🥇
$68,612
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
95.1
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Brown University's CS program ranks among the top nationally with a 96% graduation rate and a 96.9 overall score
Brown leads the state across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels; its strength in AI and HCI research attracts top faculty and students
Rhode Island CS graduates earn a $103,450 median salary, with Providence metro salaries reaching $113,795
CVS Health (headquartered in Woonsocket), Fidelity Investments, and Citizens Bank drive steady demand for CS talent
University of Rhode Island offers the strongest public option at $14,116/yr with dual CAE-CDE and CAE-R cybersecurity designations
Rhode Island College provides an even more affordable public path at $9,481/yr in Providence
Community College of Rhode Island offers a $4,856/yr associate's pathway with Rhode Island Promise covering tuition for qualifying students
Transfer agreements with URI and other four-year institutions create a clear 2+2 pathway for cost-conscious students
Small state, compact market: all 7 bachelor's programs and major employers are within a 45-minute drive of Providence
Rhode Island's proximity to Boston's tech corridor also gives graduates access to a much larger regional job market
Hakia Research 2026
Updated June 27, 2026
How we ranked Rhode Island Computer Science programs
We rank 12 accredited computer science programs in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Worth It?
Answer
$103,450
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Rhode Island deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $31,179/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Rhode Island
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Rhode Island by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Rhode Island
6
Programs ranked
$40,152
Avg tuition/yr
71%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 7 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Brown, Providence College, U of Rhode Island, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Rhode Island computer science programs earn a median salary of $87,933, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Providence, Warwick, Cranston metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,481 to $65,656 annually, with an average of $34,939/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 66%, with the highest reaching 96%. 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 Rhode Island's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Rhode Island, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#4
$41,782
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
65.1
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Johnson & Wales University-Online | Providence, RI | Private nonprofit | $13,365 | — | 62.7 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Rhode Island
1
Programs ranked
$68,612
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island offers 2 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Brown, U of Rhode Island, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Providence, Warwick, Cranston creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank 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 $39,886/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 Rhode Island's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$68,612
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
92.3
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Rhode Island
2
Programs ranked
$41,621
Avg tuition/yr
85%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island is home to 2 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Brown, U of Rhode Island are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Rhode Island PhD holders earning a median of $129,313, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Providence, Warwick, Cranston region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
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 Rhode Island programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Rhode Island, 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.
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Rhode Island
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $31,179/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $77,948/year |
| Community college tuition | $7,795/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $187,076 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $46,768 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Rhode Island
State Aid Programs
Rhode Island offers strong financial aid opportunities for computer science students pursuing degrees at both public and private institutions. The state's flagship initiative, the Rhode Island Promise, covers tuition costs for qualifying recent high school graduates attending the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), making it an affordable entry point for students interested in computer science before transferring to a four-year program. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid to access federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. These federal resources can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs regardless of which Rhode Island institution you attend.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond federal aid, many Rhode Island colleges offer institutional scholarships and merit-based awards specifically for computer science majors. Brown University, the state's top-ranked computer science program, and the University of Rhode Island both provide competitive scholarship packages. For students seeking affordability, Rhode Island College offers some of the lowest tuition rates in the state while maintaining strong academic programs. The Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner provides comprehensive guidance on state-specific aid programs and can connect students with institutional financial aid offices. Additionally, the state's transfer system through Rhode Island Transfer Agreements allows CCRI graduates to transition seamlessly to universities like URI while preserving financial aid eligibility and credit recognition.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Rhode Island
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island metro areas
Providence$114K
Warwick$109K
Cranston$103K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Providence | $114K |
| Warwick | $109K |
| Cranston | $103K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Rhode Island
Find computer science jobs in Rhode Island. These major employers across Rhode Island metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Providence
RICVS Health
healthcare
Citizens Financial Group
finance
Fidelity Investments
finance
Infosys
consulting
Computer Science Jobs in Warwick
RIGTECH/IGT
gaming-tech
Amica Insurance
insurance
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Rhode Island
State Transfer System
Rhode Island maintains a structured transfer system designed to help student progression from two-year to four-year institutions. The state has 2 two-year institutions and 13 four-year institutions offering Computer Science programs, creating multiple pathways for students beginning their education at community colleges. The Rhode Island Transfer Agreements system enables transfer from the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) to state colleges and the University of Rhode Island, ensuring that coursework completed at the associate level counts toward bachelor's degree requirements. This coordinated approach eliminates redundant coursework and reduces time-to-degree, saving students both time and tuition costs.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing associate degrees in Computer Science can leverage the Rhode Island Transfer Agreements to seamlessly transition to bachelor's programs. With 3 associate degree completions reported annually, the pathway demonstrates strong demand and institutional support. The Rhode Island Promise program covers tuition at CCRI for qualifying recent high school graduates, making community college an affordable entry point for Computer Science study. Students transferring from CCRI complete foundational mathematics, computer science theory, and general education requirements before transferring to institutions like the University of Rhode Island or Rhode Island College to complete their bachelor's degrees. Prospective students should consult the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner website for current articulation agreements and transfer course requirements. For comparison, explore Computer Science in California and Computer Science in New York to understand transfer systems in other states.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Rhode Island?
Industry & Workforce
Rhode Island offers a strong Computer Science education landscape with 13 institutions offering degree programs across multiple levels (IPEDS). The state produced 398 bachelor's degree completions in 2023, demonstrating strong undergraduate enrollment and graduation rates. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is only $11,799, making Computer Science education significantly more affordable than national averages. This affordability advantage is particularly pronounced for students pursuing advanced degrees, with 134 master's degree completions and 16 doctoral completions reported in the same year.
Salary Outlook
The state's technology sector is anchored by institutions like Brown University, which leads the region with 366 Computer Science completions across all degree levels. The Greater Providence area serves as a hub for technology innovation, attracting major employers including CVS Health and Brown University itself. Students studying Computer Science in Rhode Island benefit from proximity to established tech ecosystems while maintaining access to affordable tuition options. For those seeking advanced education, explore Software Engineering in Rhode Island and Data Science in Rhode Island as complementary pathways. Prospective students should also review national best programs to understand how Rhode Island schools compare nationally.
Computer Science Program Availability in Rhode Island
8 Programs
Rhode Island offers 8 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Providence, Warwick, Cranston.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Rhode Island
Employment Outlook
Rhode Island's computer science job market is anchored by a strong educational pipeline and growing employer demand. The state hosts 13 institutions offering computer science programs across multiple degree levels, from associate's through doctoral degrees (IPEDS). In 2023, Rhode Island institutions awarded 398 bachelor's degrees, 134 master's degrees, and 16 doctoral degrees in computer science, creating a consistent supply of talent for the regional tech sector. The Providence-Warwick metro area serves as the primary job market hub, drawing graduates from both in-state and regional universities seeking technology positions in one of New England's largest employment centers.
Salaries by Metro
For detailed salary and employment projections specific to Rhode Island, the Bureau of Labor Statistics maintains current occupational data for the state (BLS State Data). Major employment centers are distributed across key cities including Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, and Newport, with significant clusters in the Greater Providence region. Public four-year institutions charge an average of $11,799 in-state tuition, making Rhode Island an accessible entry point for talent development. Students seeking to understand the broader computer science career landscape can explore national best bachelor's programs and best online programs to contextualize Rhode Island's competitive position.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Rhode Island$67,243$150,003
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Rhode Island
Online Programs
1 available in Rhode Island
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$28,061/yr$31,179/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 Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $44,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Computer Science Degree Programs in Rhode Island: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Rhode Island?
The best computer science degree programs in Rhode Island based on our methodology are: 1) Brown University (96% graduation rate), 2) Providence College, and 3) University of Rhode Island. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Rhode Island offers 8 total accredited programs across 3 public and 5 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 7 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Rhode Island?
Computer Science degree program costs in Rhode Island vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $31,179/year, while private institutions average $68,594/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $7,795/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $124,716 at public schools to $274,375 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 Rhode Island?
Computer Science professionals in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,243, while senior roles exceed $150,003. Salaries vary by metro area: Providence ($113,795), Warwick ($108,623) 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 Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island offers 1 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 Community College of Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island?
Major Computer Science employers in Rhode Island include Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global, Textron. The Providence and Warwick metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Rhode Island universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Rhode Island's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Rhode Island?
A computer science degree program in Rhode Island offers strong ROI with a $103,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $31,179/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($116,898), 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 Rhode Island?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Rhode Island 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. Rhode Island community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Rhode Island university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island'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
Rhode Island 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.