The fact that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows computer science career growth to be at 15% over the next decade is enough to help many people who have been considering getting a degree in computer science to go ahead and make that leap.
How Hard Is It To Get Into A Computer Science Degree Program?
It varies with each school but generally, an applicant should have already shown skill in mathematics, logic, innovative thinking, a decent GPA. Some computer science schools have rigorous admission requirements while others allow you to prove yourself once you are in.
How Long Will It Take To Graduate?
Each school and computer science program is different. This will depend on your exact degree goals and drive. The thing about a computer science degree is the more you know the more employable you become. While some places put the bulk of their requirements in that diploma or certification, many people can actually work (lucratively) in the field of computer science while they attend college for their degree. The knowledge itself is truly that valuable. A typical bachelor’s in computer science will take you four years.
Rank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | University of California Irvine | Irvine, California |
2 | Texas A&M University | College Station, Texas |
3 | University of Virginia | Charlottesville, Virginia |
4 | Georgia Tech | Atlanta, Georgia |
5 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
15 Of The Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools
University of California Irvine
The University of California has been described as a “cheap” school when it comes to price. It may not be the most rock-bottom priced school on this list but it makes the top because the Computer Science program is excellent and puts forth many successful innovators across the state and world at a price point that many can afford. There exists a line where you may be compromising education for the price but you get a quality computer science education that can compare to any college in the nation here.
School Overview
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University makes a top spot because of the great value and the graduate reviews after completing their degree. The tech field in Texas has been growing by leaps and bounds so employment after graduation is never an issue. Many people even travel to Texas to attend Texas A&M.
School Overview
University of Virginia
The University of Virginia holds the place near the top of the list for many reasons. Their classes are affordable, their programs are suited for people who want to lead in the computer science field, but also for those who simply want a lucrative rewarding career. The barrier of cost is easier to hurdle, but the educational ratings and alumni at this public school are comparable to the “ivy league” counterparts.
School Overview
Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech has great prices for in-state students but even without those discounts, people travel to attend Georgia Tech and to enjoy the Atlanta atmosphere and vibe. The program is known for its math strengths and supportive professors. If you are ready for fast-paced learning the GaTech may be the answer.
School Overview
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania has a reputation for being a respectable school. They have a computer science and engineering program that many travel across the nation to attend each year. The tie between computer science and hands one engineering and designing is met at many schools but at UoP the whole program seems to build off of the two sides of programming and engineering for a well-rounded education and unique way of looking at a task.
School Overview
University of California (Berkeley)
Berkeley’s computer science department has won many awards over the past several years for their methods of teaching, breakthroughs, and innovations. Students are a part of something bigger and they go on to do big things in their fields because of the methods of learning at Berkeley.
School Overview
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT is often referred to as the frontline of technology and education for the future. There are many lists that put this school above Harvard and Cambridge as the top schools in general. When it comes to a computer science degree program they have the highest of standards, technology, and new-age innovation. Despite the quality of education, they are not at the top of this list because of the high cost of tuition. The benefits are high though when it comes to being ahead of the newest innovations and the connections you may make there.
School Overview
Cornell University
Cornell offers a quality computer science degree from their engineering department. The education here goes well beyond coding and those who want to take part in the continuing technological revolution of advancements should know that they can get their hands dirty so to speak.
School Overview
University of Michigan
School Overview
Augsburg University
Augsburg University is a medium-sized college that offers great computer science degree options for Minnesota and the surrounding states. Many people start here and go on to big city facilities to change the horizon of technology.
School Overview
Boston College
Boston College will never make the top of an affordable college list. But it does make this list because of the quality of computer science education and innovation that happens there and of course, the town itself draws people from around the globe for its history and beauty.
School Overview
Rice University
Rice University has a high freshman retention rate and is known for a rigorous curriculum. Students go to Rice to graduate as the best in their field. If you are considering a highly competitive branch of computer science or if you are highly driven then Rice may be the place for you.
School Overview
University of Florida
The University of Florida is a southern state school that is known for advances in the medical field. But the computer sciences programs cannot be overlooked. Many people go on to graduate from the computer science program to find lucrative employment across the globe and to even use their education to change the field altogether.
School Overview
California Institute of Technology
Cal-Tech offers bachelors in computer science programs but they are known for being a recruiting ground for postgraduate computer science degrees. If you are interested in going as far as you can with your computer science education and getting a job at the top facilities then Cal-Tech is the place to start.
School Overview
University of California Los Angeles
UCLA has made the news time and time again for innovation and famous graduates. If you are considering a computer science degree on the west coast it should be on your list for research to see if you fit. The atmosphere is known to be laid back, yet the curriculum will prepare you for innovative thinking in the computer science field.
School Overview
If you are looking for the best computer science colleges you want to study the alumni, the teacher reviews, the cost per year, and of course the proximity to where you want to live. Many people will gladly travel across our vast nation to attend the college that offers the program they desire at the right tuition point but others prefer to stay near their home town. There are many quality options in every region so if you are considering your degree in computer science it is simply a matter of researching your options and starting the application process. For even more schools, check out our online computer science degree page.
Our Ranking Methodology
This list was compiled using tuition and enrollment data from the individual university webpages and online reviews and ratings of the college for their bachelor of computer science degree program. If you are a representative of the college and feel that your school is not portrayed accurately contact us so we can correct it so future prospective students know what you offer exactly.