Topping this year's prosperity rankings, Massachusetts is no doubt an incredible place to live. In addition to placing 1st for overall prosperity, Mass earned the top rank for education. This didn't come as a surprise as Massachusetts has always been a hot spot for academics. When it comes to computer science, Massachusetts distinguishes itself with major institutions like MIT, Harvard, Boston University, Boston College and UMass.
This page will examine the best computer science schools in Massachusetts. We'll also explore possible outcomes for CS graduates in the Bay State, including the highest paying cities and career paths for IT professionals in Massachusetts.
Top Computer Science Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
- Associate of Science in IT
Top Computer Science Programs:
- BS in IT, Minor: Microsoft Networking
- BS in IT, Minor: Cisco Networking
- BS in IT, Software Development
Best CS Schools in Massachusetts
Research and compare the top-ranked computer science schools in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Arguably the world's preeminent school for computer science and engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is the best CS school in Massachusetts. MIT graduates are on the forefront of computer science, with many going on to become leaders in research, education and high-tech industry.
- Undergrad CS programs include:
- Computer Science & Electrical Engineering
- Computer Science and Molecular Biology
- Computer Science, Economics and Data Science
- Urban Science and Planning with Computer Science
- EE / CS graduate degrees include:
- Master of Science (SM)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Engineer in Computer Science (ECS)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)/Doctor of Science (ScD)
- View all programs at MIT
- Campus Locations:
- MIT Main Campus: 77 Massachusetts Ave. | Cambridge, MA 02139
University of Massachusetts Amherst
The Robert and Donna Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) at UMass Amherst is a world-class school for computer science. The school's vision is a world where computing enhances the well-being of citizens, and its innovative comp-sci curriculum backs that up.
- Featured Computer Science Degrees:
- Bachelor's in Computer Science (B.S. & B.A.)
- Bachelor's in Informatics (B.S.)
- Master's in CS (focus in Data Science, Security or Field Experience)
- Doctoral / Ph.D. in Computer Science
- View all programs at UMass Amherst
- Campus Locations:
- Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences | 140 Governors Dr. | Amherst, MA 01003
- UMass Online
Top Paying IT Careers in Massachusetts
For those who decide to work in-state after finishing computer science school in Massachusetts, here's how much you can earn in the state's top paying tech roles.
| IT Career Path | Average Salary in MA |
|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Engineer | $138,680 |
| Computer Network Architect | $135,230 |
| Biomedical Engineer | $124,160 |
| Aerospace Engineer | $122,660 |
| Computer Scientist | $120,170 |
| Software Engineer | $119,790 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Regional IT Pay in Massachusetts
These metropolitan areas and cities in Massachusetts pay the top salaries to tech pros and engineers.
| Location in Mass | Hourly IT Wage | Annual IT Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | $51.35 | $106,810 |
| Pittsfield, MA | $48.47 | $100,810 |
| Worcester, MA-CT | $46.36 | $96,430 |
| Leominster-Gardner, MA | $43.77 | $91,040 |
| Barnstable Town, MA | $43.11 | $89,670 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some reoccurring questions from prospective attendees of CS schools in Massachusetts.
Which UMass college is best for computer science?
University of Massachusetts - Amherst is the best computer science school in the UMass system. The latest statistics from US News & World Report and CSRankings agree that UMass Amherst is the best public college for computer science and engineering in Massachusetts.
Online CS Schools in Massachusetts
These top online computer science schools are currently accepting Massachusetts residents.
Capella University
Capella University offers online computer science degrees that focus on the skills, platforms and certifications that employers demand.
- Computer Science Programs in:
- Data Management and Analytics
- Information Assurance & Cybersecurity
- Networking with Cisco & Microsoft Technologies
- Web and Software Development
- View all programs at Capella
Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU's online computer science programs feature experiential learning and hands-on projects to provide the skills needed for success in the modern IT workforce.
- Undergraduate & Graduate Programs in:
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Business Intelligence & Analytics
- Graphic Design & 3D Animation
- Information Security
- View all programs at SNHU
