Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Massachusetts 2025
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
World-renowned technology leadership with revolutionary research in AI, quantum computing, and systems architecture
Harvard University
Elite computer science and technology programs with unparalleled industry connections and venture capital access
Northeastern University
Industry-leading co-op program with guaranteed paid work experience at Boston's top tech companies
- 1.Massachusetts has 20+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs, with Boston emerging as the Hub of tech innovation
- 2.MIT ranks #1 in the state with 96% graduation rate and revolutionary technology research programs
- 3.IT professionals in Massachusetts earn median $112,480 annually—15% above the national average (BLS Massachusetts 2024)
- 4.Boston tech ecosystem includes over 7,500 technology companies from startups to Fortune 500 headquarters
- 5.Major employers include Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Wayfair, HubSpot, and Akamai Technologies
Information Technology Education in Massachusetts
Massachusetts stands as one of the most innovative technology education destinations in the United States, combining world-class research universities with a thriving tech ecosystem. From MIT's cutting-edge research laboratories to Northeastern's industry-focused co-op programs, the state offers diverse pathways for aspiring IT professionals.
Boston has emerged as a major technology hub, ranking among the top 5 tech cities nationally. The Greater Boston area hosts over 7,500 technology companies, creating abundant internship and career opportunities for IT graduates. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national IT bachelor's rankings. Students interested in cost considerations should review our most affordable IT programs guide.
The state's technology sector spans multiple industries, from biotech and fintech to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. This diversity provides IT graduates with varied career paths, whether in traditional enterprise IT, emerging technologies, or specialized sectors like healthcare informatics and financial technology.
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Massachusetts May 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Class size and accessibility to professors
Massachusetts-specific salaries from BLS OEWS
Acceptance rate indicating program rigor
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Cambridge | Private | $59,750 | 96% | 3:1 | 98.5 |
| 2 | Harvard University | Cambridge | Private | $56,550 | 97% | 6:1 | 96.2 |
| 3 | Northeastern University | Boston | Private | $59,100 | 90% | 14:1 | 94.8 |
| 4 | Boston University | Boston | Private | $61,050 | 88% | 10:1 | 92.1 |
| 5 | University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst | Public | $16,952 | 83% | 17:1 | 89.7 |
| 6 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester | Private | $56,550 | 89% | 13:1 | 88.9 |
| 7 | Tufts University | Medford | Private | $63,804 | 93% | 9:1 | 87.4 |
| 8 | Bentley University | Waltham | Private | $54,532 | 87% | 11:1 | 85.6 |
| 9 | University of Massachusetts Boston | Boston | Public | $15,596 | 67% | 16:1 | 83.2 |
| 10 | Suffolk University | Boston | Private | $41,980 | 65% | 13:1 | 81.8 |
| 11 | Emerson College | Boston | Private | $50,880 | 82% | 13:1 | 80.5 |
| 12 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill | Private | $62,950 | 94% | 11:1 | 79.3 |
| 13 | University of Massachusetts Lowell | Lowell | Public | $16,610 | 69% | 18:1 | 78.1 |
| 14 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater | Public | $10,732 | 71% | 19:1 | 76.9 |
| 15 | Framingham State University | Framingham | Public | $10,950 | 69% | 16:1 | 75.2 |
| 16 | Salem State University | Salem | Public | $10,776 | 58% | 17:1 | 73.8 |
| 17 | Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg | Public | $10,950 | 62% | 16:1 | 72.4 |
| 18 | Western New England University | Springfield | Private | $41,784 | 70% | 13:1 | 71.1 |
| 19 | Springfield College | Springfield | Private | $41,445 | 73% | 12:1 | 69.7 |
| 20 | Westfield State University | Westfield | Public | $10,742 | 65% | 18:1 | 68.3 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA • University
Program Highlights
- • Home to breakthrough research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum computing
- • Student-faculty ratio of 3:1 ensuring personalized attention and mentorship
- • Access to MIT's Innovation Initiative and entrepreneurship programs
- • Regular guest lectures and seminars by technology industry leaders
Program Strengths
- World-class faculty including Turing Award winners and technology pioneers
- State-of-the-art facilities including quantum computing and AI research labs
- Extensive industry partnerships with Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and IBM
- 96% graduation rate with average starting salaries exceeding $130,000
- Strong alumni network including founders of major technology companies
Why Ranked #1
MIT leads Massachusetts IT programs through its revolutionary approach to technology education, combining theoretical foundations with cutting-edge research. The institution's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) represents the largest research laboratory at MIT and one of the world's most important centers for information technology and computer science research.
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA • University
Program Highlights
- • Integration with Harvard Business School for entrepreneurship opportunities
- • Research collaborations with leading technology companies
- • Access to Harvard's extensive alumni network in technology and finance
- • State-of-the-art Maxwell Dworkin Laboratory for computer science
Program Strengths
- Interdisciplinary approach combining CS, applied mathematics, and engineering
- Access to Harvard Innovation Labs and venture capital networks
- Small class sizes with 6:1 student-faculty ratio
- 97% graduation rate with exceptional career placement records
- Strong emphasis on both technical skills and leadership development
Why Ranked #2
Harvard's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers exceptional information technology education within one of the world's most prestigious academic environments. The program benefits from Harvard's extensive resources, world-renowned faculty, and unparalleled industry connections throughout the Boston tech ecosystem.
Northeastern University
Boston, MA • University
Program Highlights
- • Students earn competitive salaries during co-op assignments
- • Co-op positions often lead to full-time job offers upon graduation
- • Global co-op opportunities in technology hubs worldwide
- • Strong alumni network in Boston's thriving technology sector
Program Strengths
- Mandatory co-op program with guaranteed paid work experience
- Strong industry partnerships with Amazon, Google, Wayfair, and HubSpot
- Focus on emerging technologies including cybersecurity and data analytics
- 90% graduation rate with 95% job placement within 6 months
- Modern facilities including new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex
Why Ranked #3
Northeastern's IT program distinguishes itself through its innovative co-operative education model, providing students with 18 months of paid professional experience before graduation. This practical approach, combined with strong academic foundations, produces graduates who are immediately productive in professional environments.
Massachusetts University Systems and IT Education
Massachusetts offers diverse pathways for IT education through its world-class private universities and comprehensive public university system. The state's unique combination of research universities, liberal arts colleges, and state universities provides options for every student profile and budget.
Private Research Universities lead Massachusetts technology education, with institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern setting global standards for innovation and research. These universities offer access to cutting-edge facilities, renowned faculty, and extensive industry partnerships, though at premium tuition rates.
University of Massachusetts System provides high-quality public education across five campuses. UMass Amherst offers the flagship computer science and IT programs with strong research opportunities. UMass Boston serves the urban market with practical, career-focused programs, while UMass Lowell emphasizes engineering and technology applications.
State Universities including Bridgewater State, Framingham State, and Salem State offer affordable IT education with smaller class sizes and strong regional employer connections. These programs focus on practical skills and career preparation, making them excellent choices for students seeking immediate employment after graduation.
Career Paths
Design, develop, and maintain software applications across various industries including healthcare, finance, and biotech
Analyze complex data sets to drive business decisions in Massachusetts' thriving biotech and financial services sectors
Protect organizational systems and data with growing demand in healthcare, government, and financial services
Streamline development and operations processes for Boston's numerous SaaS companies and startups
Develop artificial intelligence solutions for industries ranging from autonomous vehicles to medical devices
IT Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
| Factor | Public In-State | Public Out-of-State | Private |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $13,742 | $32,148 | $52,890 |
| Room & Board | $14,250 | $14,250 | $16,840 |
| Total Annual Cost | $27,992 | $46,398 | $69,730 |
| 4-Year Total | $111,968 | $185,592 | $278,920 |
| Financial Aid Available | State & Federal | Federal Only | Institutional Aid |
| Class Sizes | Moderate (16-19:1) | Moderate (16-19:1) | Small (9-14:1) |
| Research Opportunities | Good | Good | Excellent |
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to world-class research universities and cutting-edge technology programs
- Proximity to Boston's thriving tech ecosystem with 7,500+ technology companies
- Strong alumni networks at major technology companies and startups
- Opportunities in specialized sectors like biotech, fintech, and healthcare IT
- Access to venture capital and entrepreneurship opportunities
- Higher starting salaries that offset the higher cost of living
- Lower cost of living and more affordable tuition options
- Warmer climate and different lifestyle preferences
- Specific industry focuses like gaming (California) or aerospace (Texas)
- Different cultural environments or geographic preferences
- State residency benefits in your home state
- Specific program specializations not available in Massachusetts
Massachusetts IT Programs FAQ
Related IT Program Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data
State-specific salary and employment data
State technology industry analysis and employment trends
University research expenditure data
Post-graduation earnings and institutional performance
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.