How do the computer science colleges near me rank?

I'm starting to look into colleges for computer science, and I'm wondering how the schools near me rank for this major. Does anyone have insights on what makes a good CS program, aside from just the rankings?

It's great to see you're interested in computer science! For CS schools, the traditional rankings can give you a sense of which schools have a strong reputation in the field. However, keep in mind that rankings often vary and can be subjective, depending upon factors such as peer assessment, faculty/student ratio, research activity, financial resources, etc. Therefore, I'd recommend that you don't just depend solely on them.

To evaluate a CS program, consider the curriculum breadth and depth. Does the program provide a good foundation in basic computer science principles? Does it offer courses in the areas of CS that interest you, such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, etc?

Another aspect to look at is the opportunities available for practical application, including internships, cooperative education programs, and research opportunities. These experiences can be very valuable for developing your skills and understanding of CS in a real-world context.

Faculty quality is also important. You can check the faculty profiles to see the kind of research they are conducting, their educational background, and their industry experience.

The graduation rate and job placement rate can also give you an idea of the success students have after graduating from the program. The career services office might have information on recent graduates, like what jobs they've landed or where they've been accepted for graduate school.

Lastly, you might also want to consider the school's network and connections within the tech industry, which can be especially useful when looking for internships and job opportunities.

Remember, the best program for you is not necessarily the highest ranked one, but the one that fits your specific needs and goals best. Good luck with your college search!