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

How to Pick the Best Computer Science School for You

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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

Python programming

Mathematics for computer science

Computer systems engineering

Machine learning

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?

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

Role Required Education Approx. Average Salary
Network Architect Bachelor’s degree $122,125
Hardware Engineer Bachelor’s degree $88,752
Software Engineer Bachelor’s degree $87,192
Network Engineer Bachelor’s degree $74,986
Database Administrator Bachelor’s degree $73,424

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.

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