Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Michigan 2025
University of Michigan
Top-ranked public CS program with 95% graduation rate, world-class research facilities, and direct pipeline to automotive tech and Silicon Valley
Michigan State University
Strong engineering focus with excellent cybersecurity program and partnerships with Michigan's automotive industry
Wayne State University
Urban campus in downtown Detroit with strong industry connections and focus on practical software engineering skills
- 1.Michigan has 35+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across public universities and private colleges (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Michigan Ann Arbor ranks #1 in Michigan with 95% graduation rate and world-class research opportunities
- 3.Michigan in-state tuition averages $14,500 annually—significantly lower than national private school averages
- 4.Michigan software developers earn median $98,540 annually—competitive with national averages (BLS Michigan OEWS 2024)
- 5.Detroit's tech renaissance creates 45,000+ software developer jobs, with Ford, GM, and Quicken Loans leading hiring
Computer Science Education in Michigan
Michigan offers diverse computer science programs across three major university systems: the University of Michigan campuses, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University. The state provides excellent value with strong public institutions offering world-class education at affordable in-state tuition rates.
For nationwide comparisons, review our national CS bachelor's rankings. Students considering affordability should explore our most affordable CS programs guide. Career-focused students can review Michigan-specific data in our software engineer salary guide.
Michigan's tech sector is experiencing significant growth, particularly in Detroit's downtown core where companies like Quicken Loans, StockX, and automotive tech firms are driving innovation. The state's traditional automotive industry is also transforming into a tech-forward sector, creating opportunities in AI/ML engineering and autonomous vehicle development.
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Michigan May 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS gr2023
Class size and accessibility from IPEDS ef2023
Michigan-specific salaries from BLS OEWS
Acceptance rate indicating program rigor
Michigan Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Michigan | Ann Arbor | Public | $16,178 | 95% | 15:1 | 96.8 |
| 2 | Michigan State University | East Lansing | Public | $15,555 | 82% | 17:1 | 88.4 |
| 3 | Wayne State University | Detroit | Public | $13,659 | 62% | 23:1 | 82.1 |
| 4 | Michigan Technological University | Houghton | Public | $18,592 | 73% | 13:1 | 81.5 |
| 5 | Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo | Public | $14,523 | 59% | 19:1 | 79.8 |
| 6 | University of Michigan-Dearborn | Dearborn | Public | $13,948 | 55% | 18:1 | 78.2 |
| 7 | Calvin University | Grand Rapids | Private | $38,990 | 81% | 12:1 | 77.6 |
| 8 | Central Michigan University | Mount Pleasant | Public | $13,560 | 59% | 20:1 | 76.9 |
| 9 | Eastern Michigan University | Ypsilanti | Public | $14,500 | 52% | 18:1 | 75.1 |
| 10 | Grand Valley State University | Allendale | Public | $13,162 | 69% | 17:1 | 74.8 |
| 11 | Oakland University | Rochester | Public | $14,842 | 58% | 21:1 | 73.5 |
| 12 | Northern Michigan University | Marquette | Public | $11,678 | 56% | 20:1 | 72.2 |
| 13 | University of Michigan-Flint | Flint | Public | $12,336 | 45% | 16:1 | 71.8 |
| 14 | Kettering University | Flint | Private | $45,720 | 69% | 14:1 | 71.2 |
| 15 | Baker College | Flint | Private | $11,700 | 35% | 16:1 | 68.9 |
| 16 | Ferris State University | Big Rapids | Public | $12,840 | 51% | 16:1 | 68.4 |
| 17 | Saginaw Valley State University | University Center | Public | $10,212 | 48% | 19:1 | 67.8 |
| 18 | Lake Superior State University | Sault Ste. Marie | Public | $12,354 | 44% | 14:1 | 66.5 |
| 19 | Andrews University | Berrien Springs | Private | $30,470 | 62% | 10:1 | 66.1 |
| 20 | Davenport University | Grand Rapids | Private | $21,450 | 41% | 14:1 | 64.8 |
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI • University
Program Highlights
- • Home to the Michigan Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
- • Partnerships with Ford, GM, and other automotive tech leaders
- • 98% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
Program Strengths
- World-class research in AI, robotics, and systems with $50M+ annual funding
- 95% graduation rate—highest in Michigan and among top nationally
- Average starting salaries of $105,000 with top students reaching $150,000+
- Strong alumni network at Google, Microsoft, Apple, and automotive tech companies
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
Why Ranked #1
Consistently ranked among the top 10 public computer science programs nationally, with exceptional faculty research, comprehensive curriculum, and outstanding career outcomes.
Student Reviews
"The research opportunities at Michigan are incredible. I worked on autonomous vehicle projects as an undergraduate and landed a job at Waymo straight after graduation."
— Recent CS graduate
"Professors are accessible and genuinely invested in student success. The career services team helped me negotiate a $120K starting offer."
— Class of 2024
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI • University
Program Highlights
- • 82% graduation rate with strong retention programs
- • Average starting salaries of $85,000 in Michigan market
- • Active partnerships with Quicken Loans, Ford, and state government
Program Strengths
- Top-ranked cybersecurity program with NSA/DHS designation
- Strong connections to Michigan automotive and manufacturing industries
- Comprehensive co-op program with guaranteed industry experience
- Research strengths in machine learning, cybersecurity, and data science
- Affordable tuition with excellent value proposition
Why Ranked #2
Strong engineering-focused computer science program with excellent cybersecurity specialization and robust industry partnerships throughout Michigan.
Student Reviews
"The cybersecurity focus at MSU is outstanding. I got hands-on experience with real security challenges and multiple job offers before graduating."
— Cybersecurity graduate
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI • University
Program Highlights
- • Direct access to Detroit's 45,000+ tech jobs
- • Partnerships with Quicken Loans, StockX, and automotive tech companies
- • Growing alumni network in Detroit's startup ecosystem
Program Strengths
- Prime location in Detroit's emerging tech corridor
- Strong industry connections with local startups and Fortune 500 companies
- Focus on practical software engineering and system design
- Diverse student body reflecting Detroit's multicultural environment
- Affordable tuition with excellent financial aid packages
Why Ranked #3
Urban location in downtown Detroit provides unique access to the city's growing tech sector and automotive innovation hub.
Michigan University Systems Overview
Michigan's higher education landscape centers on three major public university systems, each offering distinct advantages for computer science students.
The University of Michigan system includes the flagship Ann Arbor campus, along with campuses in Dearborn and Flint. Ann Arbor offers the state's premier CS program with world-class research opportunities, while Dearborn and Flint provide more affordable alternatives with strong regional industry connections.
Michigan State University in East Lansing combines strong engineering focus with excellent research opportunities. The program particularly excels in cybersecurity and has earned NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation.
Wayne State University anchors Detroit's urban educational landscape, providing direct access to the city's growing tech sector. Students benefit from proximity to automotive innovation centers and emerging fintech companies.
Michigan Technological University in Houghton offers a unique small-town environment with strong engineering culture and excellent job placement rates in technical roles.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications for automotive, healthcare, and technology companies throughout Michigan.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze large datasets to drive business decisions at automotive manufacturers, healthcare systems, and financial services companies.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect critical infrastructure and automotive systems from cyber threats at government agencies and private companies.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1221Develop autonomous vehicle systems and intelligent manufacturing solutions for Michigan's automotive industry leaders.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244Streamline software deployment and infrastructure management for growing tech companies and automotive firms.
Computer Science Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Michigan CS Program Cost Comparison
| Factor | Public In-State | Public Out-of-State | Private |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $14,500 | $35,200 | $32,800 |
| Room & Board | $11,800 | $11,800 | $12,500 |
| Total Annual Cost | $26,300 | $47,000 | $45,300 |
| 4-Year Total | $105,200 | $188,000 | $181,200 |
| Average Class Size | 45 students | 45 students | 25 students |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 | 18:1 | 13:1 |
| Research Opportunities | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
Which Should You Choose?
- Affordable, high-quality public education at in-state tuition rates
- Access to automotive industry innovation and emerging tech sectors
- Strong alumni networks at Ford, GM, Quicken Loans, and national tech companies
- Diverse program options from research-focused to career-oriented
- Growing job market in Detroit's revitalized tech scene
- Immediate access to Silicon Valley tech giants and venture capital
- Year-round warm weather and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Maximum earning potential in high-cost, high-salary markets
- Extensive startup ecosystem and entrepreneurial culture
- International tech hub with global company headquarters
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan CS Programs
Related Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing official higher education statistics including graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
Official employment and wage data for Michigan software developers and computer occupations
Research and development expenditure data for university computer science departments
Graduate outcome data and salary information from individual university career centers
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.