Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science

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

Schools Analyzed

$63,107

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

60%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$8,111

Avg. Net Price

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Finding an affordable college for computer science can feel daunting. With tuition costs rising, families are looking for options that not only fit their budget but also deliver solid career outcomes. This list highlights 50 colleges that excel in affordability while offering strong computer science programs.

What sets these schools apart are their impressive graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and solid earnings for graduates. For instance, the average earnings for graduates across these institutions is $64,690, while the average graduation rate is 61%. This balance of cost and outcome makes these schools stand out in the crowded landscape of higher education.

Take Princeton University and CUNY Bernard M Baruch College as examples. Princeton graduates average $110,066 in earnings with a 97% graduation rate, while Baruch’s graduates earn $75,971 with a 72% graduation rate. While Princeton provides a higher earning potential, Baruch’s significantly lower net price of $3,033 makes it an attractive option for those prioritizing affordability.

Key Findings

Princeton University leads with $110,066 average earnings for graduates.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has the lowest net price at $3,033.

Graduation rates vary significantly, from 97% at Princeton to 55% at CUNY Brooklyn College.

The average debt for graduates across these schools is around $10,000.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $63,107

Avg. graduation rate 60%

Avg. net price $8,111

Avg. median debt $15,728

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University reflects a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years reach $110,066, illustrating the financial return on investment that many students find after completing their degrees. The small student body of 5,709 allows for intimate learning experiences and abundant resources for personal and academic growth.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College attracts a diverse body of over 16,000 students, with a focus on business, public affairs, and the arts. The school’s location in New York City opens up countless opportunities for networking and professional experiences. Graduates earn a median of $75,971 at 10 years, demonstrating that a degree from Baruch can lead to solid career prospects in one of the world's most dynamic job markets.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College, located in the heart of New York City, is known for its vibrant student life and diverse academic offerings. With a graduation rate of 59%, it provides a supportive environment for students to pursue their goals. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years stand at $63,163, suggesting that a Hunter degree can lead to a respectable salary in various fields, particularly in education, health, and the arts.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College offers a culturally rich and diverse environment, serving over 10,500 students in a vibrant neighborhood. The college’s graduation rate of 55% reflects its commitment to helping students navigate their educational journeys. Graduates report a median earning of $60,752 at 10 years, positioning them well for careers in fields like education, media, and public service, which are key in New York City’s economy.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

With a student body of over 12,500, CUNY Queens College is a vibrant hub of learning in New York City. The college is particularly appealing for its diverse academic programs and supportive community, fostering a rich environment for students from various backgrounds to engage and thrive.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY John Jay College attracts students interested in criminal justice and public safety. With a focus on social justice and public service, the college creates a unique space where students can engage deeply with their studies while preparing for impactful careers in these fields.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College, nestled in the Bronx, provides a welcoming environment for over 10,600 students. The college emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement, making it a popular choice for those who thrive in collaborative settings while pursuing their academic goals.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida in Gainesville presents an impressive academic experience for its 35,629 students, with a graduation rate of 91%. This institution is known for its strong programs and vibrant campus life, making it a popular choice for many prospective students across the nation.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

With a strong graduation rate of 93%, Georgia Tech in Atlanta is known for its rigorous academics, especially in engineering and technology. The school supports a vibrant student community, where innovation thrives and students collaborate on real-world problems, preparing them for significant careers post-graduation.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#10

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College, located in Jamaica, NY, is a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds, with 40% of its student body receiving Pell Grants. The college’s strong emphasis on accessibility is evident in its 64% acceptance rate, making it a viable option for many aspiring students looking to pursue higher education in an inclusive setting.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online presents a flexible learning option for students aiming for high graduation rates and strong post-college earnings. With an impressive 81% graduation rate, it caters especially well to those who may need the convenience of online education while still seeking a rigorous academic experience.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, is synonymous with academic excellence and innovation. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here are not just learners but also creators, often engaging in groundbreaking research that shapes industries. The competitive acceptance rate of 4% reflects the caliber of students drawn to this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#13

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

CUNY City College in New York is an accessible gateway to higher education, with a diverse student body of over 12,500. With 61% of students receiving Pell Grants, it actively supports those from lower-income backgrounds, giving them a chance to succeed in a bustling urban environment.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College in Kentucky focuses on providing students with a quality education without the burden of tuition costs. With a unique model that includes a labor program, it allows students to work while they study, resulting in a strong sense of community and personal responsibility among its 1,513 students.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College offers a unique opportunity for students in Brooklyn, New York, with a focus on serving a diverse population. Though the graduation rate is only 21%, the college provides vital resources for students trying to overcome obstacles, making it a supportive environment for those who may need extra guidance to succeed.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

CUNY New York City College of Technology

Brooklyn, NY · 13,580 students · Public

CUNY New York City College of Technology offers an urban education focused on practical skills, making it an appealing option for students interested in technology and applied sciences. With an acceptance rate of 80%, it's a welcoming place for those looking to dive into their studies and develop hands-on experience in a vibrant city setting.

80% accepted 20% graduate $49,365 earnings

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a renowned public university, students join a vibrant academic community marked by a high graduation rate of 92%. This achievement speaks to the university's strong support systems and a culture that promotes student success, making it an enticing option for motivated learners.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#18

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

Located in the scenic town of Socorro, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is known for its strong emphasis on science and engineering. With a relatively small student body of 995, it provides an intimate learning environment where students can connect closely with faculty and peers, enhancing their educational journey.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

With nearly 40,000 students, Florida International University is a vibrant hub for those seeking a diverse community and a rich educational experience in Miami. The university's graduation rate of 74% indicates that many students successfully complete their degree programs, fostering a sense of accomplishment and opportunity among graduates.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#20

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston, TX, attracts students aiming for high academic achievement, as evidenced by its impressive 95% graduation rate. This private nonprofit school nurtures a small community of 4,776 students, creating an intimate learning environment where personal attention is prioritized.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

With over 37,000 students, the University of South Florida in Tampa is a vibrant hub of learning and community engagement. The school’s graduation rate of 76% speaks to its supportive environment, helping students transition successfully from college to career.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 64%, Elizabeth City State University provides a supportive environment for students seeking higher education. Located in North Carolina, this university is particularly appealing for those interested in a tight-knit campus community and opportunities for personal growth. The school has a diverse student body, with 54% of its students receiving Pell Grants, suggesting a commitment to accessibility for low-income families.

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

#23

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University, located in sunny Boca Raton, offers a diverse range of programs with a welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds. With an acceptance rate of 66%, it attracts a broad mix of individuals, making it a great fit for those looking to explore their interests while forming lasting connections.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#24

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK · 3,018 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 76%, Southeastern Oklahoma State University is an accessible option for many students looking to further their education. Located in Durant, Oklahoma, it offers a close-knit campus environment where students can form lasting connections and engage in a range of activities, all while pursuing their academic goals.

76% accepted 32% graduate $45,079 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

#25

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · 8,246 students · Public

Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights welcomes a diverse array of students, evident from its 68% acceptance rate. With a graduation rate of 50%, the university offers numerous resources and support systems that cater to students' academic and personal growth. This blend of accessibility and supportive community can be particularly beneficial for those who might need extra help along their educational journey.

68% accepted 50% graduate $50,220 earnings

Northern's full profile

#26

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 77%, the University of Central Florida in Orlando has proven its ability to support students as they complete their degrees. The median earnings for graduates 10 years after finishing their studies reach $58,308, showcasing a strong return on investment for students.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Indiana University-Kokomo

Kokomo, IN · 2,352 students · Public

Indiana University-Kokomo offers a close-knit community for students seeking a supportive learning environment. With an acceptance rate of 86%, it's an appealing option for those who may have diverse academic backgrounds. The college aims to provide access to higher education while emphasizing personal attention and mentorship.

86% accepted 45% graduate $49,917 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#28

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 69%, the University of North Florida in Jacksonville is a solid choice for students looking to transition smoothly into their careers. The median earnings 10 years after graduation sit at $56,343, reflecting strong job placement and support for graduates in the local economy.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings

Ferris's full profile

#30

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#31

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

With a vibrant campus located in Pensacola, the University of West Florida is home to about 9,330 students, fostering a close-knit community. The school has a graduation rate of 60%, indicating that many students are successfully completing their degrees and advancing into the workforce.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#32

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#33

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

California State University-Los Angeles is situated in the heart of Los Angeles, providing students with unique opportunities to engage with one of the world's most dynamic cities. The university's commitment to diversity is evident, with 91% of applicants accepted and a strong representation of Pell Grant recipients, making it an attractive option for many families seeking a supportive educational environment.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

#34

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

Located in San Bernardino, California State University-San Bernardino is a growing institution that continues to attract students looking for a solid education in a supportive setting. The university has a welcoming acceptance rate of 94%, which highlights its commitment to providing access to education for a diverse student population, including a considerable percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 58%.

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

California's full profile

#35

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

The College of Staten Island, part of the City University of New York, offers a unique blend of urban and suburban life in Staten Island. Despite a smaller student body of 9,657, the school remains accessible with a 92% acceptance rate, making it an inviting choice for many students from various backgrounds, particularly those who are looking for a community-focused environment.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#36

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA · 4,348 students · Public

68% accepted 38% graduate $49,179 earnings

Clayton's full profile

#37

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX · 28,666 students · Public

With a large student body of 28,666, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a vibrant hub of learning in Edinburg, Texas. The school emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, reflected in its impressive 94% acceptance rate and a significant portion of Pell Grant recipients, making it a welcoming place for many students from diverse backgrounds.

94% accepted 50% graduate $49,620 earnings

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

#39

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Chicago, the University of Chicago attracts a selective group of about 7,569 students, with an impressive graduation rate of 95%. This strong completion rate reflects the university's commitment to academic excellence and student support, making it a strong contender for those seeking a rigorous educational environment.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Murray State University

Murray, KY · 6,688 students · Public

86% accepted 60% graduate $44,737 earnings

Murray's full profile

#41

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX · 30,580 students · Public

87% accepted 52% graduate $57,131 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, TN · 905 students · Private nonprofit

87% accepted 55% graduate $57,478 earnings

Christian's full profile

#44

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#45

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA · 16,146 students · Public

68% accepted 37% graduate $50,135 earnings

University's full profile

#46

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX · 21,005 students · Public

100% accepted 48% graduate $50,923 earnings

Atlantic University

Guaynabo, PR · 1,451 students · Private nonprofit

Atlantic University, a private nonprofit institution in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, serves a close-knit community of around 1,450 students. Despite a graduation rate of only 38%, the university emphasizes personalized attention, which can be beneficial for students who thrive in smaller class settings and seek tailored support throughout their academic journey.

38% graduate $25,272 earnings

Atlantic's full profile

#48

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton is home to a large, diverse student body of 38,546, reflecting a vibrant campus community. With a graduation rate of 70%, students here benefit from available resources and programs designed to support their academic journeys.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

#50

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Massachusetts Institute of Technology stands as a beacon of academic rigor and innovation. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, this private nonprofit institution attracts students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, fostering a vibrant community of thinkers and creators dedicated to addressing real-world challenges.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

A closer look at the data reveals intriguing insights between schools. For example, Princeton University has a remarkable graduation rate of 97% and an average earning potential of $110,066. In contrast, CUNY Hunter College has a lower graduation rate of 59% with earnings of $63,163. This difference highlights how a higher graduation rate can correlate with better outcomes in terms of earnings.

Now that you've scrolled through this list of 50 schools, consider how these metrics align with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, the specific computer science programs offered, and the campus culture. A school with a lower net price might appeal to those who want to minimize debt, while a higher graduation rate may be worth it for students seeking strong support and outcomes.

This data underscores the importance of choosing the right college for long-term stability. By weighing affordability against potential earnings and completion rates, families can make informed choices that shape their future. A degree in computer science can open doors, but selecting the right institution is a critical step in that journey.

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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