What are the best colleges for computer science in the US?

I'm a high school junior really interested in pursuing computer science in college. I've heard places like MIT and Stanford are top tier, but what other colleges should I consider for a strong CS program?

There are numerous colleges and universities in the US that offer strong Computer Science programs beyond just MIT and Stanford. If you're looking for a blend of prestigious programs and rigorous coursework, there are several worth considering.

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, for example, is renowned for its computer science program. Its School of Computer Science is particularly noted for its strengths in areas like artificial intelligence, systems, and theory.

Another institution worth considering is the University of California, Berkeley. Its College of Engineering offers a robust Computer Science division and is well-regarded for research opportunities and strong faculty.

Cornell University and Princeton University also have excellent computer science programs. Although they might be best known for other areas, they do have well-funded, innovative, and research-intensive CS departments.

Caltech, while small, offers a rigorous and in-depth program with a strong faculty and plenty of research opportunities.

Lastly, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a strong CS program known for its innovation and breadth of study, and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor has one of the largest and highest-ranked programs in the country.

Remember that the "best" college will depend on your own personal needs and fit factors, such as your career goals, desired learning environment, and preferred geographical location. In the realm of CS, it's also good to look at specialties if there's a specific area you're interested in, such as artificial intelligence or data science. Always consider other factors when choosing a college, like financial aid, location, size, and culture.