Computer Science & IT Degrees
Build the software and systems that run the modern world.
About Computer Science & IT degrees
Computer science and IT degrees are among the highest-earning paths in higher education. They teach you to build software, analyze data, secure systems, and solve problems logically — skills that transfer across every industry, not just tech.
Program quality and cost vary enormously, so it pays to compare. The schools below are ranked using real graduate-earnings and outcome data for this field.
Computer Science by the numbers
1316+
Schools offering Computer Science
$117,911
Median earnings (top schools)
$31,881
Median net price (top schools)
Figures reflect the top-earning four-year schools for this field, using official U.S. Department of Education data.
Careers in Computer Science & IT
Software Developer
Design and build applications, websites, and systems.
Data Scientist / Analyst
Turn data into insights and predictions for organizations.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Protect networks and data from attacks and breaches.
IT / Cloud Engineer
Build and maintain the infrastructure businesses run on.
Degree levels
Focused, fast training in coding, IT support, or cybersecurity.
A two-year path into IT support, help desk, and junior developer roles.
The standard for most software and engineering roles; covers theory and practice.
Specialize in AI, security, or data science, or move toward research and leadership.
Top schools for Computer Science & IT
See all →Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit
- $20,111
- Net price
- 5%
- Admit rate
- 4,535
- Enrolled
Harvey Mudd College
Claremont, CA · Private nonprofit
- $35,924
- Net price
- 13%
- Admit rate
- 921
- Enrolled
University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO · Private nonprofit
- $31,817
- Net price
- 90%
- Admit rate
- 337
- Enrolled
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, CA · Private nonprofit
- $16,075
- Net price
- 3%
- Admit rate
- 987
- Enrolled
Stanford University
Stanford, CA · Private nonprofit
- $13,807
- Net price
- 4%
- Admit rate
- 7,554
- Enrolled
Bentley University
Waltham, MA · Private nonprofit
- $37,930
- Net price
- 45%
- Admit rate
- 4,474
- Enrolled
Computer Science & IT — Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a computer science degree?+
Graduates become software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, cloud engineers, and product managers. The field spans nearly every industry, from finance to healthcare to gaming.
Is a computer science degree worth it?+
CS is one of the highest-earning majors, so at most schools the graduate earnings comfortably exceed the cost. Compare the net price and median earnings on each school profile to confirm the value.
Do I need a degree to become a software developer?+
Not always — bootcamps and self-teaching can lead to jobs, especially in web development. But a degree opens more roles (particularly at larger companies) and tends to raise long-term earning potential.
What's the difference between computer science and IT?+
Computer science focuses on programming, algorithms, and theory (building software), while information technology focuses on deploying and maintaining systems and networks. IT is more hands-on; CS is more design-oriented.
Can I earn a computer science degree online?+
Yes — many accredited universities offer fully online CS and IT degrees, and the coursework (coding, projects) adapts well to remote learning.
Which programming languages will I learn?+
Most programs teach fundamentals in languages like Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript, along with the concepts (data structures, algorithms) that let you pick up any language quickly.
Is cybersecurity a good specialization?+
Yes — demand for security professionals far exceeds supply, and it's one of the fastest-growing areas in tech, with strong pay and clear certification paths (Security+, CISSP).
What math do I need for computer science?+
Expect discrete math, statistics, and often calculus and linear algebra — especially if you go into data science, AI, or graphics. Strong logical thinking matters more than being a 'math genius.'
How much do computer science graduates earn?+
CS consistently ranks near the top for graduate earnings. See the ranked schools above, which list median earnings so you can gauge realistic outcomes by program.
Should I do a coding bootcamp or a degree?+
Bootcamps are faster and cheaper and can land you a first developer job, while a degree offers broader theory and more career flexibility. Some students do a bootcamp first, then finish a degree later.
What certifications help in IT and CS?+
CompTIA A+/Network+/Security+, AWS or Azure cloud certifications, and Cisco's CCNA are widely recognized and pair well with a degree or stand alone for IT roles.
Is AI going to replace software developers?+
AI tools are changing how developers work, but they've increased demand for people who can design systems, review code, and solve complex problems. A strong foundation makes you more valuable, not less.