Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Cybersecurity

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

Schools Analyzed

$88,260

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,362

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in cybersecurity, the return on investment (ROI) is a crucial factor. With the average earnings for graduates in this field reaching $91,129, many students and families are weighing their options carefully. This list highlights the top colleges that excel in providing a strong ROI for degrees concentrated in Computer Science and IT.

The strongest programs stand out by delivering impressive outcomes in earnings, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels. For instance, a high graduation rate indicates that students are not only enrolling but also completing their degrees. As you explore the rankings, pay attention to the interplay between potential earnings and student debt, as these factors are essential for evaluating long-term financial success.

Take Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for example. With average earnings of $143,372 and a graduation rate of 96%, it sets a high bar. In contrast, Georgia Institute of Technology boasts solid earnings of $102,772, but with a higher average debt of $21,672. This comparison highlights how different institutions can lead to varied financial outcomes, even within the same field.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn $143,372 on average, the highest in this ranking.

Georgia Institute of Technology has a higher debt average of $21,672 compared to other top schools.

Princeton University stands out with a low net price of $6,128 and a 97% graduation rate.

The average graduation rate for these top cybersecurity programs is 91%, signaling strong student support.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $88,260

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $19,362

Avg. median debt $15,481

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment 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

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, students immerse themselves in a rigorous academic environment that emphasizes innovation and problem-solving. With a graduation rate of 96%, it's clear that the institution supports its students in achieving their goals, leading to impressive median earnings of $143,372 a decade after graduation.

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 the heart of Silicon Valley, a hub for technology and entrepreneurship. This proximity facilitates unique opportunities, and with a 92% graduation rate, it's evident that students are well-supported. Graduates see median earnings of $124,080 after ten years, which reflects the strong network and resources available to them during and after their studies.

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, is renowned for its commitment to undergraduate education and exceptional faculty-to-student ratios. The university boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, which leads to a median earning of $110,066 ten years after graduation. This strong academic foundation prepares students for successful careers across various fields.

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 known for its strong engineering and tech programs, making it a solid choice for students interested in those fields. Located in Atlanta, this public university plays a significant role in the local economy, and its graduates often find themselves in high-demand jobs right after finishing their degrees.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Pasadena, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a small but impactful institution, known for its focus on science and engineering. With a graduation rate of 94%, students benefit from an intimate learning environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $128,566 after ten years, reflecting the school's strong emphasis on research and practical application of knowledge.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, nestled in Ithaca, offers a unique blend of rigorous academic programs and stunning natural surroundings. With a graduation rate of 95%, students here benefit from a diverse community and a broad array of resources that empower them to explore various fields, from agriculture to engineering and the arts.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, is renowned for its research opportunities and commitment to innovative studies. With a graduation rate of 94%, it attracts students who are eager to engage in rigorous academics and contribute to groundbreaking work in various fields, from medicine to engineering.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Chicago, this university boasts a 95% graduation rate and is known for its rigorous academics and intellectual culture. Students here engage deeply with ideas and are encouraged to think critically, making it an ideal environment for those who love academic challenges.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University is a gem in Houston, offering a small yet vibrant campus experience with a graduation rate of 95%. The university is particularly appealing for students interested in a close-knit academic community where they can engage deeply with faculty and peers in various disciplines, including science, engineering, and the humanities.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, represents a commitment to student success. The school’s median earnings of $101,817 at 10 years post-graduation underscore its strong reputation and the opportunities available to its graduates. The low acceptance rate of 4% reflects a highly competitive environment, attracting ambitious students who are ready to excel in their academic and professional pursuits.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#11

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Brown University in Providence, RI, attracts students who thrive in a collaborative, open curriculum. This approach allows undergraduates to tailor their education, fostering a sense of independence and creativity among learners.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, nestled in Durham, NC, boasts a 96% graduation rate and a vibrant campus life that encourages student engagement both in and out of the classroom. Known for a strong sense of community, Duke fosters collaboration among students, making it a great place for those who value teamwork and support.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, nestled in Williamstown, MA, is home to a tight-knit community of 2,076 students. With a graduation rate of 95% and impressive median earnings of $88,665 at 10 years, Williams is known for its rigorous academics and supportive environment. The school’s 8% acceptance rate ensures that it attracts high-achieving students who are eager to engage deeply with their studies and peers.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#14

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

In Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania combines Ivy League prestige with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary study. A 97% graduation rate signals a robust support system for students, helping them navigate their academic journeys while preparing for future careers.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, is a vibrant institution with a diverse student body of 7,208. The school’s 93% graduation rate and median earnings of $91,565 at 10 years reflect a nurturing environment that prepares students well for the workforce. Its acceptance rate of 6% highlights the caliber of students drawn to Vanderbilt, who are often looking for a blend of academic rigor and a lively campus culture.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#16

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley College in Massachusetts demonstrates its commitment to student success. This private nonprofit institution, home to around 2,300 students, creates an empowering environment that encourages women to excel academically and professionally. The educational experience here is enriched by a close-knit community that fosters lifelong friendships and networks.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#17

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, located in Claremont, California, has a remarkable graduation rate of 93%, reflecting its dedication to nurturing student potential. With about 1,666 students, this private nonprofit college emphasizes a liberal arts education that prepares individuals for diverse career paths. The small campus community encourages close interactions between students and faculty, fostering a supportive environment for intellectual growth.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#18

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

With a 96% graduation rate and a vibrant urban campus, Columbia University in the City of New York offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and diverse cultural experiences. The median earnings for graduates ten years out are impressive at $102,491, reflecting the value of a Columbia degree in the competitive job market of New York City.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is known for its strong sense of community and academic excellence, drawing in a large student body of over 20,000. With an impressive 92% graduation rate, it nurtures success, particularly for students who thrive in collaborative environments, despite a competitive 15% acceptance rate.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#20

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College in New York City is a hub for ambitious students looking to thrive in business, public affairs, and the arts. With a graduation rate of 72%, it cultivates a diverse environment, evident from its 57% Pell Grant recipients who find support in a vibrant urban setting.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its impressive 94% graduation rate and a small student body of just 1,911. Located in Massachusetts, this private nonprofit institution provides an intimate learning environment, fostering close relationships between students and faculty. The low acceptance rate of 9% reflects the school's selective nature, making it a sought-after destination for high-achieving students looking for a rigorous liberal arts education.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#22

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University stands out with a 93% graduation rate, attracting students who are passionate about technology, arts, and sciences. Located in Pittsburgh, this private nonprofit institution boasts a diverse and vibrant campus culture. With a competitive acceptance rate of 12%, Carnegie Mellon selects students who are ready to engage in a rigorous academic environment that emphasizes innovation and collaboration.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#23

Yale University

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

Yale University in New Haven is synonymous with academic prestige and a tight-knit community of scholars. With a graduation rate of 96%, it attracts a select group of students and fosters intellectual growth within its vibrant campus culture, reflected in its low 4% acceptance rate.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis is recognized for its strong academic programs and supportive campus culture, reflected in a 94% graduation rate. Located in a city known for its rich history and culture, the university prepares students for successful careers, with median earnings reaching $86,182 ten years after graduation.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#25

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College is notable for its 95% graduation rate, showcasing the institution's dedication to student success. With just 1,873 students, Bowdoin fosters a close-knit community in Brunswick, Maine, where collaboration and intellectual curiosity thrive. The college's low acceptance rate of 7% indicates a competitive admissions process, attracting driven students who seek a top-notch liberal arts education.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#26

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University combines a rich academic tradition with a vibrant campus life in Evanston, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. With a 96% graduation rate, it's clear that students here benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages both intellectual and personal development, leading to impressive median earnings of $89,363 after ten years.

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 close-knit community and strong emphasis on undergraduate education, with a graduation rate of 96%. Located in the picturesque town of Hanover, New Hampshire, it nurtures a collaborative atmosphere that fosters strong relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the learning experience and personal growth.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#28

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida is a strong choice for students seeking a comprehensive public education. The campus is home to over 35,000 students and offers a vibrant environment in Gainesville, where academic rigor meets a lively social scene. Students here benefit from a diverse range of programs and resources that prepare them for success after graduation.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Swarthmore College cultivates an environment where students are likely to thrive academically and personally. The intimate campus, home to just over 1,600 students, fosters close relationships between peers and faculty, promoting a collaborative learning atmosphere. Students often find themselves engaged in rigorous discussions and innovative projects that prepare them for meaningful careers.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#30

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is a hub of innovation, attracting students who are passionate about technology and engineering. With a sizable enrollment of nearly 9,000 students, NJIT promotes a vibrant campus life where collaboration and hands-on experience are integral. The school’s focus on STEM fields prepares students for high-demand careers in a rapidly changing job market.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, Maine, invites students into an intimate academic setting, boasting a low acceptance rate of just 7%. With an 89% graduation rate, this private institution emphasizes a strong liberal arts education, encouraging students to explore diverse fields of study while building lifelong connections with peers and faculty.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, located in North Carolina, is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong sense of community. With a graduation rate of 91%, students are encouraged to explore their interests deeply and develop critical thinking skills. The intimate setting of around 1,900 students allows for meaningful interactions with faculty and peers, creating a supportive atmosphere for personal growth.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#35

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College distinguishes itself with a tight-knit community of just 1,430 students and a remarkable 90% graduation rate. This private nonprofit institution in Pennsylvania emphasizes a liberal arts education and values academic integrity, making it a great fit for self-motivated learners seeking a supportive environment.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#36

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University combines a rigorous liberal arts education with a picturesque campus in Hamilton, New York. With a graduation rate of 91%, students here benefit from a strong academic support system that encourages exploration and intellectual growth, making it an appealing choice for those who value a well-rounded education.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#37

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University in Lexington represents a unique blend of rigorous academics and a tight-knit community, with a graduation rate of 94%. With fewer than 2,000 students, this private university fosters close relationships between faculty and students, which can significantly enhance the educational experience.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#38

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#39

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#40

University of Notre Dame

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

The University of Notre Dame stands out for its commitment to academic rigor and a strong sense of community. With a 96% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where students are supported and encouraged, despite an 11% acceptance rate that reflects its competitive nature.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#41

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#43

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#44

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#46

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., is known for its impressive 95% graduation rate, indicating a strong commitment to student success. With a rich history and a vibrant campus life, students here benefit from networking opportunities in a city bustling with political and cultural significance. The competitive acceptance rate of 13% reflects the caliber of students who thrive in this environment, creating a dynamic community focused on academic excellence.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#48

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX · 21,751 students · Public

65% accepted 75% graduate $68,227 earnings

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#50

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Looking closely at the data reveals a pattern that might not be immediately apparent. For instance, while Massachusetts Institute of Technology leads with the highest earnings, its net price of $20,111 is also notable. In contrast, Stanford University has lower average earnings of $124,080 but a significantly lower net price of $13,807. This tradeoff highlights the importance of evaluating both potential earnings and the associated costs when making a decision.

Now that you’ve seen the top contenders, how should you weigh this information against your personal priorities? Consider factors such as location, campus culture, and your financial situation. Reflect on what matters most to you, whether it’s a strong alumni network or a vibrant campus life, and balance those priorities with the data presented here.

Ultimately, this data underscores the critical link between education and financial stability. A degree in cybersecurity can lead to a rewarding career, but the choices we make during this process can have lasting impacts. One family might prioritize a school with lower debt, while another could invest more for higher potential earnings. Every decision counts in shaping a secure future.

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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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