The Best Training for
Computer Science in 2021
Computer science is the foundation for most tech and IT enthusiasts. Bachelor’s degrees can seem expensive at first glance, but graduates go on to enjoy lucrative careers. Computer science majors can go on to become cyber security engineers, programmers, data scientists, and more.
This guide will cover the best computer science schools and programs in 2021. This article is for you if you are looking for world-class Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degrees in Computer Science. We’ve also covered key factors to look out for when choosing the right program, and possible career pathways.
Rundown: The Top 15 Computer Science Schools in 2021
To streamline your search for the best program, have a look at our list of computer science programs. You’ll find more information about each program below. The list is arranged in alphabetical order. Unless otherwise stated, the costs in the table represent estimated tuition and fees for the 2021-22 school year and were taken from each school’s website.
School | State | Programs and Cost | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
Arizona State University | AZ | Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science In-state: $12,398 Out-of-state: $31,238 |
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification |
Brown University | RI | BS in Computer Science $62,304 Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science $62,304 |
None |
California Institute of Technology | CA | BS in Computer Science $58,680 |
None |
Carnegie Mellon University | PA | BS in Computer Science $58,924 |
None |
Cornell University | NY | BS in Computer Science $61,416 BA in Computer Science $61,416 |
None |
Duke University | NC | BS in Computer Science $60,594 |
None |
Iowa State University | IA | BS in Computer Science In-state: $9,316 (2020-21) Out-of-state: $24,504 (2020-21) |
Certificate in Computing Applications |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | MA | BS in Computer Science and Engineering $55,878 |
None |
Princeton University | NJ | BS in Computer Science $56,010 |
Certificate Program in Applications Computing (PAC) |
Stony Brook University | NY | BS in Computer Science In-state: $10,090 (2020-21) Out-of-state: $27,760 (2020-21) |
None |
University of Arizona | AZ | BS in Computer Science In-state: $12,700 Out-of-state: $37,200 BA in Computer Science In-state: $12,700 Out-of-state: $37,200 |
None |
University of Colorado Boulder | CO | BS in Computer Science In-state: $15,952 Out-of-state: $41,406 BA in Computer Science In-state: $15,952 Out-of-state: $41,406 |
None |
University of Pittsburgh | PA | BS in Computer Science In-state: $21,712 (2020-21) Out-of-state: $38,110 (2020-21) |
None |
University of Utah | UT | BS in Computer Engineering In-state: $9,292 Out-of-state: $30,252 |
None |
University of Washington | WA | BS in Computer Science In-state: $11,487 (2020-21) Out-of-state: $38,856 (2020-21) |
None |
How to Pick the Best Computer Science School for You
With so many computer science degree programs on offer, you might start to feel overwhelmed. It is important to sift through different bachelor’s degrees with a clear goal in mind. To help you with your search, we’ve listed three important factors to keep in mind.
Tuition
Universities in the United States are expensive. Studying computer science can seem like a huge investment. Rest assured, the return on your investment will be well worth it. Schools often offer scholarships and several repayment options, so apply for them. Before you let the tuition price put you off, research a university’s financing options.
Accreditation
Many schools in the US have no accreditation. To make the most out of your educational investment, make sure your college of choice is fully accredited. Graduating from a recognized institution will increase your chances of landing a well-paid job at a reputable tech company.
Degree Content
This point might seem obvious, but it is important to check curriculums and course options. Computer science covers many topics and some programs focus on certain elements. Make sure your program structure includes modules that interest you.
The Best Computer Science Schools of 2021
We’ve created a more detailed outline of each program. Make sure you sift through each degree overview carefully and compare them.
Arizona State University
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Commission of Colleges and Schools
Online Options
Online master’s only
Arizona State University has an exciting department of computing, informatics, and decision systems engineering. The BS in computer science has a strong curriculum that covers an array of research-focused topics. The four-year degree is project-focused. Students can choose from a variety of technical concentrations, listed below.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum Options
Software engineering
Cyber security
Computer design
Brown University
Programs
BS in Computer Science, BA in Computer Science
Accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Options
None
Brown University offers a varied computer science department that excels in merging the fields of math, economics, and liberal arts. The school offers two computer science degrees: a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science. Both programs cover the fundamentals of software architecture and programming.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Analysis of algorithms
Artificial intelligence
Databases
Robotics
Programming languages
Security
BA in Computer Science Curriculum
Communication and collaboration skills
Artificial intelligence
Robotics
Programming languages
Games
Scientific visualization
California Institute of Technology
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Senior College and University Commission
Online Options
None
The California Institute of Technology offers an engaging program for computer science enthusiasts. The curriculum emphasizes math and engineering foundations.
This is a four-year program. Internship placement is included, and the university boasts top-notch career services. Students are encouraged to choose one of the specializations listed below.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum Options
Programming languages
Robotics
Machine learning
Economics and algorithms
Carnegie Mellon University
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
Available
The BS in Computer Science offered by Carnegie Mellon is research-focused. This program will set you up for numerous careers in computer science. The four-year program includes a summer internship at a renowned tech firm, which is a great way to ramp up your resume.
Carnegie Mellon was founded in 1900 and has a long history of providing top-tier degrees in technology-related fields.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Mathematics
Probability
Machine learning
Robotics
Programming foundations
Cornell University
Programs
BS in Computer Science, BA in Computer Science
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
Available
Cornell University is a school that specializes in research and innovation. Cornell provides programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. This makes it a fantastic institution to pursue postsecondary education.
Both the BS and BA in Computer Science offer career-oriented modules and courses. The programs cover crucial topics like data structures, algorithms, programming languages, and more. The main similarities and differences between the two curricula are outlined below.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Software engineering
Robotics
Computational finance
BA in Computer Science Curriculum
Computer graphics
Programming languages
Modeling
Software engineering
Duke University
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
None
Duke University has a research-oriented engineering school. It is a fantastic place to study computer science and programming. The computer science BS offered by the university has three concentration options, listed below.
The program’s curriculum is career-oriented and individualized to suit the student’s needs.
If you wish to substitute a core module for another, it is possible. The program structure is flexible. Whether you want to focus on AI, robotics, or data mining, this program can work for you.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum Options
Software systems
Data science
AI and machine learning
Iowa State University
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
None
The BS offered by Iowa State University is geared towards students with no prior experience in tech. The program is suitable for complete beginners but also intermediate-level enthusiasts who wish to improve their skills. Iowa State also offers a certificate in computing applications to supplement your educational credentials.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Computer science foundations
Programming languages
Machine learning
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Programs
BS in Computer Science and Engineering
Accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Options
None
The BS in Computer Science and Engineering offered by MIT offers many concentrations. MIT is one of the United States’ most reputable tech institutions, so the selection process is very competitive. The program’s curriculum is highly research-focused. This program could be for you if you have great critical thinking skills or wish to pursue post-graduate education.
BS in Computer Science and Engineering Curriculum
Princeton University
Programs
BA in Computer Science
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
Available
The BA in Computer Science offered by Princeton makes students work towards a capstone project. The curriculum offers heaps of flexibility. Students can choose appropriate modules and courses to suit their needs. There are some mandatory modules for the BA such as algorithms, computer system design, and applications.
BA in Computer Science Curriculum
Computer science theory
Foundations of programming
Advanced programming languages
Machine learning
Computer system design
Stony Brook University
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
Online Options
None
This New York-based university is at the heart of the tech world. Stony Brook is renowned for its tech expertise, and it is the ideal school to study computer science. Throughout the four-year Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, every student completes a personal capstone project. All projects are supervised by an expert faculty member.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Theory of computation
Computer networks
Fundamentals of software development
Analysis of algorithms
Software engineering
University of Arizona
Programs
BS in Computer Science, BA in Computer Science
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
Available
The University of Arizona offers fantastic labs and study spaces. The school offers a BS and a BA in Computer Science. You will sift through the fundamentals of algorithms, programming languages, compilers, databases, and more throughout both programs. Both degrees are research-based, and students are encouraged to innovate and try new things.
You can compare the BS and BA for yourself by reviewing the two curricula below.
BS Computer Science Curriculum
Calculus
Two lab-based courses
Cloud computing
Database design
Computer security
Six 400-level courses
BA Computer Science Curriculum
College algebra
Cloud computing
Database design
Computer security
Three 400-level courses
University of Colorado Boulder
Programs
BS in Computer Science, BA in Computer Science
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
None
The University of Colorado Boulder offers a unique approach to computer science. Both the BA and BS in Computer Science revolve around engineering. These programs are geared towards students with a background in math and engineering. The curriculums cover theory and problem-solving, while always referring back to engineering.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Data structures
Algorithms
Computer systems
Principles of programming languages
Software development methods and tools
BA in Computer Science Curriculum
Fundamentals of human-computer interaction
Artificial intelligence
Robotics
Cyber security
Design and analysis of operating systems
Object oriented analysis and design
University of Pittsburgh
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
None
The University of Pittsburgh offers an interdisciplinary program in computer science. The curriculum merges elements of social science and politics into its core modules. Throughout the BS in Computer Science, students develop an acute sense of how technology informs the outside world. This program is great for those interested in social justice and technology.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Software building and design
Solving computing problems
Technology in healthcare, government, and business
University of Utah
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
None
The University of Utah’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is academically inclined. For those who wish to continue their studies, the university also offers a Master’s and a PhD in Computer Science. If you wish to pursue exciting academic research, this school could be for you. The curriculum lays a strong emphasis on both hardware and software engineering.
BS in Computer Science Curriculum
Circuit design
Calculus I and II
Physics for engineers
Accelerated object oriented programming
Data structures and algorithms
University of Washington
Programs
BS in Computer Science
Accreditation
Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities
Online Options
Available
The University of Washington is the perfect school for ambitious students. The university offers many internship opportunities, study abroad schemes, and more.
The BS in Computer Science offered by the University of Washington revolves around the completion of a final capstone project. Throughout this degree, students cover crucial topics like the foundations of computer science theory and advanced tech languages.
BS in Computer Sciences Curriculum
Computer networking
Computational biology
Machine learning
Artificial intelligence
Computer graphics and animation
How Much Can You Earn as a Computer Scientist?
Computer science is a wide-ranging field. A degree in computer science can open the door to a multitude of careers. According to PayScale, a computer scientist earns an average of about $81,708 per year. This is just to give you an idea of the lucrative potential of a computer science degree.
The Highest-Paying Computer Science Roles
Why You Should Be a Computer Science Professional in 2021
The tech world is constantly growing. Computer science is compatible with a huge variety of professional fields such as business, government, healthcare, and technology. The skills you learn throughout a computer science program can pave the way to many careers.
While universities as a whole struggle to prepare students for the workforce, computer science departments are different. The universities on this list all offer ambitious and challenging programs for people who want to work with computers for a living. There’s never been a better time to fulfill your dream of becoming a computer science professional.