🥇
$11,016
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
91.5
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Huntsville's defense and aerospace corridor makes Alabama a standout for CS graduates, with metro salaries reaching $108,372
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, Boeing, and SAIC anchor a Huntsville tech ecosystem that rivals much larger metros
Auburn University leads the state with an 81% graduation rate and $10,704/yr in-state tuition
Holds both CAE-CDE and CAE-R cybersecurity designations, with direct recruiting pipelines to Huntsville defense employers
The University of Alabama reports a 90% CS graduation rate at $11,100/yr in-state
One of the highest grad rates in the state, with a CAE-R research designation and proximity to Birmingham's fintech sector
Alabama community colleges offer CS associate's degrees starting at $3,048/yr with 22 programs statewide
John C Calhoun State Community College and Gadsden State Community College provide the cheapest entry points, all under $3,810/yr
Top employers span three distinct metro hubs: Huntsville (defense), Birmingham (finance/tech), and Mobile (aerospace)
Regions Financial, Shipt, and Airbus complement the defense-heavy Huntsville market with private-sector CS demand
Hakia Research 2026
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Alabama Computer Science programs
We rank 54 accredited computer science programs in Alabama 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Science Degree Programs in Alabama Worth It?
Answer
$98,520
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Alabama deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $98,520 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $8,823/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Alabama
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Alabama by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Alabama
11
Programs ranked
$14,508
Avg tuition/yr
49%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 20 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 13 public and 7 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Auburn, U of Alabama, U of South Alabama, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Alabama computer science programs earn a median salary of $83,742, 15% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,530 to $37,144 annually, with an average of $14,137/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 81%, with the highest reaching 99%. 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 Alabama's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Alabama, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALPublic
$10,374
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
82.8
Hakia Score
#5
$8,976
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
73.4
Hakia Score
Show all 11 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Oakwood University | Huntsville, AL | Private nonprofit | $21,344 | 45% | 71.4 |
| #7 | Faulkner University | Montgomery, AL | Private nonprofit | $21,930 | 37% | 66.5 |
| #8 | Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | Private nonprofit | $23,504 | 52% | 65.3 |
| #9 | Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | Public | $8,832 | 33% | 63.0 |
| #10 | Talladega College | Talladega, AL | Private nonprofit | $12,130 | 31% | 59.5 |
| #11 | Alabama State University | Montgomery, AL | Public | $8,328 | 30% | 56.4 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Alabama
3
Programs ranked
$9,394
Avg tuition/yr
50%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama offers 8 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Auburn University at Mont..., U of Alabama at Birmingham, U of South Alabama, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin 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 $9,536/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 Alabama's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALPublic
$10,374
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
77.3
Hakia Score
🥈
$8,976
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
68.1
Hakia Score
🥉
$8,832
Tuition/yr
33%
Grad rate
60.7
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Alabama
1
Programs ranked
$10,374
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Alabama is home to 4 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Alabama, U of South Alabama, U of Alabama in Huntsville are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Alabama PhD holders earning a median of $123,150, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
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 Alabama programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Alabama, 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.
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University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALPublic
$10,374
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
67.7
Hakia Score
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Alabama
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $8,823/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $22,058/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,206/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $52,940 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $13,234 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Alabama
State Aid Programs
Alabama residents pursuing Computer Science degrees have access to several state and federal financial aid programs designed to make higher education more affordable. The Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based grants exclusively for Alabama residents attending in-state institutions, offering critical support for both undergraduate and graduate students. Additionally, all students, regardless of state residency, can access federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities. The Federal Student Aid website provides comprehensive information about filing deadlines, loan repayment options, and eligibility requirements.
Key Programs & Amounts
Many Alabama institutions also offer merit-based scholarships and institutional aid packages to attract high-performing Computer Science students. Auburn University, the state's top-ranked program with 222 completions annually, and the University of South Alabama frequently award scholarships based on academic achievement and test scores. Students should explore the College Scorecard to compare average aid packages across institutions and view net price calculators. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education website lists additional state-specific aid programs and can connect students with financial aid advisors who specialize in Computer Science pathways. For graduate students, many programs offer teaching and research assistantships that provide tuition waivers alongside stipends, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Alabama
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Alabama. 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 Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
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
$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
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)$2,712,662
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 (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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 Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Alabama metro areas
Huntsville$108K
Birmingham$103K
Mobile$99K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Huntsville | $108K |
| Birmingham | $103K |
| Mobile | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Alabama
Find computer science jobs in Alabama. These major employers across Alabama metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Huntsville
ALNASA Marshall Space Flight Center
government
Redstone Arsenal
defense
Dynetics
defense
SAIC
defense
Boeing
aerospace
Computer Science Jobs in Birmingham
ALRegions Financial
finance
BBVA USA
finance
Shipt
tech
Protective Life
insurance
Computer Science Jobs in Mobile
ALAirbus
aerospace
Austal USA
defense
AM/NS Calvert
manufacturing
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Alabama
State Transfer System
Alabama's Statewide Transfer and Articulation Reporting System (STARS) facilitates seamless transitions from community colleges to four-year universities for Computer Science students. STARS establishes guaranteed articulation agreements that recognize credits earned at 23 associate's degree-granting institutions for transfer into bachelor's programs at four-year universities. This system ensures that students completing Computer Science associate's degrees at colleges like John C Calhoun State Community College, H Councill Trenholm State Community College, or Jefferson State Community College can transfer their credits without loss and continue their education toward bachelor's degrees. The articulation framework reduces duplication, saves students tuition costs, and accelerates time to degree completion.
How Transfers Work
Students using transfer pathways benefit from clear curriculum frameworks aligned across institutions. Associate's degree programs emphasize foundational programming, mathematics, and computer science theory that directly transfer as credits toward bachelor's degree requirements. Top receiving institutions including Auburn University, University of South Alabama, The University of Alabama, University of Alabama in Huntsville, and University of Alabama at Birmingham have established transfer-friendly policies and dedicated advising for community college students. Additionally, the Alabama Student Assistance Program provides need-based financial aid for Alabama residents, making community college start options financially accessible. Students can research transfer agreements through STARS and consult with community college advisors to ensure course selections align with their target bachelor's degree requirements. This pathway strategy makes Computer Science in Alabama an affordable entry point for students beginning at two-year institutions before pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Alabama?
Industry & Workforce
Alabama offers a strong Computer Science education landscape with 58 institutions across the state offering programs at all degree levels (IPEDS). Students can choose from 21 bachelor's-granting institutions, 23 associate's programs, 10 master's programs, and 4 doctoral programs, providing pathways for learners at every educational stage. The state's major universities, including Auburn University with 222 completions and the University of Alabama at Birmingham with 209 completions, consistently rank among the nation's best (IPEDS). With an average public in-state tuition of $9,589 for four-year institutions, Alabama's Computer Science programs deliver exceptional value compared to national averages.
Salary Outlook
Alabama's strategic location positions graduates for careers in thriving tech hubs across multiple regions. Huntsville hosts Redstone Arsenal, a major defense and aerospace technology employer, while Birmingham-Hoover and Mobile serve as regional innovation centers. Leading companies including Mercedes-Benz, Honda Manufacturing, and UAB Health System actively recruit Computer Science graduates throughout the state. For students seeking nationally competitive programs, Auburn University ranks as the top in-state option, while University of South Alabama offers an exceptional combination of quality and affordability at $8,976 per year. Related specializations in Software Engineering in Alabama, Data Science in Alabama, and Cybersecurity in Alabama complement Computer Science preparation.
Computer Science Program Availability in Alabama
41 Programs
Alabama offers 41 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Alabama
Employment Outlook
Alabama's computer science job market is supported by a strong network of 58 institutions offering computer science programs at various levels, from associate's degrees through doctoral programs (IPEDS). The state's higher education infrastructure has produced 901 bachelor's degree completions and 372 master's degree completions in recent years, creating a steady pipeline of talent for employers across the state. Major employment hubs are concentrated in key metropolitan areas including Birmingham-Hoover, Huntsville, Mobile, and Montgomery, where tech-driven industries and government agencies maintain strong demand for computer science professionals.
Salaries by Metro
The strongest job growth for computer science professionals in Alabama is anchored by federal contracting, aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and healthcare sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Alabama's major employers in technology fields continue to expand, particularly in cities like Huntsville and Birmingham. The state's average public in-state tuition of $9,589 for four-year institutions makes Alabama an affordable pathway to enter this growing job market. Career-focused students can explore specialized programs in related fields such as Software Engineering in Alabama, Cybersecurity in Alabama, and Data Science in Alabama to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Alabama$64,038$142,854
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Alabama
Online Programs
11 available in Alabama
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$7,941/yr$8,823/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Florida
- Total Programs
- 58
- Median Tuition
- $13,600
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $16,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $8,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Alabama: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Alabama?
The best computer science degree programs in Alabama based on our methodology are: 1) Auburn University (81% graduation rate), 2) The University of Alabama, and 3) University of South Alabama. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Alabama offers 41 total accredited programs across 34 public and 7 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 20 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Alabama?
Computer Science degree program costs in Alabama vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $8,823/year, while private institutions average $19,411/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,206/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $35,292 at public schools to $77,642 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Alabama?
Computer Science professionals in Alabama earn a median salary of $98,520, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $64,038, while senior roles exceed $142,854. Salaries vary by metro area: Huntsville ($108,372), Birmingham ($103,446) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama offers 11 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Shelton State Community College and Lurleen B Wallace Community College. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Alabama?
Major Computer Science employers in Alabama include NASA Marshall, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SAIC, Dynetics. The Huntsville and Birmingham metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Alabama universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Alabama's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Alabama?
A computer science degree program in Alabama offers strong ROI with a $98,520 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $8,823/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($111,328), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in Alabama?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Alabama are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Alabama community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Alabama university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Alabama?
Alabama computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Alabama state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Alabama's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Alabama salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.