So, You Want to Study Computer Science?

The demand for computer science (CS) graduates continues to grow and applying to top undergraduate CS programs are more competitive than ever. This surge in interest isn't limited to higher education; more public K-12 school systems are now incorporating coding into their core curriculum. These shifts reflect the growing influence of technology in both industry and everyday life. Whether you’re passionate about software development, artificial intelligence, or data science, choosing the right program and excelling both in the application process and during your studies are crucial steps toward a successful career in tech. 

To stand out as a competitive applicant for computer science programs, you need to build a solid foundation in high school. This begins with excelling in coursework and participating in extracurricular activities that align with your passion for technology. Admissions officers look for students who have challenged themselves with advanced STEM courses. Be sure to take AP or IB classes in subjects like Calculus, Statistics, and Computer Science. Electives in physics, engineering, or data science also signal your technical curiosity and readiness for the rigorous coursework that CS programs demand.

Colleges also value applicants who show initiative beyond the classroom. Get involved in coding clubs, robotics teams, or math leagues. Compete in hackathons or develop independent projects, such as building apps or contributing to open-source projects. Leadership roles in tech-related clubs demonstrate your ability to manage projects and work collaboratively—skills that are crucial in the field. While many schools are test-optional, strong SAT or ACT math scores can still enhance your application. If you’re applying to a particularly competitive CS program, consider submitting high AP test scores (4 or 5) in math or physics to show further mastery of technical concepts.

Crafting a Competitive Application for CS Programs

Once you’ve built a strong foundation, the next step is putting together a compelling application that reflects your skills, interests, and readiness for a computer science degree.

Essays

Your personal statement and supplemental essays provide an opportunity to convey your passion for computer science. When responding to any "Why Computer Science?" prompts, highlight specific experiences that fueled your interest, whether it’s a coding project, an internship, or a problem you’re eager to solve using technology. Personalize your essay to each program by mentioning faculty, research opportunities, or coursework that excites you.

Letters of Recommendation

Choose recommenders who can speak to both your technical abilities and your character. Teachers in math, science, or computer science are ideal, as they can highlight your analytical thinking, perseverance, and teamwork—key attributes for success in CS.

Showcasing Coding Skills

If you’ve developed apps, participated in coding competitions, or contributed to open-source projects, make sure to highlight these on your application. A GitHub portfolio or personal project website is a great way to showcase your coding experience and practical skills.

Selecting the Right Undergraduate CS Program

Not all computer science programs are the same. It’s important to select a school that aligns with your academic interests and career goals.

Evaluating Curriculum and Specializations

Research each program’s core curriculum and potential specializations. Some schools emphasize theoretical computer science, while others focus on applied areas like software engineering or data science. Look for programs that offer concentrations in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or machine learning, depending on your interests.

Research Opportunities and Internships

Hands-on experience is crucial for CS students. Make sure the program you choose offers undergraduate research opportunities, internships, or co-op programs. Many top universities have partnerships with tech companies, providing students with opportunities to gain real-world experience and build their professional network.

Campus Resources for CS Students

Explore the support and resources available to computer science majors. Schools with makerspaces, coding labs, and strong tutoring services can help you stay on top of your coursework and projects. Also, look for active student organizations such as an ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) chapter or Women in Computing, which can offer mentorship, networking, and growth opportunities.

Top Rated CS Programs

Following is a list of some highly rated undergraduate computer science programs in the United States, based on general reputation, academic excellence, faculty strength, research opportunities, and industry connections:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  Location: Cambridge, MA

• Stanford University
  Location: Stanford, CA

• Carnegie Mellon University
  Location: Pittsburgh, PA

• University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
  Location: Berkeley, CA

• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
  Location: Pasadena, CA

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  Location: Urbana, IL

• University of Washington
  Location: Seattle, WA

• Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
  Location: Atlanta, GA

• Princeton University
  Location: Princeton, NJ

• Harvard University
  Location: Cambridge, MA

• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
  Location: Ann Arbor, MI

• Cornell University
  Location: Ithaca, NY

• University of Texas at Austin
  Location: Austin, TX

• University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
  Location: La Jolla, CA

• University of Southern California (USC)
  Location: Los Angeles, CA

• Columbia University
  Location: New York, NY

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
  Location: Los Angeles, CA

• University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Location: Madison, WI

• University of Pennsylvania
  Location: Philadelphia, PA

• Duke University
  Location: Durham, NC

Here’s a list of less selective yet highly respected undergraduate computer science programs that offer excellent education, strong job placement, and valuable research opportunities:

• University of Utah
  Location: Salt Lake City, UT

• University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
  Location: Minneapolis, MN

• Michigan State University
  Location: East Lansing, MI

• University of Colorado Boulder
  Location: Boulder, CO

• Virginia Tech
  Location: Blacksburg, VA

• University of Massachusetts Amherst
  Location: Amherst, MA

• Rutgers University
  Location: New Brunswick, NJ

• Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
  Location: University Park, PA

• North Carolina State University (NCSU)
  Location: Raleigh, NC

• University of Arizona
  Location: Tucson, AZ

• Iowa State University
  Location: Ames, IA

• University of Florida
  Location: Gainesville, FL

• University of Pittsburgh
  Location: Pittsburgh, PA

• Arizona State University (ASU)
  Location: Tempe, AZ

• Indiana University Bloomington
  Location: Bloomington, IN

• University of Oregon
  Location: Eugene, OR

• University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC)
  Location: Santa Cruz, CA

• Oregon State University
  Location: Corvallis, OR

• San Diego State University
  Location: San Diego, CA

• Clemson University
  Location: Clemson, SC

Excelling in an Undergraduate Computer Science Program

Getting into a CS program is just the first step. To thrive, you’ll need to master your coursework, manage your time effectively, and build a strong network.

Mastering the CS Curriculum

The core courses in most CS programs—such as algorithms, data structures, and operating systems—are challenging but essential. You’ll need to study hard, code regularly, and tackle complex problems to succeed. Utilize platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank to improve your problem-solving skills and prepare for both academic exams and coding interviews.

Building a Network in the CS Field

Networking is critical for success in tech. Join student-led coding groups, attend hackathons, and participate in professional organizations. Building relationships with faculty, peers, and industry professionals can lead to mentorship opportunities and career connections.

Internships and Co-ops

Internships at tech companies give you invaluable experience. Start applying for internships early in your college career by attending job fairs, networking events, and using online job boards. A tech-specific resume should emphasize your coding experience, projects, and any prior work experience in the field.

Research Opportunities

Getting involved in research can help you dive deeper into areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or human-computer interaction. Approach professors about research assistant positions, showing genuine interest in their work and how it aligns with your career goals.

Hackathons and Coding Competitions

Hackathons offer great opportunities to sharpen your coding skills, collaborate with others, and build portfolio-worthy projects. Participating in competitions like Google Code Jam or ACM’s International Collegiate Programming Contest can also bolster your resume.

Getting into and thriving in an undergraduate computer science program is more than just meeting academic requirements — it’s about finding the right fit, showcasing your unique strengths, and embracing opportunities to grow. Whether it’s building a solid foundation in high school, navigating the application process, or gaining real-world experience, every step you take brings you closer to success in this popular, dynamic field.

At North Shore College Consulting, we understand how important these steps are. Our team of experts are here to guide you through researching, preparing for, and applying to top computer science programs. Ready to make your application stand out? Contact us today for personalized support on your college admissions journey. We're here to help you succeed!