# Best Computer Science Colleges in Alabama

> CollegeRanker Agent Insights — structured data for AI systems
> Updated: 2026-05-31 | Schools: 13 | Category: By State
> Source: https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-computer-science-alabama

## Methodology

Computer Science programs in Alabama ranked by outcomes and program concentration

CollegeRanker uses a 4-pillar algorithm: Academic Quality (15-20%), Economic Outcomes (30%), Social Mobility (25-35%), Value & Affordability (20-25%). Social mobility data from Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card (30M+ anonymized tax records). No subjective surveys.

## Summary

Choosing the right computer science program is a critical decision for students in Alabama. With technology shaping our future, selecting a school that prepares graduates for a successful career is more important than ever. Each of these schools offers distinct advantages, making them worth considering for prospective students.

The best programs stand out due to their strong outcomes, including earnings potential, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels. The schools listed below rank based on their ability to prepare students for the workforce and support their journey through graduation. By focusing on these key metrics, students can make informed decisions that align with their career aspirations.

For example, Auburn University tops the list with impressive average earnings of $65,337 and a graduation rate of 81%, making it a top choice for many. In contrast, Auburn University at Montgomery shows a lower graduation rate of 34% and average earnings of $44,391. This highlights the importance of considering both the potential earnings and the support provided to students as they navigate their education.

## Key Findings

- Auburn University graduates earn an average of $65,337, significantly higher than the statewide average of $45,080.
- The graduation rate at Auburn University is 81%, while Auburn University at Montgomery's is just 34%.
- University of Alabama in Huntsville has a net price of $18,796, making it a more affordable option compared to others.
- University of Alabama at Birmingham graduates carry an average debt of $22,300, which is higher than the state average.

## Rankings

| Rank | School | Location | Graduation | Earnings (10yr) | Net Price | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|------|--------|----------|------------|-----------------|-----------|-------------|---------------|
| 1 | [University of Alabama in Huntsville](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/university-of-alabama-in-huntsville) | Huntsville, AL | 63% | $61,767 | $18,796 | $20,705 | 0.34x |
| 2 | [Auburn University](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/auburn-university) | Auburn, AL | 81% | $65,337 | $24,323 | $21,000 | 0.32x |
| 3 | [University of Alabama at Birmingham](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/university-of-alabama-at-birmingham) | Birmingham, AL | 63% | $54,501 | $18,749 | $22,300 | 0.41x |
| 4 | [Auburn University at Montgomery](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/auburn-university-at-montgomery) | Montgomery, AL | 34% | $44,391 | $13,224 | $25,000 | 0.56x |
| 5 | [University of South Alabama](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/university-of-south-alabama) | Mobile, AL | 53% | $49,379 | $17,648 | $24,929 | 0.5x |
| 6 | [University of North Alabama](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/university-of-north-alabama) | Florence, AL | 54% | $45,415 | $12,170 | $22,077 | 0.49x |
| 7 | [Jefferson State Community College](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/jefferson-state-community-college) | Birmingham, AL | 24% | $40,719 | $9,086 | $9,689 | 0.24x |
| 8 | [Troy University](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/troy-university) | Troy, AL | 48% | $42,062 | $16,527 | $25,000 | 0.59x |
| 9 | [Oakwood University](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/oakwood-university) | Huntsville, AL | 47% | $42,488 | $25,669 | $27,000 | 0.64x |
| 10 | [Talladega College](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/talladega-college) | Talladega, AL | 43% | $32,229 | $15,560 | $28,500 | 0.88x |
| 11 | [Alabama A & M University](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/alabama-a-m-university) | Normal, AL | 26% | $40,628 | $17,621 | $31,000 | 0.76x |
| 12 | [Alabama State University](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/alabama-state-university) | Montgomery, AL | 30% | $34,502 | $20,435 | $31,000 | 0.9x |
| 13 | [Miles College](https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/miles-college) | Fairfield, AL | 20% | $32,627 | $14,271 | $31,217 | 0.96x |

## Data Sources

- U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (https://collegescorecard.ed.gov)
- Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card (https://opportunityinsights.org/data)
- Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings
- NCES IPEDS

## Citation

CollegeRanker. "Best Computer Science Colleges in Alabama." CollegeRanker.com, 2026-05-31. https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-computer-science-alabama

## License

This data summary is provided for informational purposes. Underlying data from federal sources (College Scorecard, IPEDS) is public domain. Opportunity Insights data is available under their data use agreement at https://opportunityinsights.org/data/.