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How should I decide which college to go to if I want to major in computer science?
I'm currently a junior in high school and would be starting my college applications later in the year.
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5 answers
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Chirayu’s Answer
Here are several factors to consider when deciding on a college for computer science: Program quality and reputation, faculty and research opportunities, availability of internships and job placement services, location and proximity to technology companies, availability of resources and facilities, cost and financial aid options, size and diversity of student body, availability of student organizations and extracurricular activities, support services for students, alumni network and success of graduates in the field.
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Kyle’s Answer
Hey Randy,
College is one route for sure.
Often times you can also being working on projects and showing work through a site like github before you even get to college.
For larger Tech companies you probably want to target a computer science degree. I worked at a startup before Atlassian and you didn't necessarily have to have a 4 year degree, if you went to a software bootcamp and had relevant experience we would still hire you regardless of degree!
Sometimes relevant experience can outweigh a computer science degree, just food for thought!
College is one route for sure.
Often times you can also being working on projects and showing work through a site like github before you even get to college.
For larger Tech companies you probably want to target a computer science degree. I worked at a startup before Atlassian and you didn't necessarily have to have a 4 year degree, if you went to a software bootcamp and had relevant experience we would still hire you regardless of degree!
Sometimes relevant experience can outweigh a computer science degree, just food for thought!
Updated
Terica’s Answer
Research, observation and shadowing are a great way to get a feel for the industry or career. If possible, check out some job fair/college fair opportunities locally to speak with students or professionals in the computer science field. You can also research colleges websites for additional information as well.
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
To add a quick point to go along with all the great advice already given, go visit the schools that are a good fit financially and see which one feels right to you. My son switched his #1 choice after visiting them. Many times I hear college bound students say 'xxxxx college/univerisity felt like home to me!'.
Updated
Luke’s Answer
Selecting a college can be a difficult challenge. My first recommendation is to work with a school or community guidance councilor, or any other mentor to help you on this journey if you are able. I like to boil it down into 3 categories - quality, cost and experience.
For selecting a school, I would make sure that they are accredited by US Dept of Education (I believe ABET is typically used for computer science). Generally speaking, this is ensures the program is held to a high standard. This likely will give back a wide range of schools, online, big name schools and other small name schools. To me, this gives a baseline of quality.
Cost is an very important aspect of going to college and determines the quality the investment in yourself. While big names like MIT and Stanford might be appealing, it may not make sense for your finance situation. Colleges should list programs cost per credit & number of credits per program. This can help you get an idea of the type of cost you are working with. If you are able, I recommend working with whoever is funding your school, or another close advisor if possible. Unfortunately many people fall into debt by not fully considering cost, as loans typically take 20-30yrs to pay off. Consider your state schools - they typically have average pricing with solid programs.
Finally, think of what experience you want. Different schools are in different locations & have different styles of campus or are completely online. Do you want to be at a sports school? In a city? College town? Check the local area and investigate what that experience might be like for you.
Best of luck in your search!
For selecting a school, I would make sure that they are accredited by US Dept of Education (I believe ABET is typically used for computer science). Generally speaking, this is ensures the program is held to a high standard. This likely will give back a wide range of schools, online, big name schools and other small name schools. To me, this gives a baseline of quality.
Cost is an very important aspect of going to college and determines the quality the investment in yourself. While big names like MIT and Stanford might be appealing, it may not make sense for your finance situation. Colleges should list programs cost per credit & number of credits per program. This can help you get an idea of the type of cost you are working with. If you are able, I recommend working with whoever is funding your school, or another close advisor if possible. Unfortunately many people fall into debt by not fully considering cost, as loans typically take 20-30yrs to pay off. Consider your state schools - they typically have average pricing with solid programs.
Finally, think of what experience you want. Different schools are in different locations & have different styles of campus or are completely online. Do you want to be at a sports school? In a city? College town? Check the local area and investigate what that experience might be like for you.
Best of luck in your search!