Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts 2025
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
498 Computer Science graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
389 Computer Science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Tufts University
211 Computer Science graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
- 1.Massachusetts hosts 45+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across prestigious universities and state colleges (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.MIT ranks #1 globally with 96% graduation rate and the world's most advanced CS research facilities
- 3.Massachusetts software developers earn median $137,100 annually—18% above the national median (BLS Massachusetts 2024)
- 4.Boston-Cambridge area provides 124,000+ software developer jobs with major employers like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and hundreds of biotech startups
- 5.University of Massachusetts system offers high-quality CS education starting at $16,389 in-state tuition—one-third the cost of private alternatives
Computer Science Education in Massachusetts: The Innovation Hub
Massachusetts stands as the global epicenter of computer science education and innovation. Home to MIT and Harvard, the state combines world-renowned research universities with innovative institutions like Northeastern and strong public options through the University of Massachusetts system. The Boston-Cambridge corridor creates an unparalleled ecosystem where academic excellence meets industry leadership.
For comparison with programs nationwide, review our national computer science bachelor's rankings. Students considering affordability should explore our most affordable CS programs guide. Career-focused students will benefit from our software engineer salary guide which includes Massachusetts-specific compensation data and local market insights.
The state's tech ecosystem spans from established giants like Microsoft and Google to cutting-edge biotech companies and fintech startups. This concentration creates exceptional internship opportunities, research collaborations, and direct pathways from classroom to career. Whether you're interested in AI and machine learning careers or cybersecurity specialization, Massachusetts provides the resources and connections to launch your tech career.
Massachusetts Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Amherst, MA | Public | $16,591 | 90% | — | 87.8 |
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Cambridge, MA | Private | $59,750 | — | — | 84.1 |
| 3 | Tufts University | Medford, MA | Private | $66,358 | 81% | — | 82.7 |
| 4 | Boston University | Boston, MA | Private | $63,798 | — | — | 79.1 |
| 5 | Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | Private | $54,269 | — | — | 74.3 |
| 6 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private | $57,960 | 83% | — | 73.6 |
| 7 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $15,850 | 98% | — | 71.7 |
| 8 | Amherst College | Amherst, MA | Private | $66,650 | 97% | — | 71.4 |
| 9 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private | $64,348 | 99% | — | 70.5 |
| 10 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | Private | $66,410 | — | — | 69.1 |
| 11 | Smith College | Northampton, MA | Private | $61,260 | 98% | — | 68.3 |
| 12 | College of the Holy Cross | Worcester, MA | Private | $60,050 | 99% | — | 64.4 |
| 13 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private | $40,410 | 99% | — | 64.2 |
| 14 | Mount Holyoke College | South Hadley, MA | Private | $63,904 | 90% | — | 61.6 |
| 15 | Clark University | Worcester, MA | Private | $54,760 | 98% | — | 61.2 |
| 16 | Williams College | Williamstown, MA | Private | $64,540 | — | — | 59.9 |
| 17 | University of Massachusetts-Boston | Boston, MA | Public | $14,905 | 75% | — | 53.3 |
| 18 | Wheaton College (Massachusetts) | Norton, MA | Private | $61,600 | 96% | — | 52.7 |
| 19 | Suffolk University | Boston, MA | Private | $44,812 | 88% | — | 50.3 |
| 20 | Endicott College | Beverly, MA | Private | $38,312 | 85% | — | 48.7 |
| 21 | College of Our Lady of the Elms | Chicopee, MA | Private | $40,095 | 88% | — | 46.8 |
| 22 | Merrimack College | North Andover, MA | Private | $47,636 | 80% | — | 45.9 |
| 23 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | Public | $910 | 97% | — | 45.2 |
| 24 | Gordon College | Wenham, MA | Private | $27,000 | — | — | 44.2 |
| 25 | Sattler College | Boston, MA | Private | $10,000 | — | — | 41.6 |
Showing 1–25 of 33
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts: Side-by-Side
| School | Northeastern | U of Massachusetts-Amherst | MIT | Tufts | Boston |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $62,000 | $16,591 | $59,750 | $66,358 | $63,798 |
| Graduation Rate | N/A% | 90% | N/A% | 81% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 558 | 498 | 389 | 211 | 309 |
| Acceptance Rate | 6% | 58% | 5% | 10% | 11% |
| Type | Private | Public | Private | Private | Private |
| Score | 88.1/100 | 85.8/100 | 82.3/100 | 81.4/100 | 77.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers 46 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $90,048 in the Massachusetts market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Massachusetts
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northeastern | $62,000 | N/A% | 558 | 88.1 |
| #2 U of Massachusetts-Amherst | $16,591 | 90% | 498 | 85.8 |
| #3 MIT | $59,750 | N/A% | 389 | 82.3 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Massachusetts
For graduate study, Massachusetts offers 16 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Massachusetts reaching $167,232 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Massachusetts
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northeastern | $62,000 | N/A% | 778 | 88.1 |
| #2 U of Massachusetts-Amherst | $16,591 | 90% | 291 | 73.5 |
| #3 MIT | $59,750 | N/A% | 276 | 73.5 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Massachusetts
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Massachusetts are at Bridgewater State University ($910/year), Salem State University ($910/year), Worcester State University ($970/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Massachusetts's competitive tech salaries.
At Bridgewater State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $3,640 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $90,048, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.1 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Bridgewater State | $910 | $3,640 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #2 Salem State | $910 | $3,640 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #3 Worcester State | $970 | $3,880 | 0.1 years | Public |
Northeastern University
Boston, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,000 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 558 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 6%
- • Ranking Score: 88.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 558 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 88.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (558 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (6% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Northeastern's Computer Science program offers the #1 ranked cooperative education program nationally, providing students with real-world experience through 574 unique co-op employers. The program features 18 master's programs across eight campus locations in technology hubs, with flexible learning options including on-campus, online, and hybrid formats.
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 96% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within nine months of graduation
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $16,591 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 498 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 58%
- • Ranking Score: 85.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 498 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 85.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (498 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (58% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UMass Amherst's Computer Science program offers flexible BS degree requirements with multiple specializations including AI, cybersecurity, and game design, supported by research centers and labs with Turing Award recognition. The program demonstrates strong career outcomes with 87% of graduates obtaining field-related positions and provides comprehensive career development support.
Available Scholarships
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 87% undergraduate students who obtained a career outcome related to their field of study
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $59,750 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 389 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 5%
- • Ranking Score: 82.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 389 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 82.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (389 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (5% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
MIT's computer science program is the largest major at the institute and is led by world-class faculty with rigorous, hands-on curriculum that prepares students for careers in both public and private sectors as well as graduate studies and academia.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Tufts University
Medford, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,358 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 211 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 81.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 211 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 81.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (211 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Tufts offers flexible Computer Science programs for both Arts & Sciences and Engineering students, with specialized research facilities including a Cybersecurity Center for the Public Good and T-TRIPODS Institute. The program provides both undergraduate and graduate research opportunities with an online Master's option available.
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: athenahealth, Boston Children's Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Bristol Myers Squibb, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Epic Systems, Massachusetts General Hospital, Zillow
Boston University
Boston, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,798 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 309 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 77.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 309 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 77.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (309 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Boston University's Computer Science program requires 15 courses with strong mathematical foundations and offers both theoretical depth through formal methods and practical application through systems courses. The MS in Data Science program combines rigorous technical training with real-world applications and strong industry connections, preparing students for today's data-driven world.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Introductory Programming course
- •Second course in Programming
- •Introductory Discrete Mathematics
- •Linear Algebra
- •Introductory Statistics and Probability
- •Calculus, to the level of Calculus BC Advanced Placement
- •Introduction to Algorithms
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $74,500
- Job Placement: 96% of graduates were employed, enrolled in graduate school, or involved in a fellowship or volunteer experience
- Top Employers: PwC, Deloitte, Citi, Wayfair, Ernst & Young, Massachusetts General Hospital, JPMorganChase, Barclays, Boston Children's Hospital, Fidelity Investments, Morgan Stanley, Citizens Bank, Amazon
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications across diverse industries from biotech to fintech
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to drive business decisions in healthcare, finance, and technology companies
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems for robotics, healthcare, and automation
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines for scalable software systems
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational systems and data from cyber threats in the heavily regulated Massachusetts market
Massachusetts University Systems and CS Programs
Massachusetts offers diverse pathways to computer science education through world-renowned private institutions and the accessible University of Massachusetts system. Understanding these options helps students find the right fit for their academic goals and financial situation.
The University of Massachusetts system provides high-quality CS education at one-third the cost of private alternatives. UMass Amherst ranks #6 statewide with strong research programs and 17:1 student-faculty ratio at just $16,389 in-state tuition. UMass Boston offers urban advantages and industry connections at $15,596 annually. For students interested in data science specialization, UMass campuses provide excellent pathways to this growing field.
Private institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern offer unmatched resources but require significant investment. These programs excel in research opportunities, industry connections, and global recognition. For students considering bootcamp alternatives, Massachusetts also hosts top-tier coding bootcamps, though they cannot match the depth and breadth of a four-year CS degree.
State colleges including Salem State, Bridgewater State, and Westfield State provide affordable options under $11,000 annually. While these programs may have fewer research opportunities, they offer solid fundamentals and local industry connections. Students can later pursue advanced certifications or transition to cybersecurity specialization to enhance their career prospects.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Massachusetts
Computer Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to world-renowned faculty and cutting-edge research at MIT, Harvard, or Northeastern
- You're seeking direct pathways to top tech companies and startup opportunities in the Boston ecosystem
- You value the combination of academic excellence and industry connections that Massachusetts universities provide
- You're interested in specialized areas like AI, robotics, or computational biology where Massachusetts leads globally
- You can afford private tuition or qualify for strong financial aid packages
- You want to be part of the innovation corridor that spans from Cambridge to Route 128
- Cost is a primary concern and you need more affordable public options than UMass system pricing
- You prefer warmer climates and want to avoid Massachusetts winters
- You're specifically interested in gaming, entertainment tech, or aerospace computing not emphasized locally
- You want guaranteed admission to competitive programs without facing Massachusetts' highly selective environment
- You prefer large state university experiences with major college sports programs
- You're focusing on oil/gas tech, agriculture tech, or other industries less prominent in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts CS Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, tuition costs, and institutional characteristics for all ranked programs
May 2024 salary data for computer and mathematical occupations in Massachusetts
Research expenditure data and faculty research activity metrics
Student-faculty ratios, admission requirements, and program accreditation status
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.