The best computer science schools in Michigan can prepare you to join the rapidly-growing field of computer science. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of computer science jobs is expected to grow by 13 percent through 2030. To land a job in one of these popular computer science careers, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
With our Michigan computer science school rankings, you can decide which school is best suited to your needs and preferences. We’ll share information about cost, admission requirements, and types of computer science degree programs offered at each school.
How to Choose a Good Computer Science School in Michigan
To choose the best computer science school in Michigan, you should consider the cost, accreditation, learning format, curriculum, and graduation rate. Below is an explanation of why each of these factors is important when choosing a computer science school.
Cost
A computer science degree is important, but your financial health is important too. Programs at the most expensive universities are not necessarily the best. You should choose a program that you can afford. Look for schools with in-state tuition discounts or strong scholarship programs.
Accreditation
Accreditation proves that a school has gone through a standardized process where an official accrediting organization reviews its programs and curricula. A school earns its accreditation if it meets high academic standards. You can trust an accredited school to provide an excellent education.
Learning Format
Schools can offer classes in-person, online, or in a hybrid format. Some universities offer night classes or weekend classes. In some cases, you can earn your computer science degrees completely online. Research your options and consider which learning format will fit best into your schedule.
Curriculum
For each program you are interested in, you can check the curriculum to see what classes are required and what electives are available. Look for courses that align with your career goals. Some programs also have concentrations that allow you to specialize in a specific area of computer science.
Graduation Rate
A high graduation rate means that the university supports its students to help them finish their degrees. When choosing a computer science school in Michigan, consider graduation rates, as they are somewhat of an indication of your likelihood of graduating. Keep in mind that many factors affect graduation rates. As a result, a low graduation rate isn’t necessarily a direct reflection of the school.
Michigan Computer Science School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Science Programs in Michigan?
| Computer Science School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #83 |
| Michigan Technological University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in computer Science | #148 |
| Central Michigan University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #239 |
| Wayne State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science | #249 |
| Oakland University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science and Informatics | 3299-391 |
| Calvin University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Plus | N/A | #4 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| Kettering University | Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science | Master of Science in Applied Data Science and Data Analytics | #12 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| Davenport University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #95 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| Lawrence Technological University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
Master of Science in Computer Science |
#37 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| Baker College | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Concentration in Computer Programming | Master of Science in Information Systems | #119-157 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
Michigan Computer Science Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Science Schools in Michigan
To rank the best computer science schools in Michigan, 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 Michigan Explained
We have compiled a list of 10 of the best computer science schools in Michigan. The list includes private and public schools with strong graduate and undergraduate programs in computer science. In the following section, you’ll see important information about accreditation, acceptance rate, and graduation rate.
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools in Michigan
The best undergraduate computer science schools in Michigan have programs that allow students to explore a wide range of subjects in computer science through either two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor’s degree programs. Below are some of the best undergraduate degrees in computer science.
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Schools in Michigan
- Madonna University | Associate of Science in Computer Science. Madonna University provides a dynamic environment where students apply computer science topics to solve real-world problems. Courses include web programming, software engineering, and mobile game programming.
- Lake Superior State University | Associate of Science in Computer Science. In this program, students will take basic computer science courses, as well as an introduction to business.
- Monroe County Community College | Associate of Applied Science with Specialization in Computer Science. This program prepares students for entry-level programming jobs. Students will learn standard computer science techniques and explore the ethical considerations of technologies.
- Lansing Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science. Lansing Community College provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students to transfer into a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Courses include Computer Science Structures, Calculus, and Algorithms.
- Henry Ford College | Computer Science Associate in Science. This program focuses on coding skills. Students will learn how to program in C, C#, C++, and Java.
Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Michigan
- Lawrence Technological University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. At Lawrence Technological University, computer science bachelor’s degree students can choose from six concentrations, including cyber security, artificial intelligence, and business software development. Students also have the option of taking an accelerated dual degree program to earn their computer science bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years.
- Michigan State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Bachelor’s degree students at Michigan State have the opportunity to get involved with computer science research in machine learning, image processing, and data mining.
- Michigan Technological University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The program prepares students for employment in computer science by teaching them skills in analyzing problems and designing computing solutions. Students can advance to an accelerated Master’s Degree in Computer Science to continue their learning.
- Central Michigan University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students will learn how to follow ethical and legal principles while solving computing problems. Students take a variety of lab-based classes that provide a hands-on learning experience.
- Wayne State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This program focuses on lifelong learning skills so that students will be ready to adapt to future emerging technologies.
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Science in Michigan
The best graduate computer science schools in Michigan will teach you advanced concepts and techniques in computer science and open up senior-level career opportunities. The difference between a graduate degree and an undergraduate degree is that students in graduate degree programs participate in both classes and research. Here are some of the top computer science graduate programs in Michigan.
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Best Schools for Master’s in Computer Science in Michigan
- Lawrence Technological University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This master’s degree program is available in person or online. Students will take 24 credits of advanced computer science classes and complete either a research thesis or an industry project.
- Michigan State University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Students in this program can choose to complete a research thesis or complete additional coursework. Michigan State University has research partnerships with government agencies and corporations, so students can work on real-world problems.
- Michigan Technological University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Michigan Tech’s computer science master’s degree program gives students the opportunity to work with NSF CAREER Award-winning faculty. Graduates have found work at companies such as Amazon, Netflix, and Intel.
- Central Michigan University Computer | Master of Science in Computer Science. This full-time, on-campus program is designed to help graduates earn advanced professional positions. Students take hands-on courses and have access to UNIX and LINUX labs to build software development skills.
- Wayne State University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Students in this program can choose to complete a research thesis in either computer and network systems or information and intelligent systems. Students will work with a faculty advisor to determine the best curriculum for their interests.
Best PhD in Computer Science Universities in Michigan
- Michigan State University | PhD in Computer Science. Students in this program will develop research projects in one of 20 research labs, investigating topics in computer science like genomic analysis, artificial intelligence, and computer vision.
- Michigan Technological University | PhD in Computer Science. PhD students at Michigan tech participate in novel research and teaching. Students in this program have won prestigious grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and NASA.
- Wayne State University | PhD in Computer Science. Students in this program assemble an advising committee of five professors to help guide their education. Students start with classes and transition to a dissertation research project.
- University of Michigan | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering. This program takes 10 to 12 semesters to complete, and students are guaranteed financial support in the form of a fellowship, research assistantship, or teaching assistantship. Students spend their first semesters taking advanced classes, then move on to novel research.
- University of Michigan – Dearborn | PhD in Computer and Information Science. Students in this program can choose to concentrate on data management, data science, systems and security, or software engineering. Once they choose a topic, students work with an advising committee to develop an original research project.
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Admission Requirements for Computer Science Schools in Michigan
The basic admission requirements for computer science schools in Michigan are different for undergraduate and graduate students. Some of the common requirements you’ll see are an application with an application fee, one or more recommendation letters, and official transcripts. Each program is different, so make sure you understand what documents you need to submit.
Computer Science Schools in Michigan: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts
- Application with application fee
- SAT or ACT scores
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Computer Science Schools in Michigan: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Application with application fee
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Science in Michigan?
No, it is not hard to get into a school for computer science in Michigan. Some of the easiest colleges to get into have an acceptance rate ranging from 82 to 100 percent. Some universities are more selective and have a lower acceptance rate due to minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements. However, there are schools that only require a high school diploma or GED.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Michigan for Computer Science
- Macomb Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. The school has an open admission policy which means that any student with a GED or high school diploma is accepted. It offers Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology degrees with specializations in cloud computing, cyber security, networking, programming, programming for electronic games, and website programming.
- Monroe County Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This community college has an open admissions policy. It is a great stepping stone for students who didn’t perform well in high school to earn an associate degree with credits that transfer to a bachelor’s degree. Monroe Community College has an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Science with specialization options in app development, computer science, or cyber security.
- Lake Michigan College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. The university has an open admissions policy for any high school graduate or GED holder older than 18. It offers an Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Systems specializing in either networking or applications development.
- Western Michigan University | Acceptance Rate: 85%. Western Michigan University has a selective admissions process based on high school grades, the difficulty of classes taken, and extracurricular activities. ACT and SAT scores are optional. It offers computer science bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees.
- Lawrence Technological University | Acceptance Rate: 82%. The university has a rolling admissions policy, which means qualified applicants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. This school offers both a Bachelor of Science and Master 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 Michigan
The best online schools for computer science in Michigan are Kettering University, Lawrence Technological University, University of Michigan – Dearborn, Davenport University, and Baker College. We ranked these schools using graduation rate data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Science Program |
|---|---|---|
| Kettering University | 68% | Master of Science in Applied Data Science and Data Analytics |
| Lawrence Technological University |
60% | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| University of Michigan – Dearborn | 55% | Master of Science in Computer and Information Science |
| Davenport University | 33% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Baker College | 22% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science in Michigan
The most affordable colleges for computer science in Michigan are University of Michigan – Flint, Lake Superior State University, Michigan Technological University, Macomb Community College, and Lake Michigan College. Below is more information on education costs at these universities and what financial aid support they have for students.
How to Attend the Top Computer Science Schools in Michigan With Financial Aid
Financial aid can make the top computer science schools in Michigan more affordable. Financial aid options can come in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. Scholarships and grants don’t need to be paid back, but loans need to be paid back with interest. To apply for federal financial aid programs, which include all three types of financial aid, fill out the FAFSA form every year.
Beyond federal financial aid, there are also financial aid opportunities from your state, your school, and private organizations. Reach out to your school’s financial aid office to learn more about where to find additional scholarships and grants. Try to avoid private student loans if possible. Statista reports that the average student loan debt for graduates in Michigan was $29,863 in 2020.
Best Computer Science Scholarships for Michigan Students
- Abbott & Fenner Scholarships | Amount: $1,000. This scholarship program is open to high school juniors and seniors and students currently enrolled in an undergraduate program. To be considered for this program, students have to submit an essay about their education and career goals by June 10.
- National Society of High School Scholars Foundation STEM Scholarship | Amount: $1,000. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is October 15. Only recent high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who are enrolled in a STEM degree are eligible. Students will need to submit a personal statement showing a passion for their chosen STEM field, transcripts, one to two academic recommendations, and a headshot.
- Michigan Competitive Scholarship | Amount: $1,000. To be eligible for this award, you must be a Michigan resident attending an undergraduate program in Michigan with SAT score of 1200 or higher and demonstrated financial aid. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship if they submit the FAFSA form before March 1.
Michigan Employment Outlook for Computer Science
Michigan’s employment outlook is positive, and the state’s unemployment rate has decreased every month since May 2020. The current unemployment rate is 4.3 percent, which is almost a complete recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many Michigan computer science school graduates will end up working in the information sector. As of May 2022, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 54,500 workers were employed in the information sector in Michigan.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Careers in Michigan
| Computer Science Job | Computer Science Degree | Average Salary in Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $109,700 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $100,080 |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $97,730 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $94,780 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s degree | $80,560 |
Best Computer Science Jobs in Michigan Explained
The best computer science jobs in Michigan include software development and computer network architecture. Below we’ll cover these jobs in detail with estimated salary, common job responsibilities, and which degrees can prepare you for each job.
Does It Matter What Computer Science School in Michigan I Go To?
Yes, it does matters what school in Michigan you go to for computer science. Different schools have different curricula, and you should look for the program that is best aligned with your career goals. Once you know the type of program you are looking for, research the schools on your list to find the most affordable option. The best computer science degree is the one that doesn’t put you in debt.
Other things to keep in mind when evaluating potential schools are accreditation and student services. It’s essential that you attend an accredited school, so you can be confident that they offer high-quality education. A good career services office will help you find a job after graduation and make the most of your degree.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
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Best Computer Science Schools in Michigan FAQ
No, you can’t get a free computer science undergraduate degree in Michigan. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get any financial aid from the government or university. There are plenty of grants, loans, and scholarships that can help lower the cost of tuition.
Yes, you can get a free computer science graduate degree in Michigan. Many graduate programs offer guaranteed funding for graduate students, which pays for their tuition and gives them a stipend to live off of. To earn this funding, most graduate students work as teaching assistants or research assistants.
Computer science focuses on algorithms, computer networks, cyber security, and computing theory, whereas computer engineering focuses on computer design and development. Graduates from both of these programs have a positive job outlook and have great potential to work from home.
Yes, a computer science degree in Michigan is hard, just as a computer science degree in any other state is. You have to learn about technical subjects like programming, algorithms, data structures, and computer design concepts.
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