Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Indiana 2025
Purdue University-Main Campus
560 computer science graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
University of Notre Dame
162 computer science graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Indiana University-Bloomington
242 computer science graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
- 1.Indiana offers 33+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Purdue University-Main Campus leads with 83% graduation rate
- 3.Indiana software developers earn median $103,570 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- 5.Cost of living index: 91.5% of US average (below average)
Computer Science Education in Indiana: Overview
Indiana offers 33 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 1,714 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne, with major employers including Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.
With a median software developer salary of $103,570 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 91.5% compared to the US average, Indiana offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Purdue University-Main Campus, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomington, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Indiana-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Indiana Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | 83.9 |
| 2 | University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $62,186 | 99% | 79.1 |
| 3 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | Public | $10,312 | 84% | 65.3 |
| 4 | Purdue University Global | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $10,080 | — | 56.1 |
| 5 | Purdue University Northwest | Hammond, IN | Public | $7,259 | 92% | 50.7 |
| 6 | Indiana University-Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $9,241 | — | 47.6 |
| 7 | Butler University | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $44,990 | 92% | 47 |
| 8 | Trine University | Angola, IN | Private | $35,000 | 89% | 46.7 |
| 9 | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Terre Haute, IN | Private | $52,998 | — | 46.4 |
| 10 | DePauw University | Greencastle, IN | Private | $56,030 | — | 45.9 |
| 11 | Taylor University | Upland, IN | Private | $38,140 | 80% | 45.9 |
| 12 | Ball State University | Muncie, IN | Public | $8,688 | — | 45.3 |
| 13 | Huntington University | Huntington, IN | Private | $29,030 | 88% | 44.9 |
| 14 | University of Evansville | Evansville, IN | Private | $41,400 | 96% | 44.6 |
| 15 | Purdue University Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, IN | Public | $8,049 | — | 43.7 |
| 16 | Anderson University | Anderson, IN | Private | $34,590 | — | 40.3 |
| 17 | Wabash College | Crawfordsville, IN | Private | $48,200 | — | 39 |
| 18 | Indiana Institute of Technology | Fort Wayne, IN | Private | $29,936 | — | 38.6 |
| 19 | University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | Public | $8,751 | — | 37.7 |
| 20 | University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $34,416 | — | 37.4 |
| 21 | Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | Saint Mary of the Woods, IN | Private | $31,990 | 64% | 37 |
| 22 | Indiana University-Southeast | New Albany, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 36.9 |
| 23 | Earlham College | Richmond, IN | Private | $50,970 | — | 35.5 |
| 24 | Indiana State University | Terre Haute, IN | Public | $9,712 | — | 34.9 |
| 25 | Indiana University-South Bend | South Bend, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 34.6 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Indiana: Side-by-Side
| School | Purdue | Notre Dame | IU Bloomington | Purdue University Global | Purdue University Northwest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,718 | $62,186 | $10,312 | $10,080 | $7,259 |
| Graduation Rate | 83% | 99% | 84% | N/A% | 92% |
| Annual Graduates | 560 | 162 | 242 | 128 | 28 |
| Acceptance Rate | 50% | 12% | 80% | N/A | 71% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 83.9/100 | 79.1/100 | 65.3/100 | 56.1/100 | 50.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Indiana
Indiana offers 32 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Purdue University-Main Campus, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomington. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,499 in the Indiana 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 Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 560 | 83.9 |
| #2 Notre Dame | $62,186 | 99% | 162 | 79.1 |
| #3 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 184 | 62.2 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Indiana
For graduate study, Indiana offers 8 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Indiana University-Bloomington, Purdue University-Main Campus, Purdue University Global. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Indiana reaching $134,641 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 242 | 65.3 |
| #2 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 123 | 73.4 |
| #3 Purdue University Global | $10,080 | N/A% | 128 | 56.1 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Indiana
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Indiana are at Purdue University Northwest ($7,259/year), Indiana University-Southeast ($7,492/year), Indiana University-South Bend ($7,492/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Indiana's competitive tech salaries.
At Purdue University Northwest, a 4-year degree costs approximately $29,036 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,499, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.8 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Indiana (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | $29,036 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #2 Indiana University-Southeast | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #3 Indiana University-South... | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Indiana
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Indiana, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,718 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 560 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 83.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 560 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (560 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Purdue Computer Science is one of the country's top-ranked programs where faculty members are shaping the future of information technology through cutting-edge research. The flexible curriculum offers students courses in graphics and animation, robotics, cryptography, AI, and bioinformatics, with multiple track options for specialization.
Admission Prerequisites
- •differential equations
- •linear and matrix algebra
- •numerical methods
- •data structures
- •computer architecture
- •compilers
- •analysis of algorithms
- •operating systems
- •distributed systems
- •networks
- •programming languages
Admissions
- Min GPA: above 3.5/4.0
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,186 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 162 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 79.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 162 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 79.1 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (162 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame's Computer Science program offers a comprehensive 127-credit curriculum with strong foundations in theory and systems, housed within the College of Engineering. The program has very limited transfer availability, indicating its selectivity and demand among students.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus
- •Physics
- •Chemistry
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 127 credits
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,312 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 242 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 65.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 242 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (242 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
IU Bloomington's Computer Science program offers eight specialized tracks including AI and cybersecurity, with graduates achieving 96% employment rates and $84,064 average starting salaries. The program provides hands-on experience through internships, research opportunities, and accelerated master's options.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $84,064
- Job Placement: 96% employed or in grad school
- Top Employers: Amazon, GM, ServiceNow, Microsoft, GE, IBM, JPMorgan Chase & Co
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,080 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 128 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 56.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 128 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 56.1 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (128 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Information Technology program provides technical knowledge and communication skills relevant to the modern workplace, with leading-edge technologies needed to design information systems and apply technical competencies to solve business problems. Available in ExcelTrack accelerated format with Google professional certificate options.
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years Math
- •4 years English
- •3 years Lab science
- •3 years Social studies
- •2 years World language
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 180 quarter credit hours
Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,259 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 28 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 71%
- • Ranking Score: 50.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 28 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (28 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (71% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
PNW's Computer Science program offers small class sizes with strong faculty-student connections and hands-on learning opportunities. The AI concentration provides cutting-edge curriculum combining machine learning, data science, and computational intelligence with faculty-supervised projects.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon, Ford Motor Company, Deloitte
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (91.5% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Salesforce or Angie
- You prefer Indiana's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Indiana's 33)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Indiana
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Explore machine learning programs in Indiana
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Explore cybersecurity programs in Indiana
Explore information security programs in Indiana
Explore software engineering programs in Indiana
Explore computer engineering programs in Indiana
Explore information technology programs in Indiana
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Science in Indiana FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Indiana salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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.