Which are the best colleges in Virginia for Computer Science?

I'm interested in studying computer science and would love to know which colleges in Virginia have the strongest programs. Are there any that stand out in terms of reputation, faculty, or internship opportunities?

Virginia is home to several colleges with renowned Computer Science programs.

The University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville is one of the best. The Department of Computer Science at UVA is part of the School of Engineering and Applied Science and has a strong focus on research. The department is especially known for its work in cyber-physical systems, computer vision, and high-performance computing.

Virginia Tech, in Blacksburg, has an impressive Department of Computer Science as well. The program has strong concentrations in areas like cloud computing, cyber security, and machine learning. Virginia Tech also has an excellent cooperative education program, which offers students the chance to gain real-world experience while still in school.

George Mason University (GMU) in Fairfax also has a noteworthy Computer Science program. GMU's program emphasizes software engineering principles and has a strong connection with local tech companies in the Northern Virginia area, often leading to co-op and internship opportunities for students.

Lastly, The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg deserves mention. While it's known more for its liberal arts programs, it does have an up-and-coming Computer Science department where undergraduate students actively engage with faculty in research.

Remember, when deciding, you ought to evaluate factors like class sizes, faculty-to-student ratio, availability of research opportunities, and internships. It can be beneficial to look at what specific areas each program specializes in to find the best fit for your interests. It'd be ideal to visit (if possible) or perform a virtual exploration to get a feel of the campus and academic environment each school offers.