by our College Data Analytics TeamComputer 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. Continue reading for the important information every computer & information sciences major should know — including career paths, salary data, the skills you will develop, and the best colleges offering computer & information sciences programs.
Across the country, computer & information sciences draws strong interest, with 332,216 degrees awarded annually.
Our 2026 Best Computer & Information Sciences Schools ranking analyzes these 2,488 schools to determine the best overall colleges for computer & information sciences students. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of computer & information sciences programs later in this article.
Programs in Computer & Information Sciences build a specific mix of skills, knowledge, and abilities — derived from O*NET surveys of workers in the occupations computer & information sciences graduates commonly enter.
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.
The skill set emphasized by a computer & information sciences program reflects the day-to-day work of related occupations:
According to O*NET, a computer & information sciences major emphasizes the following knowledge areas:
There are several computer & information sciences degree levels. The table below shows the typical length of the most common levels, and how many graduates earn each one.
| Degree | Typical Program Length | Graduates Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Varies | 15,323 |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | 40,789 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | 126,500 |
| Master’s Degree | 1-3 years | 142,181 |
| Doctorate | At least 4 years | 3,248 |
People currently working in careers related to computer & information sciences tend to have obtained the following education levels.
| 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% |
View the chart below to get an idea of what level of education most of those in computer & information sciences careers hold.
Source: ONET Online education / training / experience requirements.*
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.
A degree in computer & information sciences can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are some of the most common occupations related to computer & information sciences.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to computer & information sciences.
| 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% |
Federal data tracks median earnings of computer & information sciences graduates 1, 4, and 5 years after completion. These numbers tend to grow as graduates gain experience.
| Years Out | Median Earnings |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $66,464 |
| 4 years | $68,066 |
| 5 years | $77,173 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, field-of-study earnings tracker.
Salaries for computer & information sciences graduates vary widely by occupation. The following table shows the top highest-paying careers computer & information sciences grads often go into.
| 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 |
With 2,488 different computer & information sciences programs to choose from, finding the best fit can be a challenge. We have analyzed these schools to produce unbiased computer & information sciences school rankings to help you.
Those considering computer & information sciences, you may also want to explore other closely related fields of study within the same broad area.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General | 118,381 |
| Computer Science | 79,857 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management | 57,935 |
| Information Science/Studies | 22,425 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications | 15,581 |
| Computer Programming | 15,336 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications | 15,034 |
| Computer Systems Analysis | 3,034 |
| Data Processing | 2,131 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other | 2,066 |
| Data Entry/Microcomputer Applications | 436 |
More about our data sources and methodologies.
