Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Utah 2025
Western Governors University
840 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Brigham Young University
227 computer science graduates annually, 91% graduation rate
Weber State University
137 computer science graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.Utah offers 9+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Western Governors University leads with strong% graduation rate
- 3.Utah software developers earn median $108,000 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Salt Lake City, Provo, Lehi
- 5.Cost of living index: 101.3% of US average (above average)
Computer Science Education in Utah: Overview
Utah offers 9 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 1,434 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Salt Lake City, Provo, Lehi, with major employers including Adobe, Qualtrics, Pluralsight.
With a median software developer salary of $108,000 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 101.3% compared to the US average, Utah offers competitive salaries that offset the higher cost of living.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Western Governors University, Brigham Young University, Weber State University, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 9 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)
Utah-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Utah Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | 75.9 |
| 2 | Brigham Young University | Provo, UT | Private | $6,496 | 91% | 65.1 |
| 3 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | Public | $5,471 | 92% | 64.9 |
| 4 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | 62 |
| 5 | University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT | Public | $8,175 | 72% | 47.7 |
| 6 | Utah State University | Logan, UT | Public | $7,387 | 100% | 46.4 |
| 7 | Southern Utah University | Cedar City, UT | Public | $6,006 | 86% | 44.7 |
| 8 | Utah Tech University | Saint George, UT | Public | $5,266 | — | 43.7 |
| 9 | Westminster University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $40,896 | — | 37.5 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Utah: Side-by-Side
| School | Western Governors | Brigham Young | Weber State | Utah Valley | U of Utah |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $7,710 | $6,496 | $5,471 | $5,614 | $8,175 |
| Graduation Rate | N/A% | 91% | 92% | 92% | 72% |
| Annual Graduates | 840 | 227 | 137 | 87 | 69 |
| Acceptance Rate | N/A | 69% | N/A | N/A | 87% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 75.9/100 | 65.1/100 | 64.9/100 | 62.0/100 | 47.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Utah
Utah offers 9 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Western Governors University, Brigham Young University, Weber State University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $75,600 in the Utah 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 Utah
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Western Governors | $7,710 | N/A% | 840 | 75.9 |
| #2 Brigham Young | $6,496 | 91% | 227 | 65.1 |
| #3 Weber State | $5,471 | 92% | 137 | 64.9 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Utah
For graduate study, Utah offers 5 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Weber State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Utah reaching $140,400 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Utah
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Utah | $8,175 | 72% | 69 | 47.7 |
| #2 Brigham Young | $6,496 | 91% | 23 | 60.6 |
| #3 Weber State | $5,471 | 92% | 12 | 59.8 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Utah
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Utah are at Utah Tech University ($5,266/year), Weber State University ($5,471/year), Utah Valley University ($5,614/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Utah's competitive tech salaries.
At Utah Tech University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $21,064 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $75,600, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.5 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Utah (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Utah Tech | $5,266 | $21,064 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #2 Weber State | $5,471 | $21,884 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #3 Utah Valley | $5,614 | $22,456 | 0.6 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Utah
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Utah, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,710 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 840 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 75.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 840 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 75.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (840 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,000), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,496 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 227 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 69%
- • Ranking Score: 65.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 227 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 65.1 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (227 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,000), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
BYU's Computer Science program requires strong academic performance with all major courses requiring C- or better grades and must be completed within eight years. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills with comprehensive coverage from data structures to advanced algorithms and software design.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 74-75 credits
Weber State University
Ogden, UT • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $5,471 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 137 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 64.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 137 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 64.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (137 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,000), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Weber State's computer science program works closely with industry companies to secure jobs for students and was rated 23rd best computer science degree in the U.S. Students work on capstone projects with community partners and receive dedicated career counseling support.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Microsoft, Google
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $5,614 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 87 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 62.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 87 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 62.0 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (87 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,000), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UVU offers an open-admissions computer science program with multiple specializations including AI, cybersecurity, and data science, plus hands-on learning opportunities and comprehensive student support services. The program provides both undergraduate and graduate degrees with flexible online options and practical career preparation.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Math at least equivalent to high school algebra and trigonometry
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,175 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 72% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 69 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 87%
- • Ranking Score: 47.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 72% graduation rate
- 69 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 47.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (72%), program size (69 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,000), and selectivity (87% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Utah Kahlert School of Computing offers a nationally-ranked program with excellent access to Silicon Slopes and top-tier national tech companies, where 92% of students secure full-time jobs before graduation. Students benefit from opportunities to work with cutting-edge researchers at an R1 research university and can complete both undergraduate and graduate degrees in about five years through the combined BS/MS program.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 92% of students secure full-time jobs before they graduate
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Utah with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Utah with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Utah with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Utah with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Utah with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Salt Lake City, Provo, Lehi
- You're seeking competitive salaries ($108,000 median)
- You want to work at companies like Adobe or Qualtrics
- You prefer Utah's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Utah's 9)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Utah
Explore artificial intelligence programs in Utah
Explore machine learning programs in Utah
Explore data science programs in Utah
Explore data analytics programs in Utah
Explore cybersecurity programs in Utah
Explore information security programs in Utah
Explore software engineering programs in Utah
Explore computer engineering programs in Utah
Explore information technology programs in Utah
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Science in Utah 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 - Utah 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.