Rice University’s Online Master of Computer Science (OMCS) program has risen to #3 in the nation in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings. The program jumped from #10 in 2025 to #3 in 2026 for Online Master's in Information Technology Programs.
This milestone defines the future of high-quality, online, and accessible graduate computer science education.
Just a few years ago, Rice’s online computer science program was steadily climbing the rankings. Today, it stands among the top three programs in the United States.
A National Leader in Online Graduate Computer Science
Launched in 2019, the OMCS program is the first fully online graduate program from the Rice University School of Engineering and Computing, built with a clear mission:
“Deliver a world-class Rice education in a flexible format designed for working professionals.”
The program has broadened access to top-tier graduate education for engineers, developers, analysts, and tech leaders in Houston, Texas, and worldwide.
The rise to #3 reflects:
- Exceptional student engagement
- Distinguished faculty credentials
- Innovative instructional design
- Career outcomes and employer impact
- Robust student support and services
U.S. News evaluates more than 1,600 online degree programs nationwide, applying metrics tailored specifically to online learning environments.
Computer Science Excellence Without Compromise
“Our faculty have worked tirelessly to ensure that the rigor, depth, and academic excellence that define the on-campus Rice experience are fully reflected in our online programs,” said Scott Rixner, program founder and director of professional studies in computer science.
OMCS students study cutting-edge curriculum, from advanced algorithms to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, taught by Rice faculty who are research and industry leaders.
Rice University’s Online Master of Computer Science program prepares graduates for high-paying career opportunities in computer science, with a median salary of $131,490 for computer scientists according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and alumni earning competitive salaries at leading companies such as Amazon, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, IBM, Chevron, and Liongard.
Rice University’s Online Master of Computer Science program prepares graduates for high-paying career opportunities in computer science, with a median salary of $131,490 for computer scientists according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and alumni earning competitive salaries at leading companies such as Amazon, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, IBM, Chevron, and Liongard.
Beyond the degree, Rice equips students with a strong engineering mindset and a respected credential that helps them stand out in a competitive tech job market, unlocking career growth opportunities and empowering them to solve real-world problems and change the world.
The result? Graduates who advance their careers, pivot into new technical domains, and contribute meaningfully to the innovation economy.
Built Online for the Future of Work
Houston is one of the fastest-growing technology and engineering hubs in the country. Rice’s Online Master of Computer Science is designed to meet workforce demand, allowing professionals to continue their careers.
Students benefit from:
- 100% online flexibility for graduate students
- Part time or full time options available
- Small, high-touch learning environments
- Access to Rice’s global alumni network
- Industry-relevant curriculum aligned with emerging technologies
Whether advancing in software engineering, a desire to learn more about artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, or strengthening computational expertise, OMCS graduates leave prepared to lead.
A Testament to Strategic Vision
“This recognition reflects years of collaboration among faculty, instructional designers, student support teams, and university leadership,” said Shawn Miller, Associate Provost for Digital Learning & Strategy. “Our goal has always been to create transformative online experiences rooted in academic excellence.”
Ranked #3. Apply For Free!
Following the announcement, the program is marking the moment with a bold new initiative:
“Ranked #3. Apply For Free!”
For a limited time, all OMCS application fees are waived for Fall 2026. That means for one month, students can apply to one of the nation’s top three online computer science programs — with no application fee.
Fall 2026 Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
This campaign is more than a promotion; it is an invitation.
An invitation to:
- Lock in your plan for Fall 2026
- Join a nationally recognized, top-tier program
- Study computer science through a rigorous, flexible, fully online format
- Invest in your future without the added barrier of an application fee
Rankings reflect excellence. But access matters, too.
“Ranked #3. Apply For Free!” ensures that more aspiring engineers, developers, and technology leaders can take the next step without hesitation. If you’ve been considering applying — or started your application but haven’t submitted — this is your moment.
Start or complete your application today and take advantage of this one-time opportunity before the promotion ends.
Because your future deserves a program ranked at the top.
Students who are interested in taking advantage of this one-time limited offer can start the process by scheduling a visit with an enrollment coach to discuss next steps.
Online Master’s of Computer Science Question & Answers
Question: Why is Rice’s Online Master of Computer Science ranked #3 nationally in 2026? Short answer: U.S. News & World Report evaluated 1,600+ online master’s programs using online-specific metrics, and Rice’s OMCS stood out for exceptional student engagement, distinguished faculty credentials, innovative instructional design, strong career outcomes and employer impact, and robust student support. The program now ranks among the top three in the nation.
Question: What sets the OMCS learning experience apart for working professionals? Short answer: Launched in 2019 as Rice Engineering and Computing’s first fully online graduate program, OMCS delivers a world-class Rice education in a flexible, 100% online format designed so students don’t have to pause their careers. It emphasizes small, high-touch learning environments and comprehensive support services that sustain engagement and success.
Question: What will I study, and who teaches the courses? Short answer: The curriculum spans advanced algorithms, machine learning, AI systems, and software engineering—taught by Rice faculty who are leaders in research and industry collaboration. As program founder Scott Rixner notes, the rigor, depth, and academic excellence of the on-campus experience are fully reflected online.
Question: How does the program connect to industry and support career growth? Short answer: Built for the future of work in a fast-growing tech hub like Houston, OMCS aligns coursework with emerging technologies and provides access to Rice’s global alumni network. Graduates advance within software engineering, transition into AI, or broaden computational expertise—leaving prepared to lead and make measurable employer impact.
Question: What does the “Ranked #3. Apply For Free!” offer include, and how do I get started? Short answer: For one month, Rice is waiving the application fee for Fall 2026 OMCS applicants. The Fall 2026 application deadline is May 1, 2026. To take advantage of this limited-time offer, start or complete your application and schedule a visit with an enrollment coach to discuss next steps.