Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Ohio 2025
Case Western Reserve University
149 Computer Science graduates annually, 85% graduation rate
Miami University-Oxford
178 Computer Science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
Denison University
18 Computer Science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
- 1.Ohio has 35+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across public universities, private colleges, and technical institutes (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Case Western Reserve University ranks #1 in Ohio with 89% graduation rate and exceptional research opportunities in Cleveland
- 3.Ohio State University offers top-tier CS education at $12,485 in-state tuition with the state's largest program enrollment
- 4.Ohio software developers earn median $98,450 annually, 85% of the national median with significantly lower cost of living (BLS Ohio 2024)
- 5.Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati provide 45,000+ software developer positions with major employers including Progressive, Nationwide, and P&G
Computer Science Education Landscape in Ohio
Ohio offers a diverse array of computer science programs across its public university systems and private institutions. From the research excellence of Case Western Reserve to the practical focus of Ohio State's massive program, students can find pathways suited to their career goals and financial situation.
The state's three major metropolitan areas - Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati - each host thriving tech ecosystems anchored by Fortune 500 companies. This creates abundant internship and career opportunities for CS graduates. For national context, see our best computer science bachelor's programs nationwide or explore careers for software engineers to understand salary expectations.
Students considering Ohio should also explore related programs like data science degrees in Ohio or cybersecurity programs for specialized career tracks. Those interested in skills-focused alternatives can review software engineering bootcamps for accelerated pathways.
Ohio Computer Science Bachelor's Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Case Western Reserve University | Cleveland, OH | Private | $64,100 | 85% | — | 85.2 |
| 2 | Miami University-Oxford | Oxford, OH | Public | $14,052 | 97% | — | 80.5 |
| 3 | Denison University | Granville, OH | Private | $64,000 | 97% | — | 65.7 |
| 4 | Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, OH | Public | $13,746 | 88% | — | 59 |
| 5 | Cedarville University | Cedarville, OH | Private | $35,878 | 86% | — | 57.4 |
| 6 | Kent State University at Kent | Kent, OH | Public | $11,595 | — | — | 52.5 |
| 7 | Mount St. Joseph University | Cincinnati, OH | Private | $35,450 | 86% | — | 50.2 |
| 8 | Cleveland State University | Cleveland, OH | Public | $12,503 | — | — | 48.9 |
| 9 | University of Dayton | Dayton, OH | Private | $47,600 | — | — | 48.5 |
| 10 | The College of Wooster | Wooster, OH | Private | $59,050 | — | — | 48.3 |
| 11 | Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, OH | Private | $37,686 | 94% | — | 48.2 |
| 12 | Marietta College | Marietta, OH | Private | $37,752 | 87% | — | 47.5 |
| 13 | Franklin University | Columbus, OH | Private | $9,552 | — | — | 47.4 |
| 14 | The University of Findlay | Findlay, OH | Private | $38,176 | 97% | — | 46 |
| 15 | Franciscan University of Steubenville | Steubenville, OH | Private | $32,070 | 73% | — | 45.8 |
| 16 | Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | Public | $9,611 | — | — | 43.9 |
| 17 | Ohio Wesleyan University | Delaware, OH | Private | $51,710 | — | — | 43.9 |
| 18 | Central State University | Wilberforce, OH | Public | $5,404 | — | — | 43.5 |
| 19 | Capital University | Columbus, OH | Private | $41,298 | — | — | 43.4 |
| 20 | University of Rio Grande | Rio Grande, OH | Private | $19,600 | — | — | 42.1 |
| 21 | Xavier University | Cincinnati, OH | Private | $47,896 | — | — | 41.8 |
| 22 | John Carroll University | University Heights, OH | Private | $47,300 | — | — | 41.8 |
| 23 | Heidelberg University | Tiffin, OH | Private | $32,900 | — | — | 41.7 |
| 24 | Walsh University | North Canton, OH | Private | $31,153 | — | — | 41.5 |
| 25 | Ohio Northern University | Ada, OH | Private | $36,500 | — | — | 40.3 |
Showing 1–25 of 31
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Ohio: Side-by-Side
| School | Case Western Reserve | U of Dayton | Ohio State | Miami University-Oxford | U of Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $64,100 | $47,600 | $11,826 | $14,052 | $11,228 |
| Graduation Rate | 85% | N/A% | 90% | 97% | 78% |
| Annual Graduates | 149 | 463 | 145 | 178 | 269 |
| Acceptance Rate | 29% | 62% | 51% | 82% | 88% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 72.5/100 | 72.3/100 | 68.8/100 | 66.5/100 | 65.5/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Ohio
Ohio offers 40 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Case Western Reserve University, Ohio State University-Main Campus, Miami University-Oxford. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $70,126 in the Ohio 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 Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Case Western Reserve | $64,100 | 85% | 149 | 72.5 |
| #2 Ohio State | $11,826 | 90% | 145 | 68.8 |
| #3 Miami University-Oxford | $14,052 | 97% | 178 | 66.5 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Ohio
For graduate study, Ohio offers 11 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Dayton, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Case Western Reserve University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Ohio reaching $130,234 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Dayton | $47,600 | N/A% | 463 | 72.3 |
| #2 U of Cincinnati | $11,228 | 78% | 269 | 65.5 |
| #3 Case Western Reserve | $64,100 | 85% | 29 | 57.9 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Ohio
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Ohio are at Central State University ($5,404/year), Franklin University ($9,552/year), Youngstown State University ($9,611/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Ohio's competitive tech salaries.
At Central State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $21,616 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $70,126, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.6 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Ohio (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Central State | $5,404 | $21,616 | 0.6 years | Public |
| #2 Franklin | $9,552 | $38,208 | 1.1 years | Private |
| #3 Youngstown State | $9,611 | $38,444 | 1.1 years | Public |
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,100 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 149 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 72.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 149 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 72.5 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (149 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (29% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Case Western Reserve University offers a comprehensive online MS in Computer Science with both pathways and advanced tracks, featuring hands-on learning with High Performance Computing cluster access and specializations in cutting-edge areas like AI, data mining, and security.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •English: 4 years
- •Math: 3 years
- •Science: 3 years (2 must be laboratory science)
- •Social studies: 3 years
- •Foreign language: 2 years
- •college-level calculus course
- •introductory course in object-oriented programming
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $47,600 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 463 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 62%
- • Ranking Score: 72.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 463 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 72.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (463 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (62% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Dayton Computer Science program offers ABET accreditation with 100% full-time faculty holding doctoral degrees and specialized concentrations including a nationally recognized NSA-designated Cyber Defense program. Students gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs including VR/AR and cybersecurity facilities while benefiting from strong industry connections with 854 unique employers hiring graduates.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $61,798
- Job Placement: 95% reported they are finding success in their chosen fields or in a job that's a first step toward a position in their field
- Top Employers: United States Air Force, GE Aerospace, Premier Health, Honda, Amazon Web Services, Boeing, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, NASA, Procter & Gamble
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,826 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 145 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 51%
- • Ranking Score: 68.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 145 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 68.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (145 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (51% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Miami University-Oxford
Oxford, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,052 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 178 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 82%
- • Ranking Score: 66.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 178 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.5 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (178 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (82% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Miami University offers both B.A. and B.S. Computer Science degrees with ABET accreditation, providing flexibility to combine computing with liberal arts or pursue technical depth. Students benefit from independent research opportunities with professors and access to a network of 12,000+ organizations for career placement.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 70.4%
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 99% of 2023 graduates were hired/in school by fall 2023
- Top Employers: Google
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,228 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 78% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 269 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 65.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 78% graduation rate
- 269 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.5 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (78%), program size (269 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Build applications and systems for Ohio's diverse industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services
Analyze complex datasets for companies like Progressive Insurance and Nationwide to drive business decisions
Protect digital assets for healthcare systems, banks, and government agencies throughout Ohio
Develop intelligent systems for automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing applications
Ohio Public University Systems and Private Colleges
Ohio's public higher education system includes 14 four-year universities, each offering computer science programs with varying strengths and specializations. The University System of Ohio coordinates these institutions while maintaining their individual character and focus areas.
- Ohio State University (Columbus) - Flagship research university with the state's largest CS program and comprehensive graduate offerings
- University of Cincinnati - Known for innovative co-operative education integrating classroom learning with professional experience
- Miami University (Oxford) - Public ivy with strong liberal arts integration and excellent undergraduate teaching focus
- Ohio University (Athens) - Comprehensive program with strengths in game development and interactive media
- Kent State University - Growing program with emphasis on user experience and human-computer interaction
Ohio's private institutions often provide smaller class sizes and specialized focus areas. Case Western Reserve University leads private offerings with world-class research, while schools like Oberlin and Denison integrate computer science with broader liberal arts education. Students can explore artificial intelligence programs in Ohio or software engineering degrees in Ohio for specialized tracks.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Ohio
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Which Should You Choose?
- Excellent value with strong public university options under $13K annually
- Access to diverse industry internships through co-op programs
- Lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs
- Strong regional job market with Fortune 500 company presence
- Opportunity to be part of growing Midwest tech ecosystem
- Proximity to Silicon Valley or major coastal tech hubs
- Highest possible starting salaries ($120K+ typical)
- Venture capital and startup ecosystem immersion
- International tech company headquarters access
- Cutting-edge research at top-10 national programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio CS Programs
Based on 22 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 Ohio Technology Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data for 2023
Ohio software developer salary and employment data for May 2024
State-specific higher education statistics and transfer data
University research expenditure data for STEM programs
Graduate employment outcomes and salary data from institutional reports
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.