Top 25 Computer Science Programs With the Best Return on Investment (ROI)

Columbia University offers six of the best bachelor of computer science degrees. Applying to a master's program after graduation is also easy. Students from nearby Barnard College can also take advantage of the MS express program. Graduate students choose from more traditional CS options. They also opt for the unique dual MS in journalism and computer science. This program explores hot-button issues. Topics include the influence of social media, digital techniques, and citizen journalism in the modern era.

The lack of women in STEM is a well-documented issue. Duke, however, enrolls a higher-than-average percentage of female students. It also has a growing multicultural student population, especially at the graduate level. The accredited computer science school has plenty to recommend it. This includes attractive research opportunities. Its proximity to the Research Triangle Park means students can work with leading institutions.

Cornell offers some of the nation's top computer science degrees. This comes with an impressive return on investment. But it also offers much more. As a CS undergrad at Cornell, students network with industry leaders. They do this through a regular rotation of talks, lectures, and colloquia. Students can also sharpen their skills at the school's massive three-day hackathon. They present their work in an annual student showcase. Many leading companies work with Cornell through corporate partnerships. Students enjoy access to recruiters from the industry. They might even have the opportunity to participate in research with one of these groups.

Those interested in gaming can consider Michigan Tech's concentration in game development. Students get plenty of hands-on experience at this accredited computer science school. They learn to design and develop cutting-edge interactive games. A team-based approach leaves them well-prepared for a collaborative work environment. Some of the skills they learn can transfer to other fields besides gaming. For example, some graduates work in virtual reality. Michigan Tech also runs a master's degree program. This includes an MS in the fast-growing field of cybersecurity. The degree even includes three subspecialties for students to refine their studies.

Brown University offers an Ivy League experience in a small-city setting. It is the only school from Rhode Island to make this computer science degree ranking. The progressive college is particularly encouraging of "underrepresented genders." It runs a free summer program for female, non-binary, and trans high school students. It also offers some solid interdisciplinary degrees. These enable CS majors to pair their coursework with additional studies. Topics include math, economics, or computational biology. No matter which you choose, you have the opportunity to participate in research. As a research assistant, you can even get paid for doing so.

Those looking for an affordable education will appreciate UC-San Diego. The school funds many fellowships and scholarships. It also connects you with relevant external sources of funding. Plus, undergrads can get campus jobs as readers or tutors. Both positions provide opportunities to flex your skills and help other students succeed. UC - San Diego offers some of the best bachelor of computer science degrees in the country. It includes a BS with a specialization in the growing field of bioinformatics.

IIT is the best computer science college in Illinois when it comes to ROI. The school sets itself apart from the competition. It allows CS undergrads to select a specialization as part of their BS curriculum. You can choose from four options. These include data science and information and knowledge management systems. Most specializations require four additional courses. You can also earn your degree as either a BSCS or a BSCIS. The latter is an interdisciplinary program that features a customizable course list. The ability to focus your studies pays off.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a great bachelor's-level computer science degree. The school also offers five master's programs and a Ph.D. in the field. The five-year BS-to-MCS program is attractive to those who want to maximize efficiency. If you decide to pursue an MCS later, you can do so either on campus or entirely online. Illinois also offers a part-time program geared towards working professionals. Undergraduates can select from interdisciplinary degrees that pair computer science with complementary fields.

Williams College provides students with an impressive number of electives. Options include the art and science of computer graphics and creating games. The options let you customize your degree to meet your interests. Students can earn a top bachelor of computer science from Williams. Learners can also conduct long-term independent research. Doing so will qualify you for admission to the honors program and earn you access to a weekly colloquium. During these talks, you learn about current areas of CS research and get important information to help your career.

FIT is a great choice for students who want to study big-picture computer security issues. FIT does not have a specific accredited computer science program. However, students can participate in faculty-led research. Topics focus on spyware, virus detection, and more. The school also runs the Center of Software Testing and Research. This center investigates effective ways to test software and measure its reliability. FIT's Computer Vision Group represents a third niche area of study. This group works to "help computers perform visual perception and recognition tasks".

Tufts offers a major in computer and brain science. Students can apply CS principles to this emerging interdisciplinary field. The curriculum consists of coursework in psychology, linguistics, and neuroscience. It prepares you for work in myriad fields. This top computer science school also offers more straightforward programs. These include a traditional major and a B.S. program from the School of Engineering. The latter offers a rigorous curriculum for students considering earning an advanced education.

USC offers undergrads an accredited bachelor of computer science. Learners enjoy access to a global leader in R&D: the Information Sciences Institute (ISI). The ISI is broad-reaching in scope. It even played a part in the development of the internet itself. The institute prides itself on carrying out federally funded research. And staff frequently receive honors for their work. As an undergrad, you have a chance to perform directed research with a faculty member of your choice. You and your instructor work together to design your project.

This school offers an accredited computer science degree. At W&M, students enjoy small classes and the chance to work one-on-one with faculty. They can also pursue coursework in liberal arts coursework. For example, you could pair a CS major with something practical like business. Or you could focus on topics like theater or women's studies. Either way, the college's commitment to a well-rounded, diversified education pays off. In fact, employers frequently comment on graduates' versatile skill sets.

RIT earns a spot on this computer science college ranking. The CS curriculum offers a theoretical approach to learning. This allows students to acquire fundamental skills they can apply in the workplace. The program also shines a spotlight on experiential education. CS students need to complete a "cooperative education requirement." This paid experience places learners in a professional setting. In turn, students can apply what they have learned to real-world problems. Students also take part in small-group team experiences. Both opportunities leave learners well-prepared for a career.

The top computer science program at UMN takes advantage of the school's resources. Majors in the field can join dozens of student groups and industry organizations. They can also participate in many STEM-themed activities on campus. UMN's computational research program has the funding to explore some exciting projects. CS faculty conduct work in fast-growing fields. These include artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, high-performance computing, and more. In all, UMN runs nine separate CS-related research centers. This gives students the chance to explore niche areas of study.