I might start at a 2-year college before transferring to a 4-year school, but I still want a solid computer science education. Can anyone recommend some of the best 2-year colleges for this major?
If you're looking specifically for 2-year colleges, community colleges will often be your best bet. While there are many options throughout the U.S., a few have established excellent reputations for their computer science programs.
1. De Anza College (California): De Anza College is part of the Silicon Valley's Foothill-De Anza Community College District and is well-regarded for its CS program. It's renowned for its rigor, comprehensive curriculum, and a host of partnerships with universities and tech companies around the area.
2. Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA): It's located near the tech hub of the Washington DC Metro area which potentially gives students excellent internship and job opportunities. They offer a variety of computer science and IT related Associate’s degrees.
3. Pasadena City College (California): Known for its robust and comprehensive computer science program, Pasadena City College also offers strong transfer programs to four-year institutions.
Keep in mind, the most important factor in a 2-year program is how the credits will transfer to a 4-year school. Before making a decision, make sure to check whether credits from the community colleges you're considering will be accepted by the 4-year institutions you're interested in. It can be beneficial to reach out to both the community college and your target transfer schools to understand the transfer process and ensure a smooth transition.
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