Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Computer Science

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$88,364

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

87%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,021

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college for computer science can feel overwhelming, especially when considering social mobility. This list highlights schools that excel at helping students from diverse backgrounds achieve upward mobility through their computer science programs. With average earnings for graduates reaching $90,209, these institutions represent a pathway to success.

The strongest schools on this list differentiate themselves through impressive graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and significant post-graduation earnings. For example, the average graduation rate across these top colleges is 89%, while the financial burden remains reasonable for many. Below, you’ll find data that reflects not just the prestige of these institutions but their real-world impact on students’ lives.

Take MIT and Georgia Tech as examples. MIT graduates earn an average of $143,372, significantly higher than Georgia Tech's $102,772. However, Georgia Tech has a lower average debt of $21,672 compared to MIT's $14,768. This contrast illustrates the balancing act families face when weighing potential earnings against financial obligations as they choose the right fit for their students.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372.

Princeton University has a staggering 97% graduation rate.

Georgia Tech's average debt for graduates is $21,672, which is higher than MIT's.

The average earnings across these schools is $90,209.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $88,364

Avg. graduation rate 87%

Avg. net price $19,021

Avg. median debt $15,484

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Computer Science & IT

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, MIT consistently attracts students who are eager to tackle complex problems in fields like science, engineering, and technology. The university's rigorous curriculum and collaborative environment help students not only excel academically but also innovate in ways that can change the world.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford's campus in California is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, attracting talented individuals from across the globe. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here are not only challenged academically but are also encouraged to explore their ideas and turn them into reality, often leading to successful ventures after graduation.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton is renowned for its commitment to undergraduate education, evident in its impressive 97% graduation rate. The university fosters a tight-knit community where students engage deeply with their studies and one another, promoting a sense of belonging and academic exploration that lasts beyond graduation.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, Georgia Tech demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Atlanta, this public university attracts a diverse student body, with 14% of its undergraduates receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its accessibility to those from various backgrounds. The school's emphasis on technology and engineering makes it an ideal choice for students looking to thrive in these rapidly evolving fields.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York, draws students with its vast array of programs and a graduation rate of 95%. The campus fosters a rich intellectual environment, where 18% of undergraduates are Pell Grant recipients, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and support for students from diverse financial backgrounds. This blend of prestige and accessibility is compelling for those looking for a well-rounded educational experience.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is home to a tight-knit community of just 4,776 students, making it an attractive option for those seeking personalized attention and a collaborative environment. With a graduation rate of 95%, it favors a rigorous academic culture that supports students in pursuing excellence. The university's commitment to affordability is evident with 17% of its undergraduates receiving Pell Grants, emphasizing its dedication to diversifying the student body.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

At Caltech, students dive into a world of rigorous science and engineering challenges, backed by a 94% graduation rate. This small, elite institution in Pasadena attracts those with a passion for inquiry and hands-on learning, often resulting in groundbreaking research and discoveries.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is renowned for its research and strong focus on health and science. With a 94% graduation rate, it attracts students passionate about making a difference in the world. The university's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the fact that 19% of undergraduates receive Pell Grants, ensuring that quality education is accessible to a wide range of students, including those from lower-income backgrounds.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago, located in a vibrant urban setting, is home to about 7,569 students who are dedicated to intellectual exploration. A graduation rate of 95% reflects the rigorous academic environment and support system in place. Graduates can expect a median earning of $91,885 ten years after graduation, underscoring the strong return on investment from studying here.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, nestled in Providence, RI, is known for its unique open curriculum, allowing students to tailor their education to fit their passions. With 7,226 students and a graduation rate of 96%, the community fosters a supportive and innovative atmosphere. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $93,487 after ten years, a testament to the value of a Brown degree in the job market.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania, located in the heart of Philadelphia, has a vibrant campus with a diverse student body of about 10,650 students. With a remarkable 97% graduation rate, it's clear that students here find the support they need to succeed academically and socially. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $111,371 at the ten-year mark, highlighting the strong career prospects that follow a degree from this institution.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, situated in Cambridge, MA, is synonymous with academic excellence. With a student body of 7,601 and an impressive 97% graduation rate, students are immersed in an environment that encourages both personal growth and intellectual achievement. A degree from Harvard leads to a median earning of $101,817 at the ten-year mark, indicating solid career opportunities post-graduation.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#13

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

Located in Newark, NJ, the New Jersey Institute of Technology has a strong focus on technology and engineering, drawing nearly 9,000 students each year. With a graduation rate of 73%, many students successfully transition into the workforce, earning a median salary of $84,276 after ten years. This school creates a practical environment where hands-on learning meets real-world applications, making it an attractive option for those interested in technical fields.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College is a vibrant hub for over 16,000 students. With a graduation rate of 72%, Baruch emphasizes career readiness, particularly in business and public affairs, and its graduates enjoy a median earning of $75,971 just ten years after graduation.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Duke University exemplifies commitment to student success. The school's location in Durham, North Carolina, offers a vibrant campus life intertwined with a rich cultural scene, making it an attractive choice for students seeking both academic rigor and a well-rounded experience.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in the lively city of Nashville, Vanderbilt University combines a strong academic reputation with a rich social atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 93%, students benefit from a collaborative environment that encourages both personal and intellectual growth, making it a compelling choice for prospective students.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#17

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University stands as a beacon in the heart of New York City, giving students unparalleled access to cultural, professional, and educational experiences. With a 96% graduation rate, Columbia is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, drawing students who are eager to make an impact in their fields.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#18

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

In the serene setting of Wellesley, Massachusetts, Wellesley College offers an intimate educational experience for around 2,300 students. With a graduation rate of 91%, this women's college empowers its graduates, who achieve median earnings of $84,803 within ten years of graduation, underscoring the effectiveness of its educational model.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#19

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, with its intimate setting of just over 2,000 students, fosters close relationships between faculty and students, enhancing the overall educational experience. This tight-knit community in Williamstown, Massachusetts, nurtures intellectual curiosity and collaboration, which is reflected in its impressive 95% graduation rate.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#20

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, located in Claremont, CA, offers a close-knit community with just 1,666 students and a graduation rate of 93%. The college is known for its emphasis on liberal arts education, allowing students to explore various fields and develop critical thinking skills that prepare them for a range of careers.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#21

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is a hub for students interested in technology, arts, and sciences, boasting a graduation rate of 93%. Located in Pittsburgh, this private nonprofit institution encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore a range of interests while preparing for future challenges in their fields.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#22

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis attracts students with its impressive graduation rate of 94% and a strong focus on academic excellence. This private university offers a close-knit community where students can collaborate and innovate, preparing them for success in their future careers.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#23

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 92%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in a vibrant college town, this public university is home to over 20,000 students and offers a diverse range of programs that encourage academic exploration and social engagement. The university is particularly known for its emphasis on research and its active campus life, making it a place where students can thrive both academically and personally.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#24

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in New York City, CUNY Hunter College attracts more than 16,000 students eager to engage in a rigorous academic environment. The college's 59% graduation rate indicates a solid commitment to student success, along with a strong reputation for producing graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University in New Haven, CT, is a prestigious institution that offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a rich tradition of intellectual discourse. With a similarly impressive graduation rate of 96%, Yale cultivates a community where students are encouraged to explore their passions and engage deeply with their studies and peers.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, is known for its strong commitment to student success. The university not only emphasizes academic excellence but also fosters a vibrant campus life, contributing to an enriching educational experience that attracts students from diverse backgrounds.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#27

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth College is known for its tight-knit community and rigorous academics. With a stellar graduation rate of 96%, Dartmouth graduates enjoy some of the highest median earnings at $97,434 ten years post-graduation, a testament to the school's strong alumni network and career support.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, a small private nonprofit institution, boasts a striking 94% graduation rate. With just under 2,000 students, it offers an intimate environment where close faculty relationships can flourish. The college's commitment to liberal arts education fosters critical thinking and creativity, making it an attractive choice for students who want a well-rounded academic experience in a supportive setting.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#29

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College is home to over 12,500 students, offering a vibrant and diverse community in the heart of New York City. With a graduation rate of 56%, the college emphasizes accessibility and affordability, making it a solid option for those looking to pursue their education without excessive financial burden.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity among its 1,873 students. The college boasts a graduation rate of 95%, indicating a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and personally.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#31

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida in Gainesville is another major player in public education, with a graduation rate of 91%. With more than 35,000 students, its campus is alive with a rich variety of activities and academic programs. The university's focus on innovation and research makes it a compelling choice for students eager to engage in hands-on learning experiences.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#33

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#34

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 10,500, CUNY Brooklyn College is a cornerstone of higher education in Brooklyn, NY. The school’s commitment to accessibility is evident with a 58% Pell Grant recipient rate, reflecting its support for students from diverse financial backgrounds. Graduating 55% of its students, Brooklyn College nurtures an environment where learners can thrive, particularly those who value a strong community and cultural experiences in one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in the country.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#36

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX · 21,751 students · Public

65% accepted 75% graduate $68,227 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#38

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, nestled in Waterville, Maine, draws around 2,400 students to its picturesque campus. With a remarkable graduation rate of 89%, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth, providing a nurturing environment for students who seek a close-knit community and individualized attention from faculty.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#41

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College is characterized by its dedication to academic rigor and a vibrant community. With a smaller enrollment of around 1,867 students, it creates an environment where each individual is known and supported, making it ideal for those who thrive in personalized settings focused on developing leadership and ethical responsibility.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#42

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#43

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#44

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University offers a close-knit liberal arts education with a strong focus on critical thinking and communication skills. With just over 3,000 students, the campus fosters a supportive academic environment where students can engage deeply with faculty and peers, paving the way for personal and intellectual growth.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#45

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#46

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings through co-op programs. With a robust student body of over 17,000, it cultivates a diverse community in the heart of Boston, a city rich with opportunities for internships and networking.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#47

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., boasts a stellar graduation rate of 95%. The school's rich history and strong connections to various fields make it ideal for students looking to expand their horizons and network with influential leaders across industries.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#48

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Notre Dame, a private nonprofit institution, the graduation rate is an impressive 96%. This creates a culture of high achievement among its 8,818 students, who are encouraged to excel in both academics and extracurricular activities. The university's strong emphasis on ethics and values complements its rigorous academic programs, making it a great fit for students looking to make a positive impact in their communities.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#50

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

When examining the data, a notable pattern emerges. MIT stands out with its impressive average earnings of $143,372 and a graduation rate of 96%. In contrast, Georgia Tech, while having a solid graduation rate of 93%, sees lower earnings at $102,772. This difference highlights the importance of not only attending a reputable institution but also considering the financial outcomes associated with each program.

After reviewing these 50 schools, it's essential to reflect on your personal priorities. Think about location, program fit, and campus environment alongside the financial implications of each choice. For example, if lower debt is a priority, Georgia Tech may be an attractive option despite its lower earnings potential compared to MIT. Identify what matters most to you and your family as you make this decision.

The data underscores the critical link between higher education and economic stability. For many families, selecting a college isn't just about education; it’s about setting the stage for a stable financial future. Each choice made today influences the path to a successful life, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in this pivotal moment.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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