Looking for the Best Midwest Colleges for Computer Science

As I'm thinking about where to apply, I'm curious about which colleges in the Midwest have standout computer science programs. Any suggestions? I'm hoping to find a place with strong industry connections and research opportunities.

There are several colleges in the Midwest with strong computer science programs that offer great industry connections and research opportunities.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) probably tops the list, with one of the most respected computer science programs in the U.S. The school boasts research partnerships with many key players in the tech industry, giving students ample opportunities for networking and internships.

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh isn't technically in the Midwest, but it's close and it's one of the best CS programs in the country. It has strong ties to industry, including companies like Google and Apple, and has excellent opportunities for research.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor also has a highly recognized program with robust ties to the industry. The College of Engineering's Computer Science and Engineering division is especially notable for its research in areas such as AI, data science, and software systems.

Purdue University in Indiana features a robust Computer Science department, offering both a Computer Science major and minor. The program is heavily research-focused, and the department maintains solid connections with tech industry giants like Google, Microsoft, and Intel.

Finally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has a highly reputable computer science program. It's well-known for its research in machine learning and data mining, among other areas.

Remember, when making a decision, also consider factors such as campus culture, class size, tuition, and location. It’s essential to choose a college where you'll feel comfortable and thrive both academically and socially.

I hope this gives you a good starting point! Good luck with your search.