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Key Takeaways
Best computer programming degree programs: U of Vermont, Middlebury College, Champlain College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $16,280 to $64,800/year
U of Vermont offers the most affordable option at $16,280/yr
Computer Programming degree programs available: 2 associate's, 1 master's, 1 doctoral in Vermont
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Vermont community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer, Faraday
Tech hubs in Burlington and Montpelier
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Programming degree programs near 17+ cities across Vermont
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Vermont Computer Programming programs
We rank 11 accredited computer programming programs in Vermont using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Computer Programming Degree Programs in Vermont Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Programming Degree Rankings in Vermont
Compare the top-ranked Computer Programming programs in Vermont by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Programming Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in computer programming, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Champlain College, Landmark College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Vermont offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $54,695/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 $54,318 in Vermont.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Vermont's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer 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 Vermont, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer programming degrees in Vermont.
Best Bachelor's Computer Programming Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer programming education, with 7 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 6 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Vermont, Middlebury College, Champlain College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Vermont computer programming programs earn a median salary of $83,946, 14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $16,280 to $64,800 annually, with an average of $49,825/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 91%. 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 Vermont's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer programming degrees in Vermont, these top-ranked computer programming schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Norwich University | Northfield, VT | Private | $46,860 | — | 42.7 |
| #7 | Saint Michael's College | Colchester, VT | Private | $47,640 | — | 38.5 |
Best Master's Computer Programming Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont offers 1 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 Vermont, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer 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 $16,280/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 Vermont's computer programming schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Computer Programming Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer programming, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Vermont are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Vermont PhD holders earning a median of $123,450, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.
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 Vermont programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer programming degrees in Vermont, 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.
Computer Programming Degree Costs & Tuition in Vermont
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $49,825/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $124,563/year |
| Community college tuition | $12,456/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $298,952 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $74,738 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Programming Students in Vermont
State Aid Programs
Vermont residents pursuing computer programming degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways, including federal and state-specific support. The Vermont Incentive Grant (Vermont Incentive Grant) is a need-based grant program designed specifically for Vermont residents attending approved institutions, making it a valuable resource for reducing out-of-pocket costs. All students should begin their financial aid journey by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. These federal resources are essential for covering tuition, fees, and living expenses across Vermont's 11 institutions offering computer programming programs.
Key Programs & Amounts
In addition to state and federal aid, many Vermont colleges offer institutional scholarships and merit-based awards for computer programming students. The College Scorecard provides transparency on net price and aid availability at specific schools, allowing students to compare financial packages. Community college pathways offer particularly affordable entry points, the Community College of Vermont charges only $6,720 in tuition for its associate's program, making it an excellent option for students seeking financial accessibility. Transfer agreements through the Vermont Transfer Agreements system enable students to begin at community colleges and transition seamlessly to four-year institutions while preserving financial aid eligibility and maintaining progress toward a bachelor's degree in computer programming.
Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator, Vermont
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree in Vermont. 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
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
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
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. 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
Computer Programming Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Vermont metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Burlington | $109K |
| Montpelier | $104K |
| Rutland | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Programming Graduates in Vermont
Find computer programming jobs in Vermont. These major employers across Vermont metro areas are actively hiring computer programming degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Programming Jobs in Burlington
VTTransfer Pathways for Computer Programming Degrees in Vermont
State Transfer System
Vermont's strong transfer system facilitates seamless pathways from community colleges to four-year universities, enabling students to earn associate's degrees before completing bachelor's programs. The Vermont Transfer Agreements (https://www.vsc.edu/) support transfer from Community College of Vermont to Vermont state colleges and public universities, ensuring credit recognition and streamlined articulation. With 2 associate's degree programs in computer programming across Vermont institutions, students can begin their education affordably at Community College of Vermont, which charges only $6,720 annually, then transfer to a four-year institution such as Vermont State University ($9,984 tuition) or University of Vermont ($16,280 tuition). This pathway significantly reduces overall degree costs while maintaining educational quality.
How Transfers Work
Vermont's 7 bachelor's degree programs and 1 master's program are structured to accommodate transfer students, with clear articulation agreements identifying which associate's coursework satisfies bachelor's prerequisites. Community College of Vermont offers competitive tuition at $6,720 annually, positioning it as an ideal starting point for cost-conscious students. Transfer-friendly schools like Vermont State University and University of Vermont actively recruit community college graduates and recognize equivalent coursework. The Vermont State Colleges System and Vermont Transfer Agreements formalize these pathways, protecting student credits and ensuring efficient degree completion. Students pursuing financial aid should review the Vermont Incentive Grant (https://www.vsac.org/), which supports Vermont residents at approved institutions. For additional education financing information, students should consult Federal Student Aid. Those exploring related technical fields may also consider Computer Science in Vermont and Software Engineering in Vermont transfer pathways.
Why Pursue a Computer Programming Degree in Vermont?
Industry & Workforce
Vermont offers a strong network of computer programming education across multiple degree levels, with 11 institutions providing programs ranging from associate's to doctoral credentials (IPEDS). In 2023, Vermont institutions awarded 196 bachelor's degree completions, 17 associate's completions, 8 master's completions, and 1 doctoral completion, demonstrating strong pathways from entry-level to advanced study. The University of Vermont leads the state with 93 completions in computer programming, followed by Champlain College with 46 completions and Middlebury College with 45 completions. This concentration of quality programs makes Vermont an attractive destination for aspiring programmers seeking rigorous, well-established computer science education.
Salary Outlook
Vermont's tech hubs, particularly the Burlington-South Burlington metropolitan area, provide excellent employment opportunities for graduates. Major employers in the state include the University of Vermont Medical Center, GlobalFoundries, and Vermont Health Care systems, all seeking skilled programming professionals. Public in-state tuition at four-year institutions averages just $13,132 annually (College Scorecard), making Vermont significantly more affordable than many neighboring states. For those seeking the most cost-effective options, Vermont State University charges only $9,984 in annual tuition. Students exploring related technical fields may also consider Software Engineering in Vermont, Web Development in Vermont, or Computer Science in Vermont as complementary or alternative pathways.
Computer Programming Program Availability in Vermont
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Programming Job Market & Salary Data in Vermont
Employment Outlook
Vermont's computer programming job market has grown steadily, with 11 institutions across the state offering Computer Programming degrees at various levels. The state produced 196 bachelor's completions, 17 associate's completions, 8 master's completions, and 1 doctoral completion in 2023, demonstrating a pipeline of skilled professionals entering the workforce (IPEDS Program Data). Major hiring centers include the Burlington-South Burlington metro area, Chittenden County, and Central Vermont, where technology sectors are experiencing notable expansion.
Salaries by Metro
For comprehensive employment data and salary information specific to Vermont, prospective students should consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics Vermont State Occupational Employment Data, which provides current wage estimates and job outlook projections. The state's major employers in the technology and healthcare sectors, including the University of Vermont Medical Center and GlobalFoundries, actively recruit computer programming graduates. Vermont's strategic location in New England and its growing tech ecosystem make it an attractive market for software development professionals seeking meaningful work in both established companies and innovative startups.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Programming Programs in Vermont
Online Programs
0 available in Vermont
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Programming Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $26,000
- Total Programs
- 67
- Median Tuition
- $43,700
- Total Programs
- 111
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 51
- Median Tuition
- $4,600
- Total Programs
- 75
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Computer Programming Degree Programs in Vermont: FAQ
What are the best computer programming degree programs in Vermont?
How much do computer programming degree programs cost in Vermont?
What salary can computer programming degree graduates earn in Vermont?
Are there online computer programming degree programs in Vermont?
What companies hire computer programming degree graduates in Vermont?
Is a computer programming degree program worth it in Vermont?
How long do computer programming degree programs take in Vermont?
What financial aid is available for computer programming degree students in Vermont?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Vermont salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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.