Best Computer Science Degree Programs

University of California-Los Angeles Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #1 in computer science degree program.

UCLA's Computer Science bachelor's sits in the Samueli School of Engineering, a research-heavy department that reports 46 faculty and 46 labs, with roughly 1,337 CS undergrads inside a 47,335-student campus. The page leans on active research (Professor Miryung Kim's PLDI 2026 keynote, a Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship win) and outreach like the Computer Science Affiliates Program and a Pre-College Summer Institute rather than curriculum detail. The numbers back the top ranking: a 97.2 Hakia Score, a 93% graduation rate, and a 9% admit rate. That last figure is the tradeoff. This is aspirational, not a safety school, so treat it as a reach. Value hinges on residency: in-state tuition is $12,260 versus $44,148 out-of-state, a $31,888/year gap. Against the $116,580 national CS median, in-state runs about 10.5% of one year's pay, a standout ROI; out-of-state near 37.9% is a closer call.

Program Strengths

93% graduation rate, 97.2 Hakia Score (ranked #1)
9% admit rate: aspirational reach, not a safety option
In-state $12,260 vs out-of-state $44,148 (a $31,888/yr gap)
46 faculty, 46 research labs; CSAP industry program + Pre-College Summer Institute

🥈

University of California-Berkeley

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Berkeley, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 93% graduation rate

97.1

Score

$12K

Tuition/yr

93%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

University of California-Berkeley Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #2 in computer science degree program.

Berkeley's Computer Science degree is a Bachelor of Arts, not a BS, and the page defines CS broadly: theory of computation, algorithms, computer architecture, compilers, operating systems, graphics, databases, AI, and natural language processing. The stated goal is preparing students for both PhD-track research and long-term technical leadership, not just entry-level coding. First-years are admitted directly into the major via holistic review and stay four years. The numbers back the No. 2 rank (Hakia Score 97.1): a 93% graduation rate and an 11% admit rate, one of the tightest in our dataset. Cost splits sharply by residency: in-state tuition is $12,260 versus $44,148 out-of-state, a $31,888 gap. For national context, the BLS median for Computer Science is $116,580. This fits strong applicants weighing research or industry leadership; the honest catch is that admission is holistic, so the application matters as much as the stats.

Program Strengths

93% graduation rate, No. 2 rank (Hakia Score 97.1)
Broad BA covering algorithms, compilers, AI, and NLP
Built for PhD research or technical leadership, not just entry coding
In-state $12,260 vs out-of-state $44,148 (11% admit rate)

🥉

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Chapel Hill, NCPublic

$116,580 median salary · 91% graduation rate

96.6

Score

$7K

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as the #3 in computer science degree program.

UNC-Chapel Hill's B.S. in Computer Science is a capacity-limited major with a two-stage gate: general university admission gets you in, but you then apply to the CS major itself after COMP 210, with the department capping majors against faculty size. The core sequence runs COMP 110, 210, 211, 283, 301, and 311, and an accelerated track lets you finish a combined bachelor's and master's in as few as five years. Numbers: 91% graduation rate, a 15% overall admit rate, and a Hakia Score of 96.6, our third-highest. The value story is residency. In-state tuition is $7,019 versus $39,228 out-of-state, a $32,209 gap, so in-state runs about 6% of the $116,580 national CS median while out-of-state hits 34%. Best fit: North Carolina residents who can clear the second gate. The honest tradeoff is that gate, students not admitted are routed to a minor or told to reapply.

Program Strengths

91% graduation rate; Hakia Score 96.6 (our #3)
In-state $7,019 vs out-of-state $39,228: a $32,209 residency swing
Capacity-limited CS major: second admission gate after COMP 210
Combined bachelor's/master's in as few as five years

Harvard University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Cambridge, MAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 98% graduation rate

96.4

Score

$57K

Tuition/yr

98%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

Harvard University Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks Harvard University as the #4 in computer science degree program.

Harvard's undergraduate Computer Science credential is a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) concentration run jointly by Harvard College and the Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, not a standalone engineering degree, and it lets students apply for a combined A.B./S.M. to earn a master's alongside the bachelor's. It sits behind a research-active department that also runs a CS Ph.D. and master's programs in Computational Science and Engineering and Data Science. The numbers are top of the table: a 98% graduation rate and a 96.4 Hakia Score, the ranking basis here. As a private school, tuition is one figure, $56,550, in-state or out. It fits students aiming at that A.B./S.M. path or fields beyond software. The honest catch is access, not academics: the 4% admit rate is the steepest in this data set.

Program Strengths

98% graduation rate, top of this data set
A.B./S.M. option: earn a master's alongside the bachelor's
96.4 Hakia Score (No. 4 ranking basis)
Steepest bar here: 4% admit rate, $56,550 flat tuition

Columbia University in the City of New York

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 96% graduation rate

96.4

Score

$67K

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

Columbia University in the City of New York Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York as the #5 in computer science degree program.

Columbia doesn't run one CS major, it runs four: a BS in Computer Science and a BS in Computer Engineering through the engineering school (SEAS), plus a BA in Computer Science and a BA in Computer Science and Mathematics through Columbia College, General Studies, and Barnard. You declare exactly one. The curriculum splits applied work (operating systems, computer architecture) from theory and math, with upper-level courses in AI, NLP, algorithms, and databases. The numbers explain the Hakia Score of 96.4: a 4% admit rate and a 96% graduation rate. As a private nonprofit, tuition is a flat $66,722 regardless of residency, roughly $266,888 over four years, about 2.3 years of the $116,580 national median CS salary. The tradeoff is pure access. The curriculum and completion rate are elite, but nearly everyone who could thrive here won't get in.

Program Strengths

4% admit rate, 96.4 Hakia Score (rank 5)
96% graduation rate
Four CS tracks: BS in CS, BS in Computer Engineering, BA in CS, BA in CS and Mathematics
Flat $66,722 tuition, no residency discount (private nonprofit)

University of Pennsylvania

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Philadelphia, PAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 97% graduation rate

95.8

Score

$61K

Tuition/yr

97%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

University of Pennsylvania Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Pennsylvania as the #6 in computer science degree program.

Penn's Computer Science, BSE is an engineering degree run out of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, not a liberal-arts CS track. The core sequence moves from Introduction to Computer Programming through operating systems, computer organization, and algorithms, layered on a real math and physics foundation (Calculus I and II, linear algebra, a two-course physics sequence) and capped by a required senior project or thesis. The numbers back the selectivity: a 5% admit rate, a 97% graduation rate once you're in, and a 95.8 Hakia Score that puts it 6th here. As a private school, tuition is a flat $60,920 whether you're in-state or out. That single year runs roughly 52% of the $116,580 national median wage for computer science occupations, so the value math leans on aid and outcomes, not a public price break. Best fit: strong applicants who want an engineering-grade CS degree and a dual-career path into business, law, or medicine.

Program Strengths

97% graduation rate; 5% admit rate is the real bottleneck
Engineering-grade BSE housed in Penn's SEAS, not a liberal-arts CS track
Required senior capstone: Senior Project (CIS 4000/4010) or Thesis (CIS 4100/4110)
Flat $60,920 tuition, in-state or out; 95.8 Hakia Score ranks it 6th

University of California-San Diego

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

La Jolla, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 86% graduation rate

95.5

Score

$12K

Tuition/yr

86%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

University of California-San Diego Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #7 in computer science degree program.

UC San Diego's B.S. in Computer Science is the CSE department's self-described biggest major, built on a lower-division core (math, programming methodology, computer organization) and an upper-division core in algorithms and building software systems at scale. Upperclassmen shape their path with elective "focus sheets" in Systems, Theory/Abstraction, or Applications of Computing, though the program page is clear these earn no formal degree designation. Ranked here at a Hakia Score of 95.5, it fits students who can clear the gate: UCSD admits just 27% of applicants, yet 86% of those who enroll graduate, so the hurdle is getting in, not staying in. On value, in-state tuition of $12,260 is about 10.5% of the $116,580 national median CS salary; out-of-state runs $44,148, a $31,888 yearly gap. Residency, not the program, drives the payback math.

Program Strengths

86% graduation rate vs a selective 27% admit rate
In-state tuition $12,260 is ~10.5% of the $116,580 national median CS salary
Elective focus sheets in Systems, Theory/Abstraction, and Applications of Computing (non-credentialing)
Hakia Score 95.5; students advised via the Virtual Advising Center

University of Chicago

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Chicago, ILPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 96% graduation rate

95.5

Score

$67K

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

University of Chicago Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Chicago as the #8 in computer science degree program.

The University of Chicago's Computer Science bachelor's, housed in its Department of Computer Science, is built as a foundation rather than a straight line to a coding job: the program page frames it as prep for graduate study, industry, or work across mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, public administration, and the arts, with student organizations, career resources, and summer research on offer. Admission runs through The College, not the department directly, and it is brutal: a 4% admit rate is among the toughest in the country. Once you are in, the payoff is real, with a 96% graduation rate. Tuition is $67,446 regardless of residency, since this private nonprofit gives no in-state break. Four years runs $269,784, roughly 2.3 years of the $116,580 national median CS wage. It fits students who want breadth and research access and can clear an extraordinary bar.

Program Strengths

96% graduation rate once admitted, Hakia Score 95.5 (rank #8)
4% admit rate, one of the hardest CS programs to enter
Flat $67,446 tuition, no in-state discount at this private nonprofit
Admission via The College; summer research and career resources for undergrads

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Cambridge, MAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 96% graduation rate

95.5

Score

$62K

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks Massachusetts Institute of Technology as the #9 in computer science degree program.

At MIT, Computer Science lives inside the EECS department as a set of named degree tracks rather than one fixed major: 6-3 Computer Science and Engineering, 6-4 Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making, and 6-14 Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science, plus research paths like UROP and SuperUROP and a 6-A Industrial Program. This is for students who want to pick a specialization, not just "study CS." The numbers back the reputation: a 96% graduation rate, a 95.5 Hakia Score placing it 9th, and identical in-state and out-of-state tuition of $61,990 since MIT is private. That year of tuition equals about 53% of the $116,580 national median CS salary. The honest catch is access, not price or completion: the admit rate is just 5%, so most applicants, however well prepared, will not get in.

Program Strengths

96% graduation rate, 95.5 Hakia Score (ranked 9th)
Named EECS tracks: 6-3, 6-4 AI and Decision Making, 6-14 CS, Economics and Data Science
UROP/SuperUROP research plus 6-A Industrial Program
5% admit rate; flat $61,990 tuition, in-state or out

#10

Cornell University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Ithaca, NYPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 95% graduation rate

95.5

Score

$68K

Tuition/yr

95%

Grad Rate

$117K

Median Salary

Explore Associate's Degree in Computer Science

Cornell University Computer Science Program Overview

Hakia ranks Cornell University as the #10 in computer science degree program.

Cornell's CS bachelor's is the rare major you can enter through two doors: a B.S. via Cornell Engineering or a B.A. via Arts and Sciences, both sharing the same core (a practicum or project course, technical electives, and external specialization courses) and both starting first-years in CS 1110 or 1112, then CS 2110 and Multivariable Calculus. The program earns a 95.5 Hakia Score, ranking 10th, on a 95% graduation rate. The catch is the front door: Cornell admits just 9% of applicants, so those numbers ride behind odds under 1 in 10. Tuition is a flat $68,380 whether or not you live in New York, roughly $273,520 over four years, about 2.3x the $116,580 national median CS salary. This fits the student who can clear a single-digit admit rate and wants an elite name with dual-college flexibility.

Program Strengths

95% graduation rate, 95.5 Hakia Score (ranked #10)
Two paths, same major: B.S. via Engineering or B.A. via Arts and Sciences
Selective: 9% admit rate
Flat $68,380 tuition, in-state or out, roughly $273,520 over four years

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 10, Complete Program Data

#1. University of California-Los Angeles — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles's bachelor's computer science program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $12,260/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 97.2
#2. University of California-Berkeley — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley's bachelor's computer science program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $12,260/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 97.1
#3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's bachelor's computer science program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Chapel Hill, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,019/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 96.6
#4. Harvard University — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks Harvard University's bachelor's computer science program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Cambridge, MA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $56,550/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 96.4
#5. Columbia University in the City of New York — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks Columbia University in the City of New York's bachelor's computer science program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $66,722/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 96.4
#6. University of Pennsylvania — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of Pennsylvania's bachelor's computer science program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Philadelphia, PA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $60,920/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 95.8
#7. University of California-San Diego — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego's bachelor's computer science program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: La Jolla, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $12,260/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 95.5
#8. University of Chicago — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks University of Chicago's bachelor's computer science program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $67,446/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 95.5
#9. Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks Massachusetts Institute of Technology's bachelor's computer science program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Cambridge, MA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $61,990/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 95.5
#10. Cornell University — Bachelor's Computer Science
Hakia ranks Cornell University's bachelor's computer science program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Ithaca, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $68,380/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Median Salary: $116,580 | Score: 95.5

Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →

Who Should Study Computer Science?

Computer science is ideal for students who enjoy logical problem-solving, have curiosity about how technology works, and are comfortable with mathematics. You don't need prior programming experience, most programs start with introductory courses, but you should enjoy analytical thinking.

Problem solvers who enjoy breaking down complex challenges into logical steps
Math-comfortable students willing to engage with discrete math, algorithms, and some calculus
Curious builders who want to understand how software, systems, and technology work
Career-focused students seeking high-paying, in-demand jobs with strong growth
Flexible thinkers who want a degree that opens doors across many industries

CS is also excellent for career changers who want to transition to tech from other fields, as the analytical skills transfer well from backgrounds in engineering, mathematics, science, or business.

Computer Science Degree Levels Compared

CS degrees are available at multiple levels, each suited to different goals and career paths.

Computer Science Programs by Degree Level

Associate's Degree in Computer Science

2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs

Best Computer Science Programs - Bachelor's

Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide

Explore Best Computer Science Programs - Bachelor's

Best Computer Science Programs - Master's

Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement

Explore Best Computer Science Programs - Master's

Doctoral Programs in Computer Science

PhD programs for research and academic careers

Explore Doctoral Programs in Computer Science

Online Computer Science Degrees

Flexible online programs for working professionals

Explore Online Computer Science

Best Computer Science Programs - Bachelor's

A bachelor's degree in computer science is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's

🥇 #1

University of California-Los Angeles

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Los Angeles, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 93% grad rate · 352 grads/yr

$12K

Tuition/yr

93%

Grad Rate

97.2

Score

🥈 #2

University of California-Berkeley

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Berkeley, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 93% grad rate · 796 grads/yr

$12K

Tuition/yr

93%

Grad Rate

97.1

Score

🥉 #3

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Chapel Hill, NCPublic

$116,580 median salary · 91% grad rate · 334 grads/yr

$7K

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

96.6

Score

View All Bachelor's Programs →

4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 94.1, Tuition: $65,204

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 89.8, Tuition: $59,750

6. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 88.8, Tuition: $11,834

7. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 88.2, Tuition: $9,718

8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 87.5, Tuition: $14,768

9. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 87.0, Tuition: $66,640

10. University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) - Score: 85.8, Tuition: $11,834

Best Computer Science Programs - Master's

A master's degree in computer science prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Master's

🥇 #1

Columbia University in the City of New York

Master's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 96% grad rate · 403 grads/yr

$67K

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

95.3

Score

🥈 #2

University of Pennsylvania

Master's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Philadelphia, PAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 97% grad rate · 160 grads/yr

$61K

Tuition/yr

97%

Grad Rate

94.7

Score

🥉 #3

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Master's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Atlanta, GAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 94% grad rate · 170 grads/yr

$11K

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

94.4

Score

View All Master's Programs →

4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 88.1, Tuition: $65,204

5. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) - Score: 88.0, Tuition: $64,526

6. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) - Score: 86.5, Tuition: $61,731

7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 85.9, Tuition: $59,750

8. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) - Score: 85.5, Tuition: $62,260

9. University of California-Berkeley (Berkeley, CA) - Score: 82.0, Tuition: $11,834

10. University of Washington-Seattle Campus (Seattle, WA) - Score: 81.1, Tuition: $11,524

Best Computer Science Programs - Online

Online computer science programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Online

🥇 #1

Texas A&M University-College Station

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online

College Station, TXPublic

$116,580 median salary · 84% grad rate · 407 grads/yr

$9K

Tuition/yr

84%

Grad Rate

91.5

Score

🥈 #2

Oregon State University

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online

Corvallis, ORPublic

$116,580 median salary · 70% grad rate · 977 grads/yr

$12K

Tuition/yr

70%

Grad Rate

84.0

Score

🥉 #3

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Bachelor's in Computer ScienceFully online

Scottsdale, AZPublic

$116,580 median salary · 1 grads/yr

$11K

Tuition/yr

Grad Rate

81.1

Score

View All Online Programs →

4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 94.1, Tuition: $65,204

5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 92.5, Tuition: $14,768

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 89.8, Tuition: $59,750

7. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 88.8, Tuition: $11,834

8. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 88.2, Tuition: $9,718

9. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 87.0, Tuition: $66,640

10. University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) - Score: 85.8, Tuition: $11,834

Best Computer Science Programs - Associate's

An associate's degree in computer science provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Associate's

🥇 #1

De Anza College

Associate's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Cupertino, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 68% grad rate · 144 grads/yr

$1K

Tuition/yr

68%

Grad Rate

96.0

Score

🥈 #2

San Diego Miramar College

Associate's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

San Diego, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 48% grad rate · 71 grads/yr

$1K

Tuition/yr

48%

Grad Rate

93.9

Score

🥉 #3

Irvine Valley College

Associate's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Irvine, CAPublic

$116,580 median salary · 57% grad rate · 27 grads/yr

$1K

Tuition/yr

57%

Grad Rate

93.8

Score

View All Associate's Programs →

4. Green River College (Auburn, WA) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $4,074

5. Utah Valley University (Orem, UT) - Score: 53.0, Tuition: $5,614

6. CUNY New York City College of Technology (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.5, Tuition: $6,930

7. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 52.4, Tuition: $1,104

8. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 51.3, Tuition: $5,514

9. De Anza College (Cupertino, CA) - Score: 51.0, Tuition: $1,395

10. Edmonds College (Lynnwood, WA) - Score: 50.9, Tuition: $4,073

Best Computer Science Programs - Graduate

Graduate programs in computer science (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.

Best Computer Science Programs - Top 3 Graduate

🥇 #1

Columbia University in the City of New York

Master's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 96% grad rate · 403 grads/yr

$67K

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

95.3

Score

🥈 #2

University of Pennsylvania

Master's in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Philadelphia, PAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 97% grad rate · 160 grads/yr

$61K

Tuition/yr

97%

Grad Rate

94.7

Score

🥉 #3

Harvard University

Doctorate in Computer ScienceOn-campus

Cambridge, MAPrivate nonprofit

$116,580 median salary · 98% grad rate · 23 grads/yr

$57K

Tuition/yr

98%

Grad Rate

94.5

Score

View All Graduate Programs →

4. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 85.7, Tuition: $66,640

5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 83.8, Tuition: $14,768

6. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) - Score: 82.8, Tuition: $61,731

7. Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) - Score: 82.6, Tuition: $59,710

8. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 81.8, Tuition: $65,204

9. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 79.2, Tuition: $11,834

10. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 78.6, Tuition: $9,718

Most Affordable Computer Science Programs

Looking for quality computer science education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value, balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.

Top 5 Most Affordable Computer Science Programs

Rank	Program & School	Delivery	Annual Tuition	Grad Rate	Median Salary	Hakia Score
#1	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	93%	$116,580	97.2
#2	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-Berkeley Berkeley, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	93%	$116,580	97.1
#3	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC · Public	On-campus	$7,019	91%	$116,580	96.6
#4	Bachelor's in Computer Science Harvard University Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$56,550	98%	$116,580	96.4
#5	Bachelor's in Computer Science Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,722	96%	$116,580	96.4
#6	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$60,920	97%	$116,580	95.8
#7	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-San Diego La Jolla, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	86%	$116,580	95.5
#8	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Chicago Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$67,446	96%	$116,580	95.5
#9	Bachelor's in Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$61,990	96%	$116,580	95.5
#10	Bachelor's in Computer Science Cornell University Ithaca, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$68,380	95%	$116,580	95.5
#11	Bachelor's in Computer Science Duke University Durham, NC · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,325	97%	$116,580	95.5
#12	Bachelor's in Computer Science California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA · Public	On-campus	$6,084	86%	$116,580	95.4
#13	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-Irvine Irvine, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	87%	$116,580	95.4
#14	Bachelor's in Computer Science Stanford University Stanford, CA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$65,127	92%	$116,580	95.4
#15	Bachelor's in Computer Science Northwestern University Evanston, IL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$67,158	95%	$116,580	95.2
#16	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$69,904	92%	$116,580	95.1
#17	Bachelor's in Computer Science Brown University Providence, RI · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$68,612	96%	$116,580	95.1
#18	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Maryland-College Park College Park, MD · Public	On-campus	$10,087	89%	$116,580	95.0
#19	Bachelor's in Computer Science Princeton University Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$62,400	98%	$116,580	95.0
#20	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Georgia Athens, GA · Public	On-campus	$10,034	90%	$116,580	94.9
#21	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Washington-Seattle Campus Seattle, WA · Public	On-campus	$11,869	85%	$116,580	94.8
#22	Bachelor's in Computer Science Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$65,008	94%	$116,580	94.7
#23	Bachelor's in Computer Science Washington University in St Louis St. Louis, MO · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$64,500	94%	$116,580	94.6
#24	Bachelor's in Computer Science Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh, PA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$64,596	94%	$116,580	94.6
#25	Bachelor's in Computer Science North Carolina State University at Raleigh Raleigh, NC · Public	On-campus	$6,535	85%	$116,580	94.5
#26	Bachelor's in Computer Science Boston University Boston, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,670	89%	$116,580	94.4
#27	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-Davis Davis, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	86%	$116,580	94.3
#28	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL · Public	On-campus	$14,975	85%	$116,580	94.1
#29	Bachelor's in Computer Science Tufts University Medford, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$69,146	94%	$116,580	94.1
#30	Bachelor's in Computer Science Dartmouth College Hanover, NH · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,123	96%	$116,580	93.9
#31	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of California-Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA · Public	On-campus	$12,260	83%	$116,580	93.7
#32	Bachelor's in Computer Science San Diego State University San Diego, CA · Public	On-campus	$6,084	76%	$116,580	93.7
#33	Bachelor's in Computer Science Emory University Atlanta, GA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$63,400	91%	$116,580	93.6
#34	Bachelor's in Computer Science Binghamton University Vestal, NY · Public	On-campus	$7,070	82%	$116,580	93.6
#35	Bachelor's in Computer Science Georgetown University Washington, DC · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$67,896	95%	$116,580	93.4
#36	Bachelor's in Computer Science Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$69,400	91%	$116,580	93.4
#37	Bachelor's in Computer Science William & Mary Williamsburg, VA · Public	On-campus	$18,709	89%	$116,580	93.4
#38	Bachelor's in Computer Science Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN · Public	On-campus	$9,718	83%	$116,580	92.9
#39	Bachelor's in Computer Science United States Naval Academy Annapolis, MD · Public	On-campus	—	93%	$116,580	92.8
#40	Bachelor's in Computer Science Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY · Public	On-campus	$7,070	76%	$116,580	92.3
#41	Bachelor's in Computer Science Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,020	87%	$116,580	92.2
#42	Bachelor's in Computer Science Barnard College New York, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$67,602	93%	$116,580	91.9
#43	Bachelor's in Computer Science Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$63,930	88%	$116,580	91.9
#44	Bachelor's in Computer Science Villanova University Villanova, PA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,838	92%	$116,580	91.8
#45	Bachelor's in Computer Science United States Air Force Academy USAF Academy, CO · Public	On-campus	—	88%	$116,580	91.7
#46	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Miami Coral Gables, FL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$60,720	84%	$116,580	91.7
#47	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh, PA · Public	On-campus	$20,556	85%	$116,580	91.7
#48	Bachelor's in Computer Science Auburn University Auburn, AL · Public	On-campus	$11,016	82%	$116,580	91.5
#49	Bachelor's in Computer Science University of Massachusetts-Amherst Amherst, MA · Public	On-campus	$17,006	83%	$116,580	91.5
#50	Bachelor's in Computer Science Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, NC · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$66,470	89%	$116,580	91.5

Showing all 50 ranked programs.

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Computer Science Career Outcomes

Computer science graduates have access to some of the highest-paying and fastest-growing careers in the economy. The BLS projects 25% job growth for software developers through 2032, much faster than average. For detailed salary breakdowns, see our software engineer salary guide and data scientist salary guide.

$75,000

Starting Salary

$130,160

Mid-Career

+25%

Job Growth

140,000

Annual Openings

Computer Science Curriculum Overview

CS programs include core courses in programming, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, computer organization/architecture, operating systems, databases, and software engineering. Upper-level courses allow specialization in high-demand areas.

Core Programming: Python, Java, C/C++, functional programming concepts
Mathematics: Discrete math, linear algebra, probability, calculus (1-2 courses)
Theory: Algorithms, data structures, computation theory, complexity
Systems: Operating systems, networks, databases, computer architecture
Software Engineering: Development methodology, testing, version control, teamwork
Electives: AI/ML, security, graphics, HCI, distributed systems, mobile development

Most programs also require capstone projects, internships, or research experiences. For details on what you'll learn, see our CS curriculum guide and CS fundamentals you need.

Computer Science Programs by State

Best Computer Science Programs in Arizona

Total Programs: 25
Median Tuition: $11,500

Best Computer Science Programs in California

ASU, U of Arizona

Total Programs: 85
Median Tuition: $14,500

Best Computer Science Programs in Colorado

Stanford, UC Berkeley

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $13,400

Best Computer Science Programs in Connecticut

CU Boulder

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $16,800

Best Computer Science Programs in Florida

Yale, UConn

Total Programs: 52
Median Tuition: $6,400

Best Computer Science Programs in Georgia

UF, FSU

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $9,700

Best Computer Science Programs in Illinois

Georgia Tech

Total Programs: 42
Median Tuition: $15,100

Best Computer Science Programs in Indiana

UIUC

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $10,200

Best Computer Science Programs in Maryland

Purdue, IU Bloomington

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $10,900

Best Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts

UMD, Johns Hopkins

Total Programs: 45
Median Tuition: $16,400

Best Computer Science Programs in Michigan

MIT, Harvard

Total Programs: 38
Median Tuition: $15,900

Best Computer Science Programs in Minnesota

U of Michigan

Total Programs: 32
Median Tuition: $14,600

Best Computer Science Programs in Missouri

U of Minnesota

Total Programs: 32
Median Tuition: $11,300

Best Computer Science Programs in New Jersey

Wash U, Mizzou

Total Programs: 42
Median Tuition: $15,200

Best Computer Science Programs in New York

Rutgers, Princeton

Total Programs: 65
Median Tuition: $8,500

Best Computer Science Programs in North Carolina

Cornell, Columbia

Total Programs: 38
Median Tuition: $7,200

Best Computer Science Programs in Ohio

Duke, UNC, NC State

Total Programs: 45
Median Tuition: $10,800

Best Computer Science Programs in Oregon

OSU, Case Western

Total Programs: 25
Median Tuition: $12,400

Oregon State, U of Oregon

Best Computer Science Programs in Pennsylvania

Total Programs: 48
Median Tuition: $19,200

Best Computer Science Programs in Tennessee

CMU, Penn State

Total Programs: 30
Median Tuition: $9,800

Best Computer Science Programs in Texas

Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville

Total Programs: 72
Median Tuition: $11,800

Best Computer Science Programs in Utah

UT Austin, Texas A&M

Total Programs: 22
Median Tuition: $8,900

Best Computer Science Programs in Virginia

U of Utah, BYU

Total Programs: 32
Median Tuition: $14,200

Best Computer Science Programs in Washington

UVA, Virginia Tech

Total Programs: 38
Median Tuition: $12,100

Best Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin

UW Seattle

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $10,700