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Best Value Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Massachusetts

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

Wellesley College graduates in computer science earn $86,867 annually despite the program's $25,008 net cost, creating one of the strongest return-on-investment ratios among Massachusetts institutions. This elite outcome contrasts sharply with Worcester State University, where students pay just $14,738 but earn $46,087 after graduation. The $40,000 earnings gap between these programs reflects the varied pathways available across the state's 20 computer science options. Massachusetts public universities dominate the affordability rankings, with seven institutions charging under $19,000 annually. The state's tech ecosystem, anchored by companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google in the Greater Boston area, provides ample internship and employment opportunities for graduates. State residents benefit from competitive in-state tuition rates that average $13,000 across public institutions, while MassGrant Plus assistance further reduces costs for qualifying families. Private institutions command significantly higher prices, with nets ranging from $24,944 to $38,787, but often deliver correspondingly higher graduate earnings that can justify the investment.
23
Programs
$14,590 – $38,787
Net Price Range
$63,449
Avg. Program Earnings
61.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

23 Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,441 $67,660 $11,978 55.0% 92.7%
2 $25,008 $86,867 $64,320 91.2% 13.6%
3 $18,707 $63,005 $11,884 49.1% 92.5%
4 $20,605 $68,858 $15,208 49.0% 95.5%
5 $14,738 $46,087 $11,286 55.5% 87.7%
6 $16,698 $52,107 $11,630 49.5% 87.4%
7 $15,432 $46,087 $11,046 52.7% 86.1%
8 $18,282 $51,551 $15,496 51.1% 80.8%
9 $32,116 $89,413 $63,141 90.4% 6.8%
10 $23,691 $52,107 $17,357 83.2% 63.5%
11 $38,787 $74,200 $58,150 88.2% 57.9%
12 $25,702 $35,013 28.4% 74.2%
13 $24,944 $26,000 53.2% 73.2%
14 $28,853 $49,414 74.6% 82.3%
15 $37,899 $51,786 72.1% 74.6%
16 $17,733 $28,610 35.3% 61.9%
17 $21,436 $42,061 64.7% 90.9%
18 $29,504 $46,220 48.3% 87.5%
19 $27,313 $45,538 71.2% 76.5%
20 $29,187 $43,707 67.6% 75.6%
21 $27,711 $55,160 77.1% 50.3%
22 $30,031 $45,380 59.8% 86.8%
23 $14,590 $37,227 56.9% 75.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $40,000 earnings difference between top and bottom programs?

Wellesley College graduates earn $86,867 while Worcester State graduates earn $46,087, reflecting institutional reputation and alumni networks. Wellesley's 13.57% acceptance rate creates exclusivity that employers recognize, while Worcester State's 87.66% acceptance rate serves a broader student population. Private institutions typically maintain stronger industry connections and career services. The earnings gap also reflects different student populations and career trajectories post-graduation.

How much can Massachusetts residents save by choosing public institutions?

In-state students pay between $11,046 and $17,357 at public universities, compared to $26,000 to $64,320 at private colleges. Salem State University offers the best public value with $11,978 in-state tuition and $67,660 graduate earnings. The MassGrant Plus program provides additional aid to families earning up to $75,000 annually. Public institutions deliver solid returns while keeping debt loads manageable, typically under $27,000.

Is Northeastern University worth its $32,116 net cost?

Northeastern graduates earn $89,413 annually, the highest among all Massachusetts programs, justifying the premium price. The university's 6.80% acceptance rate and 90.40% graduation rate demonstrate academic rigor and student success. Northeastern's cooperative education program provides paid work experience with major tech employers. The $22,583 average debt load remains reasonable given the strong earning potential.

Does location within Massachusetts affect computer science job prospects?

Boston-area schools benefit from proximity to major tech employers, biotech firms, and startups concentrated in the region. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google maintain significant presences in Cambridge and Boston. UMass-Boston, despite moderate earnings of $51,551, offers direct access to internships and networking opportunities. Rural institutions like Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams face geographic challenges but maintain competitive programs.

Where do graduation rates indicate program quality and student support?

Wellesley College leads with 91.20% graduation rates, followed by Northeastern at 90.40% and Bentley at 88.20%. Public institutions show more variation, with UMass-Amherst achieving 83.20% while UMass-Dartmouth manages 49.00%. Higher graduation rates typically correlate with better student support services and academic resources. Fisher College's 28.40% rate suggests challenges in student retention and program completion.

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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.