CSUMB’s online computer science program ranked No. 7 nationally

By Mark Muckenfuss

Cal State Monterey Bay’s online Computer Science program has been ranked No. 7 in the nation by TechGuide, an online magazine and podcast, in its annual list of the Top 25 online computer science bachelor-degree programs. 

“Last year we were No.19 and this year we jumped to No. 7,” said Professor Bude Su, chair of the School of Computing and Design. “I think it helps the program because it's widely announced. If you use a search engine to look for online computer science programs, you can find this.”

Andrew Lawson, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said the computer science program is an example of how CSUMB addresses student needs. 

"At Cal State Monterey Bay we are committed to providing quality degree programs in modalities that work for our students,” Lawson said, “and our online computer science program provides flexibility for students to earn a quality degree from our university no matter where they reside."

TechGuide’s criteria in determining the ranking include “tuition affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, admission and graduation rates and alumni outcomes,” according to its announcement. 

Su said CSUMB scores well in all those categories. CSUMB had the lowest tuition cost among the top 10 schools on the list. And, Su said, the program has kept its class sizes small by limiting the student cohorts it admits three times per year to 40. 

“We think it's ideal to have a smaller cohort so we can devote more customized attention to our students,” Su said, adding that only about one-third of applicants are admitted. 

Among those students are some who might not normally make the cut, but who have shown an ability to overcome challenges such as coming from underserved populations.

“We want to make sure we are adding the maximum possible value to their future careers,” she said. “This is part of the upward mobility that we are engaged in. It’s one of the factors I think that contributes to our upward mobility ranking.”

As a university, CSUMB was ranked No. 1 among regional universities in the western United States in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 annual college rankings. 

Su said CSUMB is one of only a few universities in California offering an entirely online degree. Keeping that degree meaningful in an ever-changing industry is a challenge, she said. To keep abreast of the rapid developments in the tech world, the faculty has biweekly curriculum meetings. 

“I have the most hardworking and diligent faculty on campus,” Su said. 

That dedication and quality are catching the attention of publications such as TechGuide. People in the program appreciate the recognition. 

“We had our graduation reception last Friday afternoon,” Su said. “I told everyone about the ranking, and they all applauded. They were all happy.”