Top colleges in Illinois for computer science?

I'm exploring computer science programs and am curious about the standout colleges in Illinois. What are some of the top options, and what has your experience been like if you've attended any of these schools?

Illinois is home to several strong computer science programs.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is often mentioned as having one of the top computer science programs in the country. UIUC's computer science graduate program is consistently ranked in the top 5 nationally, and the undergraduate program is also highly regarded. The university is particularly known for its strength in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, and theoretical computer science. It's also worth noting that several seminal technology companies, like Netscape and PayPal, were co-founded by UIUC CS graduates.

Northwestern University also has a strong computer science program. While not as widely recognized as UIUC, Northwestern's program is known for its interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to combine computer science with other fields of interest such as economics, music, or biology.

The University of Chicago, while historically more famous for its programs in the social sciences and humanities, has been investing heavily in its computer science department. The university inaugurated a new computer science center, the Crerar Library, in 2018 and continues to recruit world-class faculty.

Lastly, the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) in Chicago provides solid computer science training with a practical, hands-on approach. As an institution focused on technology and engineering, IIT stands out with its focus on applied learning and industry connections.

Each school has its own strengths and distinct characteristics, so I would highly recommend researching each department more thoroughly to understand which might be the best fit for you.

Remember, the best college is not necessarily the one that is ranked highest, but the one that will best meet your academic preferences, career goals, and personal requirements. It's worth reaching out to current students or alumni from these programs to get a firsthand account of their experiences. This can help understand what the day-to-day experience and opportunities might be like at each school.