Top Computer Science Degree Programs In Michigan
Thinking about a career in computer science puts you at the edge of Michigan’s growing tech landscape, where industries from automotive to healthcare rely on skilled professionals to drive innovation. An online computer science degree gives you the tools to build software, analyze data, or secure networks while balancing work and personal commitments—no need to pause your life for a classroom. With Michigan’s tech sector expanding, employers like Ford, General Motors, and Rocket Companies actively seek talent with expertise in programming, AI, and cybersecurity, offering average salaries ranging from $85,000 for software developers to over $120,000 for specialized roles. The state’s job growth in tech outpaces the national average, creating steady demand across metro Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor.
You’ll gain hands-on experience through virtual labs and collaborative projects, preparing you to contribute immediately in roles from cloud architecture to machine learning engineering. Michigan’s cost of living remains lower than coastal tech hubs, meaning your earning potential stretches further while you work for leading employers or innovative startups. Whether you’re aiming to shift into tech or advance within your current field, an online program lets you align your education with employer needs—without relocating. Explore options that fit your goals, and take the next step toward designing solutions that shape industries central to Michigan’s economy.
Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Michigan
Below are the top-ranked Online Computer Science programs in Michigan, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
Key Highlights
- This Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program requires 120 credit hours.
- The program focuses on programming languages, data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, application security, and artificial intelligence.
- Students participate in a year-long senior project to solve real-world computing problems.
- A 150-hour work experience is a program requirement.
- The program offers a concentration in Computer Programming.
- Skills gained include debugging and software development.
- The program is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Computer Programming at Baker College is a 4-year, 120-credit-hour program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in the rapidly evolving field of computer science. The program focuses on programming languages, data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, application security, and artificial intelligence. Students engage in a year-long senior project to solve real-world computing problems and complete a 150-hour work experience. Graduates are prepared for careers in various industries or further education in advanced degree programs.
Program Features
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Concentrations: Computer Programming
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Programming languages, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, application security, artificial intelligence, problem-solving, software development, debugging
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $12,460/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,460/year
Sample Courses
Emerging Programming Languages, Computer Architecture, Data Structures and Algorithms, Senior Project I, Systems Development Methods
Davenport University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Key Highlights
- This Computer Science program offers specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Gaming and Simulations, and Computer Theory and Algorithms.
- The program emphasizes software development and programming, with math courses specific to computer science.
- Students gain skills in software engineering, database design, data communications, and networking.
- Most courses are available 100% online, excluding the gaming specialty, which requires hands-on lab work.
- The program qualifies for the Employment Guarantee.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Davenport University offers students a customizable path with specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Gaming and Simulations, and Computer Theory and Algorithms. The program emphasizes software development and programming, featuring math courses specific to computer science. Most courses are available 100% online through Davenport's Global Campus (excluding the gaming specialty, which requires hands-on lab work). Students can also take courses on the Grand Rapids campus. The program qualifies for the Employment Guarantee.
Program Features
- Concentrations: Artificial Intelligence, Gaming and Simulations, Computer Theory and Algorithms
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Software development, programming, database design, AI, software engineering, operating systems, data communications, networking
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $22,272/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $22,272/year
Sample Courses
Database Design, Intro to Programming, Data Communications and Networks, AI, Software Engineering...
Why Get an Online Computer Science Degree in Michigan?
Choosing an online computer science degree in Michigan positions you to capitalize on the state’s accelerating tech sector, with software developer roles projected to grow by 23% through 2030—a rate nearly matching national growth but concentrated in high-impact industries like automotive innovation and healthcare IT. According to the Michigan Employment Trends report, this expansion will create nearly 4,000 annual job openings statewide, offering consistent opportunities to enter roles in cloud computing, AI, or cybersecurity. Employers across metro Detroit’s mobility sector, Ann Arbor’s startup ecosystem, and Grand Rapids’ health tech corridor prioritize candidates who can adapt to emerging tools, making an online degree’s flexible, project-based curriculum ideal for staying current with industry demands.
Michigan’s lower cost of living means your salary stretches further compared to coastal tech hubs, even as remote work options let you compete for roles at national companies. Local employers like automotive suppliers and fintech firms increasingly partner with online programs for talent pipelines, giving you direct access to internships or mentorship opportunities without relocating. Networking through regional groups like Detroit’s TechTown or Ann Arbor SPARK connects you to employers scaling electric vehicle software and smart manufacturing solutions, areas where Michigan leads nationally.
With salaries for specialized roles like machine learning engineers or DevOps architects rising faster than the state average, earning your degree online allows you to build expertise while gaining experience through part-time roles or freelance projects. The combination of affordability, strategic industry partnerships, and concentrated job growth makes Michigan a practical choice for building a tech career that aligns with long-term economic trends. Start exploring programs that integrate real-world projects in autonomous systems or medical data analytics—skills that position you to fill critical roles as the state’s tech workforce evolves.
Where Can You Work After Graduating in Michigan?
After earning your computer science degree in Michigan, you’ll find strong opportunities with employers ranging from automotive giants to innovative tech firms. Ford Motor Company stands out as a major employer for software engineers, particularly in automotive technology and connected vehicle systems. With over 10,000 employees in Michigan, Ford frequently hires for roles in embedded systems, AI-driven mobility solutions, and cloud infrastructure development, as highlighted by Glassdoor’s list of top software engineering employers in Michigan. The company emphasizes collaborative projects across global teams and offers hybrid work models for tech roles.
For mid-sized firms, Michigan Software Labs and Atomic Object provide dynamic environments focused on custom software solutions. Michigan Software Labs, recognized in Indeed’s roundup of state software companies, specializes in mobile app development and cross-platform integrations, often hiring full-stack developers and UX engineers. Atomic Object, known for its agile approach, builds custom applications for healthcare and IoT sectors, with a flat organizational structure that encourages direct client collaboration. Both companies prioritize mentorship programs and flexible work arrangements.
Emerging players like SDLC Corp and Vention, featured in GoodFirms’ directory of Michigan software developers, offer entry points for graduates interested in fintech or enterprise software. SDLC Corp focuses on scalable SaaS products, providing roles in DevOps and cybersecurity, while Vention partners with Fortune 500 companies on digital transformation projects, often recruiting cloud architects and data engineers. These firms emphasize rapid skill development through hands-on projects and sponsor certifications for emerging technologies.
Detroit and Ann Arbor serve as regional tech hubs, hosting startups and established firms alike. Networking through local meetups like Detroit Tech Watch or Ann Arbor SPARK can connect you with growing companies in autonomous vehicles, health tech, and e-commerce. Many Michigan employers actively recruit through platforms like Handshake or LinkedIn, with some offering referral bonuses for new graduates. Checking career pages of firms like Nexient or Plex Systems—both known for remote-friendly policies—can reveal openings in software testing or ERP development. Building a portfolio with Michigan-specific projects, such as automotive data analytics or supply chain automation tools, may strengthen your candidacy for local roles.
What Can You Earn as a Software Engineer in Michigan?
If you're considering a software engineering career in Michigan, current salary data shows competitive earning potential across experience levels. Recent reports from Indeed indicate an average annual salary of $95,788 for software engineers in the state, reflecting compensation for professionals at various stages of their careers. Entry-level roles often start between $70,000 and $90,000 depending on your technical skills and employer location, with metro areas like Detroit or Ann Arbor typically offering higher starting wages.
Mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience can expect salaries aligning closely with ZipRecruiter’s reported average of $128,581 annually, particularly if you specialize in high-demand areas like cloud architecture or machine learning. This figure surpasses the national median for software engineers, partly due to Michigan’s growing tech sectors in automotive innovation and healthcare IT. Roles at established companies or those requiring niche certifications—such as AWS Solutions Architect or Google Cloud Professional—often reach this tier.
Senior engineers with 8+ years of experience frequently earn between $135,000 and $145,000 according to Levels.fyi, especially at tech-forward organizations or Fortune 500 companies with Michigan headquarters. These upper-range salaries often include performance bonuses and stock options not always reflected in base pay figures. Your earning potential increases further if you lead teams or develop expertise in emerging fields like cybersecurity or embedded systems, which are critical for the state’s manufacturing and mobility industries.
While Michigan salaries trend slightly below coastal tech hubs, the lower cost of living balances this difference. Remote work opportunities with national companies also let you earn higher-tier wages while residing in Michigan. Projections suggest steady salary growth as industries like electric vehicle development and fintech expand statewide, creating demand for engineers who combine technical skills with industry-specific knowledge.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to finish an online computer science degree in Michigan?
A: Most online bachelor’s programs take 4 years full-time. Accelerated tracks at schools like Davenport University may let you finish faster, while part-time options could extend to 5-6 years. Check individual program requirements for flexibility.
Q: Are online computer science degrees in Michigan accredited?
A: Yes—reputable programs like Baker College and Davenport University hold accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission. This ensures employers and graduate schools recognize your degree.
Q: What jobs can you get with a computer science degree in Michigan?
A: Graduates work as software developers, cybersecurity analysts, or systems architects. Major employers like Ford and Rocket Companies hire for roles in automotive tech, healthcare IT, and fintech across Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids.
Q: Do Michigan employers accept online degrees from in-state schools?
A: Accredited online degrees from Michigan schools are widely accepted. Employers like GM and tech startups actively recruit from local programs, especially those with industry partnerships.
Q: Can you specialize in areas like AI or gaming with these programs?
A: Some programs offer concentrations—Baker College’s Computer Programming focus builds coding skills applicable to gaming. While AI specializations may require graduate study, core courses often include related topics.
Q: Is work experience required during the degree program?
A: Some programs integrate internships or capstone projects. Davenport University’s curriculum emphasizes practical skills, though specific work requirements vary by school.
Q: What math skills do you need for these computer science programs?
A: Expect to take calculus, discrete mathematics, and statistics. Strong algebra skills are essential for courses in algorithms and data structures.
Q: How do online labs or projects work for gaming specializations?
A: Programs use virtual labs with cloud-based tools or simulation software. For gaming, you might develop projects using engines like Unity through remote collaboration platforms.