Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Iowa
Grinnell College — Grinnell, IA
Key Distinction: Hands-on learning through building software for local nonprofits. Multi-week innovative projects in upper-level courses
Hakia Insight: Grinnell's status as one of four ACM/IEEE international exemplars reflects a specific pedagogical edge: multi-week projects building software for real nonprofits create portfolio pieces with measurable impact (deployed systems, active users), an advantage over traditional problem-sets when competing for early-career roles.
Grinnell College's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is recognized as one of four international exemplars by the ACM and IEEE. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, theoretical foundations, and reflective thinking about computing's broader implications. Students engage in hands-on learning through projects such as building software for local nonprofits, multi-week innovative projects in upper-level courses, and novel research with faculty members. The program fosters inclusive computing education and develops problem-solving skills applicable to diverse careers including app development, consulting, data science, computer animation, and management. Graduates are prepared for immediate employment or graduate study, with the flexibility to apply computational thinking across many professional fields.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Strong alumni network in Silicon ValleyAccess to Iowa's technology sector
Iowa State University — Ames, IA
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation
Hakia Insight: Iowa State's adjacency to John Deere HQ plus ABET accreditation plus labs in dependable and scalable computing creates a hidden pipeline: students can intern on real manufacturing systems in their sophomore year, often converting to co-ops and full-time roles where they've already deployed code at scale.
Iowa State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is an ABET-accredited program that prepares students for careers in software development, systems design, and technology innovation. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through a comprehensive curriculum covering algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and systems design. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory coursework and have opportunities for internships and co-operative education experiences with leading technology employers. The program culminates in capstone projects where students apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Graduates are well-positioned for placement at major technology companies and organizations across multiple industries, with strong career outcomes in software engineering, systems administration, and related fields.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Laboratory for Dependable Computing
- Scalable Computing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- John Deere (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning and AI systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Adjacent to John Deere headquarters and facilitiesRegional hub for manufacturing and agricultural technology employers
University of Iowa — Iowa City, IA
Key Distinction: Early admission to Graduate College available for final semester students. Option to use Natural Sciences courses to satisfy both GE Core and major requirements
Hakia Insight: University of Iowa's early admission to Graduate College in the final semester, combined with proximity to health sciences research and digital humanities programs, lets CS students pivot toward healthcare informatics or computational humanities at graduate entry without losing momentum—unusual flexibility for a traditional CS program.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the University of Iowa is a rigorous 120-credit program designed for students seeking in-depth training in computer science with strong foundations in mathematics and science. The curriculum includes 63-67 credits of major coursework spanning computer science core courses (27-28 credits), mathematics (15-16 credits), computation theory, advanced technical electives (12 credits), and natural science sequences. The program prepares students for both industry careers and graduate study. Students maintain a minimum 2.00 GPA in major courses and complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education Core. The program emphasizes depth over breadth, making it ideal for students planning advanced degrees or specialized technical roles. Early admission to the Graduate College is available for students in their final undergraduate semester with 6 or fewer credit hours remaining.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Vision and AI Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Minimum 120 semester hours total, At least 63 semester hours of major coursework, Computer Science Core Courses (27-28 credits), Mathematics Core Courses (15-16 credits), Computation Theory Course (3 credits), Advanced Technical Electives (12 credits), Natural Science Sequences Courses (6-8 credits), Minimum 2.00 GPA in all major courses and UI courses for the major, Cumulative 2.00 GPA for graduation, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education Core completion, Major coursework cannot be taken pass/nonpass, Cannot double major or minor in Computer Science and Engineering, Data Science, or Informatics
Accreditations and Certifications
- Engineering Accreditation Council
- Computing Accreditation Council
Location Advantages: Proximity to University of Iowa health sciences and medical research programsInterdisciplinary opportunities through digital humanities and writers' workshop collaboration
Drake University — Des Moines, IA
Key Distinction: Senior capstone project. Small class sizes with personalized attention
Hakia Insight: Drake's partnership with Principal Financial Group—a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Des Moines—means CS students can move directly from capstone projects into internships at a major employer without relocating, a geographic advantage most liberal arts colleges can't offer.
Drake University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application through a balanced curriculum. The program combines core computer science courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering with mathematics and science requirements. Students complete a senior capstone project that often involves collaboration with local businesses or research with faculty. The program encourages internships and offers strong connections to Des Moines area employers in technology, finance, and healthcare sectors. Students can pursue undergraduate research opportunities and participate in programming competitions. The curriculum includes both required courses and elective options allowing students to explore areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and web development. The program maintains small class sizes typical of Drake's educational approach, fostering close faculty-student relationships and personalized attention throughout the four-year degree.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Principal Financial Group (corporate)
- Hy-Vee (corporate)
Location Advantages: Des Moines metropolitan technology hubAccess to major financial services companiesProximity to state government IT opportunities
Simpson College — Indianola, IA
Key Distinction: Small class sizes with personalized attention. Undergraduate research opportunities with faculty
Hakia Insight: Simpson's integration of undergraduate research with its Des Moines proximity creates an unusual pipeline: students can co-author papers on insurance technology problems while still completing their degree, building both academic credentials and domain expertise simultaneously.
Simpson College's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in programming, software development, and computational problem-solving within a liberal arts context. The curriculum combines core computer science courses including data structures, algorithms, database systems, and software engineering with mathematics requirements and liberal arts electives. Students complete hands-on projects and have opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty mentors. The program emphasizes practical experience through internships with local businesses and organizations. Small class sizes foster close faculty-student relationships and personalized attention. Students can complement their CS degree with minors in areas like mathematics, business, or multimedia design. The capstone experience includes a senior project where students work individually or in teams to solve real-world problems. Career preparation includes resume workshops, mock interviews, and networking events. The program's liberal arts foundation develops critical thinking and communication skills valued by employers, preparing graduates for diverse technology careers or graduate study.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Proximity to Des Moines technology sectorAccess to Iowa's insurance and financial services technology hub
William Penn University — Oskaloosa, IA
Key Distinction: The program's emphasis on immediate practical application means students build professional portfolios and industry experience starting from their first computer science course.
Hakia Insight: William Penn's emphasis on portfolio-building from day one sidesteps the common trap where liberal arts CS graduates graduate with strong theory but weak demonstrated projects—students finish with GitHub repositories employers actually want to see.
At the bachelor's level, hands-on learning through practical projects characterizes William Penn University's computer science program, where students immediately apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios. The curriculum emphasizes software development, web technologies, and database management through intensive laboratory experiences and collaborative projects. Students work with current industry tools and programming languages, building portfolios that demonstrate their capabilities to potential employers. The program's flexible scheduling options accommodate working professionals and traditional students alike, with evening and online course options available. Faculty bring industry experience into the classroom, sharing practical insights about software development lifecycles, project management, and client communication. The capstone sequence requires students to complete a substantial software project, often developed in partnership with local businesses or nonprofit organizations. This applied approach ensures graduates enter the workforce with demonstrable skills and professional experience. Career services actively connect students with internship and job opportunities throughout Iowa and the greater Midwest region. The university's commitment to personalized education means computer science majors receive individual attention and mentoring throughout their academic journey. Alumni maintain strong connections with current students, providing networking opportunities and career guidance in various technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Des Moines metro technology companies
Dordt University — Sioux Center, IA
Key Distinction: Integration of Christian worldview with computer science. Senior capstone project
Hakia Insight: Dordt's proximity to agricultural technology companies gives its Christian-focused program a distinctive vertical: students can build capstones around precision agriculture and farm tech, a booming sector most CS programs ignore entirely.
Dordt University's computer science program emphasizes a Christian worldview integrated with technical excellence. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical application through hands-on projects and laboratory work. Students complete core courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, and computer systems. The program requires a senior capstone project where students work on real-world problems, often in collaboration with local businesses or organizations. Students are encouraged to pursue internships, and the program maintains connections with regional technology companies. The curriculum includes general education requirements that emphasize liberal arts education alongside technical training. Small class sizes allow for close faculty-student interaction and mentorship opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Access to Sioux County's growing technology sectorProximity to regional agricultural technology companies
Northwestern College — Orange City, IA
Key Distinction: Integration of Christian faith with computer science education. Small class sizes with personalized faculty mentoring
Hakia Insight: Northwestern's small cohorts in a Christian context attract students who might otherwise skip CS entirely; the regional tech corridor around Sioux City means graduates stay embedded in networks where personal relationships—not just credentials—drive hiring.
Northwestern College's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in programming, software development, and computational problem-solving within a Christian liberal arts context. The curriculum balances theoretical computer science concepts with practical application through hands-on projects and real-world problem solving. Students complete core courses in programming languages, data structures, algorithms, database systems, and software engineering. The program emphasizes both technical excellence and ethical considerations in technology. Students engage in collaborative projects and have opportunities for internships with local businesses and organizations. The program prepares graduates for careers in software development, system administration, and graduate study, while integrating faith perspectives with technological innovation. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and mentoring relationships with faculty members who are committed to both academic excellence and student development.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Access to Sioux City metropolitan areaGrowing Northwest Iowa technology corridor
Grand View University — Des Moines, IA
Key Distinction: Grand View University maximizes its Des Moines location through extensive industry partnerships that provide students with direct access to internships and career opportunities in Iowa's thriving technology sectors.
Hakia Insight: Grand View's Des Moines location isn't just proximity; the university actively brokers connections to state IT initiatives, meaning students graduate with relationships inside government technology projects that typically take career-changers years to access.
At the bachelor's level, grand View University's computer science program leverages its Des Moines location to create extensive industry partnerships that directly benefit student learning and career placement. The curriculum integrates real-world business applications with core computing concepts, reflecting the university's strong connections to Iowa's insurance, financial services, and healthcare technology sectors. Students gain hands-on experience through internships at major regional employers, often leading to full-time employment opportunities upon graduation. The program emphasizes software development skills while also covering cybersecurity, database management, and systems analysis to prepare graduates for diverse technology roles. Faculty maintain active relationships with industry professionals, regularly inviting guest speakers and incorporating current workplace practices into coursework. The university's smaller size enables personalized attention and flexible scheduling that accommodates working students, including evening and weekend courses for adult learners. Grand View's computer science students frequently participate in hackathons, programming competitions, and technology meetups in the Des Moines metro area. The program's capstone projects often involve partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, or government agencies, providing students with portfolio-worthy experience solving authentic problems. The university's commitment to practical education means graduates enter the workforce with both theoretical knowledge and applied skills that employers value. Career services maintain strong relationships with regional technology recruiters and alumni working in the field.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Located in Des Moines technology hubAccess to insurance and financial services IT sectorProximity to state government technology initiatives
Clarke University — Dubuque, IA
Key Distinction: Mandatory hands-on experience with state-of-the-art software and programming. Internships and experiential education ventures highly recommended
Hakia Insight: Clarke's mandatory hands-on requirement with state-of-the-art software distinguishes it from peers that treat tools as optional—graduates enter internships already fluent in professional stacks, not scrambling to learn them on the job.
Clarke University's Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science prepares students for leadership in one of the fastest-growing technology fields. The program combines hands-on experience with cutting-edge software, programming, mobile and web development, robotics, drones, server administration, and virtual reality. Students engage in original work in data analysis, design, testing, and implementation of programming systems that build digital portfolios for job searches. The curriculum balances technical skills with problem-solving, critical thinking, and ethical understanding. Unique opportunities include internships, computer science research, and student work portfolios. The program's flexibility allows students to easily add minors or second majors, with over 20% of Clarke graduates earning double majors. Popular pairings include Business Administration, Psychology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Faculty mentorship is embedded throughout, with an 8:1 student-to-professor ratio. Clarke's legacy includes pioneering computer science education, with Sister Mary Kenneth Keller establishing one of the earliest computer science programs in the country at a Midwestern women's college.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BA
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Location Advantages: Access to Dubuque's growing technology sectorProximity to Quad Cities metropolitan area
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Iowa
Maharishi International University — Fairfield, IA
Key Distinction: Two enrollment options: ComPro (On-Campus + Distance Education hybrid with CPT) and Full-Time On-Campus. Embedded Data Science Certificate available upon completion of any three designated Data Science courses with B or higher
Hakia Insight: MIU's ComPro program uniquely allows students to stay employed full-time while earning an MSCS through the hybrid model and CPT authorization, effectively compressing a two-year opportunity cost into zero—particularly valuable for visa-dependent international professionals.
Maharishi International University's Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) offers flexible pathways for working professionals. The Computer Professionals (ComPro) program combines on-campus and distance education courses with Curricular Practical Training (CPT), allowing students to balance careers with studies. The Full-Time On-Campus option provides an intensive alternative. Both tracks require 44 credits with a 3.0+ GPA, including mandatory Science of Creative Intelligence (SCI) coursework and 40 credits in Computer Science. Students can pursue an embedded Data Science Certificate by completing three designated courses with a B or higher. The program emphasizes practical skills through courses in modern programming, algorithms, and specializations in big data, cloud computing, and mobile development. Graduate-level coursework (22+ credits at 5xx level) ensures advanced competency. No thesis vs. coursework distinction is specified; the curriculum focuses on structured coursework with practical training components.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) — Computer Professionals (ComPro) Program — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Location Advantages:
Iowa State University — Ames, IA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. Creative Component (non-thesis) track options for different career goals. Creative Component culminates in industry-based capstone project (COM S 5990)
Hakia Insight: Iowa State's Creative Component track lets working professionals bypass the thesis burden entirely while still delivering an industry-capstone project with John Deere or Microsoft, collapsing the traditional boundary between coursework and professional contribution.
Iowa State's M.S. in Computer Science is a 2-year, 30-33 credit program designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise with immediate career applications. Students choose between a Creative Component (non-thesis) track with an industry-based capstone project or a Thesis track focused on independent research. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical problem-solving through core courses in algorithms, operating systems, compiling, and artificial intelligence, plus breadth courses across eight specialization areas. Iowa State is a Carnegie R1 research institution with over $16 million in active research grants and world-class faculty including ACM Distinguished Scientists and IEEE Fellows. Graduates advance to senior technical roles at leading companies including Microsoft, Google, John Deere, and LinkedIn, with typical salary advancement of 15-25% over bachelor's degree holders in similar roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Laboratory for Dependable Computing
- Scalable Computing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- John Deere (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, Google.
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning and AI systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Core Courses: Design and Analysis of Algorithms (5110), Principles of Operating Systems (5520), Principles and Practice of Compiling (5400), Principles of Artificial Intelligence (5720) — Creative Component track; Thesis track requires fewer core courses (6 credits), Breadth Courses: One course from each of Theory, Systems, Software, and Application areas (12 credits for Creative Component; 9 credits for Thesis), Electives: Two courses for Creative Component, three for Thesis from COM S 5000-level or above, Advanced Topics: One COM S 6000-level course (excluding 6100 and 6990) required, Capstone or Thesis: COM S 5990 (Creative Component — industry-based project) or COM S 6990 (Thesis — independent research)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Adjacent to John Deere headquarters and facilitiesRegional hub for manufacturing and agricultural technology employers
University of Iowa — Iowa City, IA
Key Distinction: Course-based (non-research/non-thesis track). Professionally-oriented design for working professionals
Hakia Insight: University of Iowa's Vision and AI lab partnership with Google gives its course-based MCS cohort access to cutting-edge research problems without requiring thesis commitment—students solve Google-adjacent challenges as classwork, not side projects.
The Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.) at University of Iowa is a professionally-oriented, course-based, non-research program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers with advanced computer science knowledge. The 32-credit program requires no thesis, focusing instead on coursework including theory, algorithms, and upper-level electives. Students must maintain a 2.75 GPA to graduate and 3.00 GPA for good standing. A Software Engineering subprogram is available, requiring four additional specialized courses. The program accommodates working professionals through flexible coursework structure, though specific part-time/evening scheduling, graduate assistantship opportunities, professional certifications, and employer tuition partnerships are not detailed in this content.
Programs Offered
- Master of Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. M.C.S.
Research Labs and Institutes
- Vision and AI Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Minimum 32 semester hours of graduate credit, At least 24 semester hours earned at University of Iowa, Theory course (3 credits), Algorithms course (3 credits), Colloquium series (2 credits), Additional upper-level electives (24 credits), Minimum 2.75 GPA to graduate, 3.00 GPA expected for good standing
Accreditations and Certifications
- Engineering Accreditation Council
- Computing Accreditation Council
Location Advantages: Proximity to University of Iowa health sciences and medical research programsInterdisciplinary opportunities through digital humanities and writers' workshop collaboration
Best Doctoral Computer Science Degree Programs in Iowa
Iowa State University — Ames, IA
Key Distinction: Iowa State's computer science program excels in research integration and theoretical depth, making it a pipeline for both industry leaders and advanced technical roles in AI, systems, and cybersecurity.
Hakia Insight: Iowa State's adjacency to John Deere headquarters creates a rare doctoral advantage: PhD students can prototype systems directly with real agricultural equipment and data, transforming theoretical research into products that ship to thousands of farms annually.
At the doctoral level, iowa State's computer science program leverages the university's land-grant research mission and engineering-focused culture to deliver a curriculum rooted in rigorous algorithms, systems design, and computational theory alongside emerging specializations in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing. The department runs several active research labs where undergraduates and graduate students collaborate on funded projects—this isn't a program where research is optional or distant; it's woven into the academic fabric. Faculty expertise spans computer architecture, machine learning, software engineering, and formal verification, with several leading researchers who attract NSF and industry grants that fund student positions. Iowa State's location in Ames, while rural, is offset by strong partnerships with major employers including John Deere (headquartered nearby), Microsoft, Google, and numerous defense and aerospace contractors who actively recruit here. The graduate program is particularly strong, with MS and PhD pathways that prepare students for academic and research-intensive industry roles. Career outcomes reflect this emphasis: many graduates pursue software engineering roles at major tech firms, but a notable cohort enters research scientist, systems architect, and AI engineering positions where their theoretical training translates into competitive advantage.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Laboratory for Dependable Computing
- Scalable Computing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- John Deere (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning and AI systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Adjacent to John Deere headquarters and facilitiesRegional hub for manufacturing and agricultural technology employers
University of Iowa — Iowa City, IA
Key Distinction: University of Iowa's computer science program excels at integrating computer science research with domain applications in health, digital humanities, and computational science, creating distinctive preparation for research careers and advanced technical roles.
Hakia Insight: University of Iowa's health sciences proximity unlocks doctoral dissertation opportunities that other CS programs can't match—students can build AI systems for medical imaging or clinical decision-making while embedded in an R1 health research ecosystem.
At the doctoral level, the University of Iowa's computer science program benefits from the university's major research status and commitment to graduate education, creating a curriculum where undergraduates study alongside graduate students and faculty conducting funded research in computer vision, natural language processing, bioinformatics, and human-computer interaction. The program's distinctive strength lies in its integration of computer science with application domains: students can pursue joint interests in computational biology, digital humanities, health informatics, and scientific computing through cross-listed courses and research opportunities. Faculty members are active researchers with national recognition—this shapes not just the graduate program but also how undergraduate coursework emphasizes research methods and critical thinking over rote skill acquisition. The university's location in Iowa City, home to the world-renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop, creates unusual interdisciplinary opportunities; computer science students have collaborated on computational linguistics and digital narrative projects that wouldn't exist at more insular CS departments. For students planning graduate work in computer science or related fields, Iowa's program provides exceptional preparation and research mentorship; for those entering industry, the emphasis on problem-solving and systems thinking translates well to complex engineering roles. Career outcomes skew toward graduate study and research-intensive positions, though recruiting from major tech companies is increasingly strong.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Vision and AI Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Engineering Accreditation Council
- Computing Accreditation Council
Location Advantages: Proximity to University of Iowa health sciences and medical research programsInterdisciplinary opportunities through digital humanities and writers' workshop collaboration
