Guide to Computer Science Programs in Alabama
Updated August 1, 2023
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Alabama has emerged as a hub for technology and innovation. Pursuing a computer science degree in the state can help graduates connect to the networks related to the robust growth of Alabama's tech industries.
A 2022 report from CompTIA ranked Huntsville, Alabama, among the top cities in the U.S. for tech job growth, which suggests career opportunities for professionals in this field. Whether you're considering a bachelor's or a master's in computer science, Alabama's colleges and universities offer a variety of programs that can help you achieve your career goals.
Use our guide to explore the opportunities this state has to offer for aspiring computer science students.
Alabama at a Glance
- Number of Higher Learning Institutions: 60
- Percentage of Workforce in Tech: 4.1%
- Economic Impact of Tech Industry: $10 billion
- Average Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations, 2022: $92,440
Sources: Cyberstates™, NCES, OEWS
Why Get a Degree for Computer Science in Alabama?
Tuition costs at Alabama institutions are lower-than-average, especially for in-state learners, which means earning a degree in this state can offer a positive return on investment. Students can attend institutions in large cities and rural environments, and online programs offer flexible learning opportunities.
Alabama's history with tech innovation dates back to the space race, which still influences its commitment to science and technology today. If you want a career in the state post-graduation, attending a school in Alabama can provide networking opportunities.
Education Statistics for Alabama
| Higher Education Statistics | Alabama Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Year Colleges | 36 | 2,520 |
| Two-Year Colleges | 24 | 1,216 |
| Students Enrolled in Distance Education, 2021 | 57.9% | 59% |
Sources: NCES
Alabama has a robust higher education system, boasting 36 four-year institutions and 26 two-year schools, including Auburn University, the University of Alabama, and Alabama State University.
Accreditation for Alabama Schools
Choosing an accredited institution is vital to ensure that your education meets recognized standards of academic excellence. Institutional accreditation means that an authorized agency has examined and endorsed a school to ensure it meets benchmarks for student outcomes and academic rigor. Many Alabama colleges and universities hold institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
In addition to institutional accreditation, schools can pursue programmatic accreditation. This optional process verifies whether specific programs prepare enrollees for careers in the field. Computer science degrees can hold accreditation from agencies like ABET.
Considerations for a Computer Science Degree in Alabama
Choosing a computer science degree in Alabama requires several considerations. In addition to school size, location, and available programs, prospective students should evaluate which degree modality best matches their learning style. Alabama schools offer degrees online, in person, and through hybrid models.
According to 2021 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, 29% of college students in Alabama were enrolled exclusively in distance education and 28.9% engaged in both distance and in-person learning, while 42.1% opted for traditional classroom settings. Note this data reflects COVID-19 pandemic-related enrollment trends.
Computer Science Concentration Options
Pursuing a computer science concentration can help you specialize your knowledge toward specific subfields of the tech industry. For learners seeking work in Alabama, consider the following specializations to help you qualify for jobs in the state's tech sector:
Cybersecurity
With the growing digital threats in today's world, a concentration in cybersecurity equips students with the skills to protect valuable information and systems. This field is highly relevant in Alabama given the state's growing tech industry and the presence of several major corporations.
Data Science
A concentration in data science can help you find jobs leveraging big data for corporations and government agencies. This concentration is relevant in Alabama because of the state's focus on technological advancement and data-driven decision making across sectors.
Software Engineering
Software engineering covers the design, development, and maintenance of software systems — a skill set with high demand in Alabama's thriving tech sector.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Paying for Your Computer Science Degree
Earning a computer science degree can be costly, though the average tuition rates for Alabama's out-of-state and private four-year schools are lower than the corresponding national averages.
To help defray educational expenses, students should investigate financial aid opportunities. Funding sources like scholarships, fellowships, and grants do not require repayment, though loans require repayment with interest.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
As with other states, Alabama public institutions charge out-of-state enrollees higher tuition than in-state students. However, for online degrees at some public colleges and universities, all learners pay in-state tuition regardless of residency status.
Alabama is also a member of the Southern Regional Education Board's Academic Common Market. This reciprocity agreement offers reduced tuition at participating institutions for students from states within the marketplace, which can help prospective enrollees save money as they work toward their degree.
Alabama's Cost of Living
Students should also consider the cost of living in Alabama when budgeting for their education. According to World Population Review, which scores states against a national baseline of 100, Alabama's cost of living is 88.8, lower than the nationwide average. This indicates that expenses like groceries and rent tend to be less expensive than in other states, meaning Alabama may be a more affordable place to live while earning a degree.
Where to Get In-Person or Online CS Degrees in Alabama
There are many educational opportunities in Alabama, including numerous institutions offering online and on-campus computer science programs. These include:
- Auburn University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- The University of Alabama - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- University of Alabama at Birmingham - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Alabama State University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- The University of South Alabama - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- University of North Alabama - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Troy University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Tuskegee University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Jacksonville State University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Alabama A&M University - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Faulkner University - Associate of Science in Computer Science and Information Science
Explore Our Rankings for Top Computer Science Programs
Careers for Computer Science Graduates in Alabama
As technology further integrates into daily life, the demand for tech professionals continues to rise. Even major non-tech industries in Alabama like aerospace, manufacturing, and healthcare need workers with computer science degrees.
Projections Central data projects job growth for many computer science roles in Alabama. Employment hubs within the state include large cities like Huntsville, Birmingham, and Mobile.
Below, we explore growth and salary data for several tech careers.
Select Computer Science Careers in Alabama
These professionals are the architects of computer software. They design and develop applications that facilitate tasks on computer systems or engineer the core digital infrastructures that power devices and oversee networks.
- 2022 Average Salary for Software Developers in Alabama: $107,870
- Job Outlook in Alabama (2020-30): +19.8%
These specialists devise and implement security protocols to safeguard organizations' digital networks and systems, ensuring protection against cyberthreats.
- 2022 Average Salary for Information Security Analysts in Alabama: $107,280
- Job Outlook in Alabama (2018-28): +32.1%
These professionals are on the forefront of inventing new approaches in computing technology and adapting existing tech for diverse applications.
- 2022 Average Salary for Computer and Information Research Scientists in Alabama: $101,190
- Job Outlook in Alabama (2018-28): +20%
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Computer Science Employers in Alabama
ADTRAN: ADTRAN provides networking and communications equipment, enabling voice, data, and video communications across network infrastructures. The company employs computer science graduates in fields like software development, network engineering, and cybersecurity.
Regions Financial Corporation: Regions Financial Corporation is focused on digital transformation. Professionals with tech skills can find opportunities in data analytics, information security, and software development at this company.
Command Alkon: Command Alkon is a software company that provides solutions for construction material suppliers. It uses technology to improve efficiency, productivity, and collaboration in the heavy work industry. Computer science graduates can find jobs as software developers, data analysts, and systems managers at this company.
Alabama Employment Trends
| Year | State | National |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Programmers | ||
| 2018 Employment | 4,070 | 185,700 |
| 2028 Projected Employment | 3,570 | 167,300 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2018-28 | -12.3% | -9.9% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 4,190 | 482,000 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 4,610 | 534,600 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-30 | +10% | +10.9% |
| Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 1,060 | 199,400 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 1,160 | 224,900 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +9.4% | +12.8% |
Source: Projections Central
| Career | Alabama Employment | Alabama Average Annual Wage | National Average Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Web Developers | 1,090 | $56,500 | $87,580 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 4,970 | $83,490 | $97,160 |
| Computer Programmers | 2,390 | $91,450 | $102,790 |
| Database Administrators | 1,740 | $87,090 | $102,530 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 4,880 | $109,060 | $107,530 |
| Information Security Analysts | 2,660 | $107,280 | $119,860 |
| Software Developers | 15,680 | $107,870 | $132,930 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | 790 | $126,810 | $140,830 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 5,150 | $130,000 | $173,670 |
Source: BLS OEWS
The data from the table above about the technology job market in Alabama reveals that these roles offer higher-than-average salaries — in contrast, the average wage for all workers in Alabama was $50,620 in 2022.
Though most computer science-related careers do not pay higher than the national average for these roles, this aligns with Alabama's lower-than-average cost of living. Workers earning salaries below the national average for their job may have higher purchasing power with their wages than their counterparts in more expensive states.
Professional Computer Science Organizations in Alabama
TechBirmingham
A nonprofit organization focused on promoting the tech ecosystem in the Birmingham area, TechBirmingham offers various events, programs, and initiatives designed to foster innovation and tech growth.
The Alabama Technology Foundation
The Alabama Technology Foundation is a nonprofit championing Alabama's STEM fields. The group fosters industry-education partnerships and promotes workforce development to nurture the future generation of STEM professionals.
TechBridge Alabama
TechBridge Alabama, part of national nonprofit TechBridge, offers affordable technology and business expertise to local nonprofits. The organization aims to enhance these nonprofit groups' efficacy through technology consulting and shared services.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
FAQ About Studying Computer Science in Alabama
Can I get a bachelor's in computer science in Alabama?
Yes. Several institutions in Alabama — including Tuskegee University, the University of Alabama, and Auburn University — offer bachelor's degree programs in computer science.
Does Alabama have online computer science degrees?
Yes. Schools such as the University of Alabama, Alabama A&M University, and Faulkner University offer online computer science degrees at various levels.
Can I get a master's in computer science in Alabama?
Yes. Institutions like the University of Alabama and Auburn University offer master's programs in computer science, providing advanced education and research opportunities.
Does the University of Alabama have a computer science degree?
Yes. The University of Alabama offers computer science programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, including on-campus and online options.
Last reviewed July 25, 2023.
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