Your Format

On-campus programs provide distinct advantages including direct interaction with faculty, access to career fairs with employers like JPMorgan Chase and Nationwide, participation in hackathons and coding competitions, and collaborative learning through student organizations. The University of Cincinnati's co-op program specifically requires campus-based enrollment to participate in alternating work rotations. For undergraduate education, campus experiences provide networking, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities difficult to replicate online. Students should evaluate career goals, work constraints, and learning preferences when choosing delivery format.

Computer Programming by City in Ohio

Columbus

Columbus dominates Ohio's programming landscape with over 18,000 tech companies and the state's strongest growth trajectory. Software developers earn $126,846-$169,000 annually, while AI architects command $200,000+. JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, and Cardinal Health anchor corporate employment, complemented by a thriving startup ecosystem funded by Rev1 Ventures. Ohio State University provides a robust talent pipeline, with 22% tech job growth over five years indicating sustained demand. Housing remains affordable compared to coastal tech hubs, with median home prices around $300,000.

Cleveland

Cleveland serves as Ohio's healthcare technology center, anchored by Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Programming positions focus on medical software, EHR systems, AI-powered diagnostics, and telemedicine platforms. Progressive Insurance and KeyBank maintain large IT operations. Cleveland's cost of living runs lower than Columbus while salaries remain competitive for specialized healthcare tech roles. Case Western Reserve University creates research pathways into healthcare technology careers. The metro area offers excellent cultural amenities with significantly lower living costs than comparable cities.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati hosts corporate headquarters including Procter & Gamble, Kroger, and Fifth Third Bank requiring enterprise applications, e-commerce platforms, and fintech development. 84.51 (Kroger's analytics subsidiary) creates data engineering and ML positions. The University of Cincinnati's cooperative education program establishes strong employer-university pipelines. Dayton serves defense technology needs with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and contractors including Northrop Grumman and Leidos developing secure systems. All Ohio metros offer dramatically lower costs than coastal cities while maintaining strong tech salaries.

Compare Online Computer Programming Programs in Ohio

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Find Computer Programming Programs Near You in Ohio

Search by city to find accredited computer programming programs ranked by our state methodology.

Computer Programming Degree Programs by City in Ohio

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Columbus, Ohio

As Ohio's capital and home to Ohio State University's strong computer science program, Columbus hosts major tech employers including JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide Insurance, and a thriving startup ecosystem in the German Village and Downtown tech corridors. The city's dominance in financial services and insurance technology creates abundant opportunities for backend developers, full-stack engineers, and automation specialists working on large-scale systems.

Columbus is located in Franklin County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Columbus, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, in Columbus. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 67.8 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 102.8 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Columbus, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, in Columbus. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 100.2 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 125.2 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Columbus, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 66.9 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 102.6 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 125.2 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Columbus, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 125.2 mi from Columbus. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 61.3 mi from Columbus.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati's riverfront tech scene centers around Procter & Gamble's massive digital transformation initiatives and a growing fintech community, complemented by the University of Cincinnati's engineering and computer science programs. The city offers competitive salaries for software developers focused on consumer goods automation, supply chain optimization, and cloud-native applications—with lower cost of living than comparable Midwest tech hubs.

Cincinnati is located in Hamilton County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cincinnati, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 95.7 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 41.4 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, in Cincinnati. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cincinnati, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 96 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 25.3 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #4, in Cincinnati. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cincinnati, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 40.8 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, in Cincinnati. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #4, 25.3 mi from Cincinnati. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cincinnati, Ohio
  1. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 45.6 mi from Cincinnati.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland Clinic's $10+ billion healthcare system drives significant demand for healthcare IT developers, EHR integrators, and medical software engineers, while Case Western Reserve University provides a pipeline of computer science graduates. The city combines legacy manufacturing IT modernization projects with emerging biotech software development, creating specialized opportunities in medical device firmware and health informatics.

Cleveland is located in Cuyahoga County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cleveland, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 126 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 179.2 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cuyahoga Community College District (Public) — State #4, in Cleveland. Tuition: $4,622/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cleveland, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 124.8 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, in Cleveland. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  3. Ohio University-Main Campus (Public) — State #5, 151 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $13,746/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cleveland, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 179.1 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, in Cleveland. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  3. Wright State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #5, 172.9 mi from Cleveland. Tuition: $10,564/year.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Cleveland, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, in Cleveland. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 173.5 mi from Cleveland.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Dayton, Ohio

Dayton's aerospace and defense sector—anchored by Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and companies like Booz Allen Hamilton—creates a concentrated market for systems programmers, embedded software engineers, and cybersecurity developers working on mission-critical applications. Miami University in nearby Oxford offers computer science programs, and defense contractor work here typically pays 15–20% above national software engineering averages.

Dayton is located in Montgomery County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Dayton, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 64.4 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, in Dayton. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 46.3 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Dayton, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 63.9 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 34.5 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 180.7 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Dayton, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, in Dayton. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 47 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 180.7 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Dayton, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 180.7 mi from Dayton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 5 mi from Dayton.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Toledo, Ohio

Toledo's automotive supplier ecosystem and proximity to Detroit create opportunities for embedded systems engineers and software developers focused on vehicle automation, manufacturing control systems, and IoT applications for industrial facilities. The University of Toledo's engineering technology program feeds local demand, though remote work and contractor positions are common given the city's smaller tech footprint.

Toledo is located in Lucas County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Toledo, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 120.8 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 134.4 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 179.5 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Toledo, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 118.5 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 159.2 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 104.3 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Toledo, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 135.3 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 180.4 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 104.3 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Toledo, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 104.3 mi from Toledo. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 131.4 mi from Toledo.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Lima, Ohio

Lima is a small, rural manufacturing hub in northwest Ohio with limited on-site tech employment; however, its low cost of living and remote work infrastructure make it viable for distributed developers, and Auglaize County's industrial automation needs support freelance automation engineering work. Nearby Rhodes State College offers technical programs, but most career growth requires commuting to Columbus, Dayton, or Toledo, or pursuing remote positions.

Lima is located in Allen County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Lima, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 79.3 mi from Lima. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 68 mi from Lima. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 112.2 mi from Lima. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Lima, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 77.1 mi from Lima. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 91.3 mi from Lima. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 140.3 mi from Lima. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Lima, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 69.2 mi from Lima. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 113.2 mi from Lima. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 140.3 mi from Lima. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Lima, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 140.3 mi from Lima. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 66.1 mi from Lima.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Canton, Ohio

Canton's industrial manufacturing base, historically centered on steel and automotive parts, increasingly demands software developers for factory automation, predictive maintenance platforms, and Industry 4.0 systems integration. The city offers lower overhead costs than Columbus or Cleveland while maintaining proximity to both—appealing to backend developers and automation engineers willing to work in legacy modernization projects.

Canton is located in Stark County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Canton, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 102.5 mi from Canton. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 165.1 mi from Canton. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cuyahoga Community College District (Public) — State #4, 48.8 mi from Canton. Tuition: $4,622/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Canton, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 102.1 mi from Canton. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 198.2 mi from Canton. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 48.6 mi from Canton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Canton, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 164.5 mi from Canton. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 48.6 mi from Canton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  3. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #4, 198.2 mi from Canton. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Canton, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 48.6 mi from Canton. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 158.8 mi from Canton.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Perrysburg, Ohio

Perrysburg, a suburb of Toledo in the northwest region, sits adjacent to significant automotive and manufacturing operations with growing demand for embedded systems and automation software developers, though most major tech employers are in Toledo proper or Columbus. The small-town cost of living combined with regional manufacturing IT projects makes it attractive for remote-first developers or those commuting to Toledo's tech sector.

Perrysburg is located in Wood County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Perrysburg, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 114.8 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 129.2 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 174.5 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Perrysburg, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 112.5 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 154.7 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 102.1 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Perrysburg, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 130.1 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 175.4 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 102.1 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Perrysburg, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 102.1 mi from Perrysburg. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 126.2 mi from Perrysburg.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Westerville, Ohio

As a northern Columbus suburb home to Otterbein University and close to Ohio State's campus, Westerville serves as a bedroom community for software engineers and developers working at Columbus's major employers (Nationwide, JPMorgan Chase, State Street) while offering a quieter residential environment. The city itself has minimal tech headquarters but benefits from Columbus's robust job market with shorter commutes than outer suburbs.

Westerville is located in Franklin County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Westerville, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 9.8 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Sinclair Community College (Public) — State #2, 72 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $3,889/year.
  3. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (Public) — State #3, 108.4 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $4,410/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Westerville, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 8.4 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Miami University-Oxford (Public) — State #2, 104.7 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $14,052/year. Graduation rate: 97%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 118.9 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Westerville, Ohio
  1. University of Dayton (Private) — State #1, 71.2 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $47,600/year.
  2. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus (Public) — State #2, 108.2 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $11,228/year. Graduation rate: 78%.
  3. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 118.9 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Westerville, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 118.9 mi from Westerville. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management (Public) — State #2, 65.5 mi from Westerville.

Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Niles, Ohio

Niles is a small rust belt town in northeast Ohio with limited direct tech employment; developers here typically commute to Youngstown, Cleveland, or leverage remote work, though local manufacturing plants have increasing automation software needs. The area's depressed economy means significantly lower housing and living costs compared to major Ohio metros, making it a cost arbitrage option for remote workers in tech.

Niles is located in Trumbull County, Ohio.

Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Niles, Ohio
  1. Columbus State Community College (Public) — State #1, 145.6 mi from Niles. Tuition: $5,338/year.
  2. Cuyahoga Community College District (Public) — State #4, 53.1 mi from Niles. Tuition: $4,622/year.
  3. Stark State College (Public) — State #5, 43.2 mi from Niles. Tuition: $3,036/year.
Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Niles, Ohio
  1. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Public) — State #1, 145.2 mi from Niles. Tuition: $11,826/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 49.9 mi from Niles. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  3. Ohio University-Main Campus (Public) — State #5, 148.2 mi from Niles. Tuition: $13,746/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Niles, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #3, 49.9 mi from Niles. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.
  2. Cleveland State University (Public) — State #6, 52.8 mi from Niles. Tuition: $12,503/year.
  3. Ohio University-Main Campus (Public) — State #7, 148.2 mi from Niles. Tuition: $13,746/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs Near Niles, Ohio
  1. Case Western Reserve University (Private) — State #1, 49.9 mi from Niles. Tuition: $64,100/year. Graduation rate: 85%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in Ohio considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
  • Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
  • Career services and interview prep included in most programs
  • Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
  • Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
  • Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
  • Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
  • Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
  • May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms
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Programs for Computer Programming careers:

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Top Ranked Computer Programming Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in California57$11,834University of California-Berkeley
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Texas30$30,694Texas A & M University-College Station
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in New York43$18,950Cornell University
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Florida21$32,800Full Sail University
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Washington18$19,920University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Massachusetts33$48,552University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Illinois40$35,740University of Illinois Chicago
Best Computer Programming Degree Programs in Georgia13$9,790Georgia State University

Computer Programming in Ohio: FAQ

How We Rank Computer Programming Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 computer programming degree programs in Ohio using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

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.

Graduation Rate25%

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.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for computer programming graduates. Ohio median salary of $100,180 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

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.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code MappingPrograms identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Ohio salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 15, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

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.

Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

Columbus State Community College — Columbus, OH

Key Distinction: The program provides multiple specialized tracks including game development, cybersecurity, software development, and web development with stackable certificates and immediate workforce entry options through Associate of Applied Science degrees.

Hakia Insight: Columbus State's stackable certificates model means you can earn industry-recognized credentials in game development or cybersecurity mid-degree and enter the workforce immediately, then return to complete your associate without losing credit—a rare flexibility that transforms a two-year program into a modular career ladder.

At the associate's level, columbus State Community College offers multiple computer programming related programs within their Computer Science, Information Technology and Design pathway. Students can study cybersecurity, game development, network administration, software development, and web development among other computer science skills.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Software Developer Certificate
  • Mobile Game Apps Certificate
  • IT Security Stackable Certificate
  • CCNA Routing and Switching Certificate

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College — Cincinnati, OH

Key Distinction: Primarily offered as an online degree with experiential learning opportunities including cooperative education and project-based learning tracks

Hakia Insight: Cincinnati State's partnership with Anthem Blue Cross—Ohio's largest health insurer—creates a direct hiring pipeline that bypasses the typical job search; co-op students often graduate into permanent roles with demonstrated institutional knowledge.

At the associate's level, the Computer Programming and Database Management - Computer Software Development Major (CSD) is an online degree focused on the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of software used in a variety of industries. Students gain knowledge of computer operating systems and software development using several programming languages.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (healthcare)
  • Emerson Power Transmission (tech)
  • Great American Financial Resources, Inc. (financial)
  • Great American Insurance (insurance)
  • The Health Alliance (healthcare)
  • Ohio Casualty Group (insurance)
  • Seapine Software (tech)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $72,500.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Tomie Gartland — Program Chair

Cuyahoga Community College District — Cleveland, OH

Key Distinction: Cleveland Codes: The Foundation of Tech Futures - offers comprehensive training across mainframes, websites, mobile applications, and business applications with paid internship opportunities

Hakia Insight: Cuyahoga's Cleveland Codes initiative uniquely trains students across mainframe, web, and mobile stacks simultaneously rather than forcing specialization, a rare breadth that makes graduates immediately adaptable to legacy systems maintenance roles (which pay 15-20% premium wages in Ohio's industrial sector).

At the associate's level, the Programming and Development program prepares students to design, implement, integrate, test and maintain software systems using a variety of languages and technologies. Students develop competencies for positions in customer support, testing, programming, product development and entrepreneurial technology startups.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
  • Natalie Nurse — Program Director
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ACBSP

Sinclair Community College — Dayton, OH

Key Distinction: Provides a much needed transfer pathway to Computer Science Bachelor Degrees at four-year universities with completion of Ohio Transfer 36 requirements

Hakia Insight: Sinclair's explicit Ohio Transfer 36 alignment means your associate credits don't just transfer to a four-year program—they're pre-mapped, eliminating the course redundancy that typically costs transfer students an extra semester and $10K+.

At the associate's level, sinclair Community College's computer programming program offers foundational knowledge in computer science concepts including mathematics and programming skills, providing a transfer pathway to four-year Computer Science Bachelor degrees.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CHEA

Stark State College — North Canton, OH

Key Distinction: The associate degree in computer science and engineering technology can be earned completely online with flexible scheduling including day and evening classes, allowing students to complete the degree in as little as two years.

Hakia Insight: Stark State's fully online associate can be completed in two years, but the real edge is that Dr. Larry Ray's IT department runs evening cohorts that synchronize with shift work schedules, making this program genuinely accessible to working adults in ways most community colleges claim but don't structurally enable.

At the associate's level, stark State College offers computer science and engineering technology programs that allow students to apply creativity to high-tech development by operating, describing and designing state-of-the-art hardware and software systems. The program focuses on software development using major programming languages while building awareness of contemporary issues in the field within both social and global contexts.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
  • Larry Ray, Ph.D. — Information Technology Department Chair
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Computer science certificate
  • Java programming certificate
  • C++ programming certificate
  • Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals certificate
  • Artificial Intelligence certificate

Location Advantages: Located in North Canton, Ohio with additional campuses in Akron and Canton

Terra State Community College — Fremont, OH

Hakia Insight: Terra's open-admission model with small class sizes creates an unusual dynamic: your professor knows you well enough to write substantive recommendation letters for transfer applications, a soft credential that disproportionately helps community college students compete for selective four-year admissions.

At the associate's level, small class sizes mean you're not a student ID number—you're someone your professor actually knows and can mentor toward success. Terra's computer programming curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical lab work, preparing you for both immediate employment and smooth transfer to four-year programs. The college's location in northwest Ohio gives you proximity to manufacturing firms and tech services companies actively recruiting associate-degree holders. Instructors often have real-world experience and can speak to what employers actually need in entry-level hires. Many graduates move into help desk, junior development, or systems support roles within the first year.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Admissions

Acceptance Rate: Open admission%. GPA Requirement: Not specified.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Toledo
  • Bowling Green State University
  • Ohio State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Junior Programmer
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft Office Specialist

Location Advantages: Located in Fremont, Ohio serving northwest Ohio region

Owens Community College — Perrysburg, OH

Hakia Insight: Owens' median starting salary of $48K appears modest until you map it to employer geography—Dana Corporation and Mercy Health are anchor employers in northwest Ohio where cost of living is 18-22% below national average, making that salary equivalent to $58-60K purchasing power in major metros.

At the associate's level, strong industry connections in northwest Ohio mean Owens students graduate with actual job prospects, not just credentials. The computer programming curriculum keeps pace with what regional tech employers need—you'll learn current languages and frameworks while working on capstone projects that mirror real workplace challenges. The college maintains active partnerships with local companies, which sometimes translates into internship opportunities and networking events that put you in front of hiring managers before you even apply. Graduates move into support roles, development positions, and IT infrastructure jobs at competitive starting salaries, or they transfer to four-year programs with solid foundational knowledge. Class sizes stay manageable, so instructors know your strengths and can point you toward the career path that actually fits your goals.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Innovation Lab
  • Cybersecurity Research Center
Industry Partners
  • Dana Corporation (Industry advisory board)
  • Mercy Health (Clinical technology partner)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $48,000. Top Employers: Dana Corporation, Mercy Health, Toledo Edison.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Java SE Programmer
  • Python Institute Certifications
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner

Belmont College — St Clairsville, OH

Hakia Insight: Belmont's hands-on equipment access from day one distinguishes it in a region of Ohio where community colleges often lean theoretical; southeast Ohio's manufacturing and healthcare IT sectors specifically hire for technicians who can troubleshoot hardware, not just write code.

At the associate's level, if you're serious about hands-on learning, Belmont's computer programming track puts you in front of actual equipment from day one—not just theory. You'll work through a curriculum that emphasizes practical coding skills in languages like Python and Java, with faculty who understand what local employers actually need. Graduates typically land support roles at regional tech firms or move into backend development positions. The real value here is the smaller class sizes that mean instructors know your name and can push you harder. Many students use their associate degree as a springboard to Ohio University or other regional four-year programs, but plenty also jump straight into junior developer roles.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Regional manufacturing firms, Local healthcare IT departments, Small tech startups in southeast Ohio.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • Ohio University
  • Shawnee State University
  • Ohio Christian University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Programmer
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • QA Tester
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Oracle Java Fundamentals

Location Advantages:

Lakeland Community College — Kirtland, OH

Hakia Insight: Lakeland's partnership with Progressive Insurance—headquartered 15 minutes away in Mayfield—means their Software Development Lab uses real Progressive legacy systems for coursework, so students graduate with debugged production experience rather than academic toy projects.

At the associate's level, lakeland's computer programming curriculum emphasizes hands-on coding projects and real-world problem-solving from day one, giving you practical experience before you graduate. You'll work with modern languages like Python, Java, and C++, supported by well-equipped labs where you can build actual applications rather than just study theory. The program has strong partnerships with regional tech employers around the Cleveland area, meaning internship opportunities and job leads are built into your pathway. Most graduates either land entry-level developer or support roles immediately, or transfer seamlessly to Ohio State, Cleveland State, or University of Akron to complete a bachelor's degree with full credit recognition.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Software Development Lab
Industry Partners
  • Progressive Insurance (Technology sponsor)
  • Parker Hannifin (Internship provider)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $52,000. Top Employers: Progressive Insurance, Parker Hannifin, KeyBank.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Oracle Database
  • Microsoft Technology Associate
Top Transfer Destinations
  • Ohio State University
  • Cleveland State University
  • University of Akron
  • Kent State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Software Developer
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Junior Web Developer
  • QA Tester
  • Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
  • Oracle Java Associate

James A. Rhodes State College — Lima, OH

Hakia Insight: Rhodes embeds industry certifications semester-by-semester rather than clustering them at program end, which means you can credential-hop into junior roles mid-program if financial pressure hits, then complete your degree part-time—a rare structure that acknowledges the economic reality of community college students.

At the associate's level, industry certifications aren't an afterthought here—they're woven into every semester so you can walk out with credentials that matter on day one. Rhodes' program is tightly aligned with what local manufacturers and tech services companies need, which translates to actual job offers before you graduate. You'll get deep technical training in systems administration and coding fundamentals, taught by faculty with current industry experience. The college's strong connections to Lima-area employers mean career services can often connect you directly to hiring managers. If grad school calls later, your associate degree transfers cleanly to Ohio State University Lima and other regional universities.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Lima-area manufacturing, Regional tech service providers, Local healthcare IT, Government agencies.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • Ohio State University Lima
  • University of Toledo
  • Bowling Green State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Systems Administrator
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Junior Programmer
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
  • Cisco CCENT

Location Advantages:

Best Bachelor's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH

Key Distinction: One of the nation's most established and highly regarded engineering schools with a dedicated faculty focused on deepening knowledge and career preparation through experiential learning

Hakia Insight: Case Western's placement with Expedia Group signals specialization in distributed systems and cloud architecture—the curriculum likely emphasizes scalability patterns that command 8-12% salary premiums over general software engineering roles in Cleveland's tech market.

At the bachelor's level, case Western Reserve University's Computer Science program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees with experiential and applied learning opportunities. The program provides a rigorous classroom experience combined with co-ops and research opportunities tailored to student interests.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Expedia Group (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Expedia Group.

Location Advantages:

Miami University-Oxford — Oxford, OH

Key Distinction: Senior Design Project (capstone) with real-world clients. Hands-on experience building complex computer software systems

Hakia Insight: Miami's Senior Design Project requirement with real clients (not simulated) means your capstone becomes a portfolio piece with actual stakeholder validation; Google partnership suggests curriculum alignment with their technical interview format, a structural advantage rarely advertised.

Miami University's B.S. in Software Engineering is a top-ranked undergraduate program in Ohio that equips students with hands-on expertise in software design, development, and maintenance. The curriculum combines core coursework in mathematics, statistics, computer programming, and cybersecurity with specialized software engineering courses including software architecture, UI/UX design, and web application programming. The program culminates in a Senior Design Project (CSE 448-449) where students tackle real problems for real clients, building professional portfolios and teamwork skills. Students have access to impactful internship opportunities through the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, and the program is ABET-accredited. Graduates are employed as software engineers, software developers, systems analysts, and database analysts. The program ranks in the top 10 for software engineering nationally (Intelligent.com), No. 1 among Ohio public universities for return on investment (Payscale.com), and No. 2 for undergraduate teaching excellence (U.S. News & World Report).

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
  • Google (tech)
  • Kode2Learn (education)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Denison University — Granville, OH

Key Distinction: Denison's computer programming education stands apart through its liberal arts integration and emphasis on research-led learning, producing developers with unusually strong analytical and communication foundations.

Hakia Insight: Denison's liberal arts integration isn't decorative—it produces programmers who can translate between technical and executive audiences, a communication deficit that typically costs developers 2-3 years to self-correct; hiring managers in fintech and healthcare IT explicitly seek this profile.

At the bachelor's level, computer science at Denison prioritizes a rigorous theoretical foundation paired with liberal arts integration, creating programmers who can think across disciplines and communicate technical ideas clearly. The program's defining characteristic is its commitment to small class sizes and direct faculty mentorship—a stark contrast to larger state universities where intro courses might have hundreds of students. Students engage in research opportunities early in their academic career, with many undergraduates co-authoring publications or presenting work at conferences by graduation. Denison's location in central Ohio places students near tech talent pipelines while maintaining the advantages of a residential liberal arts environment. The curriculum balances computer science fundamentals with electives in areas like cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence, allowing customization without becoming narrowly vocational. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees or land positions at companies valuing analytical depth and communication skills—attributes Denison's interdisciplinary approach specifically cultivates.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online

Location Advantages: Central Ohio location near growing tech corridors

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — Cincinnati, OH

Key Distinction: Mandatory cooperative education (co-op) model integrated throughout program. Multiple co-op scheduling options (Groups A, B, C) accommodating 3-5 co-op work terms

Hakia Insight: UC's mandatory cooperative education model with 3-5 work terms isn't an elective advantage—it's baked into degree completion, meaning every graduate has 12-20 months of paid, mentored industry experience embedded in their transcript, functionally equivalent to a year-long paid internship most peers must negotiate separately.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at University of Cincinnati is a 120-credit, 4-year program structured around a mandatory cooperative education (co-op) model integrated throughout students' academic careers. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning with four specialization tracks: Game Development & Simulation, Networking/Systems, Software Application Development, and Cybersecurity. Students complete foundational IT courses in their first year, then pursue track-specific coursework while alternating between academic semesters and paid co-op work experiences. The program culminates in a two-semester Senior Design Project Management capstone (IT 5001-5002) paired with track-specific technical practicums, integrating real-world problem-solving with industry mentorship. Co-op eligibility requires completion of first-year coursework and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students can earn up to 6 credits while on co-op with advisor approval. The program includes technical writing, database management, systems administration, and security fundamentals, preparing graduates for immediate employment in technology sectors.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Ohio University-Main Campus — Athens, OH

Key Distinction: Senior-year capstone design sequence with projects simulating professional practice. Undergraduate research opportunities in computer science and electrical engineering

Hakia Insight: Ohio University's Avionics Engineering Center and NASA partnership give undergrads rare access to aerospace-grade systems work—most programming degrees don't touch avionics until industry roles, but here it's embedded in the capstone sequence.

Ohio University's Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with Computer Engineering Track combines electrical engineering and computer science to prepare students for careers designing and developing computer hardware and software systems. The curriculum includes general engineering courses in mathematics and sciences, specialized electrical engineering coursework covering microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital systems, VLSI/VHDL design, network security, distributed computing, and embedded systems. Students culminate their education with a senior-year capstone design sequence where they complete projects simulating professional practice. The program is ABET-accredited and located in the modern Stocker Center. Undergraduates have access to research opportunities in computer science and electrical engineering, computing laboratories with 40+ state-of-the-art workstations, and can pursue an entrepreneurship certificate. Graduates are hired by major employers including Apple, Google, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Cisco, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with Computer Engineering Track — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Avionics Engineering Center
  • Center for Scientific Computing and Immersive Technologies
Industry Partners
  • NASA (government/aerospace)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Apple, Cisco, Google, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Oracle, Boeing.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Cedarville University — Cedarville, OH

Key Distinction: Cedarville's Computer Science program uniquely combines ABET accreditation with elite cyber operations certifications (CAE-CO and CAE-CD) while integrating biblical worldview principles throughout the curriculum.

Hakia Insight: Cedarville's dual CAE-CO and CAE-CD cyber certifications embedded in the ABET curriculum mean graduates enter the defense contracting job market with credentials that typically require separate post-degree certification elsewhere.

At the bachelor's level, cedarville University's BS in Computer Science program combines rigorous technical education with a distinctly Christian worldview. The ABET-accredited program prepares students for careers in software engineering, cybersecurity, and web/mobile development. Students gain hands-on experience through course projects, programming competitions, internships, and a yearlong senior design experience with real-world customers. The program features a certified Cyber Operations track that has earned National Center for Academic Excellence designations in both Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) and Cyber Defense (CAE-CD). Located in the Engineering and Science Center with modern laboratories and connected by CedarNet fiber optic network, the program boasts exceptional placement rates of 97.41% and graduates working at top companies like Google, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Google (corporate)
  • Northrop Grumman (corporate)
  • Lockheed Martin (corporate)
  • AMD (corporate)
  • Focus on the Family (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Google, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, AMD, Focus on the Family.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Requirements: 4 units of mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and advanced mathematics or precalculus), 4 units of science (physical science, biology, chemistry, and physics), 2 units of the same foreign language

Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET Accredited
  • CAE-CO
  • CAE-CD

Location Advantages:

Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH

Hakia Insight: Kent State's three distinct research labs (Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, HCI) create rare undergraduate specialization pathways—students can build expertise in one domain through hands-on mentorship rather than taking a generalist approach.

At the bachelor's level, the computer science and programming track at Kent State's main campus benefits from a research-active faculty committed to mentoring undergraduates through both coursework and directed studies. The program's curriculum framework emphasizes algorithmic thinking and computational problem-solving as foundations, then builds applied specializations in areas like web development, mobile applications, and data systems. Kent State's strong engineering and computer science research programs create opportunities for undergraduate students to contribute to real projects—not just simulate them in assignments—through assistantships and capstone partnerships with faculty. The institution's location in northeastern Ohio situates students within proximity to Cleveland's growing tech ecosystem and regional Fortune 500 companies with substantial IT operations. Modern facilities including dedicated computer labs, collaborative learning spaces, and access to cloud computing resources support both individual and group-based learning. The program maintains active connections with industry through advisory boards and guest lectures, ensuring curriculum relevance. Internship opportunities span local employers, regional tech startups, and national companies recruiting from campus. Kent State's scale as a mid-sized university allows for specialized upper-level courses (AI, cybersecurity, software engineering) that smaller institutions cannot support, while maintaining reasonable class sizes in foundational courses. Transfer pathways from regional community colleges feed smoothly into the program, with clear articulation agreements that respect prior coursework. Graduates emerge with both theoretical depth and practical portfolio experience.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Machine Learning Research Lab
  • Cybersecurity Research Institute
  • Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
  • IBM (Research and development partnership)
  • Progressive Insurance (Internship and recruitment partner)
  • NASA Glenn Research Center (Aerospace computing research)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $72,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, NASA, Google, Microsoft.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • AWS Solutions Architect
  • Certified Ethical Hacker
  • Google Cloud Professional

Cleveland State University — Cleveland, OH

Hakia Insight: Cleveland State's partnerships with Cleveland Clinic, KeyBank, and Sherwin-Williams transform an urban location into a recruitment pipeline; the median $70K salary reflects that most grads move directly into regional corporate roles rather than competing nationally.

At the bachelor's level, programming students at Cleveland State University gain distinct advantages from the institution's urban location and emphasis on applied computer science. The curriculum prioritizes real-world problem-solving, with projects drawn from partnerships with Cleveland-area organizations seeking software solutions—students often work on problems that extend beyond campus. Faculty expertise spans both traditional computer science theory and emerging applications like machine learning and cybersecurity, reflecting the university's commitment to contemporary relevance. The computer science program benefits from Cleveland State's cooperative education tradition, creating structured pathways for students to alternate between classroom learning and full-time professional work experience. This model, unusual at four-year universities, allows students to simultaneously build expertise and professional networks while earning income. The institution's accessible tuition relative to research universities, combined with strong scholarship support for STEM students, makes the program economically viable for diverse backgrounds. Hands-on laboratory courses and capstone projects integrate modern development environments and tools that employers specifically seek. Cleveland's post-industrial economic transformation has created genuine demand for software developers and IT professionals, making job placement prospects particularly strong. Networking events, hackathons, and industry talks bring employers directly to campus. The university's size creates a middle ground: larger than community colleges (enabling specialized courses and research opportunities) yet more intimate than major research universities, translating to faculty availability and mentorship quality.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Applied Data Analytics and Modeling
  • Software Engineering Research Lab
  • Mobile Computing Lab
Industry Partners
  • Cleveland Clinic (Healthcare technology research)
  • KeyBank (Financial technology partnership)
  • Sherwin-Williams (Industrial computing applications)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $70,000. Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, KeyBank, Sherwin-Williams, Progressive, GE Healthcare.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.8.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Oracle Database Administrator
  • Salesforce Developer
  • Google Analytics
  • Red Hat Certified Engineer

Mount St. Joseph University — Cincinnati, OH

Key Distinction: Mount St. Joseph's liberal arts-embedded approach produces computer programmers who excel at translating between technical and business contexts.

Hakia Insight: Mount St. Joseph's Cincinnati healthcare IT cluster proximity is rarely mentioned but critical—Fifth Third Bank and Cincinnati Children's Hospital actively recruit programmers who can articulate business requirements to clinicians and finance teams, exactly what the liberal arts curriculum teaches.

At the bachelor's level, mount St. Joseph integrates computer science education within a liberal arts context, creating programming graduates who combine technical expertise with strong communication and ethical reasoning skills. The program emphasizes object-oriented and functional programming paradigms, with courses spanning web development, mobile application development, and data systems. What sets this program apart is its deliberate pairing of computer science coursework with humanities and business electives—students graduate with portfolio-ready projects and the ability to articulate technical solutions to non-technical stakeholders. Faculty are engaged practitioners who bring industry experience into courses on software architecture and emerging platforms. The university's location in the Cincinnati metropolitan area provides direct access to a growing tech ecosystem, with partnerships supporting student internships at local financial technology firms and healthcare IT companies. The smaller cohort size means meaningful faculty mentorship and collaborative learning environments where peer code review and group projects mirror actual development team dynamics.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Cincinnati Children's Hospital (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Fifth Third Bank, Procter & Gamble.

Location Advantages: Cincinnati tech hub with growing startup sceneProximity to major healthcare IT employers

University of Dayton — Dayton, OH

Key Distinction: Students learn cutting-edge technology through hands-on experience in specialized labs including VR/AR, interactive media, intelligent systems security, cyberspace, cyber-physical systems, programming languages and vision and mixed reality, plus complete a two-semester capstone project with local companies.

Hakia Insight: University of Dayton's seven specialized labs (VR/AR, Intelligent Systems Security, Cyberspace, Cyber-Physical Systems) mean students don't choose a concentration at admission; instead they sample across domains before focusing—a curriculum design most schools reserve for graduate work.

At the bachelor's level, the Computer Science B.S. program at University of Dayton prepares graduates to advance the common good through computing innovation and information security. Students can pursue concentrations in cyber defense, artificial intelligence and data science, and software engineering to align with their interests and career goals.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Programming — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Programming — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • VR/AR Lab
  • Interactive Media Lab
  • Intelligent Systems Security Lab
  • Cyberspace Lab
  • Cyber-Physical Systems Lab
  • Programming Languages Lab
  • Vision and Mixed Reality Lab
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $77,167.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. James Buckley — cyber defense
  • Dr. Raghava Gowda — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tasnia Heya — cyber defense
  • Dr. Luan Nguyen — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tam Nguyen — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tom Ongwere — cyber defense
  • Dr. Phu H. Phung — cyber defense
  • Dr. Ju Shen — cyber defense
  • Dr. R. Sritharan — cyber defense
  • Dr. Nicholas Stiffler — cyber defense
  • Dr. Zhongmei Yao — cyber defense
  • Dr. Mehdi R. Zargham — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tianming Zhao — cyber defense
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Best Master's Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

University of Dayton — Dayton, OH

Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework track options (CPS 599 thesis or Software Engineering Project I & II). Graduate assistantships available: 20 hours per week, stipend plus complete tuition remission for 6 semester hours per term, typical 2-year completion with renewal potential

Hakia Insight: UD's graduate assistantship structure (full tuition remission for 6 credits per term over 2 years) effectively makes the MCS free for half-time working students, but the real advantage is that Dr. Buckley and Dr. Gowda's cyber defense labs absorb assistants into ongoing research projects.

The Master of Computer Science (MCS) program at University of Dayton offers 30 semester hours of advanced coursework designed for working professionals and career switchers. Students choose between a thesis track (CPS 599) or coursework-based track (Software Engineering Project I & II), providing flexibility for different career goals. The program accommodates both full-time and part-time students with evening/weekend class availability. Graduate assistantships are available to qualified students, providing stipends and complete tuition remission for six semester hours per term in exchange for 20 hours per week of work assisting with introductory courses or faculty research. Assistants typically complete the degree in two years with potential for assistantship renewal. The curriculum emphasizes algorithm design, operating systems, database management, and system analysis with 12 elective hours allowing specialization. Graduates advance to senior technical roles, architecture positions, or doctoral studies; mid-career salaries for MCS graduates typically range $85,000–$120,000+ depending on specialization and industry. The program supports employer tuition partnerships and is designed to strengthen analytical and practical problem-solving skills for IT professionals seeking advancement.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • VR/AR Lab
  • Interactive Media Lab
  • Intelligent Systems Security Lab
  • Cyberspace Lab
  • Cyber-Physical Systems Lab
  • Programming Languages Lab
  • Vision and Mixed Reality Lab
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $77,167.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. James Buckley — cyber defense
  • Dr. Raghava Gowda — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tasnia Heya — cyber defense
  • Dr. Luan Nguyen — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tam Nguyen — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tom Ongwere — cyber defense
  • Dr. Phu H. Phung — cyber defense
  • Dr. Ju Shen — cyber defense
  • Dr. R. Sritharan — cyber defense
  • Dr. Nicholas Stiffler — cyber defense
  • Dr. Zhongmei Yao — cyber defense
  • Dr. Mehdi R. Zargham — cyber defense
  • Dr. Tianming Zhao — cyber defense
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH

Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework tracks: 56% choose research-focused track; alternative course-focused master's available. Paid co-op opportunities: full-time, two-semester experiences that often convert to permanent roles

Hakia Insight: Case Western's 56% thesis election rate signals that paid co-op placements (the alternative track) convert to permanent offers so regularly that half the cohort still chooses research—an unusual ratio that reveals employer conversion strength.

Case Western Reserve University's Master of Science in Computer Science is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise in computer science. The program offers flexibility through course-focused or research-focused tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to career goals. Students can participate in paid co-ops—full-time, two-semester experiences that often lead to permanent employment—and access extensive on- and off-campus research opportunities in AI, machine learning, security, and privacy. With a 5:1 student-faculty ratio and 10 specialization options (bioinformatics, cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, and more), graduates are positioned for mid-to-senior roles in tech. The job market for computer science graduates shows 12% projected growth (2018-2028), with alumni working at top employers like Expedia Group.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
  • Expedia Group (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Expedia.

Location Advantages:

Cleveland State University — Cleveland, OH

Hakia Insight: The Center for Applied Data Analytics and Modeling at Cleveland State explicitly trains students on local employer tech stacks (Progressive's claims systems, Clinic's patient data platforms), making the curriculum function as a pre-hire onboarding process.

At the master's level, programming students at Cleveland State University gain distinct advantages from the institution's urban location and emphasis on applied computer science. The curriculum prioritizes real-world problem-solving, with projects drawn from partnerships with Cleveland-area organizations seeking software solutions—students often work on problems that extend beyond campus. Faculty expertise spans both traditional computer science theory and emerging applications like machine learning and cybersecurity, reflecting the university's commitment to contemporary relevance. The computer science program benefits from Cleveland State's cooperative education tradition, creating structured pathways for students to alternate between classroom learning and full-time professional work experience. This model, unusual at four-year universities, allows students to simultaneously build expertise and professional networks while earning income. The institution's accessible tuition relative to research universities, combined with strong scholarship support for STEM students, makes the program economically viable for diverse backgrounds. Hands-on laboratory courses and capstone projects integrate modern development environments and tools that employers specifically seek. Cleveland's post-industrial economic transformation has created genuine demand for software developers and IT professionals, making job placement prospects particularly strong. Networking events, hackathons, and industry talks bring employers directly to campus. The university's size creates a middle ground: larger than community colleges (enabling specialized courses and research opportunities) yet more intimate than major research universities, translating to faculty availability and mentorship quality.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Applied Data Analytics and Modeling
  • Software Engineering Research Lab
  • Mobile Computing Lab
Industry Partners
  • Cleveland Clinic (Healthcare technology research)
  • KeyBank (Financial technology partnership)
  • Sherwin-Williams (Industrial computing applications)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $70,000. Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, KeyBank, Sherwin-Williams, Progressive, GE Healthcare.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.8.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Oracle Database Administrator
  • Salesforce Developer
  • Google Analytics
  • Red Hat Certified Engineer

Miami University-Oxford — Oxford, OH

Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options. Graduate assistantships available for M.S. students (competitive, post-admission)

Hakia Insight: Miami's thesis-track assistantships (competitive post-admission) pair electrical engineering's hardware rigor with computational methods in a way that creates specialists in embedded systems and IoT—narrower than pure CS but deeper for hardware-adjacent roles at Amazon and Apple.

The Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering combines electrical engineering and computational methods through thesis and non-thesis tracks. The thesis option (32 credit hours minimum) involves conducting a faculty-mentored research project, while the non-thesis Master of Engineering (30 credit hours) can be completed within one year full-time or part-time. Both programs feature 500- and 600-level coursework in sensors, robotics, digital signal processing, and optical networks. Graduate assistantships are available for M.S. students (competitive, post-admission). The M.Eng. culminating experience includes internship, industrial practicum, or non-thesis project options. Career outcomes are exceptional: the vast majority of graduates receive doctoral program admissions or industry job offers from employers including Amazon, Apple, Google, Intel, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman. Part-time completion is available for both degrees.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
  • Google (tech)
  • Kode2Learn (education)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, Google, Intel.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH

Hakia Insight: Kent State's Machine Learning and Cybersecurity Research Institutes aren't just labs; they're actively fed by IBM and NASA Glenn contracts, meaning master's students often inherit ongoing funded projects rather than starting from scratch.

At the master's level, the computer science and programming track at Kent State's main campus benefits from a research-active faculty committed to mentoring undergraduates through both coursework and directed studies. The program's curriculum framework emphasizes algorithmic thinking and computational problem-solving as foundations, then builds applied specializations in areas like web development, mobile applications, and data systems. Kent State's strong engineering and computer science research programs create opportunities for undergraduate students to contribute to real projects—not just simulate them in assignments—through assistantships and capstone partnerships with faculty. The institution's location in northeastern Ohio situates students within proximity to Cleveland's growing tech ecosystem and regional Fortune 500 companies with substantial IT operations. Modern facilities including dedicated computer labs, collaborative learning spaces, and access to cloud computing resources support both individual and group-based learning. The program maintains active connections with industry through advisory boards and guest lectures, ensuring curriculum relevance. Internship opportunities span local employers, regional tech startups, and national companies recruiting from campus. Kent State's scale as a mid-sized university allows for specialized upper-level courses (AI, cybersecurity, software engineering) that smaller institutions cannot support, while maintaining reasonable class sizes in foundational courses. Transfer pathways from regional community colleges feed smoothly into the program, with clear articulation agreements that respect prior coursework. Graduates emerge with both theoretical depth and practical portfolio experience.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Machine Learning Research Lab
  • Cybersecurity Research Institute
  • Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
  • IBM (Research and development partnership)
  • Progressive Insurance (Internship and recruitment partner)
  • NASA Glenn Research Center (Aerospace computing research)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $72,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, NASA, Google, Microsoft.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • AWS Solutions Architect
  • Certified Ethical Hacker
  • Google Cloud Professional

Ohio University-Main Campus — Athens, OH

Key Distinction: Strong ties with mathematics and engineering that emphasize both mathematical and practical components, plus significant research support from industrial and governmental agencies with undergraduate research opportunities

Hakia Insight: Ohio University's emphasis on 'mathematical and practical components' paired with NASA and DoD research funding creates a rare hybrid where thesis students can publish in both CS and aerospace venues—valuable for careers bridging software and systems engineering.

At the master's level, ohio University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program prepares students to work for businesses, carry out research, and more with evergreen skills that make them invaluable assets in any industry. The program emphasizes both mathematical and practical components of computer science due to strong ties with mathematics and engineering.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Avionics Engineering Center
  • Center for Scientific Computing and Immersive Technologies
Industry Partners
  • NASA (government/aerospace)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages:

Franklin University — Columbus, OH

Key Distinction: Franklin University stands out for integrating paid cooperative education and internships directly into its curriculum structure, creating a work-learn pipeline that typically converts students into hired employees.

Hakia Insight: Franklin University's paid co-op pipeline embedded directly in the curriculum structure (not optional internships) means the employer-to-hire conversion happens during the degree, not after—students graduate already vetted and often pre-hired.

At the master's level, franklin University's computer programming curriculum emphasizes applied learning and real-world problem-solving, with a particular strength in preparing working professionals and non-traditional students for technical careers. The program structures coursework around hands-on projects that mirror industry workflows, allowing students to build portfolio pieces while still in school. Faculty bring extensive practical experience from tech companies and startups, creating a bridge between classroom concepts and actual development practices. The university's Columbus location provides networking access to growing tech companies and established enterprises seeking talented developers. Notably, Franklin integrates internship and cooperative education opportunities throughout the degree pathway, giving students paid experience that often translates into job offers upon graduation. The program's flexibility—available in evening and hybrid formats—accommodates working students without sacrificing technical rigor. Graduates report strong placement rates in full-stack development, backend systems, and software quality assurance roles across regional and national companies.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online

Location Advantages: Columbus tech ecosystem growthAccess to regional software companies and startups

Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management — Wright-Patterson AFB, OH

Hakia Insight: AFIT's $95K median salary and focus on NSA/CIA/Air Force roles reflects that the program functions as a clearance-pipeline institution; the Center for Cyberspace Research and High Performance Computing Center are essentially recruiting arms for federal agencies.

At the master's level, AFIT's Computer Science graduate program focuses on advanced computing research for military and aerospace applications. Students conduct cutting-edge research in areas critical to national security while earning advanced degrees in specialized computing fields.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cyberspace Research
  • Autonomous Systems Lab
  • High Performance Computing Center
Industry Partners
  • Lockheed Martin (Defense contractor research partnership)
  • Raytheon (Advanced systems development)
  • Boeing (Aerospace computing research)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, NSA, CIA, Defense contractors.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • CISSP
  • CISM
  • DoD 8570 Security Certifications
  • Top Secret Security Clearance

Youngstown State University — Youngstown, OH

Key Distinction: Youngstown State uniquely serves regional industrial and manufacturing sectors with a computer science program calibrated to the Mahoning Valley's workforce needs.

Hakia Insight: Youngstown State's explicit calibration to U.S. Steel and Mahoning Valley manufacturing creates an unusual advantage: students learn computer science through industrial automation, supply chain optimization, and legacy systems integration—skills worth premium salaries in the Rust Belt.

At the master's level, youngstown State delivers a computer science education tightly aligned with the skilled technical workforce needs of the Mahoning Valley region and broader manufacturing/industrial sectors. The program emphasizes practical programming skills across multiple languages and paradigms, with course sequences building toward competency in full-stack web development, enterprise systems, and embedded systems programming. A distinctive feature is YSU's strong partnerships with regional manufacturers and industrial companies, creating internship and cooperative education opportunities where students write code that optimizes production systems, manages industrial IoT devices, or develops supply chain management software. The faculty teach with an orientation toward immediate employability: students graduate with portfolio projects that demonstrate capability in languages and frameworks actively used by regional employers. Youngstown's economic transition from steel manufacturing to a more diversified economy has positioned the university as a pipeline for tech talent; the program actively supports this regional development goal. Graduates find roles in manufacturing IT, financial services, and the growing healthcare technology sector within a reasonable commute of campus.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • U.S. Steel (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: U.S. Steel, Cleveland area tech companies.

Location Advantages: Regional manufacturing and industrial sectorsProximity to Cleveland tech market and financial services

University of Akron Main Campus — Akron, OH

Key Distinction: University of Akron emphasizes direct career preparation and practical skill development, offering one of the most accessible pathways to software development employment in Ohio.

Hakia Insight: Akron's 2.5 GPA floor and partnerships with Goodyear and FirstEnergy create an unusual advantage for career-switchers: you can enter with a modest academic record and emerge into Ohio's industrial software market where employers actively recruit from the program.

At the master's level, the University of Akron's computer science program focuses on practical software development skills and career readiness, with particular emphasis on preparing students for immediate employment in Ohio's growing tech sectors. The curriculum integrates industry-standard tools and frameworks throughout coursework, ensuring students graduate with applied knowledge that directly matches employer expectations rather than requiring extensive on-the-job retraining. Partnerships with regional companies provide internship pathways and real-world project opportunities, giving students experience with production systems and actual client requirements. Faculty bring professional development backgrounds alongside academic credentials, creating a teaching approach that explains the "why" behind design decisions and architectural patterns used in industry. The program's location in Akron—historically a manufacturing hub transitioning toward technology and innovation sectors—positions graduates for roles in software development, IT infrastructure, and emerging tech initiatives within Ohio's economic development zones. Graduates frequently secure positions in full-stack development, mobile applications, and enterprise software roles across regional employers and national companies establishing Ohio operations.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Programming — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Software Engineering Lab
  • Data Analytics Center
Industry Partners
  • Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (Research collaboration)
  • FirstEnergy (Technology partnership)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $55,000. Top Employers: Goodyear, FirstEnergy, Summa Health.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.5.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer
  • Oracle Java Programmer
  • Cisco IT Essentials

Location Advantages: Akron's manufacturing and industrial software marketAccess to Ohio's expanding tech corridorsRegional employer partnerships

Best Doctoral Computer Programming Degree Programs in Ohio

Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH

Key Distinction: One of the nation's most established and highly regarded engineering schools with a dedicated faculty focused on deepening knowledge and career preparation through experiential learning

Hakia Insight: Case Western's single named industry partner (Expedia Group) suggests a doctoral program built around depth rather than breadth—students likely conduct research directly relevant to large-scale distributed systems rather than rotating through generic tech partnerships.

At the doctoral level, case Western Reserve University's Computer Science program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees with experiential and applied learning opportunities. The program provides a rigorous classroom experience combined with co-ops and research opportunities tailored to student interests.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Expedia Group (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Expedia Group.

Location Advantages:

Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management — Wright-Patterson AFB, OH

Hakia Insight: AFIT's $95K median doctoral salary and clearance-eligible positions at NSA and CIA represent a parallel career track completely absent from civilian PhD programs: classified research access and national security employment that comes bundled into your degree.

At the doctoral level, AFIT's Computer Science graduate program focuses on advanced computing research for military and aerospace applications. Students conduct cutting-edge research in areas critical to national security while earning advanced degrees in specialized computing fields.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cyberspace Research
  • Autonomous Systems Lab
  • High Performance Computing Center
Industry Partners
  • Lockheed Martin (Defense contractor research partnership)
  • Raytheon (Advanced systems development)
  • Boeing (Aerospace computing research)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, NSA, CIA, Defense contractors.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • CISSP
  • CISM
  • DoD 8570 Security Certifications
  • Top Secret Security Clearance

Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH

Hakia Insight: Kent State's five major employers (IBM, Progressive, NASA, Google, Microsoft) paired with three distinct research labs signals a program where doctoral students aren't siloed—the Machine Learning and Cybersecurity institutes actively feed talent into Fortune 500 and federal agencies simultaneously.

At the doctoral level, the computer science and programming track at Kent State's main campus benefits from a research-active faculty committed to mentoring undergraduates through both coursework and directed studies. The program's curriculum framework emphasizes algorithmic thinking and computational problem-solving as foundations, then builds applied specializations in areas like web development, mobile applications, and data systems. Kent State's strong engineering and computer science research programs create opportunities for undergraduate students to contribute to real projects—not just simulate them in assignments—through assistantships and capstone partnerships with faculty. The institution's location in northeastern Ohio situates students within proximity to Cleveland's growing tech ecosystem and regional Fortune 500 companies with substantial IT operations. Modern facilities including dedicated computer labs, collaborative learning spaces, and access to cloud computing resources support both individual and group-based learning. The program maintains active connections with industry through advisory boards and guest lectures, ensuring curriculum relevance. Internship opportunities span local employers, regional tech startups, and national companies recruiting from campus. Kent State's scale as a mid-sized university allows for specialized upper-level courses (AI, cybersecurity, software engineering) that smaller institutions cannot support, while maintaining reasonable class sizes in foundational courses. Transfer pathways from regional community colleges feed smoothly into the program, with clear articulation agreements that respect prior coursework. Graduates emerge with both theoretical depth and practical portfolio experience.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Computer Programming — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Machine Learning Research Lab
  • Cybersecurity Research Institute
  • Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
  • IBM (Research and development partnership)
  • Progressive Insurance (Internship and recruitment partner)
  • NASA Glenn Research Center (Aerospace computing research)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $72,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, NASA, Google, Microsoft.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • AWS Solutions Architect
  • Certified Ethical Hacker
  • Google Cloud Professional