Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Cybersecurity

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

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Finding the right college for a degree in cybersecurity can significantly impact your financial future and career opportunities. Schools that excel in social mobility help students from various backgrounds achieve successful outcomes, making this list particularly valuable for families weighing their options.

What sets these institutions apart is their ability to balance strong graduation rates with high post-graduation earnings. The data highlights schools that provide a solid education in Computer Science and IT, while also emphasizing affordability and manageable debt levels. Below, you'll find a list of 50 colleges ranked by their effectiveness in fostering upward mobility for their graduates.

Take the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for example, which boasts an impressive average earning of $143,372 with a 96% graduation rate, and compare that to the Georgia Institute of Technology, where graduates earn $102,772 with a 93% graduation rate. This difference in earnings highlights the varying outcomes even among well-regarded institutions, underscoring the importance of making an informed choice.

Key Findings

MIT graduates earn an average of $143,372, the highest in this list.

Princeton has the lowest net price at $6,128, making it more affordable.

Graduation rates across the top five schools average 94%, indicating strong student support.

Georgia Tech has a higher debt burden of $21,672 compared to MIT's $14,768.

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 →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, MIT is a beacon for those passionate about science and technology. The $143,372 median earnings ten years after graduation reflect the high demand for graduates who are trained to tackle complex problems in innovative ways.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University cultivates a vibrant community of thinkers and creators, featuring a graduation rate of 92%. The sunny campus in California attracts students who are eager to make their mark, with median earnings of $124,080 a decade post-graduation illustrating the potential for lucrative careers.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

A 97% graduation rate signals Princeton's commitment to student success, creating an environment where learners can thrive academically and personally. The university's strong tradition in liberal arts and research cultivates a sense of purpose among students, reflected in their impressive median earnings of $110,066 within ten years of 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 Institute of Technology is a strong choice for students who thrive in a rigorous academic environment. Located in Atlanta, this public university not only attracts a diverse student body but also emphasizes innovation and technology, preparing students for careers in high-demand 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 picturesque town of Ithaca, is known for its rich academic tradition and extensive offerings. With a graduation rate of 95%, it's a place where motivated students can thrive, particularly those interested in fields like agriculture, engineering, and the humanities, benefiting from its unique blend of research and liberal arts education.

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 often characterized by its intimate campus and rigorous academic programs. With a small student population of just 4,776, it fosters a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with faculty and peers, leading to a graduation rate of 95%. This environment is ideal for self-motivated individuals who seek a collaborative approach to learning.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

The California Institute of Technology, with a graduation rate of 94%, is known for its intense focus on STEM fields. With a small student body of just 987, Caltech fosters close-knit relationships between students and faculty, leading to collaborative research opportunities that can elevate careers. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $128,566 ten years after leaving, indicating strong market demand for their skills.

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 synonymous with excellence in research and healthcare. Known for its commitment to producing leaders in medicine and science, it boasts a graduation rate of 94%. This university attracts driven students who are passionate about making a difference in their fields and the world.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is known for its intellectual rigor and commitment to critical thinking. With a graduation rate of 95% and median earnings of $91,885 after ten years, this private nonprofit school in Chicago challenges students to push boundaries and explore complex ideas in a collaborative atmosphere.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University captures attention with its unique open curriculum, allowing students to tailor their education to their passions. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, it boasts a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $93,487 ten years post-graduation, reflecting its commitment to student success and innovative learning.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate and median earnings of $111,371 a decade after enrollment, the University of Pennsylvania stands as a beacon for students seeking a strong return on their investment. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit institution combines rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life, creating an environment where students can thrive both personally and professionally.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is synonymous with academic excellence and leadership. With a graduation rate of 97% and median earnings of $101,817 ten years after graduation, it offers a network of opportunities that few institutions can match, preparing students for diverse and impactful careers.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#13

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

With a median earning of $84,276 ten years after graduation, New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark is a strong contender for students interested in engineering and technology fields. The school has a diverse student body, with 40% of its students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and support for low-income students.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

With a median earning of $75,971 just ten years after graduation, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College presents an attractive option for students looking to make their mark in the heart of New York City. The college is known for its strong business programs and diverse student body, with 57% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Duke University is known for its strong academic environment that encourages students to excel. The school’s median earnings of $97,800 after ten years reflect the value of a Duke degree in the job market, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University, located in the vibrant city of Nashville, has a solid graduation rate of 93% and a median earning of $91,565 after ten years. This combination indicates that students here are not only completing their degrees but are also entering the workforce with strong earning potential.

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, situated in New York City, boasts a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $102,491 after ten years. The combination of a prestigious urban setting and a high level of academic rigor makes it a compelling choice for students seeking both challenge and opportunity in their studies.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#18

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College has a long-standing reputation for empowering women through education, with an impressive graduation rate of 91%. Set in a serene campus in Massachusetts, this private liberal arts college cultivates a close-knit community where students are encouraged to lead and innovate across various disciplines, preparing them for influential roles in society.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#19

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, with a graduation rate of 95%, is renowned for its intimate learning environment and strong faculty support. Graduates can expect a median salary of $88,665 after ten years, which highlights the college's commitment to student success and its reputation in various fields.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#20

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, with its intimate setting in Claremont, California, serves a close-knit community of about 1,666 students. The college offers a graduation rate of 93%, reflecting its supportive educational environment. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $77,779 ten years post-graduation, demonstrating a solid return on their educational investment.

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 innovation and creativity, known for its strong emphasis on technology and the arts. With a graduation rate of 93%, it nurtures a community of driven students who push boundaries and engage in groundbreaking research and projects.

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

At Washington University in St. Louis, students benefit from a remarkable graduation rate of 94%. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a rigorous academic environment, enriched by small class sizes and personalized attention, preparing students for successful careers in diverse fields.

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 sets students up for success from day one. This public university not only fosters academic achievement, but it also cultivates a vibrant campus life, making it a great fit for students looking for a mix of rigorous study and social engagement.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#24

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College serves a large and dynamic student body of over 16,000, situated in the heart of Manhattan. This school is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, providing opportunities for engagement in one of the world's most exciting cities.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Yale University

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

Yale University is an iconic institution that nurtures a tight-knit community of only 6,758 students. With a striking graduation rate of 96%, it cultivates a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. Graduates report median earnings of $100,533 a decade after they leave, positioning them well within their career trajectories.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University supports a diverse and vibrant student body of over 9,200. Located in Evanston, Illinois, it’s a hub for students who are driven and eager to make an impact in their fields. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment sit at an impressive $89,363, illustrating the strong return on investment for those who choose to study here.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#27

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College is known for its rigorous academic programs and intimate learning environment, with a graduation rate of 96%. Located in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth fosters a collaborative spirit among its 4,541 students, encouraging them to explore a variety of fields while building lifelong connections with peers and faculty.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College is a small, private liberal arts college in Massachusetts that thrives on its intimate learning environment, with just 1,911 students enrolled. Its impressive 94% graduation rate reflects a community that prioritizes student support and academic excellence, making it an ideal option for those seeking a close-knit educational experience.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#29

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

With a diverse student body of over 12,500, CUNY Queens College is a vibrant hub for academic exploration. The college is situated in one of the most multicultural areas in the country, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with peers from various backgrounds and perspectives.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

In Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College creates a welcoming atmosphere for approximately 1,873 students. With a graduation rate of 95%, Bowdoin emphasizes both academic rigor and community engagement. Graduates achieve median earnings of $82,735 ten years after graduation, indicating a strong financial payoff for their hard work and dedication.

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, located in Gainesville, is home to a large and engaged student body of over 35,000. Its strong academic programs help fuel a graduation rate of 91%, ensuring that students can pursue their goals with confidence and security in their education.

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 over 10,500 students, CUNY Brooklyn College is a vibrant hub for learning in the heart of Brooklyn. The college’s diverse community and strong focus on liberal arts education make it a compelling choice for students looking to explore various fields while being immersed in New York City's rich cultural landscape.

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 in Waterville, Maine, is a private nonprofit institution that attracts a tight-knit community of just over 2,400 students. Known for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus, Colby offers an intimate setting where students can engage deeply with faculty and peers alike, leading to a remarkable graduation rate of 89%.

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 a small but mighty institution with a graduation rate of 91% and a strong sense of community. Located in Davidson, NC, the college emphasizes academic rigor and character development, making it an ideal fit for students who value a supportive environment. Graduates earn a median income of $81,400 ten years after completing their degree, which speaks to the effectiveness of its educational programs and the lifelong connections made during college.

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, nestled in Hamilton, NY, boasts a high graduation rate of 91% and an intimate campus environment with just over 3,180 students. The school fosters a close-knit community that encourages collaboration and personal growth, making it an appealing choice for students who thrive in intimate settings. The median earnings for graduates at ten years post-graduation stand at $85,139, reflecting the quality of the education and the strong alumni network that supports career advancement.

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

With a median earning of $92,538 a decade after graduation, Northeastern University positions itself as a strong contender for students seeking a solid return on their investment. The school is located in the vibrant city of Boston, which is not only a hub for education but also offers countless professional opportunities, thanks to its rich ecosystem of industries and startups. The impressive 90% graduation rate underlines the institution's commitment to student success, helping graduates navigate their future careers with confidence.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#47

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Washington, DC, Georgetown University offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and access to influential networks. With a graduation rate of 95% and a strong emphasis on community engagement, students often find themselves well-prepared for competitive job markets and leadership roles post-graduation.

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

Nestled in Indiana, the University of Notre Dame is known for its strong academic tradition and community spirit, with a graduation rate of 96%. This private institution attracts students who are eager to engage in a rich cultural and intellectual environment, ensuring a well-rounded college experience.

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 we compare MIT to Georgia Tech, the difference in earnings is striking. MIT graduates earn $143,372 on average, while Georgia Tech graduates earn $102,772. This gap of over $40,000 illustrates how crucial school choice is for long-term financial success. Additionally, while Georgia Tech has a manageable net price of $12,116, its graduates face a higher average debt burden of $21,672 compared to MIT's $14,768.

After reviewing these 50 schools, consider what matters most to you. Think about your priorities: are you looking for a specific program, a desirable location, or a campus culture that fits your personality? Weigh these factors against the financial data. A school that graduates students with lower debt but offers less support might not align with your financial goals or career aspirations.

Ultimately, this data reveals the tangible benefits of a college degree in cybersecurity. A solid education leads to higher earning potential and lower debt, which can create a stable life for families. Each decision made during this process shapes not just your future, but also the financial well-being of your family for years to come.

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.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility