Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology
Top-tier CS program with exceptional industry connections and 98% job placement rate
Georgia Southern University
Strong programming curriculum with excellent value and growing tech partnerships
Kennesaw State University
Rapidly growing CS department with modern facilities and Atlanta metro job access
- 1.Georgia Tech leads with a 98% job placement rate and average starting salaries of $95,000 for CS graduates
- 2.Georgia programming graduates earn 18% more than the national average according to College Scorecard data
- 3.Atlanta's tech sector created 15,000+ new programming jobs in 2024, driving strong demand for Georgia graduates
- 4.In-state tuition for Georgia programming programs ranges from $9,420 to $12,852 annually
- 5.Georgia ranks 8th nationally for software developer employment growth at 22% through 2032
Georgia Computer Programming Degree Market Overview
Georgia has emerged as a major technology hub in the Southeast, with Atlanta ranking as the 4th fastest-growing tech market in the United States. The state's computer programming degree programs benefit from this growth, with graduates finding abundant opportunities in fintech, healthcare technology, and enterprise software development.
Software developer employment in Georgia is projected to grow 22% through 2032, nearly double the national average of 11%. This growth is driven by major tech employers including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and homegrown companies like Mailchimp and NCR Corporation. The state added over 15,000 new tech jobs in 2024 alone, with programming roles representing 35% of new positions.
Georgia programming graduates earn competitive salaries, with recent data showing average starting salaries of $72,000 statewide. Atlanta-based graduates typically earn 15-20% more due to the concentrated tech market, while smaller metros like Augusta and Columbus offer lower living costs with solid programming opportunities.
The University System of Georgia has invested heavily in computing programs, with new facilities at Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and Kennesaw State University. These investments, combined with partnerships with major employers, create exceptional value for in-state students pursuing computer programming degrees.
Complete Rankings: Best Computer Programming Programs in Georgia 2025
| Location | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta | $12,852 | 9700% | $95,000 | 95 |
| 2 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro | $9,420 | 8900% | $68,000 | 88 |
| 3 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw | $10,852 | 8500% | $74,000 | 85 |
| 4 | Georgia State University | Atlanta | $11,180 | 8200% | $71,000 | 83 |
| 5 | University of Georgia | Athens | $12,080 | 8800% | $69,000 | 81 |
| 6 | Georgia College & State University | Milledgeville | $9,552 | 7900% | $64,000 | 78 |
| 7 | Augusta University | Augusta | $10,332 | 7500% | $62,000 | 75 |
| 8 | Columbus State University | Columbus | $8,890 | 7100% | $59,000 | 73 |
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • University
Program Highlights
- • 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio in CS courses
- • Over 200 industry partnership agreements
- • 97% graduation rate for CS majors
- • $2.1 billion in research expenditures annually
Program Strengths
- 98% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- Average starting salary of $95,000, highest in Georgia
- World-class research opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, and systems
- Direct pipelines to major tech companies through co-op programs
- State-of-the-art facilities including the new Coda building
Why Ranked #1
Georgia Tech's School of Computer Science consistently ranks among the top 5 nationally, with exceptional faculty research, industry partnerships, and graduate outcomes that set the gold standard for programming education.
Student Reviews
"The rigor is intense but the career opportunities are unmatched. Every major tech company recruits heavily here."
— CS Senior, Class of 2024
"Georgia Tech's reputation opens doors globally. The alumni network in Silicon Valley is incredibly strong."
— Software Engineering Graduate, 2024
| Factor | Georgia Tech | Georgia Southern | Kennesaw State | Georgia State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (In-State) | $12,852 | $9,420 | $10,852 | $11,180 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 89% | 85% | 82% |
| Starting Salary | $95,000 | $68,000 | $74,000 | $71,000 |
| Class Size | 25-30 | 20-25 | 30-35 | 35-40 |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Growing | Moderate | Limited |
| Industry Connections | Exceptional | Good | Very Good | Good |
| Career Services | Top-tier | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop applications, systems software, and programming tools
Web Developer
SOC 15-1254Create and maintain websites and web applications
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data to help organizations make informed decisions
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams to improve software delivery
Admission Requirements for Georgia Programming Programs
Admission requirements vary significantly across Georgia's computer programming programs, from highly selective institutions like Georgia Tech to more accessible options at regional universities. Understanding these requirements helps students target appropriate programs and prepare competitive applications.
Georgia Tech maintains the most stringent admission standards, with middle 50% SAT scores of 1370-1520 and ACT scores of 31-35. The average admitted GPA is 4.07 weighted, and the acceptance rate for computer science is approximately 12%. Strong performance in calculus, physics, and advanced programming courses significantly improves admission chances.
- Georgia Tech: 3.8+ GPA, 1400+ SAT, strong STEM coursework, programming portfolio recommended
- University of Georgia: 3.6+ GPA, 1300+ SAT, completion of math through calculus preferred
- Georgia State University: 3.2+ GPA, 1200+ SAT, basic programming experience helpful
- Kennesaw State University: 3.0+ GPA, 1100+ SAT, high school computer science coursework recommended
- Georgia Southern University: 2.8+ GPA, 1050+ SAT, demonstration of analytical thinking skills
Many Georgia programs offer direct admission to computer science, while others require students to complete prerequisite courses before declaring the major. Students should research each program's specific requirements and consider applying to multiple institutions to maximize their options.
Source: Georgia Tech Admissions Office, 2024
Cost Analysis and Financial Aid for Georgia Programming Degrees
Georgia offers exceptional value for computer programming education, particularly for in-state students. The HOPE Scholarship, funded by the Georgia Lottery, provides significant tuition assistance to students maintaining a 3.0 GPA, making quality programming education highly accessible.
In-state tuition at Georgia public universities ranges from $8,890 at Columbus State University to $12,852 at Georgia Tech. When combined with room, board, and fees, total annual costs typically range from $22,000 to $32,000. The HOPE Scholarship covers approximately 85-90% of tuition at most institutions, dramatically reducing the financial burden.
Return on investment for Georgia programming degrees is strong, with graduates typically recouping their educational investment within 4-6 years. Georgia Tech graduates show the fastest payback period at just 3.2 years due to high starting salaries, while regional university graduates achieve positive ROI within 5-7 years.
- HOPE Scholarship: Covers 85-90% of tuition for students with 3.0+ GPA
- Zell Miller Scholarship: Full tuition coverage for students with 3.7+ GPA and 1200+ SAT
- STEM-specific scholarships: Additional $1,000-$5,000 annually at most institutions
- Work-study opportunities: Programming tutoring and lab assistant positions available
- Industry internships: Paid positions often covering 50-75% of annual expenses
$28,500
Average Program Cost
87%
HOPE Scholarship Coverage
94%
Graduate Employment Rate
4.8 years
ROI Timeline
Programming Degree Options Across Georgia
Atlanta Metro
North Georgia
Central Georgia
South Georgia
Based on 18 programs from College Scorecard, IPEDS, and institutional reporting
Employment rates, starting salaries, and career advancement
Faculty credentials, research opportunities, and curriculum rigor
Graduation rates, retention, and student satisfaction
Internship programs, employer partnerships, and job placement
Tuition costs, financial aid, and return on investment
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Programming Programs
How to Choose the Right Georgia Programming Program
Assess Your Academic Profile
Evaluate your GPA, test scores, and programming background to identify programs where you'll be competitive. Consider both reach and safety schools.
Research Career Services
Look into each program's internship placement rates, career fairs, and relationships with local employers. Strong industry connections significantly impact job prospects.
Visit Campuses and Labs
Tour computer science facilities, meet faculty, and sit in on programming classes. The learning environment and resources vary significantly between institutions.
Calculate Total Costs
Factor in tuition, fees, room and board, and potential scholarship opportunities like HOPE. Consider the long-term ROI based on expected starting salaries.
Apply to Multiple Programs
Submit applications to 4-6 programs across different selectivity levels. This maximizes your options and potential scholarship opportunities.
Related Programming Degree Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.