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Best Value Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Alabama

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

University of North Alabama delivers the most affordable computer science education in Alabama at just $11,024 annually, while University of Alabama graduates earn the highest salaries at $64,281. This 48% earnings premium creates a compelling value equation across Alabama's 20 computer science programs. The state's aerospace and automotive boom, anchored by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and major manufacturers like Airbus, drives strong demand for software engineers and systems analysts. Public universities dominate the value market, with eight of the top ten spots offering sub-$20,000 costs. Alabama A&M University stands out with a concerning 28.7% graduation rate despite reasonable costs, while Auburn University commands premium pricing at $23,897 but delivers solid outcomes. The earnings range spans $48,745 to $64,281, reflecting Alabama's growing tech sector that supports both traditional manufacturing and modern aerospace applications.
21
Programs
$11,024 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$55,966
Avg. Program Earnings
53.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,024 $56,415 $11,990 54.0% 95.7%
2 $14,975 $58,092 $5,808 37.2%
3 $14,559 $52,107 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%
4 $13,869 $49,136 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
5 $17,727 $60,623 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
6 $15,142 $51,273 $9,676 52.6% 65.4%
7 $14,850 $48,745 $12,426 51.1% 78.5%
8 $19,880 $60,452 $11,770 61.9% 78.1%
9 $22,150 $64,281 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
10 $22,923 $61,144 $13,920
11 $23,897 $53,358 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
12 $23,351 $22,750 64.2% 57.2%
13 $21,165 $23,920 37.7% 82.4%
14 $14,514 $12,714 25.7%
15 $19,603 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
16 $17,053 $13,710 49.4% 59.8%
17 $14,596 $9,436 35.7% 92.2%
18 $23,384 $21,838 49.9% 68.1%
19 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%
20 $13,461 $15,650 65.0%
21 $32,977 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of North Alabama such a strong value choice?

UNA combines the lowest net cost in Alabama at $11,024 with solid mid-range earnings of $56,415 for graduates. The 95.68% acceptance rate makes admission accessible, while the 54% graduation rate suggests reasonable student success. With only $27,000 in average debt, graduates face manageable loan payments relative to their earning potential.

How do public universities compare to private options for computer science value?

Public universities occupy nine of the top eleven value positions, with costs ranging from $11,024 to $19,880 annually. Private institutions like Birmingham-Southern College charge $23,351 but lack earnings data, making value comparison difficult. Columbia Southern University offers an interesting exception as a for-profit school with competitive costs at $14,975.

Does University of Alabama justify its higher costs?

Alabama's flagship university charges $22,150 annually but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $64,281. The 73.7% graduation rate ranks among the best in the state, and the moderate debt load of $21,992 creates favorable return on investment. This $13,000 premium over University of North Alabama translates to nearly $8,000 more in annual earnings.

What explains the wide variation in graduation rates across Alabama programs?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 25.7% at Miles College to 79.2% at Auburn University. Alabama A&M University's concerning 28.7% rate contrasts sharply with UAB's solid 62.4% performance. This 53-percentage-point spread suggests significant differences in student support, academic rigor, and institutional resources across Alabama's computer science programs.

Where do Alabama computer science graduates find the best job opportunities?

Huntsville's aerospace corridor, anchored by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and defense contractors, offers prime opportunities for software engineers and systems analysts. Birmingham's growing automotive sector, including Hyundai operations, creates demand for manufacturing software specialists. Mobile's shipbuilding and aerospace facilities provide additional tech career paths, while Montgomery's government sector offers cybersecurity and IT positions.

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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.