Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University
Reviewed: 2/12/24
Do you want to pursue a career in computer science but are overwhelmed in your school search? Read on to find out the top 10 computer science programs in the US.
Did you use Google to find this article? Did you search “best computer science schools” in the bar under the iconic blue, red, yellow, and green letters?
While we all recognize Google and use it on a daily basis, what’s less known about this search engine is that its founder Larry Page, is a computer scientist who graduated from a computer engineering program at Stanford University!
As a growing tech field, computer science has applications in various industries and can open up a world of opportunities for you.
So, whether you want to become the next Larry Page or are just fascinated by the world of technology, this guide will tell you the top 25 best colleges for computer science that can help kick-start your career!
25 Best Computer Science Schools
As you begin your school search, you’ll probably be overwhelmed by the number of options there are! To save you the hassle and stress, this guide will list the 25 best colleges for computer science with consideration of their ranking, education, and cost. To begin, let’s break down these top schools’ most important admission details:
School
Program Ranking
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
1st
Stanford University
1st
University of California - Berkeley
1st
Carnegie Mellon University
4th
University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign
5th
University of Washington
5th
Cornell University
7th
Georgia Institute of Technology
8th
Princeton University
8th
The University of Texas - Austin
8th
John Hopkins University
23rd
University of Michigan--Ann Arbor
14th
University of California--San Diego
15th
School
Program Ranking
University of Wisconsin - Madison
16th
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
17th
Columbia University
18th
University of California--Los Angeles (UCLA)
19th
Harvard University
20th
University of Maryland - College Park
17th
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
17th
Duke University
20th
Purdue University - West Lafayette
20th
Yale University
20th
Ohio State University
24th
University of California--Santa Barbara
24th
Now, let’s learn more about what each of these schools has to offer!
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
1st
Cambridge, MA
$59,750
6%
As no surprise, this university that is dedicated to developing modern technology is ranked as the best school for computer science.
Computational Science and Engineering, Interdisciplinary PhD
Computation and Cognition, MEng*
Computer Science, PhD
Computer Science and Engineering, PhD
Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science, MEng*
Computer Science and Molecular Biology, MEng*
Electrical Engineering, PhD
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MEng*, SM*, and PhD
Electrical Engineer / Engineer in Computer Science**
Thesis Program with Industry, MEng.*
With these interdisciplinary degrees, MIT students are not only able to find their exact niche but can gain valuable experience and education in related subjects that will expand their knowledge base and boost their chances of finding jobs after graduating.
2. Stanford University
Stanford University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
1st
Palo Alto, CA
$61,731
3.68%
Stanford University ties with MIT as the best school in computer science. Stanford offers the following programs:
The highly competitive Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) B.S.
The College of Letters and Science (L&S) Computer Science B.A.
Graduate Programs
Computer Science MS
4. Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
4th
Pittsburgh, PA
Resident: $64,596 Commuter: $64,596
14%
Ranking fourth as another one of the great computer science colleges to consider is Carnegie Mellon University. This university offers a range of B.S. degrees and Graduate programs.
Undergraduate Programs
Computer Science
Computer Science and Arts
Music and Technology
Language Technologies
Machine Learning
Robotics
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Automated Science: Biological Experimentation
Master of Science in Computational Biology
Fifth Year Master's in Computer Science
Master of Science in Computer Science
Accelerated Master of Human-Computer Interaction
Master of Educational Technology and Applied Learning Science (METALS)
Master of Human-Computer Interaction
Master of Science in Product Management
Master of Computational Data Science
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
Master of Science in Intelligent Information Systems
Master of Science in Language Technologies
Online Graduate Certificate in Computational Data Science Foundations
Fifth Year Master's in Machine Learning
Master of Science in Machine Learning
Master of Science in Computer Vision
Master of Science in Robotics
Master's in Robotic Systems Development
Master of Science in Information Technology - Privacy Engineering
Master of Software Engineering
Master of Software Engineering - Embedded Systems
Master of Software Engineering - Scalable Systems
Master of Software Engineering Online
With these broad majors, students can explore their options and find their preferred specialty.
While curriculum and experience should factor into your decision, cost should, too, if you want to avoid drawing in debt post-graduation!
5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
5th
Champaign, IL
$17,704-$22,968
6.7%
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is another one of the best colleges for computer science.It offers several degrees in Computer Science:
Professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) on-campus
Professional Master of Computer (MCS) in Chicago
Professional Online MCS and Professional MCS in Data Science
While this school doesn't offer as many specialized programs as the others listed, it still offers comprehensive courses that will prepare you for a fulfilling career!
While Cornell offers broad majors, it offers various research opportunities and diverse electives for students to discover their interests.
8. Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
8th
Atlanta, GA
Resident: $10,770 Nonresident: $32,940
17%
Ranking eighth in computer science, Georgia Tech is another technology-focused school that made the list of the best computer science colleges.
Undergraduate Programs
B.S. in Computer Science
B.S. in Computational Media
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Computer Science
Despite this school offering limited computer science majors, it offers nine minors in computing! So, computer science students can still develop key skills in their desired specialty.
9. Princeton University
Princeton University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
8th
Princeton, NJ
$62,400
4%
Which best schools list hasn’t featured Princeton University? This prestigious school has a top-ranking computer science program that ranks eighth in the nation. Students at this school can choose fromthese degree options:
Undergraduate Programs
A B.A. in Computer Science
A B.S. in Engineering in Computer Science
Graduate Programs
M.S.E. program
While it may seem like Princeton offers a limited number of computer science programs, it has four pages of diverse courses in computer science students can enroll in!
10. The University of Texas - Austin
The University of Texas - Austin
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
8th
Austin, TX
Resident: $78,232; Nonresident: $90,742
31%
If you love hot weather, barbeque, and big cities, this university might be perfect for you! Ranking as the eighth-best school in computer science as well, UT Austin is the final school on this list.
This school offers a computer science degree as a B.S. B.A. or a B.S.A. Depending on your interests and aspirations, you can choose the degree you’d like to pursue.
Undergraduate Programs
BSA in Computer Science
BSA in Computer Science (Honors)
BS in Computer Science: Option 1
BS in Computer Science: Option 2
BS in Computer Science: Option 3 (Honors)
BS in Computer Science: Option 4 (Integrated Program)
BS in Computer Science: Option 6 (Computer Science & Business Honors)
All the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) programs at the University of California--San Diego offer a robust curriculum designed to prepare students for both the competitive tech job market and advanced studies in graduate school.
Undergraduate Degree Programs
B.S. in Computer Science
B.S. in Computer Engineering
B.S. in Computer Science with a Specialization in Bioinformatics
Minor in Computer Science
Degree Programs
Doctoral (PhD) Degree Program
Master of Science (MS) Degree Program
Master of Data Science (MDS) Online Degree Program
They have specialized tracks to cater to your interests and career aspirations:
Computational Biology
Network Systems
Computer Security
Software Systems
Foundations of Computer Science
Vision, Graphics, Interaction, and Robotics
Machine Learning
MS Personalized (by faculty invite only)
Natural Language Processing
MS Thesis (by faculty invite only)
17. University of California - Los Angeles
University of California--Los Angeles
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
14th
Los Angeles, California
$14,478
4%
The Samueli Computer Science Department aims for excellence in computer science and engineering. They provide comprehensive education, collaborate with industry and government, publish research, and serve the community.
Undergraduate Programs
Computer Science (CS)
Computer Science and Engineering (CS&E)
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (M.S.)
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
18. Harvard University
Harvard University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
17th
Cambridge, Massachusetts
$54,269
9%
Harvard's School of Engineering delves into the world of computer science, where they explore the fundamental principles of computation and its real-world applications in its range of programs.
Undergraduate Programs
A.B. in Computer Science
Computer Science Secondary Field
A.B./S.M. in Computer Science
Graduate Programs
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Master's Degrees in Computational Science and Engineering and Data Science
19. University of Maryland - College Park
University of Maryland - College Park
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
17th
College Park, Maryland
Resident: $7,267.50 Nonresident: $21,668.00
45%
The University of Maryland--College Park boasts top-tier computer science programs. Their faculty is renowned and covers a wide range of research areas, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, computer vision, and more.
Undergraduate Programs
Computer Science Major
Immersive Media Design Major (CMSC)
Computer Science Minor
Data Science Minor (CMSC)
Robotics and Autonomous Systems Minor (CMSC)
Graduate Programs
M.S. in Computer Science
Ph.D. in Computer Science
20. University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
17th
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
$58,620
11.4%
Penn Engineering, home to the first modern computer, the ENIAC in 1946, continues to lead in computer science innovation for over five decades. Here are the programs offered by the Department of Computer and Information Science at the University of Pennsylvania:
Undergraduate Programs
BSE in Computer Science (CSCI)
BSE in Computer Engineering (CMPE)
BSE in Digital Media Design (DMD)
BSE in Networked & Social Systems Engineering (NETS)
Graduate Programs
Doctoral Program (Ph.D.) in Computer and Information Science
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Computer and Information Science (CIS)
Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT)
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Data Science
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Embedded Systems (EMBS)
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Robotics (ROBO)
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Computer Graphics and Game Technology (CGGT)
21. Duke University
Duke University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
20th
Durham, North Carolina
$63,450
6%
Duke University's Computer Science graduate program is ranked #20 in the country by US News & World Report. The department collaborates with other disciplines to make a positive impact on society.
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science
Minor in Computer Science
Minor in Artificial Intelligence: Applications and Implications
Minor in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Interdepartmental Major (IDM) with Computer Science
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
Master of Science (MS) in Economics and Computation
22. Purdue University - West Lafayette
Purdue University - West Lafayette
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
20th
West Lafayette, Indiana
Resident: $9,992 Nonresident: $28,794
29.5%
Purdue University-West Lafayette's Department of Computer Science offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in the field of computer science and related areas.
Undergraduate Programs
4+1 BS/MS Degree Program
Artificial Intelligence Degree Requirements
Computer Science Degree Requirements
Computer Science Honors
Data Science Degree Requirements
Dual Majors
Minor in Computer Science
Graduate Programs
B.S./M.S. Degree Program
Degree+
Doctoral
Master's Program
Professional Master's in Information and Cybersecurity
B.S./M.S. Degree Program
23. Yale University
Yale University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
20th
New Haven, Connecticut
$64,700
15%
Yale University computer science offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs to cater to student's specific interests and career goals. Here’s a list of their programs:
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (B.S.)
Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science (B.A.)
B.S. / M.S. Program
Specialized Undergraduate Programs
4. B.S. in Computer Science and Economics
Joint Major in Computer Science and Mathematics
Joint Major in Computer Science and Psychology
Joint Major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (MS) Program
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Program
24. Ohio State University
Ohio State University
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
24th
Columbus, Ohio
$12,317.70- $24,897.20
57%
Ohio State University's computer science program, ranked #24 nationally, combines 50 years of teaching excellence with exciting topics like AI and cybersecurity.
Undergraduate
Bachelors of Science in Computer Science and Engineering (BS CSE)
Bachelors of Science with a major in Computer and Information Science (BS CIS)
Bachelors of Arts with a major in Computer and Information Science (BA CIS)
Computer and Information Science minor
Computational Science and Engineering minor
Graduate
Master of Science Program
Doctor of Philosophy Degree in CSE
25. University of California - Santa Barbara
University of California - Santa Barbara
Program Ranking
Location
Tuition
Acceptance Rate
24th
Santa Barbara, California
$64,830- $73,863
29%
The University of California - Santa Barbara's computer science program is ranked #24 nationally, showcasing its excellence in the field. It offers the following programs:
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Science
Graduate Programs
Master of Science (M.S.)
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
BS/MS Combined Degree
Tips for Getting Into the Top Schools for Computer Science
Now that we’ve answered the question, “What are the top colleges for computer science?” let’s dive into how to maximize your chances of getting into these great schools!
The application process varies depending on the program, but you can bet it will be highly competitive!
This means maintaining a high GPA during high school or your undergraduate, gaining relevant experience, joining useful extracurriculars, and keeping up with the latest technology trends.
You can also get into your dream computer science school by getting professional help! Your teachers, counselors, and other professionals are there to support you and provide all the resources you need to gain admission.
FAQs: Best Computer Science Schools
These frequently asked questions can answer any remaining concerns you might have.
1. What School is Best Known For Computer Science?
As more than just famous names, MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley are all best known for computer science and rank as the best schools in the field.
2. What College Has The Best Computer Science Program in the US?
Although three schools are tied for first place, MIT is considered to have the best computer science programs in the US because of how specialized they are.
4. How Do I Know If Computer Science Is the Right Field For Me?
To excel in computer science, you have to like research, learning, and, of course, technology! You should also be a strong, logical thinker who is adaptable and open to challenges. The field of technology is constantly evolving; you have to be willing to evolve with it!
5. Is the Computer Science Field Growing?
According to a Computer Science professor at Columbia University, now is the golden age for computer science. In fact, the job market is expected to grow 23% within a decade!
6. What Can You Do With A Computer Science Degree?
A more appropriate question would be, what can’t you do with a Computer Science degree? As the world is taken over by technology, almost every single industry needs programmers, developers, and researchers. A Computer Science degree is extremely versatile, so the possibilities are endless!
7. How Much Do Computer Scientists Make?
The average base salary of computer scientists is $110,289 per year. However, depending on your desired path, you can make much more! For instance, Larry Page’s net worth is $124.5 billion. Shoot for the stars, right?
8. Is UC Davis’ Computer Science Good?
UC Davis’ computer science program ranks 41st in the nation. While it isn’t the top UC campus for computer science, it can still be an excellent option for you! It is well-known for its cutting-edge research projects, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.
9. Who Has the Best Computer Science Program In Texas?
The University of Texas at Austin has the highest-ranked computer science program in the state.
10. Is the University of Illinois a Good Computer Science School?
Yes, the University of Illinois ranks as the fifth-best school for computer science.
11. What Is the Carnegie Mellon Computer Science Program Ranking?
Carnegie Mellon’s computer science program ranks fourth in the nation.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve gone through the nation’s best computer science schools, you can hopefully narrow your options down and decide which school to attend!
It’s an exciting time to major in such a lucrative degree; doing so can give you the right knowledge and experience to excel and make a name for yourself in the technology field!
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