Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Hartford, CT?

I'm aiming to study computer science and prefer to stay around Hartford, CT. Can anyone suggest affordable colleges in that area with reputable computer science programs? Any info on tuition or financial aid would be great.

Certainly! In Hartford, CT the University of Hartford has a well-known Computer Science program. As of the 2024-2025 academic year, their tuition costs approximately $45,682 (note, however, that this rate doesn't include additional expenses like housing, transportation, or books). Additionally, over 90% of full-time University of Hartford undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid.

If you are open to the Greater Hartford area, Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) in New Britain is an affordable alternative with in-state tuition listed as $13,050 per year and out-of-state listed at $16,550. Roughly 70% of full-time undergraduates at CCSU receive some sort of need-based financial aid, further reducing the out-of-pocket cost.

One other option is to consider the Connecticut Colleges that are part of the Connecticut State Universities system, which includes Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Western Connecticut State University, in addition to Central Connecticut State University. These schools have shared resources and many students take advantage of this by attending one college for the lower tuition but leveraging resources at one of the other colleges which might have a better program for their field of study. In your case, Southern Connecticut State University has a strong computer science program.

Remember to fill out the FAFSA, as that's the primary source to determine your eligibility for financial aid packages, including federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. It's also used by many colleges to award their own need-based aid.

As you evaluate affordability, don't forget to also factor in scholarships, as they can significantly reduce your college expenses. Be sure to check each college's website for specific scholarship opportunities, too, as some may have merit-based scholarships or specific scholarships for computer science majors. Generally, deadlines to apply for financial aid will be in early spring of the year you plan to enroll.

Just make sure to research each program thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations in Computer Science. Affordability is key, but you also want to be sure you choose a program that will help you thrive in college, and set you up for success after graduation.

Best of luck!