Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Missouri 2025
Washington University in St Louis
181 computer science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Missouri-Kansas City
648 computer science graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
University of Central Missouri
1170 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Missouri offers 30+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Washington University in St Louis leads with 97% graduation rate
- 3.Missouri software developers earn median $104,000 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Kansas City, St. Louis
- 5.Cost of living index: 90.8% of US average (below average)
Computer Science Education in Missouri: Overview
Missouri offers 30 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 3,468 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Kansas City, St. Louis, with major employers including Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
With a median software developer salary of $104,000 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 90.8% compared to the US average, Missouri offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Washington University in St Louis, University of Missouri-Kansas City, University of Central Missouri, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Missouri-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Missouri Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washington University in St Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $61,750 | 97% | 73.4 |
| 2 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | Kansas City, MO | Public | $11,190 | 98% | 73.3 |
| 3 | University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO | Public | $8,325 | — | 71.4 |
| 4 | Northwest Missouri State University | Maryville, MO | Public | $6,442 | — | 54.3 |
| 5 | University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia, MO | Public | $13,008 | 80% | 52.9 |
| 6 | Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau, MO | Public | $8,151 | — | 50.6 |
| 7 | Park University | Parkville, MO | Private | $11,908 | — | 48.9 |
| 8 | Saint Louis University | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $52,260 | 92% | 48.3 |
| 9 | Missouri Valley College | Marshall, MO | Private | $21,300 | 93% | 47.9 |
| 10 | University of Missouri-St Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Public | $14,400 | — | 45.5 |
| 11 | Missouri University of Science and Technology | Rolla, MO | Public | $13,008 | — | 45.3 |
| 12 | College of the Ozarks | Point Lookout, MO | Private | $20,800 | — | 45.2 |
| 13 | Missouri Western State University | Saint Joseph, MO | Public | $7,740 | — | 41.2 |
| 14 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $24,766 | 86% | 40.7 |
| 15 | Webster University | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $30,530 | — | 40.3 |
| 16 | Harris-Stowe State University | Saint Louis, MO | Public | $5,808 | — | 40 |
| 17 | Columbia College | Columbia, MO | Private | $12,268 | — | 39.7 |
| 18 | Fontbonne University | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $28,276 | 88% | 39.6 |
| 19 | Lindenwood University | Saint Charles, MO | Private | $19,900 | — | 38.3 |
| 20 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | Public | $7,812 | — | 38 |
| 21 | Avila University | Kansas City, MO | Private | $38,762 | 48% | 37.5 |
| 22 | Truman State University | Kirksville, MO | Public | $9,132 | — | 36.6 |
| 23 | Hannibal-LaGrange University | Hannibal, MO | Private | $25,200 | — | 36 |
| 24 | Rockhurst University | Kansas City, MO | Private | $41,900 | — | 34.7 |
| 25 | Evangel University | Springfield, MO | Private | $25,922 | — | 34.4 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Missouri: Side-by-Side
| School | WashU | U of Missouri-Kansas City | U of Central Missouri | Northwest Missouri State | U of Missouri-Columbia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $61,750 | $11,190 | $8,325 | $6,442 | $13,008 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 98% | N/A% | N/A% | 80% |
| Annual Graduates | 181 | 648 | 1170 | 468 | 125 |
| Acceptance Rate | 12% | 75% | 69% | 86% | 77% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 73.4/100 | 73.3/100 | 71.4/100 | 54.3/100 | 52.9/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Missouri
Missouri offers 30 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Washington University in St Louis, University of Missouri-Kansas City, University of Missouri-Columbia. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,800 in the Missouri 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 Missouri
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 WashU | $61,750 | 97% | 181 | 73.4 |
| #2 U of Missouri-Kansas City | $11,190 | 98% | 87 | 71.5 |
| #3 U of Missouri-Columbia | $13,008 | 80% | 125 | 52.9 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Missouri
For graduate study, Missouri offers 11 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Missouri-Kansas City, Washington University in St Louis, University of Central Missouri. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Missouri reaching $135,200 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Missouri
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Missouri-Kansas City | $11,190 | 98% | 648 | 73.3 |
| #2 WashU | $61,750 | 97% | 142 | 71.7 |
| #3 U of Central Missouri | $8,325 | N/A% | 1170 | 71.4 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Missouri
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Missouri are at Harris-Stowe State University ($5,808/year), Northwest Missouri State University ($6,442/year), Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies ($6,480/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Missouri's competitive tech salaries.
At Harris-Stowe State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $23,232 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,800, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.6 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Missouri (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Harris-Stowe State | $5,808 | $23,232 | 0.6 years | Public |
| #2 Northwest Missouri State | $6,442 | $25,768 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 Central Methodist... | $6,480 | $25,920 | 0.7 years | Private |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Missouri
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Missouri, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MO • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,750 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 181 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 73.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 181 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 73.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (181 graduates), state salary outcomes ($104,000), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,190 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 648 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 75%
- • Ranking Score: 73.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 648 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 73.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (648 graduates), state salary outcomes ($104,000), and selectivity (75% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UMKC's Computer Science program offers automatic admission for qualified students and provides hands-on research experience with world-class faculty on projects funded by major organizations. The program features both undergraduate and graduate pathways including accelerated BS-MS options and specializations in high-demand areas like AI, cybersecurity, and data science.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Four units of English
- •Four units of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
- •Three units of science
- •Three units of social studies
- •Two units of one foreign language
- •One unit of fine arts
- •Algebra II with a grade of C or better for STEM programs
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,325 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 1,170 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 69%
- • Ranking Score: 71.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 1,170 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (1,170 graduates), state salary outcomes ($104,000), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UCM offers a flexible Computer Science program with courses available at multiple campuses and online options, allowing full-time or part-time study. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and maintains a strong job placement rate of 95%.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.00
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 95% of students land a job
Sources
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,442 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 468 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 54.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 468 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 54.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (468 graduates), state salary outcomes ($104,000), and selectivity (86% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The M.S. in Applied Computer Science combines technical expertise with fundamental business concepts specifically related to information technology, focusing on high-demand areas such as web services and applications, application design using patterns and frameworks, software development and database systems. The program includes a two-term, six-credit hour Master's Project that gives students opportunity to apply their knowledge in designing and implementing a large project.
Admission Prerequisites
- •data structures
- •database systems
- •discrete mathematics
- •statistics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00 on a 4.00 scale
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $13,008 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 80% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 125 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 77%
- • Ranking Score: 52.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- 125 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 52.9 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (80%), program size (125 graduates), state salary outcomes ($104,000), and selectivity (77% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Missouri-Columbia Computer Science program offers both online and on-campus options with an accelerated BS to MS pathway, and graduates achieve a median starting salary of $80,000 with 93.6% reporting successful career outcomes within six months.
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 units English
- •4 units Mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
- •3 units Science (one laboratory course)
- •3 units Social Studies
- •2 units Foreign Language (same language)
- •1 unit Fine Arts
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $80,000
- Job Placement: 93.6% report successful career outcome within six months
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Missouri with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Missouri with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Missouri with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Missouri with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Missouri with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Kansas City, St. Louis
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (90.8% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Cerner or World Wide Technology
- You prefer Missouri's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Missouri's 30)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Missouri
Explore artificial intelligence programs in Missouri
Explore machine learning programs in Missouri
Explore data science programs in Missouri
Explore data analytics programs in Missouri
Explore cybersecurity programs in Missouri
Explore information security programs in Missouri
Explore software engineering programs in Missouri
Explore computer engineering programs in Missouri
Explore information technology programs in Missouri
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Science in Missouri FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Missouri salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.