Best Value Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Maryland

Johns Hopkins University delivers computer science graduates earning $108,649 annually while charging just $18,161 net price, creating Maryland's most striking value proposition in the field. This extraordinary return contrasts sharply with University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where graduates earn $47,260 despite paying the state's lowest net cost at $14,035. Maryland's proximity to federal agencies like NSA and major defense contractors creates unique opportunities for computer science graduates, particularly in cybersecurity roles. The state's 17 programs span from ultra-selective Johns Hopkins with its 7.25% acceptance rate to more accessible options like Salisbury University at 91.06%. Public universities dominate the affordable tier, with five schools charging under $16,000 net price, while private institutions like Capitol Technology University push costs toward $24,000. This range reflects Maryland's position bridging elite research institutions with practical workforce development programs serving the Washington metro area's tech-heavy economy.

Programs

$14,035 – $24,987

Net Price Range

$68,157

Avg. Program Earnings

56.1%

Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, Maryland	$18,161	$108,649	$63,340	94.6%	7.3%
2	University of Maryland-College Park College Park, Maryland	$15,590	$84,653	$11,505	88.6%	44.6%
3	Salisbury University Salisbury, Maryland	$16,456	$74,576	$10,638	67.4%	91.1%
4	University of Maryland Global Campus Adelphi, Maryland	$14,514	$64,879	$7,992	29.6%
5	Morgan State University Baltimore, Maryland	$15,015	$57,318	$8,118	41.6%	85.4%
6	Strayer University-Maryland Suitland, Maryland	$18,092	$61,144	$13,920
7	University of Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne, Maryland	$14,035	$47,260	$8,898	34.6%	81.6%
8	Towson University Towson, Maryland	$16,791	$55,813	$11,306	67.6%	78.6%
9	St. Mary's College of Maryland St. Mary's City, Maryland	$18,362	$59,124	$15,236	68.0%	77.3%
10	Goucher College Baltimore, Maryland	$23,774		$51,250	60.0%	80.2%
11	Frostburg State University Frostburg, Maryland	$15,323		$9,998	52.1%	87.9%
12	Washington Adventist University Takoma Park, Maryland	$15,026		$25,200	40.0%	51.4%
13	Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland	$24,678		$27,318	46.7%	64.3%
14	Mount St. Mary's University Emmitsburg, Maryland	$24,987		$47,240	58.0%	79.6%
15	Bowie State University Bowie, Maryland	$19,335		$8,999	38.1%	86.5%
16	McDaniel College Westminster, Maryland	$20,923		$49,647	63.8%	82.1%
17	University of Baltimore Baltimore, Maryland	$17,546		$9,772	46.7%	89.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Johns Hopkins University such strong value for computer science?

Johns Hopkins combines elite academics with reasonable costs, charging $18,161 net price while producing graduates who earn $108,649 annually. The university maintains a 94.60% graduation rate and benefits from Baltimore's growing tech scene plus proximity to federal research facilities. Students graduate with just $12,750 in debt on average, making the high earnings particularly attractive. The 7.25% acceptance rate reflects highly selective admissions that contribute to strong employment outcomes.

How do Maryland's public universities compare for computer science value?

University of Maryland-College Park offers the strongest public option with $84,653 graduate earnings at $15,590 net cost and 88.60% graduation rate. Salisbury University provides solid middle-tier value with $74,576 earnings for $16,456 net cost. University of Maryland Eastern Shore charges the lowest net price at $14,035 but produces graduates earning just $47,260. The variation shows how location and program quality affect outcomes even within the same state system.

Is University of Maryland Global Campus worth considering for working adults?

UMGC offers Maryland's lowest net price at $14,514 with graduates earning $64,879, creating decent value for adult learners. However, the 29.60% graduation rate raises concerns about program completion challenges. The school serves working professionals who need flexible scheduling, making it suitable for career changers or military personnel. Students graduate with $19,000 average debt, which remains manageable given the earning potential.

Does the high cost of living near Washington D.C. affect program value?

Maryland computer science graduates benefit from proximity to federal agencies, defense contractors, and biotechnology firms that offer premium salaries. Johns Hopkins graduates earning $108,649 can afford higher living costs in the Baltimore-Washington corridor. Even mid-tier programs like Salisbury University produce $74,576 earners who compete well regionally. The concentration of cybersecurity and government technology jobs creates salary premiums that offset Maryland's above-average housing and living expenses.

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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.