Top 3 Computer Science Programs in California 2025
University of California-Berkeley
994 Computer Science graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
University of California-Irvine
467 Computer Science graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
University of California-Los Angeles
340 Computer Science graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.California has 85+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across UC, CSU, and private universities
- 2.Stanford University ranks #1 in California with 94% graduation rate and direct Silicon Valley recruiting pipeline
- 3.UC Berkeley offers top-5 national CS education at $14,312 in-state tuition—1/4 the cost of private alternatives
- 4.California software developers earn median $145,770 annually—26% above the national median
- 5.Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, and San Diego provide 628,000+ software developer jobs—most of any state
Computer Science Education in California Overview
California offers more computer science programs than any other state, with options ranging from elite private universities to affordable public institutions. The state's unique position as home to Silicon Valley creates unparalleled opportunities for CS students, from internships at tech giants to startup environments.
Whether you're seeking the prestige of Stanford, the value of the UC system, or the career-focused education of CSU campuses, California provides pathways for every student. The state's tech ecosystem offers direct access to software engineering careers with some of the highest salaries in the nation.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national CS bachelor's rankings. If you're considering costs, our most affordable CS programs guide highlights budget-friendly options. Career-focused students should review our AI/ML engineer salary guide for California-specific compensation data.
California Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 87 |
| 3 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 85.6 |
| 4 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 84.7 |
| 5 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 84.5 |
| 6 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 83 |
| 7 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 80.7 |
| 8 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 78.4 |
| 9 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | 74.6 |
| 10 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $61,731 | — | — | 74.2 |
| 11 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | 73.5 |
| 12 | California State University-Long Beach | Long Beach, CA | Public | $5,742 | 73% | — | 71.7 |
| 13 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | Public | $11,834 | 83% | — | 71.2 |
| 14 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | Private | $60,816 | 88% | — | 70.6 |
| 15 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 69.5 |
| 16 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona, CA | Public | $5,742 | 87% | — | 68.3 |
| 17 | California State University-Northridge | Northridge, CA | Public | $5,742 | 95% | — | 66 |
| 18 | California State University-Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | Public | $5,742 | 92% | — | 65.5 |
| 19 | California State University-Monterey Bay | Seaside, CA | Public | $5,742 | 99% | — | 64.9 |
| 20 | California State University-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $5,742 | 99% | — | 63.7 |
| 21 | California State University-Fullerton | Fullerton, CA | Public | $5,742 | 65% | — | 63.2 |
| 22 | University of San Diego | San Diego, CA | Private | $55,690 | 97% | — | 62.2 |
| 23 | Pitzer College | Claremont, CA | Private | $62,392 | 96% | — | 62.1 |
| 24 | California State University-San Marcos | San Marcos, CA | Public | $5,742 | 96% | — | 61.5 |
| 25 | Chapman University | Orange, CA | Private | $62,400 | 93% | — | 60.5 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in California: Side-by-Side
| School | UC Berkeley | USC | UC Irvine | UCLA | UC San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,834 | $66,640 | $11,834 | $11,834 | $11,834 |
| Graduation Rate | 96% | 92% | 96% | 92% | 81% |
| Annual Graduates | 1731 | 1185 | 467 | 340 | 527 |
| Acceptance Rate | 12% | 10% | 26% | 9% | 25% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 100.0/100 | 94.6/100 | 80.9/100 | 80.4/100 | 78.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in California
California offers 61 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of California-Berkeley, University of California-Irvine, University of California-Los Angeles. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $102,039 in the California 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 California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UC Berkeley | $11,834 | 96% | 1731 | 100.0 |
| #2 UC Irvine | $11,834 | 96% | 467 | 80.9 |
| #3 UCLA | $11,834 | 92% | 340 | 80.4 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in California
For graduate study, California offers 40 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Southern California, University of California-San Diego, University of California-Los Angeles. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in California reaching $189,501 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 USC | $66,640 | 92% | 1185 | 94.6 |
| #2 UC San Diego | $11,834 | 81% | 527 | 78.4 |
| #3 UCLA | $11,834 | 92% | 153 | 77.3 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in California
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in California are at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($5,742/year), San Diego State University ($5,742/year), California State University-Long Beach ($5,742/year). These programs offer strong ROI given California's competitive tech salaries.
At California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,968 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $102,039, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in California (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 California Polytechnic... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 San Diego State | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #3 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 1,731 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 1,731 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (1,731 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UC Berkeley offers one of the strongest computer science research and instructional programs in the world, where regular faculty teach courses and exceptional teachers are also exceptional researchers. The program provides close proximity to Silicon Valley and the vibrant California high-tech economy, with strong industry ties that enliven the curriculum and provide research and job opportunities.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 1,185 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 94.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 1,185 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 94.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (1,185 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USC offers four distinct Computer Science degree programs including specialized tracks in games and business administration, all accredited by ABET. The program provides undergraduate research opportunities and industry partnerships while maintaining rigorous academic standards with a 2.0 GPA requirement for core courses.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •3 to 5 units of mathematics
- •one unit of science (biology, chemistry or physics)
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 128 units
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 467 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 26%
- • Ranking Score: 80.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 467 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (467 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (26% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 340 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 9%
- • Ranking Score: 80.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 340 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (340 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (9% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 527 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 78.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 527 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 78.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (527 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (25% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UCSD CSE builds strong foundations in software and hardware engineering across all major computer science fields, with five core competency pillars including communication, modeling, problem-solving, ethics, and teamwork. The program offers multiple specializations and prepares students to solve society's most important and challenging problems.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •15 yearlong high school courses with C or better
- •4 years college-preparatory English
- •2 years history
- •Mathematics (requirement cut off in source)
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms. California offers the highest software engineer salaries in the nation.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to drive business decisions. High demand in California's tech, finance, and entertainment sectors.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Build artificial intelligence and machine learning systems. California leads global AI research and development.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations to streamline software delivery. Critical role in California's fast-paced tech environment.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizations from cyber threats. Growing demand as California companies increase security investments.
California University Systems for Computer Science
California's three major university systems offer different approaches to computer science education, each with distinct advantages for students with varying goals and budgets.
The University of California (UC) system provides research-focused programs at nine campuses. UC Berkeley and UCLA rank among the top 10 nationally, while UC San Diego, UC Irvine, and UC Davis offer strong programs with excellent industry connections. UC tuition averages $14,000 annually for residents.
The California State University (CSU) system emphasizes practical, career-oriented education across 23 campuses. San Jose State, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers exceptional industry access despite lower rankings. Cal Poly SLO provides a unique learn-by-doing approach that produces highly employable graduates. CSU tuition averages $7,500 annually.
Private universities like Stanford, USC, and Santa Clara University offer small class sizes and extensive alumni networks but at significantly higher costs. For students seeking software engineering careers or data science roles, the public systems often provide better return on investment.
Community college pathways through the California Community College system allow students to complete general education requirements at low cost before transferring to four-year programs. Many successful Silicon Valley professionals started at community colleges before transferring to UC or CSU campuses.
Other Tech Degree Programs in California
Computer Science Programs in Other States
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest concentration of tech companies
- Highest software engineering salaries in the nation ($145,770+ median)
- Research opportunities at world-class institutions like Stanford and Berkeley
- Direct pathways to Silicon Valley internships and careers
- Diverse program options from elite private to affordable public universities
- Year-round networking events and tech meetups
- Venture capital connections for entrepreneurial students
- You prioritize lower cost of living (California COL is 40-60% above national average)
- You prefer smaller tech markets with less competition
- You want to avoid California's high housing costs and taxes
- You're interested in specific regional tech sectors (Austin gaming, Boston biotech)
- You qualify for better financial aid packages in other states
- You prefer cooler climates or different cultural environments
Frequently Asked Questions About California CS Programs
Based on 25 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 Computer Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official graduation rates, tuition, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
May 2024 state-specific salary data for computer occupations
Student-faculty ratios and institutional characteristics
Graduate outcome data from individual institution career centers
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.