Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Arizona State University has a vibrant campus with tons of course offerings, student organizations, and on-campus events. There are research and study abroad options, as well as career services to help you prepare for life after graduation. For those who want a great education at an affordable price and a little extra sun, consider Arizona State University for your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

In this program, students will learn technical skills in computational processes and network security. They will also acquire soft skills during the program and learn how to communicate effectively with people across different disciplines. Students in this program can also choose to specialize in software engineering or cyber security. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $999/credit (in-state); $1,435/credit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 terms
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0 (for competency courses)
• Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (optional but recommended)
• Application Fee: $50 (in-state); $70 (out-of-state) 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Course competency requirements

Applying to Arizona State University

1. Apply online through ASU, the coalition application, or the Common Application.
2. Pay the nonrefundable application fee.
3. Submit your grades by either self-reporting in your application or sending official transcripts to ASU.
4. ACT or SAT scores can be submitted for course placement.
5. Sing into your MyASU account and check the status of your application.
6. Complete FAFSA.

Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university. It offers its students internship, experiential learning, research, and study abroad options. There are also community service opportunities and tons of on-campus clubs. US News ranks Carnegie Mellon as the best computer science school in the United States. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University covers computer science alongside math and probability and gives you space to pursue a minor as well. Research is a huge component of this undergraduate program, so students will get hands-on experience before graduating.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $80,540/year (first-year on-campus students); $67,822/year (first-year commuter students)
• Required Credits: 360 units
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 93%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (not required for 2023)
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: 4 years English, 4 years Mathematics, 1 year Physics, 2 years of Chemistry, Biology or Computer Science, 2 years Foreign Language, 3 Electives

Applying to Carnegie Mellon University

1. Complete the Common Application, Common Application Essay, and Common Application Writing Supplement.
2. Pay the application fee.
3. Send in your official high school transcript.
4. Submit your official standardized test score report.
5. Submit a counselor evaluation and teacher recommendation.

Cornell University was founded in 1865 as New York state’s first land-grant university. It is one of the eight Ivy League schools. The Ithaca campus has 30 dining facilities and 20 libraries, one of which is one of the largest research libraries in the country. This prestigious university offers a thriving campus life with over 100 student organizations and Greek life opportunities. 

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science 

Cornell University is a top university where you can major in computer science and engineering. Its computer science program is the fifth-best in the United States according to US News. The computer science degree program consists of coursework on modeling, robotics, medicine, game design, animation, biotechnology, software engineering, and business management.

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $62,798/year (in-state); $83,296/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 95%

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: Not specified
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (requirements waived for 2022-2024)
• Application Fee: $80 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Prerequisite courses

Applying to Cornell University

1. Complete the Common Application.
2. Submit the application fee or a fee waiver.
3. Ask your high school to submit the school report and official transcripts.
4. Submit one counselor evaluation and two teacher recommendations.
5. Submit a mid-year report if you’re applying for early admission.
6. Complete the Cornell University Questions and Writing Supplement. 

Drexel University is a great option for students who want the traditional college experience and access to a vibrant American city. With over 300 student clubs and organizations, there is an opportunity for everyone to pursue their passions alongside their academic interests. 

Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

This program focuses on hands-on learning and all students must complete a year-long capstone project in order to graduate. Those who choose to get a BA will focus on the humanities and their applications, while students in the BS program will study the applications of science and engineering.

Interested students can opt to choose a concentration in either computer security or game programming and development. There is also an opportunity to complete this degree as part of a co-op program, where students graduate in four or five years with a bachelor’s degree and real-world work experience. 

Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $59,000/year (in-state); $59,000/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 1856.5 credits
• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: Not specified
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (recommended but not required)
• Application Fee: $50 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: 4 years of mathematics and 2 years of physics courses in high school

Applying to Drexel University

1. Complete the Common Application or Coalition Application.
2. Pay the nonrefundable application fee or submit a fee waiver.
3. Submit official high school transcripts.
4. Submit financial aid documents.
5. Meet the application deadline for early or standard admissions.

Founded in 1885 as a trade school, Georgia Institute of Technology has now grown to be one of the Southern United States’ largest industrial and engineering research institutions. In 1961, Georgia Tech was the first school in the South to admit Black students without a court order. Its 400-acre campus in Atlanta offers students 100s of student clubs and activities as well as proximity to city life. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Georgia Tech’s computer science degree program is broken up into several concentrations or threads. The program equips students with tools and technical knowledge to become elite computer science professionals. Possible concentrations include modeling, simulation, intelligence, and theory. You can also do a dual degree and get a master’s as well.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $28,166/year (in-state); $49,278/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 124 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 91%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.3
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, Common Application essay, Georgia tech short answers

Applying to Georgia Insitute of Technology

1. Apply using the Common Application.
2. Complete the Common Application essay section.
3. Complete the Georgia Tech short answer questions.
4. Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver.
5. Two letters of recommendation from a high school counselor and teacher.
6. Submit official high school transcripts.

Harvard University is an Ivy League school and one of the most elite educational institutions in the world. You can expect top-notch education on a gorgeous campus, with access to high-quality dining halls, libraries, and research opportunities. Situated just across the river from Boston, students will enjoy life at this university.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Harvard has designed its CS program so that students with excellent scores in their AP exam can pursue a four-year dual degree, culminating in a bachelor’s and a master’s. Undergraduate students studying computer science at Harvard work at research centers like the Institute for Applied Computational Science and the Center for Research on Computation and Society. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): Based on students’ individual situation and family income
• Required Credits: 128 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 98%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional through 2026)
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma
• Other Requirements: Application supplementary questions, school report

Applying to Harvard University

1. Submit the Common Application or Coalition Application.
2. Complete the Harvard College questions for the Common Application or Coalition Application Harvard supplement.
3. Pay the application fee or request a fee waiver.
4. Submit a school report with counselor recommendations and high school transcripts.
5. School reports will be submitted when you apply and again when you graduate high school.
6. Submit two letters of recommendation from high school teachers.

Massachusetts Insitute of Technology is located in Cambridge, directly across the river from Boston, which is one of the best cities for students in the world. Not only are there over 500 on-campus student organizations and clubs, but there is a strong support network offered to students through the Student Support and Wellbeing team.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering

MIT has one of the best computer science programs in the world, based on various school rankings. It is known to deliver top-quality education and hands-on learning in computer science. It offers some of the most prestigious interdisciplinary degree options around, so you can combine your computer science major with economics, data science, or molecular biology.

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Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $620/unit (in-state); $620/unit (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 132 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 96%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering Admission Requirements

• GPA: Not listed
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Prerequisite courses

Applying to Massachusetts Institute of Technology

1. Submit all individual application components including an essay and general information about you.
2. Submit two letters of recommendation from a math or science teacher and a humanities teacher.
3. Request that your school submits a Secondary School Report that includes high school transcripts.
4. Submit February Updates and Notes Form and mid-year grades.

Princeton University of one of eight Ivy League schools in the US and the fourth-oldest university in the country. It has a rich history reaching back hundreds of years and has hundreds of notable alumni, including 20 US presidents. It currently has a five-to-one student-to-faculty ratio.

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

Princeton University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Its curriculum allows students to explore sub-disciplines of computer science or branch out into cross-disciplinary realms.

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $79,540/year (in-state); $79,540/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: Around 120 credits (contact the school for more information)
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 98%

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (currently waived)
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Application and supporting documents

Applying to Princeton University

1. Submit an application online through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
2. Submit the Princeton Supplement.
3. Pay the application fee or submit a fee waiver.
4. Submit a graded written paper, ideally from an English or history class.
5. Request a school report, transcripts, counselor recommendation, two teacher recommendations, and a mid-year report from your high school.

Regent University is a highly-ranked liberal arts Christian university founded in 1977. The school accepts students from all backgrounds, but all students must commit to the school's statement of faith. Regent University also offers scholarships specifically for incoming freshmen.

BS in Computer Science

Students in this degree program will learn to analyze and create computing and networking systems and infrastructure. Students will study programming languages, mathematics, and critical-thinking skills. There are a wide variety of careers available to graduates in fields that include software engineering, video game programming, and data mining analysis.

BS in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $603/credit hour (in-state); $603/credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120+ credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

BS in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (recommended but not required)
• Application Fee: $50 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent 
• Other Requirements: Online application and questionnaire 

Applying to Regent University

1. Apply online through the Regent University website.
2. Submit the mandatory admissions questionnaire.
3. Submit your unofficial transcripts through email.
4. Submit a copy of an official US ID if you are taking any classes online.
5. Submit your FAFSA application.

Southern New Hampshire University offers its students affordable tuition at a 300-acre campus. With Division II athletic teams and more than 70 student clubs and organizations, there is a ton to experience in addition to high-quality education. There are also career services available to on-campus and in-person students.

BS in Computer Science

Students will take courses in mathematic and algorithmic principles, as well as computer science concepts. This Bachelor of Science program prepares students for computer science-related jobs across a variety of industries, including healthcare and entertainment. In their senior year, students will take part in either a capstone project or internship. 

BS in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $21,213 - $34,346/year (in-state); $21,213 - $34,346/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person or online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

BS in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirements
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (recommended but not required)
• Application Fee: None 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Application and high school transcripts

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

1. Fill out the Common Application.
2. Submit official high school transcripts.
3. Submit a letter of recommendation from a high school counselor or teacher.
4. Submit an additional essay and an Honors application if you’re applying for an Honors program.
5. Consider your financial aid options.

Stanford University is one of the top universities in the United States. Founded in 1891, this Bay Area school has consistently been the site of innovations across many industries. The Dish on the Stanford campus has been used for over 60 years as a site for education and research. The university educates around 16,000 students every year.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Stanford University has consistently ranked highly in lists of the best computer science schools. The coursework includes graphic design, computer engineering, biocomputation, artificial intelligence, human and computer interaction, and information studies. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $18,491/quarter (in-state); $18,491/quarter (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 180 units
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 95%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.5 or above
• Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
• Application Fee: $90 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, high school transcript, Common Application or Coalition Application

Applying to Stanford University

1. Complete the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
2. Submit standardized test scores.
3. Pay the nonrefundable application fee or request a fee waiver.
4. Have your high school send in a School Report and a counselor's letter of recommendation.
5. Send in two letters of recommendation from two high school teachers.
6. Send in official transcripts.

Syracuse University is a private research university founded in 1870 and was one of the earliest universities to accept women. It is also the number one private school for military service members. The campus in upstate New York has hundreds of student clubs and organizations and opportunities for participating in athletics and events.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

In this program, students take courses in artificial intelligence, data science, computer graphics, and programming mobile applications. In addition to the four-year Bachelor of Science program, students can choose to add a fifth year and pursue a master’s degree simultaneously. This program is designed to teach students how to be innovative thinkers. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $74,486/year (in-state); $74,486/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 121-122 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement (average in 2020 was 3.67)
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (recommended but not required)
• Application Fee: $85 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Counselor recommendation, two letters of recommendation, Common Application

Applying to Syracuse University

1. Apply through the Common Application.
2. Pay the nonrefundable application fee or request a fee waiver.
3. Submit your official senior-year transcript and grade report.
4. Submit ACT or SAT scores if you would like to, the requirement is waived through 2023.
5. Request a counselor recommendation and two letters of recommendation from your school.

University of California, Berkeley has many prize-winning alumni, including Rube Goldberg and poet laureate Robert Hass. A professor at UC Berkely made a discovery that led to the first synthetic antimalarial drug that made malaria treatment more affordable. The school also has peregrine falcons living on its gorgeous Bay Area campus. 

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

UC Berkeley offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. The difference between the two degrees is that non-major course content will focus on either science or humanities. Major courses are the same, and focus on programming, computer graphics, and artificial intelligence. 

Students who want to apply for a Bachelor of Science degree have to do it through the College of Engineering, whereas students looking for a Bachelor of Arts have to go through the College of Letters and Science.

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $9,214/semester (in-state); $24,091/semester (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 92%

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0 (California residents); 3.4 (other US residents)
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional for course placement eligibility)
• Application Fee: $70 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation are not required but may be submitted to show that you’re a well-rounded applicant

Applying to University of California, Berkeley

1. Create a UC Berkeley account.
2. Complete at online application.
3. Submit the application fee or a fee waiver.
4. Submit two optional letters of recommendation.

The University of Texas at Austin has a gorgeous campus with museums, sports centers, libraries, and activities. There’s something for every student with over 1,000 student organizations and on-campus events that include concerts, theatre, and movie screenings. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The University of Texas at Austin offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science as well as an integrated dual program, which combines a Bachelor of Science with a Master of Science. The school requires students to complete not only coursework in computer science and its technical aspects, but also courses in global cultures, social sciences, ethics, and writing. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $14,901/semester (in-state); $29,460/semester (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 127 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 88%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (not required for 2022 applicants)
• Application Fee: $75 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Online application and official transcripts

Applying to The University of Texas at Austin

1. Submit an application through ApplyTexas or the Coalition Application.
2. Submit an additional essay.
3. Pay the application fee or request a fee waiver.
4. Submit official transcripts.
5. Submit two optional letters of recommendation.

University of Washington is a public university that’s committed to sustainability, diversity, and respect. It has a gorgeous campus in Seattle near the University District neighborhood, where students can join clubs, sororities, fraternities, and other student organizations. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

University of Washington offers a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science as well as a five-year BS/MS program, giving the students unique research and industry opportunities. As of the time of writing, only 30 students are allowed into this program, though they plan to expand as the budget allows. 

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition (and Fees): $12,076/year (in-state); $39,906/year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 180 credits
• Program Length: 4 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 82%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Admission Requirements

• GPA: Most successful applicants have a 3.7 or above
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $80 
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Essay, additional questions, online application

Applying to University of Washington

1. Complete the UW application.
2. Self-report your grades, official transcripts are only required if requested by the admissions office.
3. Submit essay responses and additional questions about yourself.
4. Pay the application fee or request a fee waiver.
5. Make sure to meet the application deadline for the Fall semester.

Software developers create computer programs and applications that help users perform tasks on a computer. They also recommend upgrades to current software to improve the overall user experience.

• Average Salary: $110,140
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island

Database administrators ensure that organizations become efficient with how they design and implement their database systems. They create systems to store and secure important business data.

• Average Salary: $98,860
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 168,000
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Massachusetts, Washington, New York, Rhode Island 

Computer systems analysts are responsible for designing solutions to help organizations operate effectively. They create blueprints to guide programmers and architects on how to build computer systems.

• Average Salary: $93,730
• Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 607,800
• Highest-Paying States: California, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey

Computer programmers are involved with testing and writing code that guides the operation of computer applications and software programs. They translate the code written by developers into instructions that the computer understands.

• Average Salary: $89,190
• Job Outlook: -10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 185,700
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Virginia, District of Columbia, Massachusetts

Network and computer systems administrators cater to the day-to-day operation of networks. They ensure that the computer systems for an organization run seamlessly. They install and implement computer networks.

• Average Salary: $84,810
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 350,300
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Maryland, California, District of Columbia, Massachusetts