Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Arizona 2025
Arizona State University
Largest CS program in Arizona with 85% job placement rate, strong industry partnerships with Intel, GoDaddy, and innovative online degree options
University of Arizona
Research-intensive program with strong cybersecurity focus, NASA partnerships, and $78K median starting salary for graduates
Northern Arizona University
Smaller program with 18:1 student-faculty ratio, strong undergraduate research opportunities, and emphasis on software engineering
- 1.Arizona has 20+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across public universities and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Arizona State University leads with the largest CS enrollment in the state and 85% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- 3.In-state tuition averages $12,600 annually for public universities—significantly below national averages
- 4.Arizona software developers earn median $108,540 annually, with Phoenix metropolitan area offering highest salaries (BLS Arizona 2024)
- 5.Growing tech sector includes major employers like Intel, Honeywell, GoDaddy, and expanding presence from California companies
Computer Science Education in Arizona
Arizona's computer science education landscape centers around three major public research universities, each offering distinct advantages for aspiring software engineers and tech professionals. The state's growing technology sector, anchored by Phoenix and Tucson, provides excellent internship and career opportunities for CS graduates.
Arizona State University dominates with the largest enrollment and most comprehensive program offerings, including highly-ranked online options. The University of Arizona brings research strength, particularly in cybersecurity and space technology, while Northern Arizona University offers a more intimate learning environment with strong faculty mentorship.
For national context, review our best computer science bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering affordability should explore our most affordable CS programs guide, while career-focused individuals can review software engineer salary trends for Arizona-specific compensation data.
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Arizona May 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 data
Class size and faculty accessibility
Arizona-specific salaries from BLS OEWS
Industry partnerships and research output
Arizona Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University | Tempe | Public | $12,691 | 69% | 19:1 | 89.2 |
| 2 | University of Arizona | Tucson | Public | $12,691 | 64% | 17:1 | 85.8 |
| 3 | Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff | Public | $12,346 | 59% | 18:1 | 82.1 |
| 4 | Grand Canyon University | Phoenix | Private | $17,050 | 42% | 16:1 | 75.3 |
| 5 | University of Advancing Technology | Tempe | Private | $23,424 | 38% | 14:1 | 72.8 |
| 6 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Prescott | Private | $41,194 | 61% | 17:1 | 72.4 |
| 7 | Arizona Christian University | Glendale | Private | $28,476 | 53% | 15:1 | 69.7 |
| 8 | DeVry University Arizona | Phoenix | Private | $14,392 | 31% | 12:1 | 65.2 |
| 9 | Phoenix College | Phoenix | Community | $3,240 | 28% | 22:1 | 61.8 |
| 10 | Mesa Community College | Mesa | Community | $3,330 | 26% | 24:1 | 60.5 |
| 11 | Pima Community College | Tucson | Community | $3,456 | 24% | 23:1 | 58.9 |
| 12 | Scottsdale Community College | Scottsdale | Community | $3,120 | 29% | 21:1 | 58.1 |
| 13 | Glendale Community College | Glendale | Community | $3,180 | 22% | 25:1 | 55.7 |
| 14 | Chandler-Gilbert Community College | Chandler | Community | $3,210 | 27% | 20:1 | 55.2 |
| 15 | Paradise Valley Community College | Phoenix | Community | $3,285 | 25% | 22:1 | 54.8 |
Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona • University
Program Highlights
- • Largest computer science enrollment in Arizona with 3,000+ students
- • Average starting salary of $75,000 for recent graduates
- • 98% of graduates employed or in graduate school within one year
- • Strong alumni network throughout Silicon Valley and Arizona tech sector
Program Strengths
- 85% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- Strong industry partnerships with Intel, GoDaddy, Honeywell, and IBM
- Comprehensive online CS degree options with same curriculum as on-campus
- Active research in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering
- Robust internship program with Phoenix-area tech companies
- Modern facilities including dedicated maker spaces and research labs
Why Ranked #1
ASU earns the top ranking for its comprehensive computer science program that combines large-scale resources with innovative delivery methods. The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering houses one of the nation's largest CS enrollments while maintaining strong industry connections throughout Arizona's tech corridor.
University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona • University
Program Highlights
- • Home to the Arizona Cybersecurity Institute
- • Strong graduate school placement rate of 35%
- • Active student organizations including ACM chapter and cybersecurity club
- • Internship partnerships with Tucson's aerospace and defense industry
Program Strengths
- Research opportunities in cybersecurity, AI, and space technology
- Strong industry connections with Raytheon, IBM, and government contractors
- Median starting salary of $78,000 for graduates
- Active participation in NASA and Department of Defense research projects
- Small class sizes in upper-division courses enabling close faculty mentorship
- Modern computing facilities and dedicated undergraduate research opportunities
Why Ranked #2
The University of Arizona ranks second for its research-intensive computer science program within the College of Engineering. The program excels in specialized areas like cybersecurity, space technology, and data science, benefiting from UA's strong research infrastructure and NASA partnerships.
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona • University
Program Highlights
- • 95% of graduates employed within one year
- • Average starting salary of $72,000
- • Strong alumni mentorship program
- • Beautiful mountain campus setting with outdoor recreation opportunities
Program Strengths
- Small class sizes with 18:1 student-faculty ratio
- Strong emphasis on software engineering and practical programming skills
- Undergraduate research opportunities available from freshman year
- Close relationships with local tech startups and regional employers
- Modern computer labs with latest development tools and software
- Dedicated career services specifically for computer science majors
Why Ranked #3
Northern Arizona University ranks third for offering a more intimate computer science education experience while maintaining program quality. The 18:1 student-faculty ratio enables personalized attention rare in public university CS programs, with strong emphasis on software engineering and practical application.
Arizona University System Overview
Arizona's public higher education is organized under the Arizona Board of Regents system, which governs the three major research universities offering computer science programs. This system ensures consistent quality standards while allowing each institution to develop unique strengths and specializations.
The Arizona State University system is the largest, with multiple campuses but computer science primarily concentrated in Tempe. ASU has invested heavily in online education infrastructure, making it a leader in remote CS education delivery. Students benefit from the scale advantages of a large research university while accessing innovative learning technologies.
The University of Arizona focuses on research excellence and graduate education, providing strong undergraduate research opportunities. Northern Arizona University serves students seeking a smaller, more personalized educational experience without sacrificing program quality.
Community colleges throughout Arizona offer associate degrees and transfer pathways into four-year CS programs. The Maricopa Community College District, serving the Phoenix metropolitan area, provides the strongest computer science transfer programs with guaranteed admission agreements to state universities.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and build applications for Arizona's growing tech sector, including companies like GoDaddy, Infusionsoft, and numerous startups in Phoenix and Tucson.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets for healthcare, aerospace, and technology companies throughout Arizona's research corridor.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect digital assets for government contractors, healthcare systems, and financial institutions in Arizona's security-conscious economy.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment systems for Arizona's growing SaaS and tech companies.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-2051Develop artificial intelligence systems for aerospace, autonomous vehicles, and emerging tech applications across Arizona's innovation ecosystem.
Computer Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Arizona
Arizona CS Program Cost Comparison
| Factor | Public In-State | Public Out-of-State | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $12,600 | $28,400 | $25,200 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | $25,800 | $41,600 | $42,100 |
| Average Class Size | 25-35 students | 25-35 students | 18-25 students |
| Research Opportunities | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Industry Connections | Strong | Strong | Moderate |
| Financial Aid Available | High | Moderate | High |
Which Should You Choose?
- Affordable in-state tuition at high-quality public universities
- Growing tech job market with major companies like Intel and GoDaddy
- Year-round sunshine and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to California or Seattle tech hubs
- Strong industry partnerships and internship opportunities
- Access to innovative online degree options at ASU
- Access to top-tier private universities (limited options in Arizona)
- Established tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley or Austin
- Extensive public transportation (most Arizona jobs require cars)
- Cooler climate preferences (summers are extremely hot)
- Large number of Fortune 500 tech companies headquartered locally
Arizona Computer Science Programs FAQ
Related Arizona Tech Programs and Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
Arizona-specific salary data for computer occupations
Official data on public university programs and policies
Starting salary data for recent computer science graduates
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.