Computer Software and Media Applications programs prepare students for careers developing interactive digital content, mobile apps, and multimedia software. With 54 schools nationwide offering this specialized major, graduates typically earn $39,912 annually in entry-level positions across gaming, entertainment, and tech industries.
When evaluating programs, students should prioritize hands-on learning opportunities with current industry software and programming languages. Look for curricula covering user experience design, database management, and project development cycles. Strong programs feature updated computer labs, internship partnerships with local companies, and faculty with professional experience. Portfolio development support and career placement services are essential, as employers value demonstrated technical skills and completed projects over theoretical knowledge alone.
When evaluating programs, students should prioritize hands-on learning opportunities with current industry software and programming languages. Look for curricula covering user experience design, database management, and project development cycles. Strong programs feature updated computer labs, internship partnerships with local companies, and faculty with professional experience. Portfolio development support and career placement services are essential, as employers value demonstrated technical skills and completed projects over theoretical knowledge alone.
25
Schools Ranked
$51,355
Avg. Program Earnings
55.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate
Top 25 Schools
| # | School | Median Earnings | Graduation Rate | School Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
|
$108,649 | 92.0% | private-nonprofit |
| 2 |
Neumont College of Computer Science
Salt Lake City, Utah
|
$72,274 | 56.5% | private-forprofit |
| 3 |
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, New York
|
$65,387 | 70.8% | private-nonprofit |
| 4 |
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, Florida
|
$63,005 | 56.0% | public |
| 5 |
Park University
Parkville, Missouri
|
$62,887 | 30.0% | private-nonprofit |
| 6 |
Champlain College
Burlington, Vermont
|
$55,512 | 63.0% | private-nonprofit |
| 7 |
Baker College
Owosso, Michigan
|
$54,035 | 31.3% | private-nonprofit |
| 8 |
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, Idaho
|
$52,107 | 55.1% | private-nonprofit |
| 9 |
University of Phoenix-Texas
Dallas, Texas
|
$49,493 | private-forprofit | |
| 10 |
University of Phoenix-California
Ontario, California
|
$49,493 | 18.4% | private-forprofit |
| 11 |
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona
|
$49,493 | 19.5% | private-forprofit |
| 12 |
Academy of Art University
San Francisco, California
|
$48,432 | 40.5% | private-forprofit |
| 13 |
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, Rhode Island
|
$48,432 | 57.5% | private-nonprofit |
| 14 |
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, Connecticut
|
$48,432 | 77.3% | private-nonprofit |
| 15 |
Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
|
$46,478 | 30.3% | private-nonprofit |
| 16 |
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, Missouri
|
$45,715 | 57.5% | public |
| 17 |
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
|
$44,170 | 56.0% | public |
| 18 |
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
|
$43,426 | 75.5% | private-nonprofit |
| 19 |
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigan
|
$42,532 | 49.5% | private-nonprofit |
| 20 |
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, Wisconsin
|
$40,647 | 52.5% | public |
| 21 |
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, Texas
|
$40,512 | 83.8% | public |
| 22 |
DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
|
$39,009 | 70.0% | private-nonprofit |
| 23 |
Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah
|
$38,769 | 40.7% | public |
| 24 |
School of Visual Arts
New York, New York
|
$37,568 | 74.9% | private-forprofit |
| 25 |
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, Indiana
|
$37,424 | 83.1% | public |
Browse all Computer Software and Media Applications programs →
Cost & Value
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See our methodology for how rankings are calculated.