The best computer science schools in Massachusetts offer high-quality education to prepare students for the lucrative field. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a 22 percent job growth rate between 2020 and 2030 for the computer science field.
This guide includes a list of computer science schools in Massachusetts and Massachusetts computer science school rankings. It also details each school’s ranking, accreditation, graduation rate, and other criteria that can help you choose the right school for you.
How to Choose a Good Computer Science School in Massachusetts
To choose the best computer science school in Massachusetts, consider the program’s cost, accreditation, graduation rate, and curricular content. The best computer science schools in Massachusetts also provide student services.
Cost
The school you attend must be affordable or offer various financing options. Look at the tuition and other included fees that will increase the cost of education. You can even contact a school prior to applying to make sure its financial aid options are suitable to your financial needs.
Accreditation
Accreditation shows that the school meets an academic standard. Accreditation is a rigorous process and has many requirements. The school’s ability to meet those requirements shows they have an excellent curriculum.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates give you insight into the percentage of students who complete their degree on time. This shows the school’s accountability toward students, ensuring they get the support they need.
Curricular Content
You need to look for curricular content that will cover topics you want to learn. A curriculum shows that a school is keeping up with global trends and teaching students real-world usage of cutting-edge technology.
Student Services
Student services support students academically and in getting into the job market. Ensure the school offers help in gaining internships, landing your first job, or simply helping you finish your degree program.
Massachusetts Computer Science School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts?
| Computer Science School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | Bachelor of Arts Major in Computer Science | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | #2 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Molecular Biology | Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Molecular Biology | #2 |
| Tufts University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #28 |
| Boston University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #42 |
| Brandeis University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #42 |
| Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science – Align Program | #49 |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #68 |
| Clark University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Masters in Computer Science | #103 |
| Suffolk University | Computer Science Major | N/A | #34 (Regional Universities North) |
| Westfield State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | N/A | #85 (Regional Universities North) |
Massachusetts Computer Science Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts
To rank the best computer science schools in Massachusetts, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts Explained
The best computer science schools in Massachusetts include universities that offer undergraduate and graduate programs. Find out more about Massachusetts computer science schools rankings and each university’s computer science program, acceptance rate, and graduation rate, below.
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts
The best undergraduate computer science schools in Massachusetts give students an extensive understanding of the subject. Prospective students can choose from top-ranked computer science departments that offer students associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Schools in Massachusetts
- Bunker Hill Community College | Associate in Arts Computer Science Concentration. This college helps students understand basic computer organization and architecture. You’ll be more familiar with software utilities and computer platforms.
- Cape Cod Community College | Associate in Arts Computer Science. Students will experience hands-on projects to help them design, test, and implement programs using C++ and Java. You’ll also learn about data structures and procedural programming.
- Endicott College | Associate in Science in Computer Science. Students gain an extensive understanding of computer and information sciences. Graduates can demonstrate knowledge and expertise in emerging areas. You’ll gain hands-on experience through internships and laboratory activities.
- Massachusetts Bay Community College | Associate in Science in Computer Science. This program requires 68 to 69 credits. The curriculum prioritizes enhancing students’ quantitative skills, design, algorithms, and analysis of data structures.
- Quinsigamond Community College | Associate in Science in Computer Science (Transfer). This program prepares students to transfer to a four-year institution. This associate degree program is flexible, meaning students can opt to complete it through in-person classes or online.
Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Boston University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students learn about popular programming languages like Java and C++. You’ll also learn about web languages, database management, and operating systems.
- Brandeis University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Faculty members thriving in the computer science field teach this program. This university offers industry internships and a faculty research lab to its students.
- Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The school teaches students practical and conceptual skills effective in the software field. The program offers various electives students can choose from according to their preferences.
- University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This school is a leading research university. It provides extensive opportunities for internships. The faculty is composed of teachers that are well-known in the computer science field.
- Westfield State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The Westfield State bachelor’s program prepares students for programmer, software engineer, analyst, or security administrator jobs.
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Science in Massachusetts
The best graduate schools for computer science in Massachusetts offer leadership courses to help you advance your career. The graduate programs these schools offer are rigorous and designed to help students expand their research skills. Below is the list of universities that offer master’s degrees and PhD programs.
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Best Schools for Masters in Computer Science in Massachusetts
- Boston University | Master of Science in Computer Science. The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security recognize Boston University’s information security programs. The school provides an active learning environment where students deal with real-world projects.
- Brandeis University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This university is part of an exceptional research community. Students get extensive interdisciplinary training that benefits them in career advancement.
- Northeastern University | Master of Science in Computer Science – Align Program. This program allows students to become experts in building applications. The coursework covers depth and breadth areas of computer science foundations. These areas include math, programming languages, algorithms, mobile app development, and network security.
- University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Master of Science in Computer Science. This master’s degree has an online option that enables students to complete their courses from anywhere. The program teaches students in-demand skills to help them excel in their careers.
- Clark University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Clark University’s instructors have a wide range of expertise that helps students enhance their soft skills and technical skills in computer science. If you’re looking for flexibility, this online program is a good fit for you.
Best PhD in Computer Science Universities in Massachusetts
- Boston University | PhD in Computer Science. You can master several core concepts, such as the theory of computation, data science, and artificial intelligence in this PhD program. Through your research, you’ll be able to deliver oral presentations at research seminars and conferences.
- Brandeis University | Doctorate in Computer Science (PhD). This university has a nurturing and stimulating environment. You’ll experience cutting-edge research across cognitive science, human-computer interaction, and computational linguistics.
- Tufts University | Doctorate in Computer Science (PhD). Tufts University professors support students, especially when completing their research and defending their dissertations.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Doctoral Program in Computational Science and Engineering. Students earn a PhD in a computation-related field of their choice through a doctoral thesis and coursework. Students can work with various departments, from mechanical and environmental engineering to mathematics and nuclear science.
- University of Massachusetts-Amherst | PhD in Computer Science. This is a reliable school for getting your PhD as it is reported to be one of the best graduate schools according to the US News & World Report rankings.
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Admission Requirements for Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts
The admission requirements for computer science schools in Massachusetts are different for undergraduate and graduate students. You’ll find the most common requirements across all schools below.
Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Personal statement essay
- Application fee
- Letters of recommendation
- High school transcripts
Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Application fee
- GMAT or GRE
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Science in Massachusetts?
No, it’s not hard to get into a school for computer science in Massachusetts. The acceptance rates range between 76 to 100 percent. Some schools only require minimal documentation, making acceptance easier for prospective students. Below is the list of schools that have higher acceptance rates.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Massachusetts for Computer Science
- Quincy College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Quincy College has 37 associate degree programs and 27 certificate programs. The school has an open enrollment policy meaning anyone who applies is accepted. It typically requires students to have a high school diploma or GED certificate to show they have completed high school.
- Westfield State University | Acceptance Rate: 92%. Applying to Westfield State University is a simple procedure as the test requirement, and essay writing for admissions is optional. It offers a bachelor of science in computer science, computer information systems, and computer information systems.
- Salem State University | Acceptance Rate: 87%. Salem State University doesn’t require standardized test scores. It only requests students’ transcripts. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
- Fitchburg State University | Acceptance Rate: 88%. This university doesn’t require standardized test scores, making it easier for students to enroll. It offers a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with various concentrations.
- University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | Acceptance Rate: 76%. SAT or ACT scores are optional for students who want to enroll in this university. The school does not require a specific grade for standardized tests. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Computer Science in Massachusetts
The best online schools for computer science in Massachusetts are the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Quinsigamond Community College, Clark University, Boston University, and the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. Online schools offer the same quality education as a program as in-person programs.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Science Program |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | 87% | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems |
| Clark University | 80% | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | 78% | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| University of Massachusetts Dartmouth | 53% | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| Quinsigamond Community College | 29% | Associate of Science in Computer Science |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science in Massachusetts
The most affordable colleges for computer science in Massachusetts are Cape Cod Community College, Fitchburg State University, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Westfield State University, and Cape Cod Community College.
How to Attend the Top Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts With Financial Aid
There are several ways to get financial aid once you enroll in the top computer science schools in Massachusetts. One of the best ways to cover tuition is through scholarships. Below are some scholarships you can consider as a student in Massachusetts.
Best Computer Science Scholarships for Massachusetts Students
- Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts Scholarships | Amount: $3,000. This scholarship is for undergraduate and graduate students who enroll in any upcoming fall semester. Full-time and part-time students are eligible to receive this aid.
- Paul Tsongas Scholarship | Amount: Full Tuition. This is a merit-based scholarship for students with a minimum GPA of 3.75 and SAT score of 1200. The student should have also applied for financial aid using FAFSA. The eligible institutions include Bridgewater State University, Westfield State University, and Salem State University.
- Agnes M. Lindsay Scholarship Program | Amount: Varies. Students from rural areas of Massachusetts who have financial needs can apply for this scholarship. They should also be attending public institutions of higher education in the vicinity of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Employment Outlook for Computer Science
The unemployment rate has decreased since November 2021 in Massachusetts, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that the economy is improving amidst economic challenges. US News & World Report states that Massachusetts’ GDP is $597 billion. The state ranks highly in health care and education, with education employing the most people.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Careers in Massachusetts
| Computer Science Job | Computer Science Degree | Average Salary in Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $128,190 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $112,380 |
| Data Scientist | Bachelor’s degree | $111,550 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s degree | $108,980 |
| Web Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $87,200 |
Best Computer Science Jobs in Massachusetts Explained
The best computer science jobs in Massachusetts require someone who has foundational knowledge in computer science. Below are the best computer science jobs in Massachusetts.
Does It Matter What Computer Science School in Massachusetts I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school you attend in Massachusetts for computer science. The curriculum of each university varies, so you’ll need to choose a program that suits your career goals. It’s important that you know what you want to focus on in the computer science field.
There are outstanding universities in Massachusetts, including Harvard University, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Tufts University. Each of these schools has a computer science program that would teach you all the things you need to know to excel in the field.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
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Best Computer Science Schools in Massachusetts FAQ
Yes, Massachusetts is a good state to get a degree in computer science. The state boasts renowned universities such as Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. These two universities have master’s and bachelor’s programs for those who want a career in computer science.
The best university for getting into computer science, according to US News & World Report, is Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). MIT offers various interdisciplinary programs in computer science, including a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Molecular Biology, a Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Molecular Biology, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science.
No, you can’t get a computer science bachelor’s degree in Massachusetts for free. Each credit has a corresponding cost. However, you can apply for federal grants, scholarships, and work-study programs that could lessen or cover your expenses.
No, it is not hard to get into UMass Amherst. The college has a 65 percent acceptance rate. Most accepted students typically have a GPA of 3.8 and SAT scores of 1270 to 1450.
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