Computer Science: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for Computer Science graduates vary by role and location. Computer and Information Systems Managers earn a median of $171,200 annually, while Computer and Information Research Scientists earn around $140,910. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $144,098 compared to $78,347 in Mississippi. Approximately 3,938,530 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 1,001 accredited institutions offer Computer Science degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Arizona State University Campus Immersion (ASU) (1,561 graduates), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) (1,555 graduates), and University of Southern California (USC) (1,533 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 15,398 in 2010 to 79,857 in 2023-24. This represents a 419% increase overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Computer and Information Systems Managers, Computer and Information Research Scientists, and Database Architects. Related occupations employ approximately 3,938,530 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.