Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Information Technology

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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When considering colleges for a career in Information Technology, social mobility plays a crucial role. The schools on this list share a commitment to helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed in the tech workforce. For instance, graduates from these institutions see average earnings of $90,209, reflecting their potential in the field.

What sets these colleges apart is not just their programs, but the outcomes they deliver. High graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and strong earning potential illustrate their effectiveness in fostering success. The list below ranks schools based on social mobility, focusing specifically on their Computer Science and IT programs, allowing students to understand which institutions might offer the best return on their investment.

Take Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Georgia Institute of Technology as examples. MIT graduates report earnings of $143,372, significantly higher than Georgia Tech's $102,772. However, Georgia Tech has a higher average debt of $21,672 compared to MIT's $14,768, indicating that while both schools offer strong prospects, the financial implications differ, which is essential to consider when making a choice.

Key Findings

MIT graduates earn $143,372 on average, which is the highest on the list.

Georgia Tech has a graduation rate of 93% but comes with a higher average debt of $21,672.

Princeton University boasts a low net price of $6,128 along with a 97% graduation rate.

The average earnings across all listed schools is $90,209, highlighting strong job prospects.

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 96% graduation rate, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a hub for innovation and academic excellence. The school's focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics attracts some of the brightest minds from around the world, creating a unique community of problem solvers and thinkers. Students here not only learn to excel academically but also to tackle real-world challenges head-on.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is located in Silicon Valley, a region known for its entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancements. With a graduation rate of 92%, Stanford cultivates a collaborative environment where students can thrive academically and socially. The school encourages exploration and innovation, making it a compelling choice for those interested in shaping the future.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University, nestled in New Jersey, offers a strong academic community with a remarkable 97% graduation rate. Known for its focus on undergraduate education, Princeton emphasizes close mentorship between faculty and students, which fosters a supportive learning environment. This commitment to student success makes it an attractive option for those who value personalized education.

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 93% graduation rate, Georgia Institute of Technology is not just about numbers; it's about creating successful futures. Located in Atlanta, it offers a vibrant campus life and a strong focus on research and innovation, making it a hub for aspiring engineers and tech enthusiasts.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, making it a strong contender for students who seek a prestigious education. A 95% graduation rate reflects the university's commitment to student success, while its renowned programs in agriculture, engineering, and business are particularly notable for those looking to make an impact in their fields.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

At Rice University, students benefit from a close-knit community of just under 5,000 peers, fostering strong connections and collaborative learning. With a graduation rate of 95%, this private institution focuses on providing a well-rounded education in a diverse set of disciplines, making it appealing to students who value both academic rigor and personal growth.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

At the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), the focus on rigorous scientific and technological education is evident in its 94% graduation rate. With a small student body of just 987, Caltech fosters a tight-knit community where collaboration and research are prioritized. This environment attracts students who are deeply passionate about STEM fields and eager to make significant contributions to their 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 stands out for its strong emphasis on research and healthcare, attracting students eager to dive deep into their studies. With a graduation rate of 94%, it's a place where rigorous academics meet a commitment to making a difference in the world, especially for those interested in the sciences and public health.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is located in the vibrant city of Chicago and has a graduation rate of 95%, indicating strong academic support for its students. Renowned for its rigorous academics, this private nonprofit school has a 4% acceptance rate, reflecting its selectivity. Graduates earn a median income of $91,885 ten years after leaving, showcasing the significant return on investment for students who attend.

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, Rhode Island, boasts a 96% graduation rate, highlighting its dedication to student success. Known for its open curriculum, Brown encourages students to explore their passions without the constraints of a rigid core. Graduates see a median earning of $93,487 at ten years post-graduation, reflecting the value of a Brown degree in various professional fields.

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 is a place where students are not just enrolled; they are supported to succeed. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit institution attracts a diverse body of students, and its 5% acceptance rate speaks to the competitive nature of admissions. The median earnings for graduates stand at an impressive $111,371 after ten years, suggesting that a degree from this university carries significant weight in the job market.

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, boasts a 97% graduation rate, demonstrating its commitment to student achievement. Known worldwide for its academic excellence, this private nonprofit institution has a mere 4% acceptance rate. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $101,817 ten years after graduation, a clear indicator of the career advantages that come with a Harvard diploma.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#13

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

With nearly 9,000 students, the New Jersey Institute of Technology is a hub for innovation and practical education in Newark. It emphasizes STEM fields, attracting students keen on engineering, technology, and design, all while cultivating a diverse community, with 40% of students receiving Pell Grants.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 72% and a solid median earning of $75,971 within ten years, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College is an appealing choice for students looking to thrive in New York City. The college is known for its strong emphasis on business and public affairs, making it a hub for aspiring professionals who want to make an impact in urban settings.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and a vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 96%, it's clear that students here thrive in an environment that encourages both intellectual and personal growth, supported by a diverse community of peers and resources.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University combines rigorous academics with a vibrant social scene in the heart of Nashville. A graduation rate of 93% signals a supportive educational environment where students can excel while also enjoying a rich campus life filled with diverse extracurricular activities.

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 is situated in the bustling heart of New York City, providing students with unparalleled access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities. With a graduation rate of 96%, it's a place where academic achievement is deeply valued, and students are encouraged to make the most of their urban surroundings.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#18

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College offers a unique experience for its 2,300 students, cultivating leadership and a strong sense of community among women. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $84,803 after ten years, Wellesley prepares graduates to excel in various fields, from business to public service, empowering them to make significant contributions to society.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#19

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College is recognized for its intimate learning environment and strong academic rigor. With just over 2,000 students, this college fosters close relationships between faculty and students, contributing to a 95% graduation rate that reflects the supportive atmosphere on campus.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#20

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, situated in Claremont, California, offers an intimate educational experience with only 1,666 students, leading to personalized attention from faculty. The college's graduation rate of 93% reflects its dedication to helping students thrive academically and socially in a supportive environment.

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 known for its exceptional focus on technology and the arts, boasting a 93% graduation rate. With a student body of just over 7,300, it cultivates a tight-knit environment where innovation flourishes, making it ideal for creative thinkers and problem solvers ready to make their mark.

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 boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, reflecting its dedication to student achievement. With just under 8,000 students, it offers a close-knit community alongside access to extensive resources and opportunities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an intimate yet prestigious environment.

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 strong graduation rate of 92%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a respected institution that fosters academic success and personal growth. The campus atmosphere encourages diverse interests, from research to athletics, making it a vibrant place for students to thrive academically and socially.

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 vibrant city of New York, CUNY Hunter College serves over 16,000 students and focuses on a well-rounded education with a diverse array of programs. With a graduation rate of 59%, the college emphasizes student support to help students achieve their academic goals. The high percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 54% underscores Hunter's commitment to inclusivity for all socioeconomic backgrounds.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Yale University

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

Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, is not just an Ivy League institution; it's a community that nurtures inquisitive minds. With a graduation rate of 96% and a small student body of 6,758, Yale fosters close-knit relationships that enhance both academic and personal growth.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Evanston, Illinois, this private nonprofit institution has a diverse student body of 9,201, contributing to a vibrant campus culture and extensive networking opportunities.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#27

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College, with its 96% graduation rate, consistently produces graduates who enter the workforce ready to succeed. In ten years, alumni earn a median salary of $97,434, reflecting the college's strong academic reputation and extensive alumni network that opens doors in various fields, particularly in business and the sciences.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College is an intimate learning environment that prioritizes academic excellence, reflected in its impressive 94% graduation rate. With a small student body of about 1,900, the college fosters close-knit relationships between students and faculty, creating a unique atmosphere for intellectual engagement and personal development.

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 students in the heart of Queens, CUNY Queens College emphasizes accessibility and affordability in higher education. The school has a significant number of Pell Grant recipients, which highlights its commitment to supporting students from low-income backgrounds. The graduation rate sits at 56%, which reflects a community working hard to support students through their academic journeys.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College is known for its intellectual rigor and a community that values diversity and inclusion. With a 95% graduation rate and a close-knit enrollment of 1,873, Bowdoin offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and supportive relationships among students and faculty.

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 is home to a large, dynamic student body of over 35,000. With a graduation rate of 91%, students are well-prepared for their future careers, supported by a range of academic resources and a lively campus culture that promotes growth and exploration.

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 more than 10,500 students, CUNY Brooklyn College fosters a vibrant, diverse community in the heart of Brooklyn. The school has a solid focus on accessibility, evident in its 57% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to supporting those with financial needs. This environment is ideal for students who thrive in an urban setting, where they can engage deeply with both academic pursuits and the cultural richness of New York City.

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 the charming town of Waterville, Maine, is a private nonprofit institution that emphasizes academic excellence and community engagement. With an impressive graduation rate of 89%, it showcases a strong commitment to student success. The college's intimate size of just over 2,400 students allows for personalized attention and a supportive academic environment, ideal for those looking to thrive in their studies.

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, home to around 1,867 students, emphasizes a strong liberal arts education in a close-knit environment. A 91% graduation rate underscores the college's commitment to student success and personal development, fostering an atmosphere where students can thrive both academically and socially.

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 exemplifies a tight-knit community, with just 3,180 students who share a commitment to academic excellence. Its impressive 91% graduation rate reflects the supportive environment that fosters collaboration and personal growth among students.

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 90% graduation rate, Northeastern University cultivates an environment where students are set up for success. The university's location in Boston, a hub of innovation and opportunity, gives students access to internships and co-op programs that enrich their academic experience and bolster their resumes.

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., attracts students who are eager to engage in politics, international relations, and law. With a 95% graduation rate and a tight-knit community of 7,569 students, the university offers a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world opportunities through internships and networking in the nation's capital.

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 combines a rich tradition of academic achievement with a strong sense of community. Its 96% graduation rate speaks volumes about the institution’s commitment to student success, while its vibrant campus life encourages both intellectual and personal growth among its approximately 8,800 students.

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

The data reveals an interesting pattern between schools. MIT clearly outperforms Georgia Tech in terms of earnings, with a $40,600 difference in average post-graduation salaries. However, Georgia Tech's higher debt suggests a trade-off that students should consider when choosing a program.

Now that you've seen the range of options, think about what matters most to you. Consider your preferred location, the campus atmosphere, and how well each program aligns with your career aspirations. Weigh the financial aspects against the potential outcomes. Not every high-earning school will be the right fit for every student.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable career is shaped by the choices we make. The data suggests that attending a school focused on social mobility can significantly impact your life after graduation. For one family, choosing a school with strong outcomes could mean the difference between a stable future and financial uncertainty.

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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