Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Maryland 2025
University of Maryland-College Park
873 computer science graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
University of Maryland Global Campus
546 computer science graduates annually, 74% graduation rate
Johns Hopkins University
311 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Maryland offers 22+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Maryland-College Park leads with 84% graduation rate
- 3.Maryland software developers earn median $122,420 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville
- 5.Cost of living index: 109.4% of US average (above average)
Computer Science Education in Maryland: Overview
Maryland offers 22 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 2,398 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville, with major employers including NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL.
With a median software developer salary of $122,420 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 109.4% compared to the US average, Maryland offers competitive salaries that offset the higher cost of living.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by University of Maryland-College Park, University of Maryland Global Campus, Johns Hopkins University, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 22 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Maryland-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Maryland Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | 88 |
| 2 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $7,632 | 74% | 76.7 |
| 3 | Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD | Private | $62,840 | — | 72 |
| 4 | University of Maryland-Baltimore County | Baltimore, MD | Public | $9,238 | 90% | 61.9 |
| 5 | Towson University | Towson, MD | Public | $7,382 | 91% | 61.7 |
| 6 | United States Naval Academy | Annapolis, MD | Public | $0 | — | 55 |
| 7 | Loyola University Maryland | Baltimore, MD | Private | $55,480 | 92% | 50.5 |
| 8 | Hood College | Frederick, MD | Private | $45,120 | 84% | 50.2 |
| 9 | Salisbury University | Salisbury, MD | Public | $7,706 | 97% | 49.7 |
| 10 | St. Mary's College of Maryland | St. Mary's City, MD | Public | $12,116 | 77% | 46.4 |
| 11 | Capitol Technology University | Laurel, MD | Private | $26,088 | 87% | 45.6 |
| 12 | University of Maryland Eastern Shore | Princess Anne, MD | Public | $5,637 | 78% | 43.1 |
| 13 | Coppin State University | Baltimore, MD | Public | $4,933 | — | 43 |
| 14 | Mount St. Mary's University | Emmitsburg, MD | Private | $45,660 | — | 41.8 |
| 15 | Washington Adventist University | Takoma Park, MD | Private | $23,400 | — | 41.5 |
| 16 | Morgan State University | Baltimore, MD | Public | $5,587 | 52% | 40.8 |
| 17 | Washington College | Chestertown, MD | Private | $52,146 | — | 39 |
| 18 | Bowie State University | Bowie, MD | Public | $5,993 | — | 38.5 |
| 19 | Frostburg State University | Frostburg, MD | Public | $7,110 | — | 37.3 |
| 20 | Goucher College | Baltimore, MD | Private | $51,000 | — | 36.7 |
| 21 | McDaniel College | Westminster, MD | Private | $48,672 | — | 36.1 |
| 22 | Women's Institute of Torah Seminary and College | Baltimore, MD | Private | $9,000 | 2% | 21 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Maryland: Side-by-Side
| School | UMD College Park | UMGC | Johns Hopkins | UMBC | Towson |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,889 | $7,632 | $62,840 | $9,238 | $7,382 |
| Graduation Rate | 84% | 74% | N/A% | 90% | 91% |
| Annual Graduates | 873 | 546 | 311 | 151 | 176 |
| Acceptance Rate | 45% | N/A | 8% | 74% | 83% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 88.0/100 | 76.7/100 | 72.0/100 | 61.9/100 | 61.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Maryland
Maryland offers 22 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Maryland-College Park, University of Maryland Global Campus, University of Maryland-Baltimore County. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $85,694 in the Maryland market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Maryland
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UMD College Park | $9,889 | 84% | 873 | 88.0 |
| #2 UMGC | $7,632 | 74% | 546 | 76.7 |
| #3 UMBC | $9,238 | 90% | 330 | 69.2 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Maryland
For graduate study, Maryland offers 10 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, University of Maryland-College Park. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Maryland reaching $159,146 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Maryland
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Johns Hopkins | $62,840 | N/A% | 311 | 72.0 |
| #2 UMBC | $9,238 | 90% | 151 | 61.9 |
| #3 UMD College Park | $9,889 | 84% | 64 | 68.0 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Maryland
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Maryland are at Coppin State University ($4,933/year), Morgan State University ($5,587/year), University of Maryland Eastern Shore ($5,637/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Maryland's competitive tech salaries.
At Coppin State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $19,732 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $85,694, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Maryland (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Coppin State | $4,933 | $19,732 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 Morgan State | $5,587 | $22,348 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 UMD Eastern Shore | $5,637 | $22,548 | 0.4 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Maryland
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Maryland, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,889 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 873 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 45%
- • Ranking Score: 88.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 873 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 88.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (873 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,420), and selectivity (45% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UMD Computer Science offers exceptional career outcomes with 96% job placement and $110,000 median starting salary, while providing comprehensive preparation through hands-on internship opportunities where 87% of graduates complete at least one internship. The program combines strong industry partnerships with major tech companies and government contractors, plus specialized tracks in high-demand areas like cybersecurity and data science.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •CMSC 330: Organization of Programming Languages
- •CMSC 420: Data Structures
- •CMSC 451: Design and Analysis of Computer Algorithms
- •MATH 140: Calculus I
- •MATH 141: Calculus II
- •MATH 240: Linear Algebra
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.5
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $110,000
- Job Placement: 96%
- Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,632 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 74% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 546 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 76.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 74% graduation rate
- 546 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 76.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (74%), program size (546 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,420), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UMGC's Computer Science program is designed with input from leading industry experts and taught by experienced faculty members who are leaders in their fields. The program offers flexible online learning with generous transfer credit policy allowing up to 90 credits to transfer, making it accessible for working professionals.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,840 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 311 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 72.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 311 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 72.0 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (311 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,420), and selectivity (8% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Johns Hopkins offers both major and minor programs in Computer Science with an online Master's program ranked #2 by U.S. News & World Report, specifically tailored for working professionals with focus on flexibility and practical learning.
Admission Prerequisites
- •One year of calculus (2 semesters or 3 quarters)
- •One semester/term of advanced math (discrete math is strongly preferred but linear algebra and differential equations will be accepted)
- •One semester/term of Java (C++ will be accepted but the student must be knowledgeable in Java)
- •One semester/term of data structures
- •One semester/term of computer organization (e.g., assembly language and machine organization)
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,238 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 151 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 74%
- • Ranking Score: 61.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 151 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 61.9 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (151 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,420), and selectivity (74% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UMBC's Computer Science B.S. is an ABET-accredited program that prepares students for careers in the fast-growing computing industry, offering specialized tracks in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and game development. Graduates are employed by tech industry leaders and government agencies, with many also gaining admission to top graduate programs.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: tech industry leaders, government agencies, defense industry, video game companies
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Towson University
Towson, MD • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,382 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 176 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 61.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 176 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 61.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (176 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,420), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Towson University was the first university in Maryland to offer cybersecurity education and holds NSA recognition as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations since 2012. The program offers ABET-accredited computer science degrees with specialized tracks in cyber operations and software engineering.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •COSC 501 - Fundamentals of Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis
- •COSC 502 - Computer Organization and Assembly Language for Non-CS/CIS Major
- •MATH 263 - Discrete Mathematics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
Program Details
- Credits: 81-83
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $60,840
- Job Placement: 90% secured a job or enrolled in continuing education / graduate school
- Top Employers: Amazon, Booz Allen Hamilton, Johns Hopkins Medicine, National Security Agency (NSA), Northrop Grumman
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Maryland with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Maryland with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Maryland with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Maryland with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Maryland with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville
- You're seeking competitive salaries ($122,420 median)
- You want to work at companies like NSA or Lockheed Martin
- You prefer Maryland's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Maryland's 22)
- You're looking for lower cost of living (consider TX, NC, GA)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Maryland
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Explore cybersecurity programs in Maryland
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Explore software engineering programs in Maryland
Explore computer engineering programs in Maryland
Explore information technology programs in Maryland
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Science in Maryland FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Maryland salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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.