Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Cybersecurity

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

Schools Analyzed

$100,389

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

90%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$28,306

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college is a significant decision, especially when considering potential earnings after graduation. For students interested in cybersecurity, the right program can lead to lucrative job opportunities. The following list highlights 50 colleges known for their strong outcomes in this field, with graduates earning an average of $99,676.

What sets these institutions apart is their focus on key metrics that matter to prospective students. High graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and strong post-graduation earnings all play a critical role. As you read through the rankings, consider how each school's unique characteristics align with your goals for both education and future earnings.

Take, for example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Princeton University. MIT graduates earn an impressive $143,372 on average, but they also face a higher net price of $20,111 compared to Princeton's significantly lower $6,128. This contrast underscores the importance of not just potential earnings but also the costs involved in pursuing a degree at these top-tier institutions.

Key Findings

MIT graduates earn $143,372 on average, leading the list.

Princeton has the lowest net price at $6,128, making it financially attractive.

California Institute of Technology graduates earn $128,566, showing strong outcomes.

The average graduation rate among these schools is 91%, indicating a strong support system.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $100,389

Avg. graduation rate 90%

Avg. net price $28,306

Avg. median debt $18,808

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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 →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation93%

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking 96% graduation rate, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a beacon for students who are passionate about science, engineering, and technology. The school’s rigorous programs nurture critical thinking and innovation, and its graduates earn a median income of $143,372 a decade after finishing their degrees, reflecting the value placed on an MIT education in the job market.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, attracts students eager to make a mark in technology and entrepreneurship. With a 92% graduation rate, students have access to a wealth of resources and networks that help foster innovation, leading to impressive median earnings of $124,080 ten years after graduation.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is renowned for its innovation and interdisciplinary approach, making it an appealing option for students interested in technology, arts, and business. With a graduation rate of 93%, students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Pasadena, the California Institute of Technology is renowned for its rigorous scientific and engineering programs. With a 94% graduation rate and median earnings of $128,566 ten years after graduation, Caltech equips students with the skills necessary to tackle complex challenges and advance in their fields.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, MA, Bentley University attracts students passionate about business and finance. With an impressive median earning of $120,959 ten years post-graduation, Bentley prepares students well for the workforce, boasting an 88% graduation rate that speaks to its supportive educational environment.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College is a small but mighty institution known for its intense focus on engineering, science, and mathematics. With a 93% graduation rate and a median income of $138,687 after ten years, it offers a personalized educational experience that prepares students for high-impact careers in technology and research.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University is a strong choice for students seeking a supportive and rigorous academic environment. The campus culture encourages intellectual curiosity, and students often find themselves engaged in meaningful discussions both inside and outside the classroom.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania combines Ivy League prestige with a vibrant urban setting in Philadelphia, appealing to students looking for a rich academic and social experience. Its impressive 97% graduation rate suggests a strong support system, and the diverse range of programs encourages students to explore their interests deeply.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology is located in the heart of Atlanta, a vibrant city known for its tech scene and cultural diversity. With an impressive 93% graduation rate, it’s clear that students here are not only enrolled but also completing their degrees successfully, which speaks volumes about the support they receive and the community they build.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#10

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

Stevens Institute of Technology, located in Hoboken, New Jersey, offers a unique blend of rigorous technical education and proximity to New York City’s dynamic job market. The school has an 88% graduation rate, indicating a supportive environment where students can focus on their studies and career goals without unnecessary distractions.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#11

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, is an Ivy League institution that emphasizes a blend of tradition and innovation. With a 95% graduation rate, students here benefit from a rich academic experience, supported by a wide array of resources and a collaborative community that fosters growth and exploration.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#12

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara University offers an intimate learning environment with access to one of the world’s leading tech hubs. The university has an 88% graduation rate, reflecting a commitment to student success and a community that encourages personal and professional development.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, MA, is an academic powerhouse with a graduation rate of 97%. This prestigious institution cultivates a stimulating environment where students are pushed to excel, leading to a median earning of $101,817 a decade after graduation, which speaks to the value of a Harvard degree in the job market.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#14

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

With a graduation rate of 96%, Columbia University in the City of New York attracts students from all walks of life who are eager to thrive in a dynamic urban environment. The median earnings for graduates after ten years is an impressive $102,491, reflecting the university's strong connections in various industries and its rigorous academic programs.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#15

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, is known for its strong emphasis on a well-rounded education, boasting a graduation rate of 89%. With median earnings of $105,584 after ten years, students benefit from a robust alumni network and successful career placements across various fields, making it an attractive choice for those seeking upward mobility in their careers.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#16

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, located in Troy, NY, is an excellent option for students passionate about science, engineering, and technology. While the graduation rate is lower at 83%, the institute is known for its hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for careers in high-demand fields.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#17

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College, situated in Chestnut Hill, MA, encourages a commitment to both academics and community service, reflected in its graduation rate of 91%. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $103,937 within a decade, illustrating the strong outcomes associated with a degree from this institution, particularly in fields such as business and education.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#18

Yale University

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

Yale University, situated in New Haven, CT, is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 96%, students are not only engaged in their studies but are also prepared for a variety of career paths after graduation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University is located in the heart of Washington, DC, making it a prime choice for students interested in politics, international relations, and public service. With a graduation rate of 95%, this school has a strong track record of helping students complete their degrees and transition into successful careers.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#20

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham, NC, is renowned for its strong commitment to research and service. With a graduation rate of 96%, the university fosters a supportive environment that encourages student success across various disciplines.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

University of Notre Dame

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

With a striking 96% graduation rate, the University of Notre Dame in Indiana is a place where students are set up for success. The campus culture emphasizes community and service, drawing in students who are not only academically driven but also passionate about making a difference in the world.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

Located in Golden, Colorado, the Colorado School of Mines has a strong reputation for engineering and applied sciences, attracting students who are passionate about making an impact in these fields. With a graduation rate of 81%, the school prepares students for meaningful careers, reflected in its impressive median earnings of $97,335 a decade post-graduation.

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#23

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA · 5,447 students · Private nonprofit

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) cultivates a project-based learning environment that empowers students to engage with real challenges. The 89% graduation rate indicates that students not only enroll but also succeed in this hands-on, collaborative approach. With a diverse student body, WPI attracts those who are eager to apply their knowledge in practical settings.

60% accepted 89% graduate $103,470 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#24

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and an intimate campus experience. With a 96% graduation rate, students thrive in a tight-knit community where collaboration is key. The selective acceptance rate of just 5% highlights its commitment to attracting high-achieving individuals who are ready to engage deeply with their education.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#25

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, is known for its open curriculum, allowing students to tailor their educational journeys. This flexibility contributes to a remarkable 96% graduation rate, indicating that students find success in their chosen paths, with median earnings reaching $93,487 ten years after enrollment.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

Villanova University, situated in Pennsylvania, has a strong tradition of academic excellence, particularly in business and the liberal arts. With a graduation rate of 92%, students benefit from a supportive campus culture that nurtures both personal and academic growth, leading to median earnings of $100,423 a decade after graduation.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#27

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago, located in the vibrant city of Chicago, is renowned for its rigorous academics and a commitment to innovative thinking. With a graduation rate of 95%, students are well-prepared for their future careers, often reflected in a median income of $91,885 ten years after graduation.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#28

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Terre Haute, IN · 2,309 students · Private nonprofit

At Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, students can expect a hands-on education focused solely on engineering, math, and science. With an acceptance rate of 77%, it welcomes a broad range of students eager to tackle real-world problems, emphasizing collaboration and innovation in their studies.

77% accepted 80% graduate $101,253 earnings

Rose-Hulman's full profile

#29

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, attracts students who are driven and engaged. The median earnings of $91,565 at ten years post-graduation reflect the strong return on investment for graduates, indicating that the education here translates well into successful careers.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#30

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston, TX, is a small yet vibrant institution with just 4,776 students, creating a close-knit academic community. A striking 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $89,718 ten years after graduation suggest that students leave Rice well-prepared for the workforce, often landing lucrative positions in their fields.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University, located in vibrant Boston, MA, has a large and diverse student body of 17,326. With a graduation rate of 90% and median earnings of $92,538 ten years after graduation, students are well-equipped for successful careers, thanks in part to the university's strong emphasis on experiential learning and co-op opportunities.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#32

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque town of Lexington, VA, Washington and Lee University is home to just 1,881 students, fostering a strong sense of community and engagement. The school’s 94% graduation rate and median earnings of $94,810 at ten years post-graduation signal a commitment to academic excellence and career readiness for its graduates.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#33

Kettering University

Flint, MI · 1,205 students · Private nonprofit

Kettering University, located in Flint, Michigan, is known for its strong focus on engineering and technology, with a graduation rate of 71%. The university's cooperative education model allows students to gain real-world experience while they learn, making them highly competitive in the job market upon graduation, despite a smaller student body of just 1,205.

79% accepted 71% graduate $94,823 earnings

Kettering's full profile

#34

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the University of Southern California has a diverse student body of over 20,000. The school's 92% graduation rate speaks to its commitment to student support and success. Graduates can expect to earn around $92,498 within a decade, positioning them well in the job market.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University has built a reputation for academic excellence and research innovation, evident in its 94% graduation rate. With 5,693 students, it fosters a collaborative atmosphere where students can engage deeply with their studies and pursue their passions, benefiting from small class sizes and dedicated faculty.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, presents an impressive track record of student success. This is not just a number; it reflects a community that supports students academically and socially, helping them thrive in a rigorous environment. Graduates earn a median of $89,363 after ten years, indicating strong career outcomes in various fields.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#37

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College is a small but mighty institution, with a graduation rate of 95% that speaks to its supportive environment. Located in picturesque Williamstown, Massachusetts, this private college attracts students who value close-knit academic communities and a personalized educational experience, with only 2,076 students enrolled.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#38

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, with its intimate setting in Easton, PA, offers personalized education with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and hands-on learning. The college has an 88% graduation rate, and its graduates earn a median of $91,410 after ten years, indicating solid career preparedness and outcomes.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#39

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

Located in Newark, NJ, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is home to nearly 9,000 students who benefit from a strong focus on engineering, architecture, and technology. With a graduation rate of 73%, students here are equipped with skills that translate into solid job prospects, as evidenced by a median earning of $84,276 a decade after graduation.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

George Washington University (GWU) sits at the heart of Washington, DC, with a diverse student body of over 11,000. Its graduation rate of 85% reflects a supportive environment that fosters academic success, with graduates earning a median salary of $90,873 ten years after commencement, demonstrating the value of a degree from this institution.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#41

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis offers a strong focus on research and academics, reflected in its impressive 94% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $86,182 within ten years, indicating that students emerge well-prepared for their careers. The supportive community fosters both academic excellence and personal growth among its 7,857 students.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#42

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, the University of California-Berkeley has a strong track record of helping students reach their academic goals. Located in the vibrant city of Berkeley, this public university is known for its rigorous programs and diverse student body, with 29% of students receiving Pell Grants, showing its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College in Massachusetts offers a unique educational experience focused on empowering women. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $84,803 a decade post-graduation, Wellesley prepares its students for leadership roles in their careers, emphasizing critical thinking and social responsibility.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#44

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $89,070 at ten years post-graduation, Milwaukee School of Engineering is geared toward students who want solid job prospects in engineering and technology fields. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring students gain practical skills that employers value. Here, students thrive in a supportive environment, with a 69% graduation rate reflecting a dedicated faculty and engaged campus community.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#45

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#47

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#49

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#50

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

When examining the data, a notable pattern emerges between the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvey Mudd College. While MIT graduates report the highest earnings at $143,372, Harvey Mudd students also see significant success with an average of $138,687. However, this comes with a higher net price of $35,924, compared to MIT's $20,111. This tradeoff highlights the importance of weighing potential salary against the financial commitment required.

Now that you've explored the rankings, consider how to apply this information to your own situation. Think about your priorities: Is financial stability your primary concern, or do you value the reputation of the program and campus culture more? Reflect on your personal situation and how each school matches your goals, whether that’s location, program fit, or affordability.

Ultimately, this data reveals much about the journey from college to career. A degree in cybersecurity can lead to a stable life, but choosing the right school requires careful consideration. One family's choice may hinge on finding the balance between cost and earning potential, illustrating the realities of higher education today.

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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