Key Takeaways
- Spokane Valley students have access to multiple high-quality computer science degrees within a 20-mile radius, including Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University, and Spokane Falls Community College.
- Public university tuition in Washington remains significantly lower than private institutions, with strong ROI due to growing regional tech demand.
- Hybrid and online CS programs now offer flexible pathways for working adults.
- Graduates can pursue roles in software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, and cloud computing across Spokane’s expanding tech and healthcare sectors.
- Choosing the best program depends on accreditation, internships, affordability, and career placement outcomes.
Why Study Computer Science in Spokane Valley Washington?
Spokane Valley sits within one of Eastern Washington’s fastest-growing economic corridors. While it does not host a major standalone university campus inside city limits, it provides immediate access to top-tier computer science programs in nearby Spokane and Cheney.
The Spokane metro area features a growing tech ecosystem supported by healthcare innovation, aerospace manufacturing, financial services, and government contractors. According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, software developers in the Spokane region earn median salaries ranging from $95,000 to $115,000 annually depending on specialization and experience.
Combined with Washington’s strong higher education infrastructure and lower public tuition than many national averages, Spokane Valley is increasingly attractive for aspiring computer science majors.
Top Computer Science Degrees Near Spokane Valley
1. Gonzaga University – BS in Computer Science
Location: Spokane, WA (15 minutes from Spokane Valley)
Institution Type: Private Jesuit University
Gonzaga offers a rigorous Bachelor of Science in Computer Science grounded in software engineering, algorithms, systems programming, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Small class sizes and faculty mentorship distinguish the program.
Program Highlights:
- ABET-accredited program
- Strong internship pipelines with regional employers
- Capstone design project focused on real-world problem solving
- Research opportunities in AI and machine learning
Estimated Tuition: Higher than public universities, but substantial institutional aid is available.
Best For: Students seeking a private university experience with smaller class sizes and strong faculty access.
2. Eastern Washington University – BS in Computer Science
Location: Cheney, WA (20 minutes from Spokane Valley)
Institution Type: Public University
Eastern Washington University offers one of the most affordable and comprehensive computer science degrees in the region. The curriculum emphasizes programming, data structures, operating systems, and software engineering.
Program Strengths:
- Competitive in-state tuition for Washington residents
- Hands-on lab experience
- Internship partnerships across Spokane and Seattle
- Options for applied computing and cybersecurity tracks
EWU’s affordability combined with strong regional employer ties makes it a leading choice for Spokane Valley residents.
3. Spokane Falls Community College – Associate in Computer Science
Location: Spokane, WA
Institution Type: Public Community College
Spokane Falls Community College offers an Associate in Science in Computer Science designed for transfer into four-year institutions. It is an ideal pathway for budget-conscious students.
Advantages:
- Low tuition costs
- Transfer agreements with EWU and other Washington universities
- Small, supportive learning environment
This pathway can reduce total bachelor’s degree cost by thousands of dollars.
Side-by-Side Comparison
InstitutionDegree LevelAccreditationApprox. Tuition (In-State)Best ForGonzaga UniversityBachelor’sABETHigher private tuitionSmall class mentorshipEastern Washington UniversityBachelor’sAccredited PublicLower public tuitionStrong ROI and flexibilitySpokane Falls CCAssociateState AccreditedVery affordableTransfer pathway
Online and Hybrid Computer Science Options
Many Spokane Valley students work while studying. Both EWU and Gonzaga offer hybrid formats, and Washington State’s community college system provides online-friendly coursework.
Key benefits of hybrid CS degrees include:
- Flexible scheduling
- Reduced commuting time
- Access to remote internships
- Ability to balance employment and academics
Students should confirm that online formats maintain accreditation and provide full access to faculty support and career services.
Career Outcomes for Computer Science Graduates
The Spokane regional economy supports diverse tech roles. Graduates commonly secure positions such as:
- Software Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Cloud Systems Engineer
- IT Project Manager
Major local employers include Providence Health, Itron, Avista, Fairchild Air Force Base contractors, and numerous startups. Many graduates also transition to remote roles with West Coast technology firms.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, software development jobs are projected to grow much faster than average through 2032. This national growth trend supports long-term career stability for graduates.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships for Spokane Valley Students
Cost is a decisive factor when choosing the best computer science degree.
- Public Universities: Offer lower in-state tuition for Washington residents.
- Community Colleges: Significantly reduced per-credit costs.
- Private Institutions: Higher tuition but larger scholarship availability.
Students should explore:
- Washington College Grant eligibility
- Federal Pell Grants
- STEM-specific scholarships
- University merit awards
Completing general education credits at a community college before transferring can significantly lower total degree expenses.
How to Choose the Best Program for You
1. Confirm Accreditation
Look for ABET accreditation or recognized regional accreditation to ensure academic quality and employer recognition.
2. Evaluate Internship Access
Hands-on experience is critical. Programs with established partnerships often produce stronger employment outcomes.
3. Compare Total Cost, Not Just Tuition
Factor in commuting, housing, books, and opportunity costs.
4. Assess Class Size and Faculty Access
Students who thrive with personal mentorship may prefer Gonzaga, while those seeking affordability may lean toward EWU.
5. Consider Specializations
If you are interested in AI, cybersecurity, or cloud computing, verify that electives and capstone options align with your goals.
Is Spokane Valley a Good Place to Launch a Tech Career?
Yes. While Seattle remains Washington’s largest technology hub, Spokane offers a more affordable cost of living, increasing startup activity, and steady demand for tech talent. Remote work trends allow graduates to remain in Spokane Valley while accessing national employers.
The combination of accredited universities, affordable community college pathways, growing regional tech employers, and flexible hybrid programs positions Spokane Valley as a smart and strategic location to pursue a computer science degree.
Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Science Degrees Near Spokane Valley
What computer science degrees can you access near Spokane Valley?
Within about 20 miles of Spokane Valley, you can earn a BS in Computer Science at Gonzaga University or Eastern Washington University, or start with an associate degree in computer science at Spokane Falls Community College that is designed for transfer into a four-year program.
Is it cheaper to study computer science at a public university in Washington?
Yes. Public schools like Eastern Washington University and Spokane Falls Community College usually charge lower in-state tuition than private colleges. You can also reduce total cost by starting at a community college, using the Washington College Grant, federal aid, and STEM scholarships before transferring.
Can you study computer science online or in a hybrid format near Spokane Valley?
Yes. Gonzaga, Eastern Washington University, and Washington’s community colleges offer online and hybrid computer science coursework. These formats let you work while studying, reduce commuting, and still access advising, faculty support, and career services, as long as the program keeps proper accreditation.
What computer science jobs can you get in the Spokane area?
With a CS degree near Spokane Valley, you can pursue roles like software developer, cybersecurity analyst, data analyst, cloud systems engineer, and IT project manager. Local employers include Providence Health, Itron, Avista, and regional contractors, and many graduates also work remotely for West Coast tech companies.
Why choose Spokane Valley for a computer science degree and career?
You get quick access to accredited CS programs in Spokane and Cheney, a lower cost of living than larger tech hubs, and a regional job market that includes tech, healthcare, aerospace, and government work. Growing demand for software developers and flexible remote-work options also help you build a long-term tech career from Spokane Valley.
.svg)
