Best Colleges for Computer Science in Maryland?

I'm exploring Maryland schools for computer science. Can anyone suggest which universities have the best programs, and what sets them apart? It would be great to know if they offer strong co-op or internship opportunities too.

Maryland has some excellent options for studying computer science. Here are three universities that stand out, for various reasons:

1. Johns Hopkins University: Known for a strong focus on research and its participatory culture that encourages students to work together on projects. This has led to Johns Hopkins having a reputation as one of the best computer science programs in the country. Their curriculum is rigorous and comprehensive, plus they often collaborate with other departments such as biomedical engineering or data science, which encourages a multidisciplinary approach. They also have a Career Center that organizes campus recruitment and internship programs, helping you to gain practical experience.

2. University of Maryland, College Park: UMD's Computer Science program is highly ranked nationally. They have pioneered some areas of Computer Science, like Human-Computer Interaction and Artificial Intelligence. They also boast a strong faculty and offer many opportunities for undergraduate research. UMD has a robust internship/co-op program and a career services department that connects students with tech companies in the nearby DC area and beyond.

3. Towson University: While not as nationally recognized as Johns Hopkins or UMD, Towson's Computer Science program offers a comprehensive curriculum and a variety of specialization options. They also emphasize experiential learning, with a mandatory Capstone project involving real-world problem-solving in either a research or industry setting. The department's dedication to career preparation is shown through its collaboration with the campus Career Center to facilitate internships and job opportunities with local businesses.

Remember, the right choice also depends on other factors, such as the campus culture, financial aid, and your own career aspirations. It could be useful to reach out to students and professors in each program to help narrow down your decision.