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CIP 11.0202 Computer and Information Sciences

Computer Programming, Specific Applications

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

1,035

2025 · 64 schools

International share

3.6%

37 international students

Bachelor's degrees

225

2.7% international

Master's degrees

51

13.7% international

Overview

Computer Programming, Specific Applications is a specialized field within computer science that focuses on the practical aspects of programming tailored to specific domains or industries. This discipline encompasses the development of software applications that meet unique requirements, often involving the integration of various technologies and tools to solve real-world problems.

Students in this program typically learn a variety of programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++, along with frameworks and libraries that are widely used in specific applications like web development, mobile app development, and data analysis. The curriculum often includes hands-on projects, allowing students to apply their skills in creating functional software solutions.

Additionally, the program may cover topics such as user interface design, software testing, and project management, all of which are critical in developing applications that are not only effective but also user-friendly. The emphasis on specific applications means that students might also explore niche areas like game development, healthcare software, or financial applications, depending on their interests and career goals.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for various roles in the tech industry, including software developer, application programmer, and systems analyst. The demand for skilled programmers in specific applications continues to grow, as businesses seek professionals who can create customized solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. Overall, Computer Programming, Specific Applications offers a robust education that blends technical skills with practical application, making it a vital field in today’s technology-driven world.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2003 to 2025, graduates fell 68% and the international share went from 5.5% to 3.6%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
53.2%
Asian
8.4%
Hispanic
12.8%
Black
12.7%
Other
9.4%
Intl.
3.6%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 64 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
#4 Yale University Connecticut 17 1
#59 Tulane University of Louisiana Louisiana 3 0
#95 Rochester Institute of Technology New York 13 0
#169 DePaul University Illinois 16 1
#276 University of Missouri--St. Louis Missouri 20 0
#308 Maryville University of Saint Louis Missouri 37 0
#332 Jacksonville University Florida 1 0
#382 Lamar University Texas 7 0
— ECPI University Virginia 101 2
— Des Moines Area Community College Iowa 98 1
— Columbus State Community College Ohio 81 7
— College of DuPage Illinois 73 1
— Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City Missouri 67 2
— Houston City College Texas 46 5
— Portland Community College Oregon 44 0
— Indian Hills Community College Iowa 32 2
— Kirkwood Community College Iowa 26 1
— Stark State College Ohio 26 0
— Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Ohio 25 1
— Truckee Meadows Community College Nevada 21 1
— Iowa Western Community College Iowa 17 0
— Lansing Community College Michigan 15 0
— Community College of Rhode Island Rhode Island 15 0
— Northwest Mississippi Community College Mississippi 13 0
— North Seattle College Washington 13 1
— Capella University Minnesota 13 0
— Hennepin Technical College Minnesota 12 0
— Lone Star College System Texas 11 0
— Danville Area Community College Illinois 8 0
— Northeast Iowa Community College Iowa 8 0
— Hinds Community College Mississippi 8 0
— Siena University New York 8 2
— Holy Family University Pennsylvania 8 0
— Lehigh Carbon Community College Pennsylvania 8 0
— Springfield Technical Community College Massachusetts 7 0
— Mott Community College Michigan 7 0
— Clark State College Ohio 7 1
— Marion Technical College Ohio 6 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Software Developers 1,687,890 $71.20 $148,100
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers 186,740 $53.60 $111,490
Computer Programmers 92,230 $50.56 $105,170

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.