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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
94.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Missouri benefits from two distinct tech markets, Kansas City (Cerner/Oracle Health, Garmin, Sprint/T-Mobile) and St. Louis (World Wide Technology, Mastercard, Bayer)
This dual-metro structure means CS graduates can target healthtech, fintech, or enterprise tech without relocating out of state
Hakia Research 2026
Washington University in St. Louis ranks #1 with a 95.7 score, 97% graduation rate, and one of the strongest CS reputations in the Midwest
UMKC (#2, 98% grad rate, $11,190/yr) and Mizzou (#3, $13,008/yr) provide strong public-school alternatives at a fraction of WashU's $61,750/yr tuition
Missouri CS graduates earn a $104,000 median salary with average in-state tuition of $18,949/yr
The salary-to-tuition ratio is favorable compared to higher-cost states, and Missouri's low cost of living stretches earnings further
Saint Louis Community College offers the most affordable start at $4,440/yr, with 6 associate's programs providing transfer pathways
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City ($7,110/yr) is the top-ranked associate's program and connects directly to Kansas City's employer pipeline
9 online CS programs make Missouri one of the better Midwestern states for remote learners, spanning associate's through master's levels
34 accredited CS institutions across the state offer 11 master's and 3 doctoral programs for advanced study
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Missouri Computer Science programs
We rank 50 accredited computer science programs in Missouri using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Science Degree Programs in Missouri Worth It?
Answer
$104,000
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Missouri deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $104,000 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $18,949/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Missouri
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Missouri by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Missouri
19
Programs ranked
$23,209
Avg tuition/yr
57%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 30 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 12 public and 18 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Missouri-Columbia, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Missouri computer science programs earn a median salary of $88,400, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Kansas City, St. Louis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,808 to $61,750 annually, with an average of $20,675/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 77%, with the highest reaching 98%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Missouri's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Missouri, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$11,750
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
80.5
Hakia Score
Show all 19 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Rockhurst University | Kansas City, MO | Private nonprofit | $43,366 | 75% | 78.7 |
| #7 | Truman State University | Kirksville, MO | Public | $9,500 | 69% | 77.7 |
| #8 | College of the Ozarks | Point Lookout, MO | Private nonprofit | $21,800 | 64% | 77.6 |
| #9 | Webster University | Saint Louis, MO | Private nonprofit | $31,450 | 64% | 74.5 |
| #10 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | Public | $8,120 | 58% | 72.1 |
| #11 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Private nonprofit | $24,766 | 66% | 71.8 |
| #12 | Southwest Baptist University | Bolivar, MO | Private nonprofit | $28,656 | 55% | 69.8 |
| #13 | Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies | Fayette, MO | Private nonprofit | $6,960 | — | 69.3 |
| #14 | Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | Fayette, MO | Private nonprofit | $27,840 | 51% | 68.7 |
| #15 | Missouri Western State University | Saint Joseph, MO | Public | $8,310 | 39% | 64.7 |
| #16 | Columbia College | Columbia, MO | Private nonprofit | $12,276 | 42% | 63.6 |
| #17 | Missouri Valley College | Marshall, MO | Private nonprofit | $22,000 | 22% | 62.8 |
| #18 | Park University | Parkville, MO | Private nonprofit | $11,018 | 38% | 61.7 |
| #19 | Culver-Stockton College | Canton, MO | Private nonprofit | $30,230 | 39% | 54.3 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Missouri
7
Programs ranked
$24,216
Avg tuition/yr
65%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri offers 11 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Missouri-Kansas City, Washington University in ..., U of Central Missouri, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Kansas City, St. Louis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $20,420/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Missouri's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
91.4
Hakia Score
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$54,760
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
81.1
Hakia Score
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$11,750
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
77.9
Hakia Score
#4
$8,550
Tuition/yr
54%
Grad rate
76.8
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | Public | $8,120 | 58% | 69.8 |
| #7 | Northwest Missouri State University | Maryville, MO | Public | $6,713 | 54% | 68.0 |
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Missouri
1
Programs ranked
$64,500
Avg tuition/yr
94%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri University of Sc... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Missouri PhD holders earning a median of $130,000, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Kansas City, St. Louis region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Missouri programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Missouri, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
87.4
Hakia Score
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Missouri
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $18,949/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $47,373/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,737/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $113,696 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $28,424 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Missouri
State Aid Programs
Missouri students pursuing computer science degrees have access to strong federal and state financial aid programs. The federal government offers grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is the gateway to all federal student aid programs (Federal Student Aid). Additionally, Missouri administers the Access Missouri Grant, a need-based grant program that provides funding of up to $2,850 per year for eligible students at public institutions (Access Missouri Grant). These state-level grants are particularly valuable for students attending Missouri's 56 institutions offering computer science programs at various credential levels.
Key Programs & Amounts
To maximize financial aid, Missouri students should complete the FAFSA before the state deadline and explore institutional scholarships offered by their chosen school. Many of Missouri's top-ranked computer science programs, including University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri State University-Springfield, offer merit-based scholarships specifically for computer science majors. For detailed information about federal aid eligibility, loan options, and repayment plans, students should consult the College Scorecard to compare aid packages across institutions (College Scorecard). Missouri's Department of Higher Education provides additional resources and state-specific guidance through their official portal (Missouri Department of Higher Education).
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Missouri
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Missouri. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Missouri metro areas
Kansas City$114K
St. Louis$109K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $114K |
| St. Louis | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Missouri
Find computer science jobs in Missouri. These major employers across Missouri metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Kansas City
MOCerner/Oracle Health
healthtech
Garmin
tech
H&R Block
fintech
Sprint/T-Mobile
telecom
Computer Science Jobs in St. Louis
MOBayer
pharma
Edward Jones
finance
World Wide Technology
tech
Mastercard
fintech
Boeing
aerospace
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Missouri
State Transfer System
Missouri's statewide transfer system simplifies the pathway from community college to four-year university. The Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42) guarantees that 42 credit hours of general education coursework completed at any public community college transfer seamlessly to any public four-year university in the state (Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum). This articulation agreement removes uncertainty about course acceptance and allows students to complete lower-division requirements affordably before pursuing computer science specialization at universities like University of Missouri-Kansas City or Missouri University of Science and Technology. Missouri operates 21 two-year institutions alongside 76 four-year institutions, creating strong pipeline opportunities (IPEDS).
How Transfers Work
Associate's degree programs in computer science are offered at 7 Missouri institutions, including Saint Louis Community College (tuition: $4,440) and Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, providing affordable entry points for students pursuing bachelor's degrees. Completing an associate's degree, 60-72 credit hours, costs substantially less than four years at a university while maintaining full transfer credit guarantee under CORE 42. Many students pair CORE 42 general education with computer science prerequisites during their first two years, then transfer to earn bachelor's degrees. The Missouri Department of Higher Education maintains updated articulation agreements and transfer resources. Additionally, state financial aid through the Access Missouri Grant provides need-based grants up to $2,850 annually at public institutions (Access Missouri Grant), supporting affordability across the transfer pathway. For career advancement, explore data science and software engineering specializations available at four-year institutions.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Missouri?
Industry & Workforce
Missouri offers a strong computer science education landscape with 56 institutions offering computer science programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Missouri institutions awarded 1,090 bachelor's degrees, 3,036 master's degrees, and 29 doctoral degrees in computer science, demonstrating strong academic breadth from associate through doctoral credentials. The state's four-year institutions include research universities alongside affordable public options, providing pathways for students at every budget level. Whether pursuing an associate's degree in computer science, a bachelor's program, or advanced master's training, Missouri students benefit from diverse institutional choices.
Salary Outlook
Missouri's major metropolitan areas, particularly St. Louis and Kansas City, serve as thriving technology hubs with significant employer demand. Major employers including Cerner, Walmart, Express Scripts, BJC HealthCare, and SSM Health actively recruit computer science graduates, creating competitive internship and career opportunities. The state's average public in-state tuition of $8,649 at four-year institutions makes Missouri one of the more affordable options for quality computer science education (College Scorecard). Top-ranked programs like Washington University in St. Louis and University of Missouri-Columbia combine academic excellence with strong placement outcomes. For cost-conscious students, Missouri State University-Springfield charges just $7,812 annually while maintaining competitive program quality.
Computer Science Program Availability in Missouri
34 Programs
Missouri offers 34 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Kansas City, St. Louis.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Missouri
Employment Outlook
Missouri's computer science job market is strong and growing, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan regions. The state's major tech hubs. St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield, offer abundant opportunities for computer science graduates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri maintains competitive salary prospects and steady demand for technology professionals. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $8,649, making Missouri an affordable gateway to computer science education compared to national averages. With 56 institutions offering computer science programs across associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, the state supports a strong pipeline of qualified professionals entering the workforce.
Salaries by Metro
The largest computer science employers in Missouri span healthcare, technology, retail, and financial services sectors. Major employers including Cerner, Walmart, Express Scripts, BJC HealthCare, and SSM Health actively recruit computer science graduates. These organizations are concentrated in the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan areas, which serve as primary employment hubs. Students from top-ranked programs like University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri University of Science and Technology benefit from proximity to these employers and strong career placement networks. The diversity of industries hiring computer science professionals means graduates can pursue specialized paths in healthcare technology, enterprise software, data analytics, and cybersecurity, with strong regional job growth projections supporting long-term career stability.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Missouri$67,600$150,800
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Missouri
Online Programs
9 available in Missouri
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$17,054/yr$18,949/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $34,200
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 78
- Median Tuition
- $31,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $9,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $16,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 34
- Median Tuition
- $6,600
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $5,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $6,500
Computer Science Degree Programs in Missouri: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Missouri?
The best computer science degree programs in Missouri based on our methodology are: 1) Washington University in St Louis (97% graduation rate), 2) University of Missouri-Kansas City, and 3) University of Missouri-Columbia. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Missouri offers 34 total accredited programs across 16 public and 18 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 30 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Missouri?
Computer Science degree program costs in Missouri vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $18,949/year, while private institutions average $41,688/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,737/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $75,796 at public schools to $166,751 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Missouri?
Computer Science professionals in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,600, while senior roles exceed $150,800. Salaries vary by metro area: Kansas City ($114,400), St. Louis ($109,200) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers 9 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from North Central Missouri College and Lincoln University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Missouri?
Major Computer Science employers in Missouri include Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard, Square. The Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Missouri universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Missouri's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Missouri?
A computer science degree program in Missouri offers strong ROI with a $104,000 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $18,949/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($117,520), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in Missouri?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Missouri are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Missouri community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Missouri university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Missouri?
Missouri computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Missouri state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Missouri's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Missouri salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.