Virginia Colleges with Awesome Computer Science Programs?

I'm in my junior year, and I'm starting to think more about college. I'm leaning towards computer science as my major, and I'd like to stay in Virginia if possible. What are some of the best colleges for computer science in Virginia, and why are they well-regarded? Thanks!

There are several universities in Virginia with highly-regarded computer science programs. Some of the top options include:

1. University of Virginia (UVA) - UVA's computer science department, part of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, is known for its strong curriculum and research opportunities. Students have access to cutting-edge technology, a range of elective courses, and opportunities for internships/co-ops. UVA also has strong connections to tech companies and local start-ups, making it an excellent choice for job prospects post-graduation.

2. Virginia Tech - Virginia Tech's Department of Computer Science offers a comprehensive curriculum with various concentrations, such as networking, software engineering, and artificial intelligence, allowing students to tailor their degree to their interests. The university's research support, as well as its inclusion in the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, add to its reputation. Furthermore, the annual "VThacks" hackathon attracts participation from students across the country and showcases Virginia Tech's strong computer science community.

3. George Mason University - George Mason's computer science program is part of the Volgenau School of Engineering and is highly regarded for its strong curriculum and notable research areas, such as cybersecurity and machine learning. GMU's proximity to Washington D.C. provides numerous internship and networking opportunities with government agencies and tech companies, making it an excellent choice for computer science majors seeking to build their careers.

4. William & Mary - The computer science program at William & Mary offers an engaging academic experience, combining a strong CS foundation with a liberal arts approach. The department encourages undergraduate research, and students may also pursue opportunities like internships, study abroad programs, or independent studies to enrich their overall experience.

5. James Madison University - JMU's computer science department offers an updated curriculum, including concentrations in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity. JMU also provides students with hands-on experience and opportunities to engage in projects and research. The university's emphasis on faculty-student interaction and its connections to local tech companies contribute to its high post-graduate job placement rates.

I suggest looking into each of these schools further to find the best fit considering other factors such as campus life, location, financial aid, and size, as well as evaluating the strength of their computer science curriculum and resources.