In today’s tech-driven world, the demand for skilled tech professionals is surging. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, employment for computer science and information technology occupations is projected to grow 23% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average of all occupations.

While prestigious institutions like Stanford, MIT, and CMU dominate the rankings for computer science (CS) programs, it’s important to remember that there are colleges across the US with exceptional offerings with courses more closely aligned to your personal and professional goals.

For a career in Silicon Valley: Santa Clara University, California

For those seeking a high return on investment, SCU produces the 9th highest paid graduates in the country, with a starting salary of US$87,000 and mid-career salary of US$173,000. SCU’s prime location in the heart of Silicon Valley, just a 15-minute drive from Google, Apple, and Nvidia headquarters, provides unparalleled access to industry leaders, internships, and networking opportunities for students to jumpstart their careers.

For industry experience: Northeastern University, Massachusetts

For over 100 years, NU has been a world leader in cooperative education, better known as “co-op”. This experiential learning program offers alternating semesters of academic study with periods of full-time work where students are given the invaluable chance to assimilate classroom knowledge in work contexts. Completing an average of two or three co-ops during their degree, NU graduates are highly competitive upon graduation – a whooping 97% are employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation. 

For avid gamers: University of Southern California, California

The video game industry is seeing explosive global growth, with no slowdown in sight. Whether you are interested in programming or cinematic storytelling, consider the BS in Computer Science (Games) at USC. This cross-disciplinary program between the School of Cinematic Arts and the Department of Computer Science brings together CS, game design, art, animation, audio, user research and more, giving students the skills to engineer cutting-edge games and paving the way for exciting opportunities in the gaming industry.

For cutting-edge robotics: Purdue University, Indiana

As the first American University to establish a CS Department in 1962, Purdue has a rich history of innovation. Researchers are engaged in groundbreaking robotics work – from developing a robot that can see well in pitch darkness, to one that disinfects classrooms, and even a one that can read body language to gauge emotion. Last year, Purdue announced plans to add 50 new faculty with expertise in AI, robotics and manufacturing to support the newly launched Institute of Physical AI.

For women in tech: Harvey Mudd College, California

In less than 10 years, this small liberal-arts college increased the number of women majoring in computer science from 10% to over 50% by redesigning introductory CS classes to be more inclusive. By 2020, over 53% of all CS degrees were awarded to women. HMC even introduced summer research experiences targeting rising sophomore women without requiring any CS background beyond CS1, their introductory Computer Science course. 

For aspiring UX/UI designers: University of Washington, Washington

Equal parts computer engineering and visual design, UW’s interdisciplinary BSc Human Centered Design & Engineering “puts people first”, allowing students to research, design, and engineer interactions between humans and technology. Located in the Pacific Northwest, one of the world’s leading science and technology regions, UW’s location in Seattle gives students and graduates access to local tech giants such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, as well as start-up and entrepreneurial communities.  

Quantum Prep is an education consultancy that focuses on placing their students at the best colleges or universities. We boast of diverse results. In addition to the traditional rap sheet of prestigious university acceptances, our consultants like to highlight the different paths they have sent students on. All of our students are different; we are proud of our one-on-one tailored approach towards university counselling. Contact us for a complimentary 30-minute initial meeting, where you can get tailored individualized advice on how to put your best foot forward. Read our reviews to see what our clients think of us.

By Emma Keoy, Admissions Consultant

Published 21-03-2024