Which Colleges are Best for Computer Science?

I'm starting my college applications and my main focus is computer science. I'm curious about which colleges have really strong programs in this area.

There are many colleges with standout computer science programs, within different levels of selectivity. Here are some you might consider:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT is renowned for its strength in technology and engineering. Their Electrical Engineering and Computer Science program is one of the most sought-after majors and consistently ranks at the top worldwide.

Stanford University: Located in Palo Alto, California, and near Silicon Valley, Stanford has strong ties to the tech industry. This enables students to have great opportunities for internships and employment post-graduation.

University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): UC Berkeley's Computer Science department is also consistently high-ranking, and the school's proximity to Silicon Valley provides great opportunities for students as well.

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): CMU is well-known for its School of Computer Science. The university's focus on interdisciplinary studies enables students to explore other fields of study along with computer science, which could be beneficial depending on your larger academic interests.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Caltech, just like MIT, has great strengths in technology-driven programs and its computer science program is no exception. Although the college is small, it has a very strong community of researchers and students passionate about tech.

University of Illinois–Urbana Champaign: This may be a less expected choice, but the University of Illinois has a very strong computer science program that's respected by many in academia and industry.

Of course, these are just a few options and there are other great computer science programs out there. You will also need to balance the strength of the computer science program with other factors, such as location, campus life, financial aid, and overall fit. Best of luck with your applications!