Top 3 Computer Science Programs in New York 2025
Cornell University
507 Computer Science graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
Columbia University in the City of New York
391 Computer Science graduates annually, 100% graduation rate
Stony Brook University
256 Computer Science graduates annually, 89% graduation rate
- 1.New York has 60+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across SUNY, CUNY, and private institutions
- 2.Cornell University ranks #1 in New York with 95% graduation rate and top-10 national CS reputation
- 3.SUNY schools offer excellent value with programs like Stony Brook and Binghamton under $11,000 in-state tuition
- 4.New York software developers earn median $135,000 annually—19% above the national median
- 5.NYC fintech sector provides 180,000+ tech jobs with major employers like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Google
Computer Science Education Landscape in New York
New York offers diverse computer science education options from world-renowned Ivy League programs to affordable SUNY schools. Whether you're targeting Wall Street fintech, Silicon Alley startups, or Fortune 500 tech divisions, New York's programs provide direct pathways into these lucrative markets.
The state's unique advantage lies in combining academic excellence with immediate industry access. Manhattan hosts major tech offices for Google, Amazon, Facebook, and every major financial firm, creating unparalleled internship and career opportunities for CS students.
For national perspective, review our best computer science bachelor's programs rankings. Students focused on career outcomes should explore our software engineer salary guide for New York-specific compensation data. Those considering alternatives can compare online CS degree options.
New York Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | — | 99.8 |
| 2 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | 97.4 |
| 3 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | Public | $7,070 | 89% | — | 78.9 |
| 4 | University at Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | Public | $7,070 | 95% | — | 76.3 |
| 5 | CUNY Hunter College | New York, NY | Public | $6,930 | 75% | — | 76 |
| 6 | CUNY Queens College | Queens, NY | Public | $6,930 | 82% | — | 74.6 |
| 7 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | Public | $7,070 | 87% | — | 72.2 |
| 8 | Colgate University | Hamilton, NY | Private | $66,622 | 96% | — | 71.7 |
| 9 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | — | 71.4 |
| 10 | University at Albany | Albany, NY | Public | $7,070 | 99% | — | 68.5 |
| 11 | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Troy, NY | Private | $60,360 | — | — | 66.6 |
| 12 | University of Rochester | Rochester, NY | Private | $63,150 | — | — | 64.8 |
| 13 | CUNY Lehman College | Bronx, NY | Public | $6,930 | 67% | — | 62.3 |
| 14 | CUNY City College | New York, NY | Public | $6,930 | 66% | — | 61.6 |
| 15 | Marist College | Poughkeepsie, NY | Private | $45,330 | 100% | — | 60.6 |
| 16 | SUNY Brockport | Brockport, NY | Public | $7,070 | 99% | — | 58.1 |
| 17 | College of Staten Island CUNY | Staten Island, NY | Public | $6,930 | — | — | 54.3 |
| 18 | Farmingdale State College | Farmingdale, NY | Public | $7,070 | 79% | — | 49.3 |
| 19 | Touro University | New York, NY | Private | $18,950 | — | — | 48.7 |
| 20 | Pace University | New York, NY | Private | $49,550 | — | — | 47.4 |
| 21 | CUNY York College | Jamaica, NY | Public | $6,930 | — | — | 47.1 |
| 22 | Hofstra University | Hempstead, NY | Private | $54,335 | — | — | 46.8 |
| 23 | SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Utica, NY | Public | $7,070 | — | — | 46.3 |
| 24 | State University of New York at Oswego | Oswego, NY | Public | $7,070 | — | — | 45.2 |
| 25 | Mercy University | Dobbs Ferry, NY | Private | $21,236 | 75% | — | 44.9 |
Showing 1–25 of 42
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in New York: Side-by-Side
| School | Columbia | Cornell | University at Buffalo | NYU | Syracuse |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $64,526 | $65,204 | $7,070 | $60,438 | $61,310 |
| Graduation Rate | 100% | 95% | 95% | N/A% | 99% |
| Annual Graduates | 1304 | 529 | 639 | 482 | 193 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4% | 8% | 69% | 9% | 42% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Private | Private |
| Score | 100.0/100 | 86.4/100 | 76.0/100 | 73.4/100 | 71.3/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in New York
New York offers 72 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Cornell University, Columbia University in the City of New York, New York University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $91,497 in the New York 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 New York
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Cornell | $65,204 | 95% | 529 | 86.4 |
| #2 Columbia | $64,526 | 100% | 391 | 96.8 |
| #3 NYU | $60,438 | N/A% | 482 | 73.4 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in New York
For graduate study, New York offers 35 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Columbia University in the City of New York, New York University, Cornell University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in New York reaching $169,923 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in New York
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Columbia | $64,526 | 100% | 1304 | 100.0 |
| #2 NYU | $60,438 | N/A% | 956 | 82.5 |
| #3 Cornell | $65,204 | 95% | 290 | 80.3 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in New York
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in New York are at CUNY Hunter College ($6,930/year), CUNY Queens College ($6,930/year), CUNY Lehman College ($6,930/year). These programs offer strong ROI given New York's competitive tech salaries.
At CUNY Hunter College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $27,720 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $91,497, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.5 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in New York (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 CUNY Hunter College | $6,930 | $27,720 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #2 CUNY Queens College | $6,930 | $27,720 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #3 CUNY Lehman College | $6,930 | $27,720 | 0.5 years | Public |
SUNY and CUNY Computer Science Programs
New York's public university systems offer some of the nation's best CS education values. The State University of New York (SUNY) system includes research powerhouses like Stony Brook and Binghamton, while the City University of New York (CUNY) provides affordable access to quality CS education in all five boroughs.
SUNY Flagship Programs: Stony Brook leads SUNY CS programs with strong research output and industry connections. Buffalo and Binghamton follow closely, offering solid programs at approximately $10,560 annual in-state tuition. These schools provide excellent preparation for both immediate employment and graduate study.
CUNY Urban Advantage: CUNY schools like Brooklyn College and City College offer the unique advantage of studying computer science while living in New York City. At just $7,340 annual tuition for residents, these programs provide direct access to internships and part-time work at NYC tech companies.
For comparison with other state systems, explore our guides to California CS programs and Texas CS programs. Students interested in online options should review our best online CS degrees rankings.
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,526 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 1,304 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 4%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 1,304 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (100%), program size (1,304 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (4% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $65,204 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 529 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 86.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 529 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 86.4 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (529 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (8% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,070 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 639 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 69%
- • Ranking Score: 76.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 639 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 76.0 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (639 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UB's Computer Science program offers both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with specialized tracks in emerging areas like Artificial Intelligence and Software Systems. The program requires completion of core courses with specific GPA requirements and culminates in a capstone experience.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus 1 (MTH 141 or MTH 153)
- •Introduction to Computer Science for Majors 1 (CSE 115)
- •Introduction to Computer Science for Majors 2 (CSE 116)
- •Discrete Structures (CSE 191 or MTH 191)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.800
Available Specializations / Concentrations
New York University
New York, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $60,438 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 482 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 9%
- • Ranking Score: 73.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 482 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 73.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (482 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (9% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
NYU offers both undergraduate and graduate CS programs across two schools (Tandon and CAS) with distinctive strength in cybersecurity research and internationally recognized faculty. The program provides accelerated BS/MS options and hands-on applications in critical domains with close ties to graduate research.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •CSCI-UA 101 Introduction to Computer Science with grade of C or better
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 48 credits for CS major
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,310 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 193 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 42%
- • Ranking Score: 71.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 193 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 71.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (193 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (42% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Syracuse University's Computer Science program offers accelerated degree options including a 4+1 B.S./M.S. program and a five-year dual Engineering/MBA program, while providing access to nationally regarded research centers and state-of-the-art lab spaces. Graduates work at top companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and Meta.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •four years of English
- •four years of science
- •four years of social studies
- •four years of mathematics through geometry and intermediate algebra
- •minimum of three years of a foreign language
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Accenture, Amazon, Apple, BAE Systems, Deloitte, EY, Fidelity, Google, Lockheed Martin, Mastercard, Meta, Microsoft, Raytheon
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop applications and systems for fintech, media, and tech companies throughout NYC and upstate regions
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets for Wall Street firms, media companies, and emerging AI startups
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Build machine learning systems for finance, healthcare, and tech companies in the NYC ecosystem
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1299Manage infrastructure and deployment pipelines for high-traffic financial and media applications
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect financial institutions and healthcare organizations from cyber threats and data breaches
Other Tech Degree Programs in New York
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Which Should You Choose?
- Direct access to Wall Street fintech and major tech offices
- Networking opportunities in the nation's financial capital
- Internship and co-op programs with immediate industry application
- Cultural diversity and urban lifestyle during college years
- Strong alumni networks in finance, media, and technology sectors
- Lower cost of living during college (Texas, North Carolina, Ohio)
- Traditional college town atmosphere (California, Illinois, Massachusetts)
- Stronger focus on hardware/engineering (California, Washington)
- More affordable private school options (other regions)
- Warmer climate and outdoor recreation opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About New York 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
2023 graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics
May 2024 New York state salary data for computer occupations
Official enrollment and program data for SUNY institutions
Employment projections and industry analysis for New York tech sector
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.