Top 10 Universities for MS in Computer Science in USA! Computer Science or computing is an integral part of our daily lives. Expertise in computing can solve complex, challenging problems with just a click. Today, all major universities in the world have a full-fledged computer science department that offers a variety of programs.

A degree from the best computer science universities in the USA is an opportunity to learn, grow, and evolve under the guidance of leading experts in the field. Apart from that, the up-to-date courses along with their specializations in domains like Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, etc., attract students around the globe. In this blog, we have discussed a comprehensive list of top computer science universities in the USA, including their rankings, fees, popular programs, and specializations.
Table of Contents
What are Top 10 Computer Science Universities in USA?
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology
- University of Chicago
- University of Pennsylvania
- Yale University
- Columbia University
- John Hopkins University
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- Northwestern University
How to Choose Best Computer Science Universities in USA?
Before diving into the top colleges in the USA for computer science, let us look at the key factors to be kept in mind while choosing your dream university. The fact that you will be investing a lot of time, energy, and money to pursue CS in the USA, it is crucial to do your research before finalizing on any of the CS colleges in the USA. To do so, you may keep the following criteria in mind:
- QS Ranking: The QS World University Rankings speak volumes about universities, their programs, culture, achievements, etc. These rankings offer a fair idea of the overall quality of education and future prospects that you may expect from a specific university or college.
- Subjects: The choice of universities largely depends on the discipline or subject that you want to study. Visit the official university website and check for the subject/course details like curriculum, research opportunities, placements, and other related aspects before making a decision.
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees for computer science colleges in USA for Indian students vary across universities. Along with the course-related details, do also check the studying costs that they charge. After all, cost is a big factor for all study abroad aspirants, and keeping track of it beforehand will help you manage your finances better.
- Location: Who doesn’t want to live in the place of their choice while studying at a foreign university? The location of your university plays a vital role in determining the overall experience of studying abroad. Hence, don’t forget to research the place and surrounding areas of your university to avoid any confusion later.
Top 10 Best Computer Science Universities in USA for International Students
Whether you wish to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science in the USA, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here’s the list of top 10 universities in USA for MS in computer science:
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology
- University of Chicago
- University of Pennsylvania
- Yale University
- Columbia University
- John Hopkins University
- University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
- Northwestern University
Let us now dive deeper into each university one by one:
1. Stanford University
Founded in the year 1965, the Department of Computer Science at Stanford University is part of the School of Engineering. It is a center for research and education at the undergraduate and graduate levels focusing on interdisciplinary programs like Computer Systems Engineering, Symbolic Systems, and Mathematical and Computational Sciences. It is rightly considered to be one of the top universities in the US for computer science.
- Stanford Ranking 2024: 3
- Popular Programs Offered: Bachelors in Computer Science, Masters in Computer Science, PhD in Computer Science
- Specializations/ Research Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Biocomputation, Computer & Network Security, Information Management & Analytics, Human-Computer Interaction
- Average Annual Fee: USD 35,000 (INR 29,09,790) – USD 75,000 (INR 62,36,020)
Average Annual Fee: USD 35,000 (INR 29,09,790) – USD 75,000 (INR 62,36,020)
2. Harvard University
Harvard University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, within the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), is an excellent choice among computer science universities in the USA. It offers PhD and master’s degrees in Computer Science with a focus on various research areas. Harvard emphasizes mathematical techniques for modeling and simulation of complex systems, collaborative software development, and more.
Harvard Ranking 2024: 5
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering
- MS in Computer Science
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Economics and Computer science
- Data-Management Systems
- Computer Graphics
- Computational Linguistics
- Robotics
Average Annual Fee: USD 40,000 (INR 33,27,400) – USD 59,000 (INR 49,07,620)
3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
The Computing + Mathematical Sciences (CMS) Department at Caltech holds a distinguished position among the best colleges for computer science in the USA. It fosters a vibrant community of outstanding students and researchers passionate about science and engineering. Like other top computer science universities in the USA, Caltech prepares students for various professional and entrepreneurial careers through its innovative programs.
Caltech Ranking 2024: Ranking not provided
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelors in Computer Science
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Algorithmic Economics
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Computational Biology
- Graphics and Geometry
- Quantum Information & Computation
Average Annual Fee: USD 56,000 (INR 46,56,060) – USD 60,000 (INR 49,89,680)
4. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago stands out among the top computer science universities in the USA for its unique academic environment that attracts students and faculty from around the world. Here, you can explore all facets of the field, from theoretical foundations to practical applications, and engage in interdisciplinary work at the intersection of computer science and other disciplines.
University of Chicago Ranking 2024: 10
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelors in Computer Science
- Master’s Program in Computer Science (MPCS)
- Master’s in Computational Analysis & Public Policy (MCAPP)
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- AI & Machine Learning
- Data & Databases
- Security & Privacy
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Visual Computing
Average Annual Fee: USD 40,000 (INR 33,26,350) – USD 80,000 (INR 66,54,000)
5. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
The University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Computer and Information Science, housed within the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, boasts a rich history of innovation. As the birthplace of the modern computer, UPenn offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s technology-driven world.
UPenn Ranking 2024: 13
Popular Programs Offered:
- Computer Science BSE
- Computer Science BAS
- Master of Computer and Information Technology
- MSE in Data Science
- MSE in Computer Graphics and Game Technology
- PhD
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Natural Language Processing (Computational Linguistics)
- Robotics
- Computational Biology and Biomedical/Clinical Informatics
- Algorithms and Computational Complexity
Average Annual Fee: USD 40,000 (INR 33,26,350) – USD 80,000 (INR 66,54,000)
6. Yale University
Yale University’s Computer Science Department offers a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education, fostering collaboration across disciplines. With close ties to mathematics, engineering, psychology, linguistics, economics, medicine, and physics, Yale provides students with a holistic learning experience and prepares them for success in the dynamic field of computer science.
Yale Ranking 2024: 18
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- MS in Computer Science
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Architecture
- Computer Graphics
- Operating Systems
- Database Systems
Average Annual Fee: USD 50,000 (INR 41,58,120) – USD 60,000 (INR 49,89,000)
7. Columbia University
Columbia University stands as a beacon of excellence in computer science education, offering a diverse array of programs and research opportunities. With a focus on topics such as artificial intelligence, natural language processing, computational complexity, and network systems, Columbia provides students with the tools they need to become leaders in the field.
Columbia Ranking 2024: 20
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Computer Engineering
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Computational Biology
- Computer Security
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing
- Network Systems
Average Annual Fee: USD 40,000 (INR 33,26,350) – USD 70,000 (INR 58,20,360)
8. John Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University’s Computer Science Department, located within the Whiting School of Engineering, offers a range of programs designed to meet the needs of today’s students. With a focus on areas such as theory and programming languages, information security, robotics, and artificial intelligence, Johns Hopkins prepares graduates to excel in both academia and industry.
John Hopkins Ranking 2024: (Ranking not provided)
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Engineering in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Security Informatics
- PhD in Computer Science
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Theory and Programming Languages
- Information Security
- Robotics, Vision & Graphics
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Information Security
Average Annual Fee: USD 59,000 (INR 49,07,320) – USD 62,000 (INR 51,57,000)
9. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor stands at the forefront of computer science education, offering a vibrant and innovative learning environment. With world-class faculty and students exploring cutting-edge areas such as artificial intelligence, pervasive computing, big data, and machine learning, UM-Ann Arbor prepares graduates to tackle the challenges of the future.
University of Michigan Ranking 2024: (Ranking not provided)
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelors in Computer Science & Engineering
- Masters in Computer Science & Engineering
- PhD in Computer Science & Engineering
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Databases & Data Mining
- Embedded & Mobile Systems
- Human-Computer Interaction
Average Annual Fee: USD 50,000 (INR 41,58,120) – USD 60,000 (INR 49,89,000)
10. Northwestern University
Northwestern University’s computer science program is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research. With collaborations across various disciplines, students and faculty have the opportunity to explore new frontiers in computer science, ranging from systems and networking to artificial intelligence and robotics.
Northwestern Ranking 2024: 27
Popular Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- Master of Science in Computer Science
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering
- PhD in Computer Engineering
Specializations/ Research Areas:
- Systems and Networking
- Security and Privacy
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Vision and Graphics
- Robotics
Average Annual Fee: USD 50,000 (INR 41,58,120) – USD 60,000 (INR 49,89,000)