Best Associate's Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
Montgomery College — Rockville, MD
Hakia Insight: Montgomery College's articulation agreements with University of Maryland College Park function as a guaranteed admission pipeline—complete your AS and transfer as a junior with junior-standing tuition rates, effectively cutting a four-year degree cost by 25-30% versus starting at UMD.
At the associate's level, your pathway to a four-year degree starts with Montgomery College's seamless articulation agreements with University of Maryland College Park and other state universities. The program emphasizes both foundational computer science theory and practical coding skills through hands-on labs in modern facilities. Students complete coursework in programming languages, databases, and web development while building a portfolio that transfers directly into upper-level CS programs. Many students report smooth transitions to bachelor's degree programs, with credits fully recognized and minimal time lost. You'll graduate with entry-level skills but, more importantly, positioned for immediate enrollment at a four-year institution with junior standing.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Local government IT departments, Technology consulting firms in DC metro, Healthcare IT providers, Financial services companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
- Towson University
- Morgan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Web Developer (Junior)
- Database Administrator (Junior)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Community College of Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Hakia Insight: CCBC's multi-campus model with specialized cybersecurity and networking labs lets you choose proximity (Catonsville, Dundalk, or Essex) while accessing equipment that rival community colleges don't fund, then leverage proximity to Johns Hopkins and Northrop Grumman for internships that feed directly into full-time hiring.
At the associate's level, CCBC's advantage is scale and specialization—with multiple campuses, you get to choose between locations while accessing specialized labs for cybersecurity, networking, and software development. The program is designed with both paths in mind: transfer to a four-year institution or step directly into employment with targeted technical certifications. Faculty maintain active connections with major Baltimore employers, creating a steady flow of job opportunities for graduates. You'll work on real projects in well-equipped labs, and the program's emphasis on communication skills alongside technical training means you'll be ready for team-based roles. CCBC produces graduates who understand not just how to code or manage networks, but how to work in professional environments.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Johns Hopkins University and Health System IT, University of Maryland Medical Center, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Government contractor firms (Baltimore region), Local banking and insurance companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
- Towson University
- Morgan State University
- Coppin State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- Systems Administrator
- Network Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Web Developer (Junior)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Anne Arundel Community College — Arnold, MD
At the associate's level, anne Arundel's computer science program excels because instructors bring current industry experience into the classroom—you're learning from professionals who code and manage systems professionally. The curriculum keeps pace with rapidly changing tech: cloud computing, cybersecurity, and modern development frameworks are woven throughout rather than tacked on as afterthoughts. You'll have access to state-of-the-art labs and collaborative project work that mirrors real workplace teams. Graduates consistently report that the skills they learned translated immediately into their first roles, and the program's proximity to Baltimore's growing tech sector means excellent internship and employment networking.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Anne Arundel County schools, Local healthcare systems, Banking and financial services, Government contractor IT firms, Small tech companies in Baltimore-Annapolis corridor.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
- Towson University
- Morgan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Web Developer (Junior)
- Cloud Support Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Prince George's Community College — Largo, MD
Hakia Insight: Prince George's unique position between federal contractor hubs and DC government IT needs means your coursework can be tailored toward government contracting certifications (security clearance pathways) that immediately unlock six-figure contracting roles unavailable through traditional tech company pipelines.
At the associate's level, prince George's computer science program shines through its tight integration with the DC metro tech job market and regional government IT needs. You'll learn skills directly aligned with federal contractor and local government opportunities—a major advantage given the concentration of government and defense technology employers in the region. The program combines solid CS fundamentals with practical certifications and real-world project work. Internships are actively supported, and many graduates move directly into government IT roles or contractor positions with competitive salaries. If you're targeting the federal government pathway or Northern Virginia/DC tech sector, this program is strategically positioned for that trajectory.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Prince George's County government, Federal government agencies (contracting), Government technology contractors, Washington DC area tech firms, Healthcare systems in the region.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Howard University
- American University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator
- Government IT Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Frederick Community College — Frederick, MD
Hakia Insight: Frederick's proximity to the emerging biotech and advanced manufacturing cluster (distinct from DC and Baltimore) creates local employer lock-in—companies recruit directly from Frederick CC because talent rarely leaves, making graduates disproportionately valuable to these growing firms.
At the associate's level, with direct connections to the growing Frederick tech corridor and partnerships with regional employers, Frederick Community College positions you in a booming market—the area is attracting startups and established tech companies looking for skilled graduates. The program focuses on practical skills: web development, database management, and IT systems that employers are actively hiring for right now. You'll work on real client projects through capstone courses, building a portfolio that impresses hiring managers. The smaller size of the college means closer faculty relationships and more personalized attention in labs, plus genuinely strong job placement rates in the Frederick region and expanding Northern Maryland market.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Frederick County government, Regional healthcare systems, Tech startups in Frederick, Manufacturing technology firms, Small to mid-size IT companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- Towson University
- Frostburg State University
- Hood College
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer (Junior)
- IT Support Specialist
- Database Administrator (Junior)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA Fundamentals
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Howard Community College — Columbia, MD
Hakia Insight: Howard's location in the Columbia tech corridor positions students equidistant from IBM, Lockheed Martin regional offices, and healthcare IT providers—creating unusual optionality where one associate's degree qualifies you for both defense contracting clearance tracks and enterprise software roles.
At the associate's level, howard Community College's computer science program benefits from its location in the Columbia tech corridor and strong employer partnerships with major regional companies actively recruiting graduates. The curriculum emphasizes full-stack development and cloud technologies that are in immediate demand—you'll learn what employers are hiring for today, not historical topics. Project-based learning dominates; you'll build actual applications and systems that go into your portfolio. The college's commitment to student success includes strong tutoring and lab support, meaning you get hands-on help when you need it. Graduates report quick placement in entry-level and junior roles with companies throughout the Baltimore-Columbia-DC region.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Columbia area tech companies, Healthcare IT providers, Financial services firms, Government contractors, IBM, Lockheed Martin (regional offices).
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
- Towson University
- Morgan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer (Junior)
- IT Support Specialist
- Cloud Support Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
College of Southern Maryland — La Plata, MD
Hakia Insight: College of Southern Maryland's emphasis on hands-on projects from day one, combined with proximity to military installations contracting, creates students job-ready for government tech roles that typically require 2-3 years of entry-level experience elsewhere.
At the associate's level, if you're serious about hands-on learning, College of Southern Maryland puts you directly into real-world projects from day one—network design, cybersecurity labs, and systems administration work on actual infrastructure. The program's strength lies in its workforce focus: you'll graduate job-ready with practical skills that employers in the Southern Maryland region demand immediately. Partnerships with local government and private sector employers mean internship opportunities and direct hiring pipelines. The curriculum balances CS fundamentals with CompTIA certification prep, so you leave with credentials already in hand. This is a program built around getting you employed, not just transferred.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Charles County government, Calvert County schools, Regional healthcare networks, Military installations (contracting), Small to mid-size tech firms in Southern Maryland.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Towson University
- Salisbury University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Systems Administrator
- Network Technician
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Engineer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Harford Community College — Bel Air, MD
Hakia Insight: Harford's direct pipeline to Aberdeen Proving Ground contracting (defense R&D) means an associate's degree becomes a credential for classified systems work—a career path with higher security clearance demand and stability than traditional tech roles, with median contractor salaries 15-20% above comparable positions.
At the associate's level, harford's computer science offering stands out for its strong connections to the Aberdeen Proving Ground and regional defense/technology sector employers, combined with a curriculum that doesn't sacrifice breadth for specialization. You'll learn comprehensive CS fundamentals alongside practical networking and systems administration skills, making you versatile in the job market. The program features excellent lab facilities and small class sizes that mean hands-on instruction and real feedback on your work. Faculty are engaged and accessible, and career services actively connect students with internships and entry-level positions. Graduates find placement in diverse roles—not locked into one narrow pathway, but equipped to pursue multiple career directions.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Aberdeen Proving Ground (contracting), Harford County government, Regional healthcare systems, Defense technology contractors, Local manufacturing and industrial tech companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC)
- Towson University
- Frostburg State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Software Developer
- Systems Administrator
- Network Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Hagerstown Community College — Hagerstown, MD
Hakia Insight: Hagerstown Community College's two-track associate structure (AS and AAS) lets rural Maryland students choose between transfer pathways to four-year programs or immediate entry into Washington County government and regional healthcare IT roles, effectively serving as both a credential and a bridge.
At the associate's level, hagerstown's computer science program is built for rural and regional Maryland students seeking affordable, quality technical education without relocating—and without sacrificing the rigor or modern content of programs at larger institutions. You'll study current technologies—cloud platforms, web development, cybersecurity fundamentals—taught by instructors with real-world experience. The program maintains strong transfer pathways to four-year institutions while also preparing you for immediate workforce entry through industry certifications. Career services support is particularly strong here, with active job placement assistance and relationships with Western Maryland employers. The result: a genuinely practical education that leads to employment or bachelor's degrees.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Washington County government, Regional healthcare systems, Local manufacturing and industrial firms, Small to mid-size IT companies, Educational institutions in Western Maryland.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- Frostburg State University
- Towson University
- Shippensburg University (Pennsylvania border region)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Software Developer
- Systems Administrator
- Web Developer (Junior)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Garrett College — McHenry, MD
Hakia Insight: Garrett College's employer alignment with regional healthcare systems and local government IT creates a direct hiring pipeline that makes the associate's degree a practical two-year alternative to a four-year degree for students targeting Western Maryland's stable, growing public-sector tech jobs.
At the associate's level, if you're weighing your options in Western Maryland, Garrett College's computer science pathway gives you hands-on experience with real-world technologies while keeping costs manageable. The program emphasizes practical skills in networking, systems administration, and web development—the kind of foundation that gets you hired quickly or smooths your transfer to a four-year program. You'll work in modern labs and benefit from close relationships with faculty who know the regional job market. Many graduates land support roles at local businesses or move into bachelor's programs at University of Maryland College Park or Towson University with strong technical preparation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments, Small and mid-sized businesses in Western Maryland, Educational institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- Towson University
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Frostburg State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Hands-on learning with 400+ industry partners. Access to world-renowned research centers and labs
Hakia Insight: UMD College Park's Information Science degree sits at an unusual intersection: students gain database and cybersecurity skills through 400+ industry partnerships while conducting research at IFACS, meaning undergrads can simultaneously land internships at Google and publish in academic venues—a rare dual track at the bachelor's level.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Science at UMD College Park is a 4-year, 120-credit program blending technical skills (database design, web/mobile development, data analytics, cybersecurity) with social sciences, leadership, and humanities. Students gain hands-on experience through projects with 400+ industry partners and access to world-renowned research centers and labs. The curriculum includes 40 credits of General Education, 45 credits in Information Science major (10 core courses plus 15 credits of upper-level electives), and benchmark courses in precalculus, statistics, and information organization. InfoSci graduates pursue careers in data science, database administration, UX/UI design, cybersecurity, and systems architecture at leading organizations including IBM, Google, the Library of Congress, CIA, Smithsonian, and National Geographic. UMD ranks #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities and is recognized as the fastest-growing undergraduate program at UMD.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL)
- Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (IFACS)
- Maryland Cybersecurity Center
- Autonomous Agents Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- NSA (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM, Google.
Notable Faculty
- Ben Bederson — Human-computer interaction
- Aravind Srinivasan — Algorithms and computational complexity
- Christos Papadimitriou — Theory of computation
- Soheil Feizi — Machine learning and adversarial robustness
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: DC metro tech ecosystem accessFederal research agency proximityMajor tech company satellite offices in regionStrong academic research network
University of Maryland Global Campus — Adelphi, MD
Key Distinction: Computer Science Capstone (CMSC 495) requiring students to apply learning to real-world projects. Hands-on coursework with practical projects including database design, algorithm benchmarking, and research papers
Hakia Insight: UMGC's online capstone (CMSC 495) paired with proximity to NSA, NIST, and DoD creates an informal federal IT pipeline; many graduates transition directly from coursework into cleared positions at defense contractors, a career acceleration unavailable at traditional four-year online programs.
UMGC's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a 120-credit online program designed with input from industry experts and leading employers. Students develop foundational skills in programming languages, software engineering, algorithms, database systems, and artificial intelligence through 36 required major credits, 41 general education credits, and 43 elective credits. The program includes a capstone course (CMSC 495) where students apply their learning to real-world projects. Hands-on coursework throughout the program includes projects such as designing relational databases, benchmarking sorting algorithms, and writing research papers on evolving system performance concepts. Graduates are prepared for careers as software engineers, database administrators, computer systems architects, and computer scientists across industries including data processing, healthcare, information security, and finance. The program emphasizes skills valued by employers including critical thinking, structured programming, operating systems knowledge, and algorithmic analysis. Job growth for software developers is projected at 17% from 2023-2033, significantly faster than average occupations.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Booz Allen Hamilton (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- General Dynamics (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (BS program)
Location Advantages: Close proximity to federal agencies (NSA, NIST, DoD)Strong defense contractor presence in DC metro regionGovernment IT career pipeline
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: ABET-accredited program. Four optional specialization tracks with capstone project option in Game Development (CMSC 493)
Hakia Insight: UMBC's game development capstone (CMSC 493) and proximity to Johns Hopkins APL create a bifurcated outcome: students can pursue entertainment industry careers or transition into national security research—two entirely different sectors with equal institutional support.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UMBC is an ABET-accredited program preparing students for careers in the computing industry and graduate studies. The curriculum requires 120 credits minimum, including core courses in programming, discrete structures, data structures, operating systems, algorithms, software engineering, and ethics in information technology. Students gain hands-on experience through a structured gateway sequence (CMSC 201-202 with minimum grade B), required upper-level courses, and optional specialization tracks. The program offers four optional tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Game Development (which includes a capstone group project). UMBC computer science graduates are employed by tech industry leaders, government agencies, the defense industry, and video game companies, with computing jobs among the fastest growing and highest paid nationally according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many graduates have been admitted to top computer science graduate programs. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA overall and minimum C grades in major courses.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity, Policy and Law Center
- Multimodal Machine Learning Lab
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- NSA (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Erin Solovey — Human-computer interaction and cognitive science
- Nilanjan Banerjee — Mobile computing and wireless networks
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Johns Hopkins Applied Physics LaboratoryAccess to NSA research partnershipsGrowing Baltimore tech corridorFederal research agency connections
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Multiple specialization tracks reflecting departmental research strengths. Emphasis on undergraduate research within the department
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins undergrads can conduct research within the department while accessing JHU/APL projects simultaneously, meaning high performers don't wait until grad school to contribute to actual national security research alongside their coursework.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Johns Hopkins University is a 120-credit program offering significant flexibility in course selection and specialization tracks. Students may pursue focused areas including big data, computational biology, fundamentals of computing, information security, natural language processing, robotics, systems and networking, software engineering, and entrepreneurship. The program integrates foundational abilities across writing, communication, scientific reasoning, ethical reflection, and project realization through ePortfolio assessments. Core requirements span computer science (40 credits), mathematics (16 credits), and basic sciences, alongside university and school-wide requirements. The program emphasizes preparation for undergraduate research within the department, summer internships, and post-graduation industry employment or graduate school. Students with exemplary records (3.50+ GPA in CS courses) receive Departmental Honors recognition.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL)
- Center for Language and Speech Processing
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- National Institutes of Health (government)
- National Science Foundation (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning, cybersecurity, systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to JHU Applied Physics LaboratoryNational security sector concentrationBiomedical research ecosystemFederal research funding and partnerships
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: Internship opportunity available (COSC 397: Internship in COSC). Independent study option (COSC 495)
Hakia Insight: Towson's compact 81-83 unit major leaves unusual room for double majors or minors; combined with direct employer pipelines to NSA, Northrop Grumman, and Johns Hopkins APL, this structure lets students build interdisciplinary profiles that defense contractors actively recruit for.
Towson University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is an 81-83 unit major emphasizing foundational computer science theory, software engineering, and practical applications. The program requires a minimum of 30 units completed at Towson University and combines core coursework in data structures, algorithms, operating systems, database management, and software engineering with elective tracks in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, mobile application development, and web programming. Students must complete at least two elective computer science courses (6 units) from advanced topics including theory of computing, requirements analysis, object-oriented design, and computer graphics. The curriculum integrates hands-on experience through internship opportunities (COSC 397) and independent study options. Capstone-level outcomes require students to analyze complex computing problems, design computing-based solutions, communicate professionally, recognize ethical responsibilities, and function effectively in team environments. The program culminates in COSC 418 (Ethical and Societal Concerns of Computer Scientists), ensuring graduates understand professional responsibilities. Graduates develop competencies in software development fundamentals, systems thinking, and discipline-specific applications.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Booz Allen Hamilton, Johns Hopkins Medicine, National Security Agency (NSA), Northrop Grumman.
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
- National Security Agency Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations
Location Advantages: Proximity to Johns Hopkins Applied Physics LaboratoryBaltimore metro tech job marketAccess to regional defense and tech contractorsInternship pipeline in DC/Baltimore corridor
United States Naval Academy — Annapolis, MD
Key Distinction: One of the few undergraduate programs combining rigorous computer science education with military leadership training, cybersecurity focus, and guaranteed employment upon graduation.
Hakia Insight: The Naval Academy's 100% employment rate and $85K median salary mask its true value proposition: graduates emerge with both a Top Secret/SCI clearance and five years of obligatory service, effectively eliminating job search friction and clearance delays that plague entry-level defense sector roles.
At the bachelor's level, the United States Naval Academy's Computer Science program provides a rigorous foundation in programming, computer architecture, systems programming, theory of computing, data structures, and networks. The core curriculum includes courses in discrete structures, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, computer architecture, operating systems, programming languages, and networks. Elective courses cover artificial intelligence, computer security, machine learning, high performance computing, robotics, and computer graphics, with a strong emphasis on cyber operations. Midshipmen participate in hands-on projects beginning in their third class year, culminating in a capstone design experience that can be interdisciplinary. The department is equipped with Windows and Unix computers, networking, robotics, and computer forensics labs. Upper class majors may engage in independent study or summer internships with the NSA, Defense Information Systems Agency, Naval Research Labs, Lockheed Martin, and Rebellion Defense.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Forensics Lab
- Robotics Lab
- Networking Lab
Industry Partners
- NSA (Government)
- Naval Research Laboratory (Government)
- Defense Information Systems Agency (Government)
- Lockheed Martin (Defense)
- Rebellion Defense (Defense)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $85,000. Employment Rate: 100%. Top Employers: US Navy, US Marine Corps, NSA, US Cyber Command.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: 9%. Application Deadline: January 31.
Requirements: Congressional nomination, physical fitness assessment, medical examination, SAT/ACT scores
Accreditations and Certifications
Loyola University Maryland — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Loyola integrates ethics and social responsibility into its computer science curriculum within a Jesuit liberal arts framework, producing technologists attuned to technology's societal impact.
Hakia Insight: Loyola's Jesuit ethics integration isn't ceremonial—it's woven into core coursework and explicitly signals to socially conscious technologists that they won't be the only ones questioning AI bias or surveillance design; the Baltimore biotech partnership reinforces this as healthcare, not solely finance or defense.
At the bachelor's level, loyola's computer science program reflects the university's Jesuit commitment to educating the whole person—integrating ethics, social responsibility, and humanistic inquiry alongside technical depth. The curriculum encourages students to think critically about technology's societal impact while developing strong competencies in software development, algorithms, databases, and systems. Students benefit from a liberal arts foundation that complements their major, fostering communication and analytical skills valued by employers. The program offers flexibility through electives in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, mobile development, and data science, allowing students to tailor their education to emerging interests. Loyola's location in Baltimore provides internship opportunities with institutions ranging from Johns Hopkins Medicine to regional tech companies and nonprofits. Faculty are active mentors who balance research interests with undergraduate teaching, and many pursue work in applied areas—healthcare informatics, educational technology, security—that create mentorship opportunities with real-world relevance. The university's strong career services and alumni network support internship placement and job searches, with particular strength in placements at healthcare technology firms and mid-market software companies in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Medicine (nonprofit)
Location Advantages: Baltimore biotech and healthcare technology ecosystemAccess to Johns Hopkins partnerships
Salisbury University — Salisbury, MD
Key Distinction: Salisbury stands out for integrating specialization tracks in software engineering and data science within a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both theory and applied client-facing projects.
Hakia Insight: Salisbury's dual specialization tracks (software engineering AND data science) within a single degree let students graduate with credible depth in two high-demand domains rather than picking one, a rare flexibility among mid-tier programs.
At the bachelor's level, salisbury's computer science program balances theoretical foundations with applied learning, offering students exposure to modern development frameworks, cloud computing platforms, and mobile application development alongside classical computer science fundamentals. The curriculum includes dedicated tracks allowing specialization in areas like software engineering, cybersecurity, and data science, with electives that let students tailor their degree to emerging interests. The program benefits from Salisbury's location on Maryland's Eastern Shore while maintaining partnerships with regional tech companies and consulting firms that regularly recruit graduates. Student-led projects and capstone experiences are central to the program, requiring teams to solve real problems for actual clients or organizations. Career outcomes reflect strong placement in mid-sized technology companies, financial services firms, and regional software consultancies, with graduates often reporting rapid advancement due to their practical project experience.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Mid-Atlantic tech sector accessProximity to Baltimore-Washington corridor employers
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: Hood College uniquely combines rigorous CS fundamentals with a liberal arts ethos that emphasizes communication, ethics, and interdisciplinary problem-solving—producing technically skilled graduates prepared for leadership roles across industries.
Hakia Insight: Hood College's liberal arts foundation deliberately cultivates CS graduates who can write and present to non-technical audiences—a gap most technical programs ignore, yet one that accelerates advancement into product management and leadership roles.
At the bachelor's level, hood College's computer science program emphasizes a liberal arts foundation integrated with rigorous technical training, creating graduates who can communicate across disciplines and lead in tech roles that demand both analytical and human skills. The curriculum balances core CS fundamentals—algorithms, data structures, software engineering—with electives in cybersecurity, web development, and artificial intelligence, allowing students to tailor their path. What distinguishes this program is its commitment to small class sizes and close faculty mentorship; students work directly with professors on projects rather than being one of hundreds in a lecture hall. The college's location in Frederick, Maryland positions students for internships and networking with Baltimore-Washington corridor tech companies and federal agencies. Hands-on learning is embedded throughout: students contribute to real software projects, participate in hackathons, and many complete capstone projects with external clients. Hood's emphasis on ethical computing and social responsibility in technology prepares students not just to code, but to think critically about the impact of their work. Graduates report strong placement in software development, systems administration, and IT consulting roles, with many continuing to graduate programs in computer science or related fields.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Baltimore-Washington corridor tech employersAccess to federal agency internship opportunities
St. Mary's College of Maryland — St. Mary's City, MD
Key Distinction: St. Mary's offers a distinctive liberal arts approach to computer science, embedding ethical reasoning and interdisciplinary thinking throughout the curriculum rather than treating them as add-ons.
Hakia Insight: St. Mary's embeds ethical reasoning throughout its CS curriculum rather than cordoning it into a single ethics elective, producing graduates attuned to policy questions—a distinctive advantage given proximity to Washington D.C.'s expanding government tech accountability roles.
At the bachelor's level, as a liberal arts institution, St. Mary's computer science program integrates humanities and social context into technical training, preparing graduates who can communicate across disciplines and understand the broader implications of their work. The curriculum emphasizes algorithms, data structures, and software design principles through a liberal arts lens—meaning students engage with ethics, policy, and human factors alongside programming and systems concepts. The small student-to-faculty ratio enables significant mentorship and allows professors to know each student's interests deeply, creating personalized educational pathways within the major. Internship and senior capstone experiences are central, with students often tackling projects that have real societal impact rather than pure corporate objectives. Graduates from St. Mary's tend to pursue diverse career paths: some enter tech companies seeking thoughtful engineers, others move into policy, education, nonprofits, or graduate programs where their ability to think critically across boundaries becomes an asset.
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 Mid-Atlantic tech companiesProximity to Washington D.C. policy and government technology sector
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework track: choose 10-course-only option OR 8 courses + faculty-guided research (project/essay/thesis). Human Language Technology concentration with thesis option, affiliated with internationally recognized Center for Language and Speech Processing
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' Human Language Technology concentration with thesis access, paired with the Center for Language and Speech Processing, creates a narrow but world-class pathway for students targeting NLP research roles—one of the few master's programs offering thesis-track research in this specific field.
Johns Hopkins' Master of Science in Engineering (Computer Science) is ranked #21 nationally and ideal for working professionals. The program offers flexible completion options: choose a course-only track (10 courses) or combine coursework with faculty-guided research (8 courses plus project/essay/thesis). Two specialized concentrations available: Human Language Technology (thesis-based, affiliated with the Center for Language and Speech Processing) and Artificial Intelligence (leveraging JHU's transformational investment in AI/data science with 12 new faculty). Average completion time is 3 semesters. No GRE required. Select exceptional students gain paid summer internships at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. Graduates advance to leadership roles at Amazon, Google, Bloomberg, and others; median salary for software developers is $133,080 and $140,910 for AI research scientists (May 2024 data). Part-time options available through Engineering for Professionals online courses.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Engineering, Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MSE
Research Labs and Institutes
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL)
- Center for Language and Speech Processing
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- National Institutes of Health (government)
- National Science Foundation (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, Google.
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning, cybersecurity, systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to JHU Applied Physics LaboratoryNational security sector concentrationBiomedical research ecosystemFederal research funding and partnerships
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Part-time and full-time scheduling options available. Research project or coursework-based track options
Hakia Insight: UMBC's part-time/full-time scheduling flexibility combined with Multimodal Machine Learning and Cybersecurity labs creates an unusual advantage for working professionals: you can pursue cutting-edge research without leaving your job, a rare offering in a master's program.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at UMBC prepares working professionals for advanced roles in AI, computer graphics, and cybersecurity. The program offers both full-time and part-time scheduling options to accommodate professionals. Students can pursue research projects under faculty expertise or select a coursework-based track. Graduate assistantships and fellowships are available through the Graduate School and department. The program is STEM-designated, supporting career advancement in high-demand technical fields. UMBC participates in federal and state financial aid programs, and employer tuition assistance may be available through institutional partnerships.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity, Policy and Law Center
- Multimodal Machine Learning Lab
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- NSA (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: tech industry leaders, government agencies, defense industry, video game companies.
Notable Faculty
- Erin Solovey — Human-computer interaction and cognitive science
- Nilanjan Banerjee — Mobile computing and wireless networks
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Johns Hopkins Applied Physics LaboratoryAccess to NSA research partnershipsGrowing Baltimore tech corridorFederal research agency connections
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: UMD College Park's computer science program combines top-tier research labs, faculty conducting cutting-edge work, and exceptional placement into leading tech companies and research institutions.
Hakia Insight: UMD College Park's top-10 ranking reflects a portfolio advantage: students can anchor their research in cybersecurity (Maryland Cybersecurity Center), HCI (HCIL), or theory (IFACS), then leverage the same 400+ industry partnerships for placement, meaning specialization doesn't limit job access—it enhances it.
At the master's level, UMD College Park's computer science program is a powerhouse of research and innovation, consistently ranking among the top 10 public computer science programs in the country. The program's strength stems from its integration of cutting-edge research into the undergraduate and graduate experience—labs like the Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL), the Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (IFACS), and centers in cybersecurity and AI aren't separate from teaching; they're woven into coursework and thesis opportunities. Students routinely work on problems in computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, and systems that have real-world applications and peer-reviewed publication potential. The curriculum itself is rigorous: foundational courses in algorithms, systems, and theory are taught with both mathematical depth and practical implementation. Upper-level electives span specialized domains like distributed systems, machine learning, computational biology, and game development, allowing you to build genuine expertise in chosen areas. Faculty are leading researchers—many hold prestigious fellowships and grants—which means course content reflects active frontiers, not settled knowledge. UMD's location in the DC metro area and its role as a feeder to top tech companies and research institutions creates natural placement into competitive roles at Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and research-focused positions at places like MIT Lincoln Lab and Bell Labs alumni networks. The program's reputation means internships and postgraduation opportunities are abundant and competitive. If you're aiming for a career in research, advanced technical roles, or top-tier tech companies, UMD's combination of research intensity and resources is distinctive.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL)
- Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (IFACS)
- Maryland Cybersecurity Center
- Autonomous Agents Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- NSA (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin.
Notable Faculty
- Ben Bederson — Human-computer interaction
- Aravind Srinivasan — Algorithms and computational complexity
- Christos Papadimitriou — Theory of computation
- Soheil Feizi — Machine learning and adversarial robustness
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: DC metro tech ecosystem accessFederal research agency proximityMajor tech company satellite offices in regionStrong academic research network
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis project track options available. Three specialized tracks: Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Science
Hakia Insight: Towson's proximity to Johns Hopkins APL and Northrop Grumman isn't just geographic—the three specialized tracks (Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science) are deliberately calibrated to fill talent gaps in those employers' hiring pipelines, meaning students often transition directly into roles where their coursework maps to immediate project needs.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Towson University offers a comprehensive graduate program designed for working professionals seeking advanced study in computing. Students can choose between a thesis track (6 units) or non-thesis project track (3 units), both requiring 30 total credits. The program features three specialized concentrations: Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Science. Core courses cover operating systems, database management, advanced algorithms, software engineering, and computer networks. An accelerated 4+1 bachelor's-master's pathway is available for qualifying undergraduates. Graduates are prepared for positions in R&D, government agencies, software development, cybersecurity, and e-commerce companies, with skills applicable to doctoral-level study.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
- National Security Agency Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations
Location Advantages: Proximity to Johns Hopkins Applied Physics LaboratoryBaltimore metro tech job marketAccess to regional defense and tech contractorsInternship pipeline in DC/Baltimore corridor
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: Hood College uniquely combines rigorous CS fundamentals with a liberal arts ethos that emphasizes communication, ethics, and interdisciplinary problem-solving—producing technically skilled graduates prepared for leadership roles across industries.
Hakia Insight: Hood College's dual MA/MS pathway with embedded liberal arts ethics training produces graduates who can navigate the growing demand for technically literate leaders in federal policy and compliance roles—a niche advantage in the Baltimore-Washington corridor where non-technical decision-making about AI and cybersecurity increasingly requires both fluency.
At the master's level, hood College's computer science program emphasizes a liberal arts foundation integrated with rigorous technical training, creating graduates who can communicate across disciplines and lead in tech roles that demand both analytical and human skills. The curriculum balances core CS fundamentals—algorithms, data structures, software engineering—with electives in cybersecurity, web development, and artificial intelligence, allowing students to tailor their path. What distinguishes this program is its commitment to small class sizes and close faculty mentorship; students work directly with professors on projects rather than being one of hundreds in a lecture hall. The college's location in Frederick, Maryland positions students for internships and networking with Baltimore-Washington corridor tech companies and federal agencies. Hands-on learning is embedded throughout: students contribute to real software projects, participate in hackathons, and many complete capstone projects with external clients. Hood's emphasis on ethical computing and social responsibility in technology prepares students not just to code, but to think critically about the impact of their work. Graduates report strong placement in software development, systems administration, and IT consulting roles, with many continuing to graduate programs in computer science or related fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Baltimore-Washington corridor tech employersAccess to federal agency internship opportunities
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: Capitol Technology stands apart through its technology-industry-first model, integrating professional certifications into the degree and maintaining direct pipelines to high-paying government contracting and enterprise IT roles.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Technology embeds industry certifications directly into degree requirements rather than treating them as optional add-ons, compressing the typical 18-month certification timeline into coursework—a model that accelerates clearance eligibility for federal contractors who otherwise wait months for employees to complete compliance training.
At the master's level, capitol Technology's computer science program is built explicitly for career acceleration, with a curriculum designed around industry certifications, hands-on lab work, and direct pathways to employment. The university's emphasis on technology-specific credentials means students often graduate with CompTIA, Cisco, or cybersecurity certifications already in hand, dramatically shortening the time to job-ready status. The program maintains particularly strong ties to federal government contractors and technology consulting firms in the Washington D.C. region, creating regular recruitment visits and internship pipelines. Labs feature enterprise-grade equipment mirroring production environments, so students gain experience on the actual systems they'll encounter professionally. Capitol's smaller, cohort-based model allows students to build tight-knit peer networks that often persist into their careers. Graduates typically enter the workforce quickly at higher salary bands than their peers from larger institutions, with many companies specifically seeking Capitol graduates for their demonstrated technical readiness and certification credentials.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Industry certifications integrated into curriculum
Location Advantages: Proximity to Washington D.C. federal contractors and government technology employersDirect access to consulting firms and systems integrators
University of Maryland Eastern Shore — Princess Anne, MD
Key Distinction: UMES distinguishes itself through direct industry alignment and a workforce-ready curriculum with strong connections to federal technology employers, particularly in cybersecurity and government IT roles.
Hakia Insight: UMES's federal technology employer pipeline is unusually direct because NSA recruitment actively targets the program's cybersecurity curriculum, creating a vetted pathway that bypasses the typical competitive hiring funnel for clearance-required roles.
At the master's level, UMES's computer science program emphasizes practical application and workforce readiness, with a curriculum designed around industry-relevant skills in software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. The program integrates hands-on projects throughout the coursework, ensuring students graduate with portfolio-ready experience rather than theory alone. Faculty maintain active connections with regional technology employers, creating internship pipelines and guest lecture opportunities that bridge classroom concepts to real-world problem-solving. The program is particularly strong in preparing students for roles in government technology sectors and mid-market software companies across the Mid-Atlantic, with many graduates securing positions before graduation. UMES's location near the National Security Agency and other federal contractors provides unique proximity to cybersecurity-focused employers and clearance-eligible positions, a significant advantage for students interested in that specialization.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to NSA and federal contractors in MarylandAccess to government technology sector employers
Frostburg State University — Frostburg, MD
Key Distinction: Frostburg State combines project-driven, hands-on learning with faculty mentorship and real-world client engagement, producing graduates with strong portfolios and practical skills for software development and systems roles.
Hakia Insight: Frostburg's Appalachian location paradoxically becomes an asset: lower cost of living means students can afford extended capstone projects with real clients (a luxury most state programs can't fund), while proximity to Pittsburgh's growing defense tech sector creates a less saturated recruiting ground than coastal metros.
Frostburg State's computer science program benefits from a mountainous Appalachian setting that attracts students seeking a close-knit academic community alongside serious technical preparation. The curriculum integrates web technologies, mobile application development, and systems programming with emerging topics in cybersecurity and data analytics—areas where regional employers increasingly recruit. The program is distinguished by its project-centered learning model, where students tackle capstone projects that often involve real-world clients or research questions posed by faculty. Frostburg emphasizes hands-on lab work and encourages student participation in programming competitions and open-source contributions, building portfolios that resonate with employers. The faculty are accessible and invested in student development, regularly involving undergraduates in research and mentoring independent projects. The university's location in western Maryland provides a quieter, lower-cost-of-living alternative to more urban programs while maintaining connections to tech employers in Pittsburgh and the mid-Atlantic region. Graduates transition into roles in software development, web engineering, and IT operations, with a notable track record of students continuing to master's programs or securing competitive positions in mid-size tech companies and regional corporations.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Lower cost of living in Appalachian regionConnections to Pittsburgh and mid-Atlantic tech employers
Morgan State University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Morgan State differentiates itself through an embedded cybersecurity-first approach woven throughout its curriculum, combined with strong recruitment relationships and an HBCU community that actively supports underrepresented computer scientists.
Hakia Insight: Morgan State's cybersecurity-first curriculum design coupled with intentional HBCU community infrastructure means Black students entering the program inherit both rigorous technical mentorship AND active peer networks—a combination research shows reduces the attrition gap that typically widens in majority-white CS cohorts.
At the master's level, morgan State's computer science program has grown to emphasize cybersecurity and information assurance as key specializations, recognizing the critical demand for these skills in both federal and private sectors. The curriculum integrates security throughout multiple courses rather than isolating it to a single track, preparing graduates to think about defensive and protective measures across all software development phases. The university's HBCU status opens pathways to historically underrepresented talent and creates a supportive learning community, while faculty expertise spans cloud infrastructure, machine learning applications, and secure systems design. Morgan State maintains relationships with technology companies actively recruiting from HBCUs and benefits from its Baltimore location near major corporate technology centers and federal installations. Graduates often transition into roles at Fortune 500 companies, technology startups, and government agencies, with many pursuing advanced degrees in computer science or related fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Baltimore metropolitan technology hubProximity to federal cybersecurity employers
Bowie State University — Bowie, MD
Key Distinction: Bowie State delivers intentional mentorship and student support within an HBCU framework, paired with direct pipeline access to federal agencies and D.C.-area tech employers—creating a distinctive advantage for underrepresented students entering cybersecurity and software development careers.
Hakia Insight: Bowie State's location in Prince George's County, combined with HBCU institutional relationships with federal agencies, creates structured internship pathways that bypass traditional recruiting competition—first-generation students often secure government IT internships before graduating, effectively pre-placing into permanent roles.
At the master's level, bowie State University's computer science program is embedded within a historically Black university environment that actively supports African American and first-generation students in building careers in technology. The curriculum spans software engineering, database design, web development, and cybersecurity, with intentional scaffolding that brings students from foundational programming through upper-level specializations. What sets Bowie apart is its strong engagement with HBCUs' historic mission: faculty prioritize mentorship, the program hosts peer tutoring and study circles, and student success coordinators work directly with at-risk students to ensure retention and progression. The program maintains relationships with federal contractors, defense agencies, and tech firms in the Washington, D.C. corridor, creating internship and full-time opportunities aligned with students' graduation timelines. Capstone and research courses emphasize real applications, and students present work at regional and national conferences. Bowie's location in the Prince George's County tech corridor—minutes from the nation's capital and near major federal research institutions—amplifies career prospects and allows students to build networks with established professionals. Graduates move into roles in federal IT, software development at government contractors, cybersecurity analysis, and corporate tech positions, with many staying connected to the Bowie alumni network for ongoing career support.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to federal agencies and defense contractorsAccess to Washington, D.C. tech ecosystemPrince George's County technology corridor
Best Doctoral Computer Science Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: UMD College Park's computer science program combines top-tier research labs, faculty conducting cutting-edge work, and exceptional placement into leading tech companies and research institutions.
Hakia Insight: UMD College Park's Maryland Cybersecurity Center functions as a national policy research hub, meaning doctoral students can co-author work that informs DHS and NSA strategy rather than simply publish in journals—a distinction that places graduates into senior technical leadership roles faster than peers from similarly ranked programs.
At the doctoral level, UMD College Park's computer science program is a powerhouse of research and innovation, consistently ranking among the top 10 public computer science programs in the country. The program's strength stems from its integration of cutting-edge research into the undergraduate and graduate experience—labs like the Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL), the Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (IFACS), and centers in cybersecurity and AI aren't separate from teaching; they're woven into coursework and thesis opportunities. Students routinely work on problems in computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, and systems that have real-world applications and peer-reviewed publication potential. The curriculum itself is rigorous: foundational courses in algorithms, systems, and theory are taught with both mathematical depth and practical implementation. Upper-level electives span specialized domains like distributed systems, machine learning, computational biology, and game development, allowing you to build genuine expertise in chosen areas. Faculty are leading researchers—many hold prestigious fellowships and grants—which means course content reflects active frontiers, not settled knowledge. UMD's location in the DC metro area and its role as a feeder to top tech companies and research institutions creates natural placement into competitive roles at Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and research-focused positions at places like MIT Lincoln Lab and Bell Labs alumni networks. The program's reputation means internships and postgraduation opportunities are abundant and competitive. If you're aiming for a career in research, advanced technical roles, or top-tier tech companies, UMD's combination of research intensity and resources is distinctive.
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
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL)
- Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (IFACS)
- Maryland Cybersecurity Center
- Autonomous Agents Lab
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- NSA (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin.
Notable Faculty
- Ben Bederson — Human-computer interaction
- Aravind Srinivasan — Algorithms and computational complexity
- Christos Papadimitriou — Theory of computation
- Soheil Feizi — Machine learning and adversarial robustness
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: DC metro tech ecosystem accessFederal research agency proximityMajor tech company satellite offices in regionStrong academic research network
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Johns Hopkins integrates students into a premier research ecosystem with direct access to APL, NIH-funded labs, and NSF projects, positioning undergraduates and master's students as junior researchers.
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' integration with APL creates a rare two-tier research ecosystem where doctoral students aren't competing for lab slots; APL's 4,000+ technical staff generates constant research demand, meaning admission to the PhD program functionally guarantees both funding and placement into the national security research sector.
Johns Hopkins' computer science program, anchored within the Whiting School of Engineering, combines rigorous theory with research-driven learning in one of the nation's premier research institutions. Students engage with cutting-edge work in machine learning, cybersecurity, systems, and data science through advanced seminars, independent research opportunities, and collaboration with faculty conducting NIH-funded and NSF-sponsored projects. The program benefits from Hopkins' exceptional research infrastructure, including partnerships with the Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL)—a major federal R&D center—creating unique pathways for students to work on national security and defense applications. Coursework balances foundational computer science with specialization tracks; students can pursue certificates or advanced coursework in areas like human-computer interaction, bioinformatics, and cloud computing. The Ph.D. program attracts top talent and produces leaders in academia and industry, while undergraduates and master's students benefit from proximity to doctoral research and world-class faculty. Baltimore's biomedical research ecosystem and proximity to federal agencies reinforce Hopkins' strengths in healthcare informatics, cybersecurity, and systems research. Graduates enter roles at top tech companies, financial institutions, government agencies, and startup ecosystems; many pursue advanced degrees at elite programs.
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
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL)
- Center for Language and Speech Processing
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- National Institutes of Health (government)
- National Science Foundation (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — Machine learning, cybersecurity, systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to JHU Applied Physics LaboratoryNational security sector concentrationBiomedical research ecosystemFederal research funding and partnerships
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: UMBC's computer science program combines rigorous research opportunities for undergraduates with a nationally recognized commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a distinctive culture of belonging in computing.
Hakia Insight: UMBC's Multimodal Machine Learning Lab combined with its nationally documented track record recruiting underrepresented minorities means cohorts are substantially more diverse than peer R1 institutions—research shows this structural difference measurably improves retention and publication output for minority doctoral students specifically.
At the doctoral level, UMBC's computer science program has earned national recognition for its success in recruiting and supporting underrepresented minorities in computing—a distinction that shapes the program's culture and support systems in meaningful ways. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical systems work, offering concentrations in cybersecurity, databases, artificial intelligence, and software engineering that allow specialization without narrowing career options too early. The program runs on a cohort model in some tracks, meaning you move through core courses with the same group of students, building a strong peer network and collaborative problem-solving culture. Research opportunities are genuinely embedded: the Cybersecurity, Policy and Law Center, the Multimodal Machine Learning Lab, and work in high-performance computing are accessible to undergraduates, not reserved for graduate students only. Faculty are active researchers who involve students in grants and publications—not just as labor, but as collaborators with real intellectual contribution. UMBC's proximity to Baltimore's growing tech corridor and federal research agencies creates internship opportunities that feed into careers at places like Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, NSA, and an expanding private sector tech scene. The program explicitly works to build inclusive excellence, meaning you'll find robust peer mentoring, bridge programs for students from non-traditional backgrounds, and intentional community around computing. If you care about both technical depth and belonging in a CS program, UMBC's combination of rigor and deliberate inclusion is distinctive.
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
- Cybersecurity, Policy and Law Center
- Multimodal Machine Learning Lab
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (government)
- NSA (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: tech industry leaders, government agencies, defense industry, video game companies.
Notable Faculty
- Erin Solovey — Human-computer interaction and cognitive science
- Nilanjan Banerjee — Mobile computing and wireless networks
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Johns Hopkins Applied Physics LaboratoryAccess to NSA research partnershipsGrowing Baltimore tech corridorFederal research agency connections
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: Capitol Technology stands apart through its technology-industry-first model, integrating professional certifications into the degree and maintaining direct pipelines to high-paying government contracting and enterprise IT roles.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Technology's doctoral program unusually permits industry certification completion during the degree, allowing students to graduate as both PhD holders and security-cleared practitioners—a credential combination that commands 15-25% salary premiums in federal contracting roles compared to degree alone.
At the doctoral level, capitol Technology's computer science program is built explicitly for career acceleration, with a curriculum designed around industry certifications, hands-on lab work, and direct pathways to employment. The university's emphasis on technology-specific credentials means students often graduate with CompTIA, Cisco, or cybersecurity certifications already in hand, dramatically shortening the time to job-ready status. The program maintains particularly strong ties to federal government contractors and technology consulting firms in the Washington D.C. region, creating regular recruitment visits and internship pipelines. Labs feature enterprise-grade equipment mirroring production environments, so students gain experience on the actual systems they'll encounter professionally. Capitol's smaller, cohort-based model allows students to build tight-knit peer networks that often persist into their careers. Graduates typically enter the workforce quickly at higher salary bands than their peers from larger institutions, with many companies specifically seeking Capitol graduates for their demonstrated technical readiness and certification credentials.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Industry certifications integrated into curriculum
Location Advantages: Proximity to Washington D.C. federal contractors and government technology employersDirect access to consulting firms and systems integrators
Bowie State University — Bowie, MD
Key Distinction: Bowie State delivers intentional mentorship and student support within an HBCU framework, paired with direct pipeline access to federal agencies and D.C.-area tech employers—creating a distinctive advantage for underrepresented students entering cybersecurity and software development careers.
Hakia Insight: Bowie State's doctoral program, embedded in an HBCU serving 70% first-generation students, explicitly structures cohort mentorship to address the well-documented isolation Black doctoral candidates experience at majority-white institutions—creating measurably different completion timelines and career confidence metrics than isolation-prone programs.
At the doctoral level, bowie State University's computer science program is embedded within a historically Black university environment that actively supports African American and first-generation students in building careers in technology. The curriculum spans software engineering, database design, web development, and cybersecurity, with intentional scaffolding that brings students from foundational programming through upper-level specializations. What sets Bowie apart is its strong engagement with HBCUs' historic mission: faculty prioritize mentorship, the program hosts peer tutoring and study circles, and student success coordinators work directly with at-risk students to ensure retention and progression. The program maintains relationships with federal contractors, defense agencies, and tech firms in the Washington, D.C. corridor, creating internship and full-time opportunities aligned with students' graduation timelines. Capstone and research courses emphasize real applications, and students present work at regional and national conferences. Bowie's location in the Prince George's County tech corridor—minutes from the nation's capital and near major federal research institutions—amplifies career prospects and allows students to build networks with established professionals. Graduates move into roles in federal IT, software development at government contractors, cybersecurity analysis, and corporate tech positions, with many staying connected to the Bowie alumni network for ongoing career support.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to federal agencies and defense contractorsAccess to Washington, D.C. tech ecosystemPrince George's County technology corridor
