by our College Data Analytics TeamIn the latest year, 2,505 U.S. colleges awarded 378,215 degrees and certificates in Computer & Information Sciences. Master’s degrees are the most popular award, at 42% of graduates. College Factual ranks 1,782 schools in its 2027 Best Computer & Information Sciences Schools ranking and compares their cost in a Best Value ranking. Graduates earn a median $67,422 one year after completing, rising to $88,552 after four years.
Computer programs, software and networks are used daily to run business operations. We rely heavily on technology to help with everything from scheduling to problem solving to keeping us connected. With a degree in Computer and Information Sciences, you will learn the skills to develop computer software, customize programs, build and maintain networks, and manage information technology projects.
There are a variety of majors to choose from in this field. Students interested in computer systems can major in Computer Information Systems, while those more interested in programming and development can choose a major in Computer Programming. Majors like Information Science, Computer Systems Analysis, Computer Science, Computer Software and Applications, Computer Systems Networking, and Information Technology well prepare students for working with computers and technology in businesses and organizations.
Before diving into specific classes based on your declared area of study, you will take classes in mathematics, computer science, programming, software, robotics, graphics, and more to give you a well-rounded introduction to the world of computers and information technology. These classes will introduce you to Computer and Information Sciences while preparing you for your major's more specialized curriculum.
Studying Computer & Information Sciences covers Computer And Information Sciences And Support Services. Instructional Programs That Focus On The Computer And Information Sciences And Prepare Individuals For Various Occupations In Information Technology And Computer Operations Fields.
Source: IPEDS 2025; College Scorecard July 2026; BLS; O*NET; College Factual rankings 2027. Data as of: July 2026.
Across the country, computer & information sciences draws strong interest, with 378,215 degrees awarded annually. 2,505 colleges award computer & information sciences degrees, an average of 151 graduates per school; the largest program awarded 10,332.
By level, the 378,215 awards include 16,501 certificates, 46,560 associate degrees, 144,741 bachelor’s degrees, 160,409 master’s degrees and 3,891 doctorates.
Women earned 28% of computer & information sciences degrees and certificates in the latest year (105,972 of 378,215). The largest groups of graduates by race and ethnicity are White (121,940) and Hispanic or Latino (49,244), and international students earned 86,006.
College Factual ranks 1,782 schools in its 2027 Best Computer & Information Sciences Schools ranking, including 670 for associate degrees, 971 for bachelor’s degrees, 497 for master’s degrees and 98 for doctorates. It also ranks computer & information sciences schools within 52 states. In all, 2,505 colleges offer computer & information sciences programs; compare them by degree level below or in the Best Value Computer & Information Sciences Colleges ranking, which weighs quality against cost.
The most common computer & information sciences credential is the master’s degree: 160,409 of the 378,215 awarded in the latest year. Jobs related to computer & information sciences call most for Reading Comprehension, Critical Thinking and Active Listening, and for knowledge of Computers and Electronics, English Language and Customer and Personal Service, according to O*NET. The most important abilities are Oral Comprehension, Written Comprehension and Oral Expression.
Those who succeed in the field of Computer and Information Sciences are those with a passion for technology and a desire to learn about the role it plays both in business and everyday life. A background in computer programs and software along with mathematics are a good base for pursuing a degree in Computer and Information Sciences. Students should also be critical thinkers, creative, and have the ability to work in a team and multitask.
Although many students decide to pursue a bachelor's degree, some occupations within this field only require an associate's degree supplemented with relevant work experience. This experience can be through an internship or job in the Computer and Information Sciences field. However, many companies require upper management to obtain a master's degree.
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How long a computer & information sciences degree takes:
| Degree | Typical Program Length | Graduates Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Varies | 16,501 |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | 46,560 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | 144,741 |
| Master’s Degree | 1-3 years | 160,409 |
| Doctorate | At least 4 years | 3,891 |
Bachelor’s degree is the most common level of education among workers in jobs related to computer & information sciences, at 45.9%.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 45.9% |
| Master’s degree | 15.8% |
| Associate’s degree (or other 2-year) | 10.2% |
| Doctoral degree | 9.6% |
| Postsecondary certificate | 6.6% |
| Some college courses | 4.1% |
| Post-baccalaureate certificate | 3.9% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 2.5% |
| Less than a high school diploma | 0.7% |
| Post-master’s certificate | 0.6% |
| First professional degree | 0.2% |
| Post-doctoral training | 0.1% |
Source: O*NET Online.
30 occupations are related to Computer & Information Sciences, with an average median salary of $108,572; the strongest outlook belongs to Software Developers, at 13.5% projected job growth. Typical job titles include Assistant Professor, Faculty Member, Computer Technology Instructor and Instructor.
Computer and Information Science is a quickly growing field. Many companies in a variety of industries are working to improve their computer networks or incorporate new technology into their businesses, creating a high demand for graduates with knowledge of computers, software, and programs. After graduation, you should have no problem finding a job in all different industries.
Whether you are interested in building a robot, putting together a company's computer network, or personalizing software, a degree in the Computer and Information Sciences field will provide you with the skills to work in many exciting industries.
The occupation related to computer & information sciences with the most projected jobs is Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary, at 1,328,652.
| Occupation | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 1,328,652 | -4.2% |
| Computer Programmers | 666,800 | 11.7% |
| Business Intelligence Analysts | 585,851 | 1.3% |
| Information Security Analysts | 583,513 | 12.3% |
| Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | 576,059 | -1.9% |
| Information Security Engineers | 575,902 | -3.8% |
| Web Developers | 564,182 | 4.6% |
| Blockchain Engineers | 556,747 | 5.1% |
Computer & Information Sciences graduates earn a median $67,422 one year after completing their program, $88,552 after four years and $81,278 after five years, according to the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
| Years Out | Median Earnings |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $67,422 |
| 4 years | $88,552 |
| 5 years | $81,278 |
Source: College Scorecard.
The highest-paying occupation related to computer & information sciences is Computer and Information Systems Managers, with a median salary of $175,079.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $175,079 |
| Computer Occupations, All Other | $159,837 |
| Health Informatics Specialists | $156,714 |
| Database Architects | $148,480 |
| Document Management Specialists | $147,490 |
| Business Intelligence Analysts | $143,840 |
| Information Security Engineers | $142,543 |
| Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | $140,795 |
Computer & Information Sciences includes 11 concentrations that together award 378,215 degrees a year; by graduates, the largest are Computer and Information Sciences, General (133,698), Computer Science (90,046) and Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (72,883). Browse the full list of college majors.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General | 133,698 |
| Computer Science | 90,046 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management | 72,883 |
| Information Science/Studies | 23,384 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications | 16,765 |
| Computer Programming | 16,655 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications | 16,354 |
| Computer Systems Analysis | 3,052 |
| Data Processing | 2,593 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other | 2,235 |
| Data Entry/Microcomputer Applications | 550 |
More about our data sources and methodologies.
