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Best Value Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services Colleges

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Capella University graduates in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services earn $94,408 annually, nearly double the field's lowest earners at $38,289 from Purdue University Northwest. This earning gap of $56,119 reflects the wide spectrum of career paths within this specialized field, which encompasses everything from technical support roles to systems analysis positions. The technology sector's rapid expansion has created particular demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical teams and business operations, especially in major metropolitan areas. Public institutions offer notably different value propositions than their private counterparts. Arizona State University delivers solid mid-career earnings of $49,644 with a net price of just $13,670, while Lehigh University commands $33,549 annually but produces graduates earning $81,812. The 67.8% graduation rate at Arizona State also outpaces many competitors in this price range. Indiana University-Indianapolis stands out with a 53.9% graduation rate and $53,775 in early career earnings for under $12,000 in net costs, making it particularly attractive for in-state residents seeking strong return on investment in this rapidly evolving field.
46
Programs
$3,046 – $37,899
Net Price Range
$58,829
Avg. Program Earnings
59.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

46 Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,305 $94,408 $14,436 33.3%
2 $11,408 $53,775 $10,449 53.9% 82.9%
3 $8,463 $38,289 $8,419 44.0% 72.8%
4 $13,670 $49,644 $12,051 67.8% 89.8%
5 $15,001 $46,478 $8,689 44.1% 94.9%
6 $19,086 $58,221 $9,900
7 $19,335 $58,673 $8,999 38.1% 86.5%
8 $21,318 $58,221 $30,446 31.4% 64.7%
9 $33,549 $81,812 $62,180 89.2% 37.0%
10 $27,310 $61,516 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
11 $23,650 $46,087 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
12 $35,035 $60,438 88.5% 12.5%
13 $35,129 $55,450 67.1% 69.3%
14 $23,461 $37,504 63.9% 99.5%
15 $23,027 $36,756 65.7% 73.6%
16 $28,248 $44,886 54.8% 62.6%
17 $9,173 $8,576 57.1% 73.2%
18 $28,617 $49,100 76.5% 82.4%
19 $17,838 $29,600 48.8%
20 $31,671 $63,829 92.5% 11.3%
21 $27,243 $43,300 52.2% 95.4%
22 $23,295 $33,100 60.6% 68.4%
23 $24,334 $25,590 51.4% 65.8%
24 $13,884 $6,438 54.4% 34.2%
25 $10,898 $12,559 68.2% 88.1%
26 $16,607 $14,560 74.5% 46.9%
27 $15,960 $13,626 65.9% 86.8%
28 $13,461 $15,650 65.0%
29 $17,185 $29,778 51.1% 65.0%
30 $21,063 $41,628 65.2% 76.0%
31 $20,230 $42,676 71.3% 76.3%
32 $35,009 $67,420 82.8% 36.1%
33 $27,823 $62,693 96.8% 12.9%
34 $7,168 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
35 $24,678 $27,318 46.7% 64.3%
36 $37,899 $51,786 72.1% 74.6%
37 $12,202 $13,630 47.9% 87.9%
38 $23,901 $41,642 55.4% 92.7%
39 $21,385 $48,311 57.7% 80.6%
40 $23,261 $19,112 76.4% 87.0%
41 $19,164 $14,710 58.4% 89.5%
42 $13,302 $15,820 65.1% 85.3%
43 $5,115 $7,490 32.8%
44 $3,046 $7,470 55.5% 50.7%
45 $22,100 $32,150 47.0% 95.5%
46 $29,141 $44,460 70.0% 70.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $56,119 earning gap between top and bottom programs?

The earning difference reflects varying career tracks within Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services. Capella University graduates earning $94,408 often enter systems analysis and project management roles, while Purdue University Northwest graduates at $38,289 typically start in technical support positions. Geographic factors also matter, as metropolitan markets pay significantly more than rural areas. Program focus areas like cybersecurity support versus help desk operations create additional salary variations.

How do public universities compare to private institutions for value?

Public schools dominate the lower cost ranges, with five institutions under $16,000 in net price compared to just one private school. Indiana University-Indianapolis offers strong value at $11,408 with graduates earning $53,775 and a 53.9% graduation rate. However, private institutions like Lehigh University justify higher costs with $81,812 graduate earnings and an 89.2% graduation rate, though net price reaches $33,549.

Is the 11.3% acceptance rate at Carnegie Mellon typical for this field?

Carnegie Mellon's selectivity is unusual for this major, as most programs accept 70-95% of applicants. Arizona State accepts 89.75% while SUNY Canton takes 94.91% of students. The low Carnegie Mellon rate reflects its computer science reputation rather than typical admission standards for support services programs. Most schools in this field prioritize accessibility over exclusivity, with median acceptance rates around 80%.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in this field?

Higher-priced programs generally show better graduation rates, but notable exceptions exist. Lehigh University achieves 89.2% graduation rates at $33,549 net cost, while Capella University manages only 33.3% despite charging $18,305. Arizona State University offers strong middle ground with 67.8% graduation rates for $13,670. Public institutions like Indiana University-Indianapolis prove that moderate pricing can still deliver solid 53.9% completion rates.

Where do graduates typically find employment after these programs?

Corporate IT departments, managed service providers, and government agencies employ most graduates from these programs. The $38,289 to $94,408 earning range reflects positions from help desk specialists to systems coordinators. Regional technology hubs like Austin, Seattle, and Research Triangle Park offer higher salaries, while smaller markets provide entry-level opportunities. Many graduates also pursue roles in healthcare IT, financial services technology, and educational technology support.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.