A computer science degree provides a thorough understanding of computer systems, cybersecurity, and networks. It equips students with the technical and analytical skills to succeed in careers in the federal government, colleges and universities, and private companies. Graduates often work as software developers, computer system analysts, database administrators, and information security analysts.
Computer science graduates are highly sought after in the job market and often obtain high-paying roles. The median annual salary for those in computer and information technology careers is $104,420. However, wages vary depending on position, industry, and location. Information security analysts have a median annual salary of $120,360, while web developers and digital designers have a median yearly wage of $92,750.
Most undergraduate computer science programs require the completion of 120 to 180 credits for graduation, which often takes students four years of full-time study. Part-time and accelerated programs are also available for students who wish to study at their own pace. The average annual cost for computer science programs is $16,618 but varies depending on the program, institution, and student living requirements.
How to Choose a Computer Science Program
Choose your area of study
Students can pursue four levels of computer science degrees: associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral.
- An associate degree in computer science is best for those who wish to enter entry-level positions such as a web developer, computer systems administrator, or computer programmer. It typically requires two years of full-time study and can sometimes transfer to a bachelor’s program.
- A bachelor’s degree is the most common choice for those entering the field of computer science. It requires four years of full-time study and provides foundational knowledge to succeed in positions such as web developers, IT project managers, or systems architects.
- A master’s degree expands on the foundational knowledge of a bachelor’s degree to prepare students for high-level positions. It often consists of 30 to 45 credits and requires two years of full-time study.
- A Doctor of Computer Science is the highest degree available in the field. Most doctoral programs require four to five years of study and focus on research and theory. Graduates often pursue teaching, writing, and research careers in computer science.
When studying computer science, students can choose from several specializations, including computer engineering, data science, information technology, web development, and network administration. Students can tailor elective coursework to this focus area to prepare for their chosen career path.
Research schools and programs
When researching schools, look for those that have received accreditation from a recognized organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), or the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Accreditation ensures that the institution meets the quality standards for learning outcomes, academic missions, and faculty.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredits computer science programs. Programmatic accreditation ensures that the degree meets the curriculum standards to adequately prepare students for their future careers.
Schools offer several ways for prospective students to learn more about their programs, culture, and campus life. You can visit the school in person, attend open houses, follow them on social media, and browse their websites. Admissions advisors and program representatives can also answer questions and provide further information.
Prepare for tests and applications
Visit the admissions page on prospective program websites to determine the application requirements and deadlines. Requirements vary by institution, but most require the following:
Some schools also require you to attend an admissions interview, during which they learn more about your academic accomplishments and career goals. Contact an admissions advisor to learn more about the requirements and application process.
Select your program
If you receive acceptance to multiple programs, consider your career goals and logistical needs when making your final decision. Take the following into account:
- Is the program in-person or online?
- Is it full-time or part-time?
- Are classes synchronous or asynchronous?
- Are there housing options available?
- What is the cost of the program?
For more guidance in making a decision, contact an academic advisor. They’ll review your options and help you find the program that best suits your needs.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Review the program’s annual costs to determine whether you’ll pay for the degree yourself or require financial assistance. Create a budget that includes tuition, fees, supplies, housing, transportation, and living expenses.
Visit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website and apply to determine the amount of financial aid you’re eligible to receive, including scholarships, grants, work-study funds, and loans. If you’re employed, you can also speak with your employer about any tuition assistance benefits they may offer.
Best 50 Accredited Computer Science Programs
intelligent score 99.1
Award
Rankings
#1 College Rank
#2 Computer Science Degree Hub
#3 Best College Reviews
#3 Best Value Schools
#4 USNews
#6 Bachelors Degree Center
#10 College Factual
School Information
Berkeley, CA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $550
Non-Resident: $835
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
510-664-4436
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 98.11
Award
Rankings
#1 College Factual
#3 Computer Science Degree Hub
#3 USNews
#4 Bachelors Degree Center
#6 Best College Reviews
#7 Best Value Schools
School Information
Stanford, CA
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,372
accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
650-723-2273
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
intelligent score 97.57
Award
Rankings
#1 Bachelors Degree Center
#1 Computer Science Degree Hub
#1 USNews
#3 College Factual
School Information
Cambridge, MA
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
122-124
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$925
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
617-253-7329
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
122-124
intelligent score 96.59
Award
Rankings
#2 USNews
#5 College Factual
#6 Computer Science Degree Hub
#8 Bachelors Degree Center
#11 Best College Reviews
#23 Best Value Schools
School Information
Pittsburgh, PA
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,694
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
412-268-2082
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 95.28
Award
Rankings
#4 Best College Reviews
#4 Computer Science Degree Hub
#5 Best Value Schools
#6 College Rank
#8 USNews
#10 Bachelors Degree Center
School Information
Atlanta, GA
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 16%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $508
Non-Resident: $1,551
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
404-894-3152
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
intelligent score 94.98
Award
Rankings
#2 Bachelors Degree Center
#2 Best College Reviews
#2 Best Value Schools
#4 College Factual
#5 Computer Science Degree Hub
#27 College Rank
School Information
Cambridge, MA
Graduation Rate: 98%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,695
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
617-495-1551
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 93.96
Award
Rankings
#6 College Factual
#7 Computer Science Degree Hub
#7 USNews
#9 Bachelors Degree Center
School Information
Ithaca, NY
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 9%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,750
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
607-255-9188
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 93.63
Award
Rankings
#5 Best Value Schools
#5 USNews
#6 Best Value Schools
#15 Computer Science Degree Hub
#21 College Factual
School Information
Champaign, IL
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $561
Non-Resident: $1,219
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
217-333-4428
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 93.54
Award
Rankings
#4 College Rank
#10 Computer Science Degree Hub
#10 USNews
#17 College Factual
School Information
Seattle, WA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 53%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $421
Non-Resident: $1,399
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
206-543-1695
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 93.19
Award
Rankings
#8 Computer Science Degree Hub
#11 College Rank
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 92%
Admission Rate: 11%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $505
Non-Resident: $790
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
310-825-9580
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 93.12
Award
Rankings
School Information
Princeton, NJ
Graduation Rate: 98%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,080
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
609-258-3060
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 92.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
Ann Arbor, MI
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,140
Non-Resident: $2,882
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
734-764-9500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-128
intelligent score 91.47
Award
Rankings
School Information
Austin, TX
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $540
Non-Resident: $1,922
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
512-471-9509
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 90.67
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,041
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-854-2522
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 90.38
Award
Rankings
School Information
Madison, WI
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $373
Non-Resident: $1,353
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
608-262-1204
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 89.96
Award
Rankings
School Information
West Lafayette, IN
Graduation Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 69%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $347
Non-Resident: $948
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
765-494-1771
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 88.61
Award
Rankings
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,115
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-660-6500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 88.17
Award
Rankings
School Information
Philadelphia, PA
Graduation Rate: 97%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,030
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
215-898-8560
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 87.76
Award
Rankings
School Information
Baltimore, MD
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 8%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,094
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
410-516-8775
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 87.59
Award
Rankings
School Information
College Park, MD
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 52%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $412
Non-Resident: $1,613
accreditation
Computer Science Accreditation Board
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
301-405-2672
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 87.02
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,880
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-998-3010
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 86.43
Award
Rankings
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,244
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
213-740-4488
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 85.88
Award
Rankings
School Information
La Jolla, CA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 34%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124-128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $391 - $403
Non-Resident: $1,017 - $1,050
accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
858-534-8872
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124-128
intelligent score 85.83
Award
Rankings
School Information
College Station, TX
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
126
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $762
Non-Resident: $1,703
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
979-458-3870
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
126
intelligent score 84.83
Award
Rankings
School Information
Charlottesville, VA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 21%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-127
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $470
Out-of-State: $1,736
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
434-982-2200
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-127
intelligent score 84.67
Award
Rankings
School Information
Minneapolis, MN
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 73%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $557
Non-Resident: $1,323
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
612-625-4002
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 84.65
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tempe, AZ
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 88%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $808
Non-Resident: $1,310
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
480-965-3190
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 83.91
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chapel Hill, NC
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $292
Non-Resident: $1,556
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-590-6000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 82.66
Award
Rankings
School Information
Ames, IA
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $376
Non-Resident: $1,091
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
515-294-2597
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 82.42
Award
Rankings
School Information
Blacksburg, VA
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 56%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $529
Non-Resident: $1,388
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
540-231-6931
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 81.55
Award
Rankings
School Information
Amherst, MA
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $691
Out-of-State: $1,605
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
413-545-2744
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 80.78
Award
Rankings
School Information
Iowa City, IA
Graduation Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$376 - $421
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
319-335-0713
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 79.89
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tucson, AZ
Graduation Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: 87%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $848
Non-Resident: $1,639
accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
520-621-4632
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 79.31
Award
Rankings
School Information
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $385
Non-Resident: $905
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
713-743-1010
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 78.11
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fairfax, VA
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $692
Out-of-State: $1,486
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
703-993-1530
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 77.83
Award
Rankings
School Information
Richardson, TX
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 87%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $555
Non-Resident: $1,405
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
972-883-2270
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
124
intelligent score 77.68
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bethlehem, PA
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 46%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-136
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,660
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
610-758-3065
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120-136
intelligent score 77.29
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bloomington, IN
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $393
Non-Resident: $1,349
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
812-855-6486
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 76.81
Award
Rankings
School Information
Stony Brook, NY
Graduation Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 48%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $295
Non-Resident: $1,119
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
631-632-8381
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 76.73
Award
Rankings
School Information
Pittsburgh, PA
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 67%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $958
Non-Resident: $1,834
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
412-383-4396
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 75.62
Award
Rankings
School Information
Gainesville, FL
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 30%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $212
Non-Resident: $955
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
352-392-1090
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 74.48
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chicago, IL
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $372
Out-of-State: $873
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
312-996-3422
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
128
intelligent score 73.66
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lincoln, NE
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 81%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $371
Non-Resident: $1,082
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
402-472-2401
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 72.46
Award
Rankings
School Information
Providence, RI
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,287
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
401-863-7600
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 71.97
Award
Rankings
School Information
San Luis Obispo, CA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 33%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $196
Non-Resident: $476
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
805-756-2824
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 71.76
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hoboken, NJ
Graduation Rate: 87%
Admission Rate: 53%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
130
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,034
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
201-216-5194
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
130
intelligent score 71.72
Award
Rankings
School Information
Nashville, TN
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,567
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
615-322-2561
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 71.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Raleigh, NC
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 47%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
121
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $272
Non-Resident: $1,225
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-515-2434
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
121
intelligent score 70.64
Award
Rankings
School Information
Houghton, MI
Graduation Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $682
Non-Resident: $1,519
accreditation
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
906-487-1833
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120
intelligent score 70.43
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chicago, IL
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
126
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,025
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
773-702-6614
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
126
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How we rank schools
This list features some of the best computer science degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education. The programs on our list are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), a reputable organization that assesses computer science programs for educational excellence.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for on-campus students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of computer science degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From a Computer Science Program?
Computer science degrees provide students with a foundational knowledge of computers and their systems. Students will learn valuable skills that prepare them for technology-focused careers, including coding, design, development, and networking. Common focus study topics include algorithms, data structures, cybersecurity, and operating systems.
Most undergraduate programs require four years of full-time study, during which students take core and elective courses. Students can tailor elective courses toward individual interests or specializations. They will use various learning methods, including lectures, exams, labs, seminars, and discussions.
Potential courses you’ll take in a computer science program
- Fundamentals of Computer Programming. Students are introduced to computer-solvable systems design, including algorithm design, solution implementation, and programming language.
- Pipelines for Games and Interactives. This course explores the aesthetic and technical development of compelling, unique, and intuitively designed games. Students will create a visual game design portfolio throughout the course.
- Software Engineering. Students learn about the process and lifecycle of software engineering. Topics covered include project management, architecture, design, implementation, and maintenance.
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. This course explores the concepts and algorithms used to construct intelligent systems. Students will cover agents, representation, planning, reasoning, and problem-solving related to these systems.
- Introduction to Computer and Network Security. This course covers security threats and defenses, security practices, security systems, and functionalities.
Computer Science Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a computer science degree program?
Visit the program website to begin your application and review the fees, deadline, and admissions requirements. Requirements will vary by institution; however, most will ask you to submit transcripts, a personal statement, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and an essay. You can also speak with an admissions advisor to review the process and ensure you have all the required materials.
How much does a computer science degree cost?
The average cost for a bachelor’s degree in computer science is $16,618 per year. The total amount will vary depending on the school, program, and living requirements. Consider academic and living expenses that may cause this number to change, including the number of courses you take, housing, transportation, supplies, and extracurriculars.
How long does it take to earn a computer science degree?
Most bachelor’s programs in computer science require four years of full-time study and 120 to 180 credits for graduation. Students enrolled part-time or in asynchronous courses may have longer completion times as they study at their own pace. Accelerated programs are also available for those who wish to complete the program in two years.