A Look at Coursework, Schools, and What to Expect After Graduation
In today’s technology dependent world, the computer science field is growing quickly and the number of candidates for these degree programs is on the rise. Students who pursue a computer science degree will learn the technical skills necessary to pursue careers as researchers, web and software developers, and information security specialists. This guide allows prospective computer science students to compare their degree options from the associate through graduate level, along with career outlook and salary information.
Best Computer Science Degrees and Programs
| #1 | Purdue University West Lafayette, IN |
| #2 | Michigan Technological University Houghton, MI |
| #3 | Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ |
| #4 | North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC |
| #5 | United States Military Academy West Point, NY |
| #6 | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
| #7 | Idaho State University Pocatello, ID |
| #8 | Lawrence Technological University Southfield, MI |
| #9 | Missouri University of Science and Technology Rolla, MO |
| #10 | Drexel University Philadelphia, PA |
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Best Computer Science Degrees and Programs
To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria:
- Accredited at the institutional level
- Private nonprofit or public school
- Minimum of 1 bachelor’s or master’s degree in subject area for 4-year schools
- Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools
Schools were then scored on factors such as:
- Cost & Financial Aid
- Number and variety of program offerings
- Student-teacher ratios
- Graduation rates
- Placement and support services offered
- Academic/Career counseling services
- Employment services
- Loan default rates
These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program.
Earning a degree in computer science can give students the opportunity to enter one of many careers in areas such as web development, cyber security or computer engineering. Many schools now provide computer science degrees and programs to keep up with the growing demand for experts in this field. We’ve carefully examined computer science programs – both on-campus and online – and ranked them based on our comprehensive methodology to create the list of Best Computer Science Degrees and Programs. Configure your future at one of the top-ranked institutions below.
Computer Science at a Glance
Computer science degrees can be found at every educational level from associate degrees to PhDs. Most programs combine the study of theory with the application of computer science. Whether pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, some programs may offer the ability to specialize in subjects like electrical or computer engineering, cyber security or web development. In a field that is constantly evolving, getting the right education can help computer science students and professionals stay ahead of the curve.
One of the first women to receive a PhD in computer science was Sister Mary Kenneth Keller. It is even said that Dartmouth University broke their “men only” rule when they allowed Keller to conduct research there.
It was an unlikely partnership between IBM’s Chief Executive Thomas J. Watson Sr. and Colombia University Professor Benjamin Wood that led to one of the nation’s first academic-credit computing course in 1946.
World War II served as a driving force in the development of computer science. One of the technological advancements during this time was the Automatic Sequence Control Calculator (Mark 1), developed by scientist Howard Aiken in 1944.
The job outlook for information security analysts is growing much faster than the national average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The career path is becoming increasingly important as Internet safety becomes a pressing issue, with over 6,000 new computer viruses deployed each month.
Related Degree Programs
While computer science is a growing field with numerous career avenues, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a degree program that involves working with computers, mathematical reasoning and analytical problem-solving, below are a few similar programs that may suit your interests and career goals.
Computer Science Degrees by Level
Receiving a degree in computer science allows graduates the opportunity to excel in a highly technical and competitive field. With computer science degrees being offered through associate, bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programs, sifting through all of the different options and schools can be overwhelming. When comparing various degree programs, it’s important to consider your career goals and pick the program best suited to achieving them. Read on for a comparative overview of degree programs at each level.
Computer Science Associate Degrees
Type of Schools: Community colleges, technical schools, two-year universities
Time to Complete:Approximately two years
Career Opportunities: Web developer, Information Technology (IT) Support Specialist, Systems Administrator, Technology Coordinator
Often considered a method of entering into a baccalaureate program, a computer science associate degree is an ideal program for those who want to enter the field as quickly as possible, or who may want another route to pursing a bachelor’s degree. In order to be considered for the program, students must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, in addition to taking entrance exams and completing the application process. Computer science associate degree programs typically require 60 credit hours and focus on familiarizing students with the basics of computer programming, algorithms, web development and database applications.
Course offerings for associate degree programs are geared toward giving students the tools they need to gain entry-level positions in the industry. Below is a sampling of some typical courses in an associate degree program.
FUNDAMENTALS IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Students will receive the foundational knowledge necessary to understand the information technologies or computer-human interaction in addition to studying the basics of information management, programming and networking.
FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTING
Focuses on developing the critical thinking skills of students as it relates to computers in problem solving. It will focus on human interaction with technology, and the impact it has on learning.
WEBSITE DESIGN
Students will learn about Internet concepts, network protocols and client-server communications and how those concepts relate to web design in practice and in theory.
SEQUENTIAL MAINFRAME PROGRAMMING
Introduces students to COBOL programming language, and covers input-stream, data input, printer output, alphanumeric and numeric editing.
Computer Science Bachelor’s Degrees
Type of Schools: Four-year universities
Time to Complete: Approximately four years
Career Opportunities: Quality Assurance Director (Computer Software), Software Engineering Manager, Software Architect, Data Architect, Security Architect (IT)
Bachelor’s programs in computer science are ideal for students starting college directly after high school, or are otherwise able to dedicate the time to a demanding course load. For admission, students must have earned a high school diploma or GED equivalent in addition to taking entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT.
During the course of an undergraduate education, students can expect to learn about engineering, programming and the theory of computer science in approximately 127 credit hours. Bachelor’s programs may also allow students to specialize in a particular field such as Human-Computer Interaction or Artificial Intelligence.
There are a variety of undergraduate courses that help students learn skills in everything from programming to theory. Below are a few examples of courses that students can expect to take at this level.
DISCRETE MATH FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE
Computer scientists need to have a firm grasp of the mathematical tools and concepts that shape the field. This course familiarizes students with the logical notations used to express mathematical arguments.
FLUENCY IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Covers logical reasoning, operations and networks and contemporary applications.
DATA STRUCTURES AND ALGORITHMS
Students will learn about algorithmic complexity analysis, recurrence relations and the master method in order to understand and analyze data structures and algorithms.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Artificial intelligence is becoming ubiquitous in today’s world, and this course teaches students how to identify issues as well as develop AI technologies.
Graduate Degrees in Computer Science: Master’s & Doctorate
Type of Schools: Four-year universities
Time to Complete: Six to eight years
Career Opportunities: Senior Data Scientist (IT), Principal Software Engineer, Staff Software Engineer, Research Scientist
Receiving a graduate degree in computer science whether it be a master’s or PhD is an achievement that can set professionals apart in this competitive field. Graduate-level studies are typically rigorous programs that take a significant amount of time to complete. A graduate degree program can be very rewarding for those looking to become highly specialized in their field. During the course of the program students can expect to complete advanced computer science courses and an original research thesis.
For admission, they generally require students to receive high scores on graduate entrance exams and a strong undergraduate GPA. Prospective doctoral students should keep in mind that they must establish candidacy for a program before they are admitted.
Graduate programs offer advanced coursework that are meant to challenge students and further the field. Below are some examples of common graduate courses.
JAVA SCRIPT AND WEB PROGRAMMING
Teaches students about the importance of Java Script and how to understand its elements to achieve program idioms.
ADVANCED CRYPTOGRAPHY
Students will perfect their knowledge of secure computation, session-key distribution, electronic payment and one-way functions.
COMPUTER COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
Students will learn about the algorithms necessary for computer communication network concepts, protocols and architectures.
SPEECH PROCESSING
Students will be exposed to a brief introduction to corpus linguistics and how to use that information to operate and install speech recognition software.
Student’s Perspective
I chose computer science because I enjoy solving puzzles with math related elements. Computer science presents problems that are solved by breaking them down into smaller pieces. To me, this type of problem solving is a ton of fun [and] can be used to really change a lot of people’s lives through hospital software or entertaining someone for hours on their phone.”
Blake Johnson Gilmore, University of Nevada - Reno
Pre-Enrollment Checklist for CS Programs
Not all computer science programs are the same. Before committing to a degree path, students should make sure that they meet the specific school and program admission requirements. In addition to knowing that you are the right student for the program, it’s important to know that the program is right for you. Finding a computer science program that meets your academic and career goals should be a top priority for any new student.
- Accreditation Accreditation is vital to gaining a worthwhile education as it shows employers that graduates completed a program that has met national standards of curriculum and rigor. When searching for a computer science program, look for accreditation from the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology, or ABET.
- Financial Aid Receiving a degree is a financial commitment, so making sure that an institution has a strong financial aid program for its students is vital to making smart investment in your education. Before committing to a school, research scholarships, review their financial aid requirements and fill out the FAFSA before the June 30 deadline.
- Professional Networking Opportunities A university can be a perfect place to build networks for post-graduation life. Though talking to professors and peers is one way to meet fellow aspiring professionals, check to make sure that the institution of your choice offers a student chapter of a professional organization or otherwise demonstrates a commitment to helping students meet other professionals in the field.
- Preparation for Certification Along with a college education, holding certifications can prove to employers that you have the specialized knowledge and ability to work a certain job. In the computer science industry, there are opportunities for certifications that test aptitude for specific programs, networks, and job functions such as those offered by Cisco, CompTIA, and Microsoft. Looking for a degree program that adequately prepares you for these exams can get students on the right track to start their careers.
- Pre-Requisites It’s important to keep in mind that different institutions have varying baseline requirements for computer science degree programs. Before applying to a program, be sure that you meet the school’s pre-requisites, whether they be previous coursework or GPA minimums.
- Entrance ExamsPart of meeting a program’s pre-requisites and gaining admission to your ideal school is ensuring that you score well on entrance exams. If looking at an undergraduate program register for the SAT or ACT, but if looking to enroll in a graduate program you’ll have to take the GRE.
Career Opportunities for Computer Science Graduates
Earning a degree in computer science can open the doors to a variety of job specialties in the field. Having a career goal in mind can help students chose the right courses, specializations and internship or research opportunities during the course of their education. The following outlines a few potential occupations for computer science graduates of various degree levels.
Software Developers
Estimated Job Growth (2014-2024) : 17%
Annual Salary (2014): $95,510
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
Software developers design applications, systems and programs for computers and other devices. They also work to maintain the software they create through upgrades and routine testing.
Computer Network Architect
Estimated Job Growth (2014-2024): 9%
Annual Salary (2014): $98,430
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
Computer network architects work to design data communications networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and intranets. These professionals implement hardware and software solutions in order to build reliable, secure networks for their organizations.
Computer & Information Research Scientist
Estimated Job Growth (2014-2024): 11%
Annual Salary (2014): $108,360
Typical Education: Doctoral degree
Computer and information research scientists are responsible for studying and inventing new ways to solve complex computing problems for business, medicine, science and other fields.
Computer & Information Systems Manager
Estimated Job Growth (2014-2024): 15%
Annual Salary (2014): $127,640
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
IT managers are responsible for planning, coordinating and directing computer related activities in their respective organization. They must also determine a goal for their organization’s department, and implement the computer systems necessary to achieve it.
Information Security Analyst
Estimated Job Growth (2014-2024): 18%
Annual Salary (2014): $88,890
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
In order to protect an organization’s computer networks, information security analysts must stay up-to-date with IT security technology and trends.
They protect sensitive information with strategies like firewalls and data encryption, while also monitoring and responding to cyberattacks.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014)
Student’s Perspective
Computer science can really go anywhere at this point. The field is always evolving to areas that haven’t been thought possible before. At the same time, computer science is an extremely popular field, and whether the aspiring computer scientists make it or break it, I believe that [it] can handle a large influx of workers.
Blake Johnson Gilmore, University of Nevada – Reno
Top Skills for Success in Computer Science
- Collaborative Work Ethic Working with other computer science professionals to achieve a common goal is an integral part of the job. Whether it be writing complex code or finding solutions a difficult research problem, collaboration is a skill that shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Complex Problem Solving Solving difficult problems in new and unique ways is a calling for computer scientists. Knowing how to tackle highly technical problems in ways that haven’t been thought of before is a trademark skill of a successful computer science professional.
- Problem Sensitivity It’s also vital that computer scientists are able to anticipate potential bugs in software and correct them before they hit the market. It’s also valuable to be able to predict the issues that a customer may face in order to help them more efficiently.
- Critical Thinking Becoming a computer scientist relies heavily on a student’s ability to think critically about complex issues in code. They must be able to use math in order to solve problems logically and effectively.
- Customer and Personal Service While it may seem that computer science is a relatively solitary profession, professionals are often still required to provide customer and personal support to those needing computer help. Knowing how to effectively provide customer and personal service gives professionals an edge in maintaining client relationships.
- Information Ordering Programming and coding is highly dependent on the specific order of information a computer needs in order to complete a task. Professionals should be able to arrange sets of actions logically.
Ongoing Support for Students & Professionals
Association for Computing Machinery
Association for Women in Computing
Black Data Processing Associates
Computing Research Association
Independent Computer Consultant Association
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
International Association of Computer Science & Information Technology
National Association of Programmers
Society for Technical Communication