Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Data 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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Finding the right college can be a daunting task, especially in fields like data science where job prospects and earning potential are crucial. The schools on this list are known for their strong emphasis on social mobility, helping students from various backgrounds achieve success in computer science and IT. With average earnings reaching around $90,000 for graduates, these institutions stand out in a competitive landscape.

What sets these schools apart is not just their prestigious names but the tangible outcomes they deliver. Key metrics such as graduation rates, earnings post-graduation, and manageable debt levels paint a clearer picture of how well these programs prepare students. For instance, the average graduation rate for this list is an impressive 89%, indicating that these schools are adept at supporting their students through to completion.

Take the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which boasts an average earning of $143,372, and compare it to Georgia Institute of Technology. While Georgia Tech has a respectable earning of $102,772, its average debt is significantly higher at $21,672 compared to MIT's $14,768. This contrast highlights the trade-offs between potential earnings and financial burden, giving prospective students important factors to consider as they explore their options.

Key Findings

MIT graduates earn an average of $143,372, leading the list with the highest earnings.

Georgia Tech has a graduation rate of 93%, slightly below the overall average of 89%.

Princeton University shows a remarkably low net price of $6,128, making it financially accessible.

The average debt across these schools is $14,099, offering a manageable burden for graduates.

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 is known for its rigorous academic environment and a strong emphasis on STEM fields. The median earnings of graduates ten years after enrolling reach an impressive $143,372, indicating that students leave equipped with the skills and knowledge that employers highly value.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford's picturesque campus and strong entrepreneurial culture make it a compelling choice for students interested in technology and business. Graduates see median earnings of $124,080 a decade after enrolling, a reflection of the university's robust network and commitment to innovation.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton's commitment to undergraduate education is evident in its remarkable 97% graduation rate and emphasis on a liberal arts education. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $110,066 ten years post-graduation, highlighting the value of a Princeton degree in the job market.

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 not just about getting in; it’s about getting through. Located in Atlanta, this public university has a vibrant tech scene that enriches the student experience, making it a strong choice for those interested in engineering and computing fields.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University is known for its commitment to rigorous academics and a diverse range of programs. With a 95% graduation rate, students here benefit from a rich campus culture in Ithaca, New York, that encourages both intellectual growth and personal development.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

At Rice University, the small student body of just under 5,000 fosters close-knit relationships and personalized learning experiences. The 95% graduation rate speaks volumes about the supportive community, which is particularly beneficial for students who thrive in an intimate academic setting in Houston, Texas.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Pasadena, Caltech's small size of just 987 students fosters an intimate academic community where innovation thrives. With a graduation rate of 94%, students are prepared for high-impact careers, evidenced by a median income of $128,566 within ten years of graduation, reflecting the school's emphasis on science and engineering disciplines.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University is synonymous with research and innovation, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about science and health. With a 94% graduation rate, this institution in Baltimore supports students in achieving their academic goals while engaging in groundbreaking projects.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is recognized for its rigorous academics and vibrant intellectual community. With a graduation rate of 95%, students here are immersed in an environment that prioritizes critical thinking and scholarly inquiry, making it a haven for those who love to engage deeply with complex ideas and concepts.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, with its rich history and commitment to progressive education, attracts students eager to shape their own academic journeys. The university’s unique open curriculum allows undergraduates to craft their education without the constraints of core requirements, fostering a culture of intellectual exploration and independence that many students find refreshing.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania has established itself as a place where students can thrive academically and socially. Located in Philadelphia, UPenn is known for its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to explore various fields while building invaluable connections in their chosen careers.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University is synonymous with academic excellence and a rich tradition of producing leaders across various fields. With a 97% graduation rate, it offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and extensive resources, making it an attractive choice for ambitious students looking to make a significant impact in their careers and communities.

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 is a vibrant hub for over 9,000 students. With a graduation rate of 73%, it offers strong programs that lead to impressive median earnings of $84,276 after ten years. This school emphasizes engineering and technology, making it a great choice for students interested in STEM 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 serves over 16,000 students who are drawn to its strong business and public affairs programs. With a graduation rate of 72%, the college has a vibrant campus life and a diverse student body, with 57% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to accessibility and support for low-income students.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Duke University showcases its commitment to student success. The strong focus on research and interdisciplinary learning creates an engaging academic environment that encourages students to explore diverse fields and collaborate across disciplines.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, attracts students with its vibrant campus life and academic rigor, reflected in a graduation rate of 93%. Known for its strong programs in various disciplines, Vanderbilt fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

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 offers an urban experience like no other, situated in the heart of New York City, and boasts a graduation rate of 96%. The combination of world-class faculty and a diverse student body creates a unique atmosphere for learning and growth, enriched by the city itself.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#18

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, an all-women's institution in Massachusetts, provides an empowering environment for 2,300 students to excel academically and personally. With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley fosters a strong sense of community and leadership among its students, preparing them to thrive in various fields after graduation.

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%, promises a close-knit community and a strong liberal arts education. The small student body of 2,076 fosters personal connections between professors and students, allowing for deep engagement in learning and exploration.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#20

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, with a graduation rate of 93%, is a close-knit institution that prides itself on personalized education and strong faculty-student relationships. Situated in Claremont, California, this small college environment allows for meaningful interactions and collaborative learning among its 1,666 students, fostering both academic and personal growth.

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, with its 93% graduation rate, is a powerhouse in technology and the arts, attracting students who are passionate about their fields. Located in Pittsburgh, this private nonprofit university fosters a collaborative environment where creativity and innovation thrive, preparing students for successful careers in a variety of industries.

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 is home to around 7,857 students who enjoy a 94% graduation rate, a testament to the university's robust academic programs and dedicated faculty. Known for its rigorous curriculum and vibrant campus culture, it attracts motivated students eager to make a difference in the world.

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 has a strong track record of helping students reach their academic goals. The median earnings of its graduates, which sit at $72,200 within ten years, suggest that a degree from here can lead to solid financial stability after college. Additionally, its vibrant campus life and diverse student body create an engaging environment for both learning and personal growth.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#24

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the heart of Manhattan, CUNY Hunter College is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 59%, students here are supported by a dynamic faculty and a variety of resources, making it a great fit for those who thrive in a bustling urban environment and seek to engage in diverse student activities.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Yale University

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

Yale University is synonymous with academic rigor and rich traditions, proudly achieving a 96% graduation rate among its 6,758 students. Nestled in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale's vibrant campus culture and extensive resources attract students passionate about their fields, whether in the humanities, sciences, or arts.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University nurtures a strong sense of community and academic excellence among its 9,201 students. Located just outside Chicago, this private nonprofit institution combines rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life, making it an appealing choice for those seeking both intellectual and social engagement.

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 an intimate community with just over 4,500 students. Known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus culture, it has a graduation rate of 96%, indicating strong support for students throughout their educational journey.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College presents a unique opportunity for students seeking an intimate learning environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio. With a 94% graduation rate, students are not only likely to complete their degrees but also to do so with high levels of academic support. Graduates enjoy impressive median earnings of $77,644 within ten years, underscoring the value of an Amherst education in the job market.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#29

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

With over 12,500 students, CUNY Queens College is a vibrant hub in one of the most diverse boroughs of New York City. The school’s strong emphasis on liberal arts education prepares students for a variety of careers while fostering an inclusive community, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a rich cultural experience alongside their studies.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, Maine, highlights a commitment to academic excellence with a 95% graduation rate among its 1,873 students. This private nonprofit college fosters a collaborative learning environment and encourages students to engage with local and global communities, equipping them for thoughtful leadership beyond graduation.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#31

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida has a lively student community with over 35,000 enrolled. The school boasts a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $71,588 for graduates ten years after leaving. This combination of academic achievement and strong post-graduation outcomes makes UF an attractive option for many students looking to balance rigorous education with social life.

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 in the heart of Brooklyn. It has a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse student body, with 57% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a strong commitment to accessibility for low-income families. The college's location allows students to take advantage of New York City's rich cultural and professional opportunities, making it a compelling choice for many.

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

Nestled in Waterville, Maine, Colby College is a private liberal arts institution known for its strong community and high engagement levels among students. With an impressive graduation rate of 89%, Colby attracts students who are deeply committed to their academic and social experiences, making it ideal for those who thrive in a close-knit environment focused on personal growth and academic excellence.

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

Nestled in Davidson, NC, Davidson College emphasizes a liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and personal growth. The college's 91% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success, and its intimate size of 1,867 students allows for meaningful connections with professors and peers alike.

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, with a small student body of 3,180, fosters close-knit relationships and a vibrant campus culture. The impressive 91% graduation rate signals a strong academic support system, while the picturesque setting in Hamilton, NY attracts students who value both community and rigorous scholarship.

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 striking graduation rate of 90%, Northeastern University is known for its focus on experiential learning, including co-op programs that connect students directly with employers. Located in the heart of Boston, a city rich in academic and professional opportunities, Northeastern cultivates an environment that prepares students for the workforce from day one.

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, DC, provides an enriching educational experience with a 95% graduation rate. The university’s unique blend of rigorous academics and its proximity to political and cultural institutions draws students who are eager to engage with the world around them, preparing them for impactful careers.

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

The University of Notre Dame is known for its strong academic traditions and a graduation rate of 96%. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $99,980 for graduates ten years post-graduation, making it an enticing choice for students focused on achieving high career outcomes. Furthermore, the university’s vibrant community fosters both intellectual and personal growth through a range of extracurricular activities.

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 look closer at the data, it’s clear that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology outperforms others like Georgia Institute of Technology not just in earnings but also in lower debt levels. MIT graduates have an impressive average earning of $143,372 with a debt of only $14,768, while Georgia Tech's graduates earn $102,772 but have a higher debt burden of $21,672. This discrepancy could influence a student's long-term financial stability.

After reviewing the 50 schools, it’s essential to reflect on your individual priorities. Consider factors such as location, campus culture, and specific program offerings. For instance, a student who values a vibrant urban setting might favor a school like MIT over more suburban options. Balancing these elements against financial figures can guide your decision-making process effectively.

The path from college to a stable life can be challenging, and these numbers reflect the varying degrees of support students may find. Families need to weigh options carefully, as each choice can have lasting implications. A student at Princeton could graduate nearly debt-free, while a Georgia Tech student may face higher financial pressures, making the journey more complex. Understanding these trade-offs is key to making an informed decision.

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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