Top 3 Software Engineering Programs in Ohio 2025
Miami University-Oxford
53 Software Engineering graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
79 Software Engineering graduates annually, 78% graduation rate
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
38 Software Engineering graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Ohio has 45+ accredited software engineering and related programs across public universities and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Case Western Reserve University ranks #1 in Ohio with 82% graduation rate and strong Cleveland tech industry connections
- 3.Ohio State offers top public education at $11,936 in-state tuition with extensive research opportunities and industry partnerships
- 4.Ohio software developers earn median $98,420 annually, below national average but with significantly lower cost of living (BLS Ohio 2024)
- 5.Major employers include Progressive Insurance, Nationwide, Fifth Third Bank, and growing fintech sector in Columbus and Cincinnati
Software Engineering Education Landscape in Ohio
Ohio provides a diverse range of software engineering programs, from world-class private universities to affordable public institutions with strong industry connections. The state's tech sector has grown significantly, with Columbus emerging as a major fintech hub and Cleveland developing a robust healthcare technology ecosystem.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national software engineering bachelor's rankings. Students considering affordability should review our most affordable software engineering programs guide. Career-focused students should explore our software engineer salary guide for Ohio-specific compensation data.
Ohio's strategic location in the Midwest, combined with lower living costs and growing tech opportunities, makes it an attractive choice for software engineering students seeking quality education without the premium price tag of coastal alternatives.
Ohio Software Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Miami University-Oxford | Oxford, OH | Public | $14,052 | 97% | — | 67.1 |
| 2 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati, OH | Public | $11,228 | 78% | — | 66.8 |
| 3 | Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | Bowling Green, OH | Public | $11,010 | — | — | 51.6 |
| 4 | Shawnee State University | Portsmouth, OH | Public | $9,622 | — | — | 50.7 |
| 5 | Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, OH | Private | $37,686 | 94% | — | 49.6 |
| 6 | University of Akron Main Campus | Akron, OH | Public | $10,399 | — | — | 48.5 |
| 7 | University of Mount Union | Alliance, OH | Private | $35,000 | — | — | 39.5 |
| 8 | Herzing University-Akron | Akron, OH | Private | $12,360 | 65% | — | 36.1 |
| 9 | Notre Dame College | Cleveland, OH | Private | $31,876 | — | — | 35.2 |
| 10 | Mount Vernon Nazarene University | Mount Vernon, OH | Private | $25,309 | — | — | 34.4 |
| 11 | Ohio Dominican University | Columbus, OH | Private | $33,760 | — | — | 34.2 |
| 12 | Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | Public | $9,611 | — | — | 33.7 |
Top 5 Software Engineering Programs in Ohio: Side-by-Side
| School | Ohio State | Case Western Reserve | U of Dayton | Miami University-Oxford | Denison |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,826 | $64,100 | $47,600 | $14,052 | $64,000 |
| Graduation Rate | 90% | 85% | N/A% | 97% | 97% |
| Annual Graduates | 455 | 162 | 477 | 250 | 18 |
| Acceptance Rate | 51% | 29% | 62% | 82% | 17% |
| Type | Public | Private | Private | Public | Private |
| Score | 84.1/100 | 73.0/100 | 72.3/100 | 70.3/100 | 61.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Software Engineering in Ohio
Ohio offers 42 bachelor's-level software engineering programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Ohio State University-Main Campus, Case Western Reserve University, Miami University-Oxford. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $70,126 in the Ohio market.
A bachelor's in software engineering typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Software Engineering Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Software Engineering Bachelor's Programs in Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Ohio State | $11,826 | 90% | 455 | 84.1 |
| #2 Case Western Reserve | $64,100 | 85% | 162 | 73.0 |
| #3 Miami University-Oxford | $14,052 | 97% | 250 | 70.3 |
Top Software Engineering Schools for Master's Degrees in Ohio
For graduate study, Ohio offers 14 master's-level software engineering programs. Leading institutions include University of Dayton, Ohio State University-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 Software Engineering Master's Programs in Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Dayton | $47,600 | N/A% | 477 | 72.3 |
| #2 Ohio State | $11,826 | 90% | 74 | 62.7 |
| #3 Case Western Reserve | $64,100 | 85% | 30 | 57.9 |
Most Affordable Software Engineering Colleges in Ohio
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable software engineering 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 Software Engineering 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 |
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,826 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Software Engineering Graduates: 455 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 51%
- • Ranking Score: 84.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 455 software engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (455 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (51% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,100 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Software Engineering Graduates: 162 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 73.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 162 software engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 73.0 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (162 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 both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science with six specialized areas including software engineering, where 85% of students conduct research starting in their first year, and 98% participate in hands-on learning with strong industry connections.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $75K-79K
- Job Placement: 96% recent alumni employed full time, or pursuing academic or personal interests
- Top Employers: Amazon, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Deloitte, Epic, EY, General Motors, Google, Intel, KeyBank, Lincoln Electric, Matrix Pointe Software, McMaster-Carr Supply Company, National Institutes of Health, Northwestern Medince, Parker Hannifin, University Hospitals, University of Virginia
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $47,600 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Software Engineering Graduates: 477 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 62%
- • Ranking Score: 72.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 477 software engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 72.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (477 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (62% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
University of Dayton's Computer Engineering program offers an optional robotics concentration with hands-on laboratory experiences and more technical electives than most engineering majors. Students can participate in undergraduate research as early as their first year and work on real-world capstone projects with industry clients.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus I
- •Calculus II
- •Calculus III
- •Programming
- •Signals & Systems
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $83,583
- Job Placement: 98% success rate after graduation
- Top Employers: GE Aerospace, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, United States Air Force, Intel
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Miami University-Oxford
Oxford, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,052 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Software Engineering Graduates: 250 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 82%
- • Ranking Score: 70.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 250 software engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 70.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (250 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's Software Engineering program is recognized as a top 10 program nationally and ranks #1 among Ohio public universities for return on investment. The program is ABET-accredited and provides hands-on experience through Senior Design Projects that tackle real problems for real clients.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Denison University
Granville, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,000 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Software Engineering Graduates: 18 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 17%
- • Ranking Score: 61.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 18 software engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 61.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (18 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (17% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Denison offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science with three specialization tracks (Theory, Systems, Applied) and strong industry connections including Amazon internship opportunities. The program combines rigorous technical coursework with a liberal arts foundation and top-ranked career services support.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop applications, systems software, and mobile applications for Ohio's growing tech sector
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1299Manage deployment pipelines and infrastructure for companies like Progressive and Nationwide
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze data for financial services and healthcare companies concentrated in Ohio's major cities
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect systems and data for Ohio's major corporations and government agencies
Ohio University Systems and Software Engineering Programs
Ohio's public university system provides numerous affordable pathways to software engineering education. The Ohio State University system, anchored by the flagship Columbus campus, offers the most comprehensive programs with extensive research opportunities and industry connections.
The state's regional universities, including Miami University, Ohio University, and the University of Akron, provide quality education at lower costs while maintaining strong regional industry ties. These programs often focus on practical skills and local job market needs.
- Ohio State University System: Flagship research programs with national reach
- Regional Universities: Cost-effective options with strong local industry partnerships
- Private Institutions: Case Western and University of Dayton lead in research and outcomes
- Community College Pathways: 2+2 transfer programs available statewide
Ohio's private institutions, particularly Case Western Reserve University, offer premium education with smaller class sizes and extensive research opportunities. These programs typically have higher costs but provide exceptional outcomes and industry connections.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Ohio
Software Engineering Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Which Should You Choose?
- You want quality education at affordable in-state tuition rates
- You prefer lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs
- You're interested in fintech, healthcare tech, or insurance technology careers
- You value strong co-op and internship opportunities with regional employers
- You want access to major cities (Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati) without premium costs
- You prioritize the highest possible starting salaries over cost of living
- You specifically want to work for major tech companies (FAANG) immediately after graduation
- You prefer warmer climates or coastal locations
- You want access to the largest possible tech ecosystems and networking opportunities
- You need extensive venture capital and startup ecosystem access
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Software Engineering Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Software Engineering 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 software engineering salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Software Engineering Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing enrollment, graduation rates, tuition, and institutional data for all accredited colleges and universities
State-specific salary and employment data for software developers and related occupations
State higher education data including transfer agreements, program accreditation, and workforce outcomes
Graduate salary data and employment outcome statistics for engineering programs
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.