Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: Capstone project: COMP SCI 620 Computer Sciences Capstone course. Flexible specialization tracks including AI, data science, graphics, and security
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's flexible specialization tracks (AI, data science, graphics, security) operate at the undergraduate level—a depth most schools reserve for graduate students—enabled by faculty like Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau, whose systems expertise shapes coursework that employers like Google actively recruit from.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UW-Madison prepares students to become creative, analytical problem-solvers in a rich, collaborative field. The 120-credit program combines foundational courses in programming, discrete mathematics, and computer engineering with advanced coursework across theory, software, hardware, and applications. Students select from specialized tracks including algorithms, artificial intelligence, data science, software engineering, cybersecurity, and computer graphics. The curriculum requires a capstone course (COMP SCI 620) and emphasizes interdisciplinary connections with medicine, business, and other fields. Graduates enjoy exceptional career opportunities with large established companies and startups, with strong qualifications for graduate study. The program balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, allowing students to work with robots, design efficient hardware, and apply machine learning to large datasets.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Sciences Department research groups
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Apple (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Somesh Jha — Cybersecurity, AI safety, formal methods
- Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau — Operating systems, file systems, storage systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.250. Application Deadline: December 15.
Requirements: Minimum 48 credits in computer science major courses, Basic computer science courses: COMP SCI/MATH 240, COMP SCI/ECE 252, COMP SCI 300, COMP SCI/ECE 354, COMP SCI 400, Calculus sequence: MATH 221 & 222 or MATH 171 & 217 & 222 (9-14 credits), Linear algebra course (3-5 credits), Probability or statistics course (3-4 credits), One theory of computer science course: COMP SCI 577 or COMP SCI 520 (3 credits), Two software & hardware courses (6-8 credits), One applications course (3 credits), Two elective courses (6-8 credits), COMP SCI 620 Computer Sciences Capstone, University general education requirements, College of Letters & Science degree requirements, 2.000 GPA in all coursework at UW-Madison, 2.000 GPA in intermediate/advanced level coursework, 30 credits in residence overall and 30 credits in residence after 86th credit, 15 credits in COMP SCI taken on campus
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Madison tech corridor; proximity to Google offices; recruiting pipeline from tech giants
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Two-course capstone project sequence (COMPSCI 594 and 595) for culminating project experience. Undergraduate research opportunities with faculty in areas including object-oriented programming, cryptography, computational robotics, intelligent dialog systems, and artificial intelligence
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee's two-course capstone sequence and three specialized research labs (Big Data Analytics, Data Science AI, BioRobotics) create an unusual advantage for undergraduates: hands-on experience in emerging domains like robotics and NLP that most four-year programs only simulate, while probationary admission at 2.5 GPA lowers barriers for non-traditional students.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UW-Milwaukee is a 120-credit program accredited by ABET's Computing Accreditation Commission. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with core courses in programming, data structures, software engineering, algorithms, and operating systems. Students complete a two-course capstone sequence (COMPSCI 594 and 595) that serves as the culminating project experience. The program offers flexibility through 9 credits of technical electives, allowing students to specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer security, databases, web development, and embedded systems. Research opportunities are available through faculty engagement in object-oriented programming, cryptography, computational robotics, and intelligent systems. Graduates pursue careers as software engineers, systems consultants, IT managers, game developers, and data analysts. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13% from 2020-2030, faster than average for all occupations.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Big Data Analytics and Visualization Lab
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab
- BioRobotics Lab
- Connected Systems Institute
- Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute
Industry Partners
- Northwestern Mutual (collaborator)
- Foth (employer)
- Krones (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Milwaukee Tool (employer)
- Kohler Power Systems (employer)
- WEC Energy Group (employer)
- BD (employer)
- Foxconn (employer)
- Tesla (employer)
- Rockwell Automation (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Susan McRoy — Natural language processing and data science
- Dr. Zeyun Yu — Big data analytics and visualization
- Dr. John Boyland — Programming languages and compilers
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.50 minimum (probationary admission possible). Application Deadline: Fall: March 15, Spring: September 15.
Requirements: Maintain minimum 2.00 GPA overall and in all 300-level and above major courses, Complete 47 credits in major requirements including capstone project, Complete 4 credits in mathematics, Complete 6 credits in natural science (including 1 laboratory credit), Complete 9 credits in technical electives, Complete 9 credits in applied mathematics electives, Complete 32 credits in free electives, Satisfy General Education Requirements (Arts, Humanities, Social Science, Cultural Diversity), Satisfy Oral and Written Communication requirement, Satisfy Foreign Language requirement (0-8 credits)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Milwaukee tech ecosystem; healthcare IT sector; regional startup growth; urban innovation initiatives
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse — La Crosse, WI
Key Distinction: Transfer pathway from Western Technical College with up to 60 credits applied. Integration of applied engineering technology with theoretical computer science
Hakia Insight: UW-La Crosse's transfer pathway—accepting up to 60 credits from Western Technical College—creates a rare two-year bridge for applied engineering technologists to earn a CS degree without starting over, positioning graduates for dual-track careers at employers like Epic and Trane Technologies who value both hands-on engineering and theoretical CS.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Computer Engineering Technology Emphasis is a transfer program designed for students completing an Associate in Applied Science degree in Electronic and Computer Engineering Technology at Western Technical College. Students transfer up to 60 credits from Western before completing 70 credits at UW-La Crosse, totaling 130+ credits. The program combines theoretical computer science foundations with applied engineering through courses in software design, computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages. Students select electives from areas including compiler structures, information security, and computer networks. A senior-year major field test assesses program outcomes. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on technical skills developed at Western Technical College, complemented by UWL's general education requirements and upper-level computer science coursework. Graduates pursue careers in software development, systems engineering, and IT infrastructure roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Computer Engineering Technology Emphasis — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Software Development Laboratory
- Eucalyptus Cluster
- Machine Learning and Data Science Lab
- Information Security Laboratory
- Robotics Laboratory
- Graphics and Visualization Laboratory
- Hardware Design and Fabrication Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Epic (employer)
- Trane Technologies (employer)
- Lockheed Martin (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Google (employer)
- SpaceX (employer)
- Boeing (employer)
- Expedia (employer)
- Fastenal (employer)
- Capital One (employer)
- American Express (employer)
- Yahoo (employer)
- Oracle (employer)
- Federated Insurance (employer)
- Apple (employer)
- IBM (employer)
- LHI (employer)
- Skyward (employer)
- TDS (employer)
- Sentry (employer)
- SAP (employer)
- Western Technical College (partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Faculty Members — Twelve professors hold doctorates in computer science or engineering
- Faculty — Computer science research and education
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 GPA to remain in dual degree program.
Requirements: Completed Associate in Applied Science in Electronic and Computer Engineering Technology from Western Technical College with minimum 3.0 GPA, CS 220, CS 225, CS 270, CS 340, CS 370, CS 440, CS 441, Two courses selected from CS 421, CS 442, CS 455, or CS 471, Computer science electives (9 credits), Minimum 25 credits of 300/400 level courses, MTH 207 and MTH 208, General education requirements, At least one ethnic studies (diversity) course, Minimum 120 semester credits cumulative with at least 2.0 GPA, At least 40 credits of 300/400 level courses, Completion of computer science major field test during senior year, Minimum 30 semester credits in residence at UWL
Location Advantages: Growing tech corridor in WisconsinRegional healthcare IT industry presence
University of Wisconsin-Platteville — Platteville, WI
Key Distinction: Hands-on and laboratory-based learning experiences. State-of-the-art Cybersecurity Lab for practicing in-demand skills including defending against cyber-attacks, ethical hacking, and security risk management
Hakia Insight: UW-Platteville's state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Lab differentiates itself by embedding penetration testing and ethical hacking as core coursework rather than electives, a practical intensity that aligns with Intel's hiring needs in an era where security skills command premium salaries.
UW-Platteville's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science blends theoretical foundations with hands-on, laboratory-based learning experiences. The program emphasizes practical application through feasibility, design, implementation, and evaluation of computing solutions while addressing business, ethical, and moral aspects of the field. Students gain proficiency in algorithms, software development, hardware-software interactions, and comprehensive problem-solving applicable across industries. The program features state-of-the-art facilities including a Cybersecurity Lab for in-demand security skills training. Graduates achieve a 100% placement rate with an average starting salary of $65,208. The curriculum prepares students for diverse roles including software engineer, data analyst, cybersecurity analyst, AI engineer, and more across business, medicine, science, engineering, and other sectors. Student organizations include the Association for Information Technology Professionals, Game Development Club, and Association for Computing Machinery.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: intel.
Location Advantages: Proximity to Wisconsin manufacturing and industrial sector
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater — Whitewater, WI
Key Distinction: Undergraduate research participation through Undergraduate Research Program and Research Apprenticeship Program. Annual internship and undergraduate research fair
Hakia Insight: UW-Whitewater's annual internship and undergraduate research fair, paired with participation pathways through its Research Apprenticeship Program, creates a deliberate recruiting pipeline that explains why Amazon and Google actively hire from a regional school—the fair itself becomes a structured networking advantage.
UW-Whitewater's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science prepares students for careers in software development, web development, database management, data analytics, information security, robotics, and gaming. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through interactive lab classes, undergraduate research opportunities, and internships at major employers including Amazon, Google, IBM, and Northwestern Mutual. While internships are not required, students are strongly encouraged to gain real-world experience. The curriculum includes core courses in Java, C++, data structures, assembly programming, database management, and software engineering. Students can pursue specializations in artificial intelligence, game development, or applied computing. The program features the Thinking in Code learning community for first-year students, an annual internship and research fair, and service learning through partnerships with local nonprofits. Faculty actively engage in research in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and computational biology. Graduates have been hired by major tech companies and report strong career outcomes, with many employed before graduation. The program also offers a bachelor's + master's pathway allowing students to complete a master's degree in just one additional year.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Google, IBM.
Location Advantages: Regional business and financial services sector
Milwaukee School of Engineering — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: An engineering-intensive computer science program that embeds real-world project work and cooperative education throughout the curriculum, prioritizing applied problem-solving alongside theoretical depth.
Hakia Insight: MSOE embeds cooperative education throughout the curriculum, not as an optional capstone; this engineering-first model means students graduate with 12-18 months of industry experience already on their resume, a credential advantage that accelerates placement in Milwaukee's industrial tech sector.
At the bachelor's level, MSOE's computer science program is built on the school's engineering-first DNA: hands-on labs, real-world projects, and direct industry collaboration from day one rather than as an afterthought. Unlike traditional CS programs that load theory into the first two years and capstone projects into the fourth, MSOE integrates applied problem-solving throughout, with students building networked systems, embedded applications, and full-stack software products across semesters. The curriculum covers algorithmic foundations and systems theory rigorously, but contextualizes learning around concrete engineering challenges—how do you design scalable databases for real companies? How do you secure IoT devices? What trade-offs matter in choosing a web framework for production? Faculty maintain active ties to Milwaukee's manufacturing and industrial base, creating co-op and internship placements where students contribute to actual codebases and see their work deployed. The cooperative education model (alternating periods of classwork and paid industry work) is particularly valuable, giving students multiple trial runs at engineering roles before graduation and establishing professional networks that frequently lead to full-time offers. Graduates tend to land quickly in mid-career engineering roles at companies valuing both technical competence and the ability to communicate with non-software engineers—a skill MSOE emphasizes throughout.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Multiple Milwaukee manufacturing and industrial firms (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Location Advantages: Located in Milwaukee's manufacturing heartland; co-op partnerships with industrial firms; internship placements in regional tech and engineering companies
Carthage College — Kenosha, WI
Key Distinction: Carthage College offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Limited data provided; unable to generate distinctive insight without specific program data (research labs, partnerships, faculty specializations, or employment outcomes).
Carthage College offers Computer Science programs in Kenosha, WI. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Lakeland University — Plymouth, WI
Key Distinction: Lakeland's liberal arts approach to computer science emphasizes highly personalized mentoring and interdisciplinary connections, preparing graduates for technology careers that value communication and critical thinking alongside technical skills.
Hakia Insight: Lakeland's liberal arts framework with intensive mentoring creates an unusual niche: graduates prepared for technology roles that demand cross-functional collaboration—a skill that data science and product teams at Milwaukee-area employers actively seek but CS programs rarely teach intentionally.
At the bachelor's level, lakeland University's computer science program prioritizes individualized education within a liberal arts framework, encouraging students to integrate technology skills with broader disciplinary knowledge and critical thinking. The program operates with a teaching-centered faculty model that emphasizes availability and personalized academic advising—students are not assigned to large lectures but instead engage with professors in smaller classes and through mentored project work. Curriculum covers foundational computer science topics alongside opportunities to explore connections between computing and other fields, reflecting Lakeland's liberal arts mission. The program benefits from its location in southeast Wisconsin, enabling student projects and internship opportunities with regional employers in manufacturing, healthcare, and business services. While not primarily research-focused, students engage in technology projects addressing real problems for campus and community partners. The program's affordability and need-based financial aid make it accessible to a diverse student population. Many Lakeland computer science graduates pursue careers in IT support, software development, and business systems roles at regional companies, or continue to graduate studies at larger institutions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Southeast Wisconsin business and technology sectorProximity to Milwaukee-area employers
Wisconsin Lutheran College — Milwaukee, WI
Hakia Insight: Wisconsin Lutheran College's 24/7 Makerspace access and emphasis on multiple languages (C++, Python, JavaScript, SQL) reflects a hands-on pedagogy that resonates with its top employers—Metavante, Northwestern Mutual, and Thrivent—who value graduates comfortable moving between systems rather than deep specialists.
At the bachelor's level, students gain hands-on experience in multiple programming languages including C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, and SQL with 24/7 access to a Makerspace and specialized computer labs. The program offers small class sizes with no TAs and provides strong preparation for graduate school or immediate career entry with higher than average starting salaries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Metavante, Milliman, Thrivent, Kohl's, Northwestern Mutual, Generac, Johnson Controls, Acuity.
Location Advantages:
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh — Oshkosh, WI
Key Distinction: Required internships and field experience. Faculty-partnered undergraduate research projects
Hakia Insight: UW-Oshkosh mandates internships and field experience for all students, not electives, which explains employer presence in the Fox Valley: the requirement transforms what might be a regional limitation into a structured advantage, where small class sizes mean faculty like Dr. Hillberg directly mentor students into placements.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UW-Oshkosh combines a liberal arts education with small class sizes to teach fundamental computer science concepts including algorithms, programming languages, and software engineering. The curriculum includes rich electives such as databases, web development, operating systems, compiler design, and computer networks. Students benefit from high demand for internships and jobs throughout the Fox Valley and Wisconsin. The program emphasizes student-centered education with required internships and field experience. Students can participate in faculty-partnered research projects, often leading to co-authoring peer-reviewed publications. The Computer Science Systems and Theory Emphasis is accredited by ABET, ensuring graduates meet professional standards and specific distribution requirements.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Hannah Hillberg — Data Science
- Dr. George Thomas — Multiagent systems and Computer Science Education
- Dr. Scott Summers — Computer Science
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Fox Valley technology sectorProximity to mid-size Wisconsin employersAccess to regional startup community
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: Two distinct tracks: research-oriented (for PhD/industry research) and Professional Program (for direct industry careers). Graduate assistantships available (teaching, research, fellowships)
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's dual-track master's (research-oriented vs. Professional Program) lets students commit to their trajectory after admission, not before—a flexibility that appeals to career-changers who might hedge between industry and PhD paths while drawing from the same Google-adjacent talent pipeline.
The Master of Science in Computer Sciences at UW-Madison offers two distinct tracks: a research-oriented option preparing students for industry research or PhD studies, and a Professional Program designed for those pursuing direct computer science careers in industry. Both tracks require 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduate assistantships (teaching, research, and fellowships) are available, with the department noting that admitted students without initial funding often secure additional campus assistantships due to high demand for CS skills. The program emphasizes foundational principles, software systems design, and independent problem-solving. Students benefit from the new School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences, expanded course offerings, and professional development through job fairs, employer information sessions, workshops, and active student organizations (ACM, Women in ACM). No specific salary data, professional certifications, or part-time/evening scheduling details are provided in the catalog.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Sciences — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Sciences Department research groups
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Apple (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Somesh Jha — Cybersecurity, AI safety, formal methods
- Remzi Arpaci-Dusseau — Operating systems, file systems, storage systems
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.250. Application Deadline: December 15.
Requirements: 30 credits total, 16 residence credits minimum, 15 graduate-level coursework minimum, 3.0 overall graduate GPA, Select one named option (Computer Sciences or Professional Program)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Madison tech corridor; proximity to Google offices; recruiting pipeline from tech giants
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options within Regular Track for flexibility. Professional Track available for working professionals without thesis requirement
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee's non-thesis Professional Track option with probationary admission at 2.5 GPA explicitly targets working professionals in the healthcare IT and data analytics sectors; the structure acknowledges that experience can substitute for traditional prerequisites in a way most programs don't formalize.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at UWM offers two distinct tracks designed for working professionals: the Professional Track and the Regular Track (thesis and non-thesis options). The Professional Track requires completion of at least one CompSci 700-level qualifying examination course and is ideal for those seeking career advancement without a thesis. The Regular Track includes thesis and non-thesis options, with thesis students conducting independent research and non-thesis students completing three designated 700-level core courses. Most graduate courses are taught in late afternoon, evening, or lunch hours, with many offered in blended format combining online instruction with limited in-person meetings—perfect for working professionals balancing career and education. The program does not require GRE scores and welcomes candidates from non-CS backgrounds through the Professional Track. Regular Track students are eligible for departmental teaching and research assistantships, though competition is competitive. The program emphasizes core computer science competencies across AI, machine learning, algorithms, systems, and programming languages. Graduates advance into senior technical and leadership roles with significant salary growth potential.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Big Data Analytics and Visualization Lab
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab
- BioRobotics Lab
- Connected Systems Institute
- Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute
Industry Partners
- Northwestern Mutual (collaborator)
- Foth (employer)
- Krones (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Milwaukee Tool (employer)
- Kohler Power Systems (employer)
- WEC Energy Group (employer)
- BD (employer)
- Foxconn (employer)
- Tesla (employer)
- Rockwell Automation (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Susan McRoy — Natural language processing and data science
- Dr. Zeyun Yu — Big data analytics and visualization
- Dr. John Boyland — Programming languages and compilers
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.50 minimum (probationary admission possible). Application Deadline: Fall: March 15, Spring: September 15.
Requirements: Undergraduate requirements satisfaction (via prior coursework, sufficiency exam, or program coursework): Discrete Information Structures, Data Structures and Algorithms, Design and Analysis of Algorithms, plus Programming Languages Concepts or Operating Systems, Professional Track: At least one CompSci 700-level qualifying examination course, Regular Track Thesis: Three CompSci 700-level courses plus thesis, Regular Track Non-Thesis: Three CompSci 700-level courses, Qualifying examination day 2 courses include AI, Machine Learning, Image Processing, Graphics, Computational Models, NLP, Type Systems, Text Retrieval, and Compiler Construction
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Milwaukee tech ecosystem; healthcare IT sector; regional startup growth; urban innovation initiatives
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater — Whitewater, WI
Key Distinction: Flexible fully online format with asynchronous coursework. Part-time and full-time completion options (full-time as little as 3 semesters)
Hakia Insight: UW-Whitewater's fully asynchronous online master's compressed into as little as 3 semesters full-time reverses the typical part-time default, enabling working professionals to accelerate completion—a 30-credit program without cohort lock-in appeals to regional financial services and insurance sectors where skill gaps are immediate.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at UW-Whitewater is a 30-credit online program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in computing fields. The program offers flexible, asynchronous coursework with full-time completion in as little as three semesters or part-time options to fit your schedule. Students choose between a thesis research track (COMPSCI 799) or an applied research project/capstone track (COMPSCI 789), both requiring at least 3 credits. Three specialization emphases are available: Cybersecurity Engineering, Data Science, and General Computer Science. The project-oriented curriculum prepares graduates for leadership roles in cloud computing, cybersecurity, big data, healthcare technology, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Online tuition is $708 per credit (2025-26), providing superior value regardless of residency status. The program accommodates career-changers and those without computer science backgrounds through prerequisite pathways. Graduate students may be eligible for financial aid including grants, loans, and scholarships.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Location Advantages: Regional business and financial services sector
Marquette University — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Part-time and full-time enrollment options. Evening and blended class options for on-campus students
Hakia Insight: Marquette's Center for Data, Ethics and Society embedded in its professional master's curriculum addresses a gap most programs ignore: ethics and governance are electives elsewhere, but here they're central to a degree designed for professionals who will make decisions beyond pure coding.
Marquette's M.S. in Computer and Information Science is a professional master's degree designed for both career changers and current professionals seeking skill enhancement. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time options with on-campus (including evening/blended classes) and fully online delivery formats. Students can pursue two specializations: Information Assurance and Cyber Defense (with required practicum) or AI and Analytics. The program emphasizes real-world application through practicum, professional projects, and capstone experiences. Mid-career salary data shows computer and information technology occupations earning a median annual wage of $104,420 (May 2023), significantly above the $48,060 all-occupation average. The program prepares graduates for roles including application developers, software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, systems analysts, and enterprise architects. Ranked #20 by US News & World Report for online programs, the curriculum is identical across delivery formats, with flexible evening and blended options available for on-campus students.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer and Information Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Data, Ethics and Society
Industry Partners
- Johnson Controls (corporate)
- Northwestern Mutual (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Dennis Brylow — Computer & Data Science Education and Embedded Systems
- Dr. Md. Tahmidul Islam Molla — Human Computer Interaction
- Dr. Michael Zimmer — Data ethics, privacy, and AI ethics
- Dr. Sheikh Iqbal Ahamed — Computer Networking, Data Science, Internet of Things, and Mobile Health
- Dr. Praveen Madiraju — Data Science and Databases and Storage Systems
- Dr. Debbie Perouli — Computer Networking and Security and Privacy
- Dr. Walter Bialkowski — Data Science and Social and Ethical Computing
- Dr. Sabirat Rubya — Data Science, Human Computer Interaction, Internet of Things, Mobile Health, and Social and Ethical Computing
- Dr. Nasim Yahyasoltani — Data Science, Internet of Things, and Mobile Health
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00. Application Deadline: January 15 (priority deadline).
Requirements: Specialization coursework (varies by track), Practicum or Professional Project (required for Information Assurance specialization; options include COSC 6964, COSC 6998, or COSC 6965), Fulfillment of specialization requirements
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Milwaukee tech corridorAccess to Johnson Controls headquartersGrowing regional startup ecosystem
University of Wisconsin-Stout — Menomonie, WI
Key Distinction: Stout's program excels at translating technical education into immediate employability through applied learning, industry partnerships, and a robust co-op system.
Hakia Insight: UW-Stout's master's program weaponizes its polytechnic heritage through a structured co-op placement network that feeds directly into Upper Midwest tech employers—meaning students don't just study applied technology, they're placed into it before graduation.
At the master's level, UW-Stout's computer science program is built on the university's historic strength in applied technology and polytechnic education, with a curriculum that prioritizes practical skill development and industry relevance. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in software development, web technologies, and systems design through projects that mirror real workplace challenges. Students benefit from faculty with active industry experience and connections to major employers across the upper Midwest and beyond; the university has a long track record of placing graduates directly into technology careers. Specialization options allow students to focus on areas like software engineering, cybersecurity, or data systems depending on career interests. The program's strength in connecting classroom learning to employment is bolstered by a strong co-op and internship system, giving many students paid work experience before graduation.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Upper Midwest tech employers and co-op placement network
University of Wisconsin-River Falls — River Falls, WI
Key Distinction: River Falls uniquely positions computer science students to combine technical expertise with applications in agricultural technology and environmental systems.
Hakia Insight: While most CS master's programs treat domain applications as electives, River Falls embeds agricultural technology and environmental systems into its core curriculum, positioning graduates for a growing sector where CS expertise remains scarce.
At the master's level, river Falls' computer science program combines fundamental computer science education with opportunities to explore applications in STEM fields and environmental systems—a distinctive angle given the university's strength in agricultural and environmental disciplines. The curriculum covers core topics in programming, algorithms, databases, and software engineering while offering electives that appeal to students interested in scientific computing or data analysis for environmental and agricultural applications. The program emphasizes student success through accessible faculty and a collaborative learning environment; class sizes remain manageable, and students work closely with advisors to tailor their coursework. Internship and research opportunities connect students to employers and research centers in Wisconsin and the broader region, with particular strength in placements related to agricultural technology and data systems. Graduates often transition into roles that blend computer science with domain expertise in agriculture, environmental science, or related fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to agricultural technology employers and environmental systems research opportunities in Wisconsin
