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Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, COPrivate nonprofit
$27,631
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
83.1
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
University of Colorado Boulder leads with an 87% grad rate at $13,910/yr in-state, anchoring the Denver-Boulder tech corridor
CU Boulder's CS department benefits from direct recruiting by Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, all of which have major Denver-area offices
Denver metro CS salaries reach $133,584, the state median is $121,440, well above the national average
Boulder ($127,512) and Colorado Springs ($121,440) also post strong salaries, with a cost of living lower than Bay Area or NYC
Colorado School of Mines offers a STEM-focused CS degree at $18,390/yr with a 79% grad rate and CAE-CDE designation
Mines' engineering-heavy curriculum is well-suited for students targeting defense, aerospace, and energy tech roles along the Front Range
Front Range Community College and 7 other CC programs offer CS associate's degrees starting at $2,928/yr
Arapahoe Community College stands out with a 78% grad rate; Aims Community College in Greeley is the cheapest option at $2,928/yr
Top employers: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, Arrow Electronics
Colorado's mix of big tech offices, defense contractors, and aerospace firms creates diverse CS career paths across the Front Range
Hakia Research 2026
Updated June 27, 2026
How we ranked Colorado Computer Science programs
We rank 36 accredited computer science programs in Colorado 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 Colorado Worth It?
Answer
$121,440
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Colorado deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $121,440 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $15,314/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Colorado
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Colorado by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Colorado
5
Programs ranked
$8,773
Avg tuition/yr
36%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado offers 8 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Front Range Community Col..., Arapahoe Community College, Pikes Peak State College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Colorado offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,790/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $66,792 in Colorado.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Colorado's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in Colorado, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Colorado.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Colorado
8
Programs ranked
$20,919
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 14 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 9 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Colorado Boulder, Colorado Technical Univer..., Colorado School of Mines, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Colorado computer science programs earn a median salary of $103,224, 5% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,128 to $67,458 annually, with an average of $22,405/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 89%, with the highest reaching 95%. 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 Colorado's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Colorado, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$18,930
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
89.7
Hakia Score
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$13,510
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
85.3
Hakia Score
Show all 8 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | Private for-profit | $12,090 | 19% | 69.5 |
| #7 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | Public | $9,022 | 47% | 65.3 |
| #8 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | Public | $9,135 | 32% | 61.4 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Colorado
5
Programs ranked
$22,720
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado 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, Colorado Technical Univer..., U of Colorado Boulder, U of Colorado Denver/Ansc..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Colorado earn a median salary of $121,440, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, 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 $21,569/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 Colorado's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$18,930
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
83.4
Hakia Score
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$13,510
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
81.8
Hakia Score
#4
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, COPrivate for-profit
Virtual Campus Tour | CTU$12,090
Tuition/yr
19%
Grad rate
66.2
Hakia Score
#5
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, COPublic
$9,022
Tuition/yr
47%
Grad rate
59.9
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Colorado
3
Programs ranked
$14,843
Avg tuition/yr
58%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Colorado is home to 6 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State University..., U of Colorado Denver/Ansc... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Colorado PhD holders earning a median of $151,800, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, 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 Colorado programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Colorado, 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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Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, COPrivate for-profit
$12,090
Tuition/yr
19%
Grad rate
75.0
Hakia Score
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Colorado
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $15,314/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $38,285/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,829/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $91,884 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $22,970 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Colorado
State Aid Programs
The College Opportunity Fund (COF) is Colorado's signature state financial aid program, providing a stipend that pays a portion of in-state tuition for eligible undergraduate students at participating public and private institutions (CDHE COF). For the 2025-2026 academic year, the COF stipend is $116 per credit hour. For students taking 15 credits per semester, COF contributes $1,740/semester or $3,480/year toward tuition costs. To receive this funding, students must create a COF account, authorize their institution to invoice COF on their behalf, and maintain eligibility. Each student is allotted a lifetime maximum of 145 undergraduate credit hours through COF.
Key Programs & Amounts
Additional Colorado state aid programs:
- Colorado Student Grant: Need-based grant for Colorado residents with demonstrated financial need, amounts vary by institution
- Colorado Graduate Grant: For graduate students attending Colorado institutions
- Colorado Matching Student Scholarship Program: The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative releases up to $6.5 million in matching funds, generating $13 million total in new scholarship support. Recipients must match state awards 1:1 and demonstrate financial need (Pell-eligible)
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2025-26 (apply via FAFSA at studentaid.gov)
- Federal student loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options for remaining costs after grants Combining state and federal aid can significantly reduce net costs, particularly for low-income students (studentaid.gov, CDHE Financial Aid).
Institutional Scholarships
Institutional scholarships provide substantial additional support. CU Boulder's Engineering Excellence Fund, CSU's Computer Science scholarships, and department-specific awards target high-achieving CS students. Professional organizations including ACM and IEEE offer computing-specific scholarships. Tech companies with Colorado presence. Google, Lockheed Martin, Oracle, fund scholarships at partner universities. Key deadlines: FAFSA opens October 1 annually. For Spring 2026 semester students at CSU, FAFSA must be submitted by January 2, 2026 for institutional grant eligibility. Transfer students applying for Fall 2025 should apply by February 1 for priority scholarship consideration at CSU (CSU Transfer Scholarships). Students must maintain 3.0 GPA and Satisfactory Academic Progress for continued scholarship eligibility.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Colorado
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Colorado. 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
+854%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,580,373
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
$122,727
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)$2,615,781
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 (Denver, CO)$135,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.7%
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 Colorado metro areas
Denver$134K
Boulder$128K
Colorado Springs$121K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Denver | $134K |
| Boulder | $128K |
| Colorado Springs | $121K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Colorado
Find computer science jobs in Colorado. These major employers across Colorado metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Denver/Boulder
CODenver/Boulder is a growing tech hub with aerospace heritage, outdoor lifestyle appeal, and a thriving startup ecosystem.
Nearby cities: Boulder, Westminster, Broomfield, Englewood, Littleton
Google
Search/Cloud/AI
Amazon
E-commerce/Cloud
Microsoft
Enterprise Software
Meta
Social/VR/AI
Apple
Consumer Electronics
Oracle
Enterprise Software
Lockheed Martin
Defense/Aerospace
Ball Aerospace
Aerospace
Arrow Electronics
Electronics Distribution
DISH Network
Telecommunications
Palantir
Data Analytics
Guild Education
EdTech
Ibotta
Fintech/Rewards
SendGrid (Twilio)
Communications API
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Colorado
State Transfer System
Colorado's gtPathways system provides guaranteed transfer of general education courses between participating public institutions (CDHE gtPathways). GT Pathways courses in which students earn a C- or higher will always transfer and apply to GT Pathways requirements in AA, AS, and most bachelor's degrees at every public Colorado college and university. However, there's an important caveat: gtPathways doesn't apply to some degrees including many engineering, computer science, nursing, and specialized programs. Students should always seek advising from the intended transfer institution to ensure proper course selection for CS programs specifically.
How Transfers Work
Strategic considerations for CS transfer students:
- Colorado School of Mines exception: As of Fall 2024, Mines was removed from the state transfer articulation agreement. Transfer students to Mines should use the Associate of Engineering Science pathway rather than standard gtPathways
- CU Boulder requirements: The College of Engineering has specific prerequisite sequences. Complete calculus through differential equations, physics with calculus, and core CS courses (data structures, discrete math) at community college
- Verify equivalencies early: Use the Colorado statewide transfer tools and contact your target university's engineering advising office before completing coursework
- Maintain high GPA: CU Boulder engineering transfers need 3.5+ GPA for competitive admission. 3.0+ minimum for consideration
Transfer Planning Tips
Community college options across Colorado provide affordable pathways to bachelor's degrees. Front Range Community College, Community College of Denver, Arapahoe Community College, and Pikes Peak Community College all offer AS degrees designed for CS transfer. The Associate of Science in Computer Science Transfer at Arapahoe Community College, for example, is specifically designed for CU Boulder transfer students (Arapahoe CC CS Transfer). Students completing two years at community college save $15,000-$25,000 compared to starting at a four-year university while maintaining clear transfer pathways. Colorado's community colleges have open admission policies, making CS education accessible regardless of high school preparation, developmental math sequences can build foundations before core coursework.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Colorado?
Industry & Workforce
Colorado ranks among the top states for tech workforce concentration, with the highest percentage of senior tech talent (46.15%) of any state in the nation (CompTIA State of Tech Workforce 2025). This signals a well-established tech ecosystem with ample opportunities for experienced professionals and clear career progression paths for graduates. The state's tech workforce of 129,040 workers grew by 12.6% from 2018-2023, adding 14,420 net new jobs. Denver moved up to #8 among top North American tech markets in CBRE's 2025 Scoring Tech Talent report, while Boulder maintains one of the highest startup-per-capita rates nationally (CBRE Tech Talent 2025).
Salary Outlook
The salary landscape is compelling.
Colorado software developers earn a median salary of approximately $120,000-$130,000 annually, with Boulder tech roles averaging even higher at $131,150-$135,000 (Levels.fyi, Glassdoor). The national median for software developers is $133,080 (BLS OEWS May 2024). Entry-level positions in Denver start around $99,067 (25th percentile), with top earners reaching $176,189 (90th percentile). AI/ML roles in Boulder command $151,000-$226,000 annually at companies like Google and The Aerospace Corporation. Colorado's relatively lower cost of living compared to California means your take-home purchasing power often exceeds coastal markets.
Regional Tech Hubs
Colorado's tech corridor spans from Denver to Boulder with distinct specializations.
The Denver-Boulder corridor hosts over 60 Big Tech companies from Silicon Valley including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, and Apple (Built In Colorado). Boulder has attracted over $17 billion in VC funding over the past five years, creating a thriving startup ecosystem. The aerospace and defense sector is particularly strong, Lockheed Martin employs 14,000+ workers across Denver, Boulder, Littleton, and Colorado Springs, driving innovation in satellite technology, missile defense, cybersecurity, and AI autonomy (Lockheed Martin Colorado). Colorado Springs anchors the defense and space sector with NORAD, Peterson Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Compare programs in California, Texas, or explore our national rankings.
Computer Science Job Growth in Colorado
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer science occupations in Colorado through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $121,440 with 22 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Colorado
Employment Outlook
Colorado's tech job market continues strong growth.
The state's tech talent workforce grew by 12.6% from 2018-2023, adding 14,420 net new jobs to reach 129,040 tech workers (CBRE Scoring Tech Talent 2025). The BLS projects 15% growth for software developers nationally from 2024-2034, with Colorado expected to match or exceed this rate given its concentration in high-growth sectors like AI, aerospace, and cloud computing (BLS Occupational Outlook). Colorado Springs experienced a 16% increase in tech job postings in recent months, driven by the city's strong military and space force presence (CompTIA State of Tech 2025).
Salaries by Metro
Metro salaries reflect distinct industry concentrations:
- Denver: $120,076 average salary ($58/hour), with the typical range between $99,067 (25th percentile) and $147,260 (75th percentile). Top earners exceed $176,189. The financial services sector pays highest at $128,666 median, followed by consulting at $116,900 (Glassdoor Denver).
- Boulder: $131,150-$135,000 median salary with startup equity potentially adding significant upside. Machine Learning Engineers at Google earn $120,000-$180,000. Cloud Solutions Architects at AWS command $130,000-$180,000. Boulder hosts Google, Twitter (now X), Qualcomm, and NetApp offices (Built In Boulder).
- Colorado Springs: $105,000 median salary with strong defense sector presence. Northrop Grumman pays $129,300-$213,400 for senior roles. Clearance-required positions offer exceptional job security (Lockheed Martin Colorado Springs).
High-Growth Sectors
High-growth sectors shaping Colorado's tech future include: aerospace and defense technology (Lockheed Martin's satellite systems, Blue Origin's expanding presence, Sierra Space), artificial intelligence and machine learning (Boulder's AI ecosystem with Google and startups), cloud computing infrastructure (AWS, Oracle's Denver investments), and cybersecurity (defense contractors and commercial firms). The Terra Boulder project, a 207,000-square-foot tech and life sciences hub, opens in 2026, signaling continued investment in the region's tech infrastructure. Colorado offers a unique advantage for those seeking aerospace careers: the Denver-Boulder area is a national center for both commercial and government space operations (CNBC Aerospace). For related paths, explore AI degree programs, cybersecurity rankings, or data science programs.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Colorado$78,936$176,088
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Colorado
Online Programs
0 available in Colorado
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$13,783/yr$15,314/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 Utah
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Wyoming
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $4,100
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $5,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New Mexico
- Total Programs
- 19
- Median Tuition
- $4,900
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
Computer Science Degree Programs in Colorado: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Colorado?
The best computer science degree programs in Colorado based on our methodology are: 1) University of Colorado Boulder (87% graduation rate), 2) Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs, and 3) Colorado School of Mines. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Colorado offers 22 total accredited programs across 17 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 14 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Colorado?
Computer Science degree program costs in Colorado vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $15,314/year, while private institutions average $33,691/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,829/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $61,256 at public schools to $134,763 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 Colorado?
Computer Science professionals in Colorado earn a median salary of $121,440, which is 5% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $78,936, while senior roles exceed $176,088. Salaries vary by metro area: Denver ($133,584), Boulder ($127,512) 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 Colorado?
Yes, Colorado offers 0 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 various state universities. 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 Colorado?
Major Computer Science employers in Colorado include Arrow Electronics, IHS Markit, Lockheed Martin, Ping Identity, Guild Education. The Denver and Boulder metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Colorado universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Colorado's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Colorado?
A computer science degree program in Colorado offers strong ROI with a $121,440 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $15,314/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($137,227), 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 Colorado?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Colorado 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. Colorado community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Colorado university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Colorado?
Colorado 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. Colorado 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 Colorado'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
Colorado 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.