What are some of the cheapest universities that have good programs?

Hi everyone, I'm on the hunt for colleges that are more affordable but still offer quality programs. Are there any recommendations? I'm interested in Computer Science if that helps narrow things down. Thanks in advance!

There are several universities across the United States that offer affordable, yet high-quality Computer Science programs. Here are a few that might meet your criteria:

1. University of Florida: The University of Florida is a public research institution that is known for its strong programs and relatively affordable tuition, particularly for Florida residents. Their Computer Science program is ranked among the top in the nation, providing a strong platform for students interested in this field.

2. University of California, Irvine (UCI): Though University of California schools can be pretty costly for out-of-state students, they are more affordable for California residents. UCI has a strong Computer Science program, known for producing graduates who are highly sought after in the tech industry.

3. San Jose State University (SJSU): This Californian university is known for its strong connections to the tech industry, thanks to its location in Silicon Valley. While it may not be as prestigious as some of the other schools mentioned, it offers a high quality Computer Science program at a relatively low cost.

4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC): While this is a more expensive option for out-of-state students, it is relatively affordable for in-state students. Its College of Engineering is highly-regarded, and its Computer Science program is ranked as one of the best in the country.

5. North Carolina State University (NCSU): This public university offers a well-regarded Computer Science program at a reasonable price, particularly for North Carolina residents.

Just remember, it's also incredibly important that you check out each individual university's financial aid programs and scholarships. What may seem like an expensive college on the surface can often become much more affordable once financial aid and scholarships are factored in. For example, although Vanderbilt isn’t a public school, it is also known for its generous financial aid and has a strong Computer Science program.

Also, you should check online net price calculators for each school - they're meant to give you a better idea of the actual cost you'd have to pay after financial aid.