Top software development schools for aspiring developers?

I am passionate about coding and want to pursue a career in software development. Can anyone suggest some of the best schools known for their software development programs? A balance of theory and practical experience would be ideal.

You're definitely on the right path considering schools that offer robust software development programs. Here are a few schools that are recognized for their strong Computer Science programs, which would encompass software development:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) is a hub of innovation. The Computer Science department offers a wide range of courses, including software engineering, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

2. Stanford University: Stanford has an all-encompassing Computer Science program that offers a variety of specialized tracks, including Software Systems. The school is known for fostering entrepreneurship and innovative thinking.

3. University of California, Berkeley: UC Berkeley's Electrical Engineering and Computer Science department has a program that integrates applied mathematics, engineering, and computer science, which could be beneficial for a future software developer.

4. Carnegie Mellon University: CMU's School of Computer Science is known for its integration of theory, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. They have research opportunities and project-based classes that offer practical experience.

5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: The CS department at UIUC includes a concentration in Software Engineering, and the school has ties to many tech companies offering good internship and job prospects.

6. Georgia Institute of Technology: Georgia Tech’s College of Computing offers a robust Computer Science program with threads in Systems & Architecture and Information Internetworks that can provide a foundation for software development.

7. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo: Known for its Learn by Doing philosophy, Cal Poly SLO's Computer Science department offers practical experience through lab-intensive courses and collaborative projects.

However, it's also important to remember that the quality of your education is not limited to the prestige of the institution. When you’re looking at prospective schools, also consider class size, internship opportunities, faculty, research prospects, community, and how well the program aligns with your career goals. Another valuable resource is talking with alumni or current students from these programs. They can provide an inside perspective and help you understand what the experience and opportunities at the school are actually like.