Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Arizona 2025
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
844 Computer Science graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
University of Arizona
335 Computer Science graduates annually, 68% graduation rate
Northern Arizona University
70 Computer Science graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
- 1.Arizona has 20+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across public universities and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Arizona State University leads with the largest CS enrollment in the state and within 6 months of graduation
- 3.In-state tuition averages $12,600 annually for public universities—significantly below national averages
- 4.Arizona software developers earn median $108,540 annually, with Phoenix metropolitan area offering highest salaries (BLS Arizona 2024)
- 5.Growing tech sector includes major employers like Intel, Honeywell, GoDaddy, and expanding presence from California companies
Computer Science Education in Arizona
Arizona's computer science education landscape centers around three major public research universities, each offering distinct advantages for aspiring software engineers and tech professionals. The state's growing technology sector, anchored by Phoenix and Tucson, provides excellent internship and career opportunities for CS graduates.
Arizona State University dominates with the largest enrollment and most comprehensive program offerings, including highly-ranked online options. The University of Arizona brings research strength, particularly in cybersecurity and space technology, while Northern Arizona University offers a more intimate learning environment with strong faculty mentorship.
For national context, review our best computer science bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering affordability should explore our most affordable CS programs guide, while career-focused individuals can review software engineer salary trends for Arizona-specific compensation data.
Arizona Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University Campus Immersion | Tempe, AZ | Public | $11,308 | 81% | — | 75.2 |
| 2 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | Public | $11,546 | 68% | — | 59.3 |
| 3 | Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ | Public | $11,015 | 98% | — | 50.9 |
| 4 | American InterContinental University System | Chandler, AZ | For-Profit | $11,650 | — | — | 44.3 |
| 5 | University of Phoenix-Arizona | Phoenix, AZ | For-Profit | $9,552 | — | — | 41.9 |
| 6 | Arizona State University Digital Immersion | Scottsdale, AZ | Public | $11,308 | — | — | 41.6 |
| 7 | Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | For-Profit | $16,390 | 34% | — | 39.6 |
| 8 | University of Advancing Technology | Tempe, AZ | For-Profit | $18,462 | 74% | — | 38.1 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Arizona: Side-by-Side
| School | Arizona State University... | Arizona State University... | U of Arizona | Northern Arizona | American InterContinental... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,308 | $11,308 | $11,546 | $11,015 | $11,650 |
| Graduation Rate | 81% | N/A% | 68% | 98% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 844 | 362 | 335 | 79 | 36 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90% | 64% | 86% | 91% | N/A |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | For-Profit |
| Score | 75.2/100 | 60.0/100 | 59.3/100 | 54.1/100 | 44.3/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Arizona
Arizona offers 8 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Arizona State University Campus Immersion, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $74,151 in the Arizona market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 844 | 75.2 |
| #2 U of Arizona | $11,546 | 68% | 335 | 59.3 |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | 98% | 70 | 53.5 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Arizona
For graduate study, Arizona offers 6 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Arizona State University Digital Immersion, Northern Arizona University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Arizona reaching $137,709 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 742 | 75.2 |
| #2 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | N/A% | 362 | 60.0 |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | 98% | 79 | 54.1 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Arizona
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Arizona are at University of Phoenix-Arizona ($9,552/year), Northern Arizona University ($11,015/year), Arizona State University Campus Immersion ($11,308/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Arizona's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Phoenix-Arizona, a 4-year degree costs approximately $38,208 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $74,151, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Arizona (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Phoenix-Arizona | $9,552 | $38,208 | 1 years | For-Profit |
| #2 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | $44,060 | 1.1 years | Public |
| #3 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | $45,232 | 1.2 years | Public |
Arizona University System Overview
Arizona's public higher education is organized under the Arizona Board of Regents system, which governs the three major research universities offering computer science programs. This system ensures consistent quality standards while allowing each institution to develop unique strengths and specializations.
The Arizona State University system is the largest, with multiple campuses but computer science primarily concentrated in Tempe. ASU has invested heavily in online education infrastructure, making it a leader in remote CS education delivery. Students benefit from the scale advantages of a large research university while accessing innovative learning technologies.
The University of Arizona focuses on research excellence and graduate education, providing strong undergraduate research opportunities. Northern Arizona University serves students seeking a smaller, more personalized educational experience without sacrificing program quality.
Community colleges throughout Arizona offer associate degrees and transfer pathways into four-year CS programs. The Maricopa Community College District, serving the Phoenix metropolitan area, provides the strongest computer science transfer programs with guaranteed admission agreements to state universities.
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 844 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 90%
- • Ranking Score: 75.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 844 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 75.2 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (844 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (90% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
ASU's Computer Science program is accredited by ABET and offers STEM-OPT extension eligibility for international students, with accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree options allowing completion in as little as five years. The program provides flexible electives and multiple specialization tracks including cybersecurity, AI, and software engineering.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years math
- •4 years English
- •3 years lab sciences
- •2 years social sciences
- •2 years same second language
- •1 year fine arts or career and technical education
- •MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 362 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 64%
- • Ranking Score: 60.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 362 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 60.0 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (362 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (64% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
ASU's Computer Science program is ABET-accredited and offers STEM-OPT extension eligibility, with flexible electives enabling specialization in AI, cybersecurity, or software engineering. The program provides both on-campus and online options with accelerated bachelor's plus master's pathways available in as little as five years.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years math
- •4 years English
- •3 years lab sciences (1 year each from biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences or physics)
- •2 years social sciences (including 1 year American history)
- •2 years same second language
- •1 year fine arts or 1 year career and technical education
- •MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,546 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 68% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 335 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 59.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 68% graduation rate
- 335 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 59.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (68%), program size (335 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (86% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Arizona Computer Science program offers diverse research specializations from AI to security, an accelerated master's program option, and strong career support through comprehensive services including LifeLab and dedicated career advising.
Admission Prerequisites
- •calculus
- •discrete mathematics
- •machine architecture
- •programming languages
- •data structures
- •algorithm analysis
- •theory of computation
- •software systems including compilers and operating systems
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2 for MS applicants, 3.5 for PhD applicants
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 74% knowledge rate for Class of 2024
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,015 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 79 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 54.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 79 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 54.1 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (79 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
NAU's Computer Science MS program offers flexible thesis and non-thesis options with research opportunities spanning multiple disciplines including biology, ecology, and astronomy. The program benefits from collaborations with prestigious research centers and provides affordable graduate education through various financial aid options including the Western Regional Graduate Program.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 units
Available Specializations / Concentrations
American InterContinental University System
Chandler, AZ • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,650 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 36 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 44.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 36 computer science graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 44.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (36 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build applications for Arizona's growing tech sector, including companies like GoDaddy, Infusionsoft, and numerous startups in Phoenix and Tucson.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets for healthcare, aerospace, and technology companies throughout Arizona's research corridor.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect digital assets for government contractors, healthcare systems, and financial institutions in Arizona's security-conscious economy.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment systems for Arizona's growing SaaS and tech companies.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-2051Develop artificial intelligence systems for aerospace, autonomous vehicles, and emerging tech applications across Arizona's innovation ecosystem.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Arizona
Computer Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Arizona
Which Should You Choose?
- Affordable in-state tuition at high-quality public universities
- Growing tech job market with major companies like Intel and GoDaddy
- Year-round sunshine and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to California or Seattle tech hubs
- Strong industry partnerships and internship opportunities
- Access to innovative online degree options at ASU
- Access to top-tier private universities (limited options in Arizona)
- Established tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley or Austin
- Extensive public transportation (most Arizona jobs require cars)
- Cooler climate preferences (summers are extremely hot)
- Large number of Fortune 500 tech companies headquartered locally
Arizona Computer Science Programs FAQ
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Arizona Tech Programs and Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
Arizona-specific salary data for computer occupations
Official data on public university programs and policies
Starting salary data for recent computer science graduates
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.