Best Value Computer Science Colleges in Washington

Computer Science graduates from University of Washington's Bothell campus earn $101,221 annually while paying just $10,898 in net costs, creating Washington's most compelling value proposition for tech students. This dramatic return mirrors the state's position as a global technology center, where Amazon and Microsoft headquarters drive strong demand for skilled programmers. The 15 programs analyzed show a striking cost divide, with public options ranging from $10,898 to $14,715 while private institutions charge $22,618 to $38,920 in net costs. Washington State University delivers solid mid-tier value at $14,401 with $68,808 graduate earnings, while Seattle University commands $34,802 but produces graduates earning $83,768. The Washington College Grant makes public tuition free for qualifying students, though Seattle's high living costs affect total expenses.

Programs

$10,898 – $38,920

Net Price Range

$72,683

Avg. Program Earnings

61.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Computer Science Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Washington-Bothell Campus Bothell, Washington	$10,898	$101,221	$12,559	68.2%	88.1%
2	University of Washington-Seattle Campus Seattle, Washington	$13,485	$101,221	$12,643	83.7%	47.5%
3	Washington State University Pullman, Washington	$14,401	$68,808	$12,997	61.6%	83.1%
4	Central Washington University Ellensburg, Washington	$14,715	$52,941	$9,192	49.9%	93.5%
5	Whitworth University Spokane, Washington	$25,884	$64,493	$50,920	68.4%	90.5%
6	Seattle University Seattle, Washington	$34,802	$83,768	$54,285	73.3%	85.2%
7	Gonzaga University Spokane, Washington	$36,371	$67,447	$53,500	86.9%	69.7%
8	University of Puget Sound Tacoma, Washington	$38,920	$41,565	$59,900	67.9%	82.7%
9	Bellevue College Bellevue, Washington	$11,289		$4,305	33.5%
10	City University of Seattle Seattle, Washington	$35,049		$14,589	16.7%
11	Heritage University Toppenish, Washington	$11,893		$19,920	39.8%
12	Saint Martin's University Lacey, Washington	$22,618		$44,210	57.1%	95.0%
13	Seattle Pacific University Seattle, Washington	$24,820		$38,814	62.1%	90.7%
14	Walla Walla University College Place, Washington	$23,992		$33,027	64.2%
15	Whitman College Walla Walla, Washington	$35,506		$61,492	81.0%	47.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Washington-Bothell the top value for Computer Science?

UW-Bothell combines the lowest net cost at $10,898 with the highest graduate earnings at $101,221, creating a nearly 10-to-1 return ratio. The campus maintains strong tech industry connections while offering the same degree credential as the main Seattle campus. Graduates typically carry just $15,351 in debt upon completion.

How do private university costs compare to outcomes in Washington?

Private programs charge 2-4 times more than public options, with costs ranging from $22,618 to $38,920 versus $10,898 to $14,715 for state schools. Seattle University justifies its $34,802 cost with $83,768 graduate earnings, while University of Puget Sound at $38,920 shows the lowest earnings at $41,565. Most private graduates carry $21,530 to $27,000 in student debt.

Does location within Washington affect Computer Science career prospects?

Seattle-area programs benefit from proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, and hundreds of tech startups, explaining why UW graduates earn over $100,000 annually. Eastern Washington programs like Washington State University still achieve solid outcomes with $68,808 average earnings. The concentration of major employers in the Puget Sound region creates the strongest job market for new graduates.

What graduation rates should Computer Science students expect?

Top-tier programs achieve 68-87% graduation rates, with UW-Seattle leading at 83.70% and Gonzaga at 86.90%. Mid-tier options like Central Washington University show 49.90% completion rates while maintaining affordable costs. Community college transfers from Bellevue College face lower completion rates at 33.50% but benefit from minimal debt accumulation.

More Computer Science Rankings

Cheapest Computer Science in Washington Computer Science Under $20,000 in Washington

All Computer Science Programs Best Colleges in Washington Best Computer Science in Washington

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