If you’re planning for education in Computer Science, chances are that you’ve already considered the USA. Haven’t you?
That’s no surprise because the United States boasts some of the world’s highest-ranked universities and computer science programs. It delivers a robust and all-encompassing education within the domain to international students. As the demand for computer science experts continues to surge, the job market in this sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projections indicate a substantial 22% rise in job opportunities within computer science in the next few years, rendering it an exceptionally promising arena for investment..
In 2021, the median pay in this field reached an impressive $93,000 (INR 7,533,000), further enhancing its appeal. Students with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, applications, and other technical fields can consider this lucrative career. For students coming from an unrelated background, knowledge of maths, programming, and statistics are prerequisites.
If you are looking for more information on how you can get into the best university for a degree in Computer Science in the USA in 2024, don't take any chances! The clock is ticking. Schedule a FREE consultation with Yocket's team of experts to learn what it takes to get to the top CS universities in the US.
In this blog, we will unveil the best universities and post-grad opportunities. Keep reading for your future success!
Why Study Computer Science in the USA?
There are multiple reasons that drive students to choose the USA for a degree in computer science. Let us unveil the factors that make these top computer science schools renowned:
- Top-Ranked Universities: The USA is home to many top-ranked universities with highly regarded computer science programs, offering students access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Career Opportunities: The USA is a hub of the technology industry, with many leading tech companies headquartered in Silicon Valley, Seattle, New York, and other major cities. Studying computer science in the USA helps with access to internships and job opportunities in this exciting field.
- Flexibility: Many universities in the USA offer flexible course options, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Some universities, such as Northwestern and the University of Chicago offer 1-year programs for Masters. Additionally, students can choose from a wide range of electives and specializations within the field of computer science.
- Cutting-Edge Research: The USA is at the forefront of computer science research, with many universities and research institutions conducting groundbreaking research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. Studying computer science in the USA allows students to participate in this cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Read more on MS in CS at Northwestern University
10 Top Universities for Computer Science in the USA
USA boasts top-tier Computer Science programs. Here are the US News & World Report's top 10 rankings:
|
University |
US News and World Report Ranking 2024 |
Tuition Fees per year |
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
1 |
$54,990 (INR 45,82,030) |
|
Stanford University |
2 |
$58,847 (INR 49,03,420) |
|
Carnegie Mellon University |
2 |
$59,610 (45,00,000) |
|
University of California--Berkeley |
4 |
$14,312 (INR 1192550) (in-state), $44,066 (INR 3,569,350) (out-of-state) |
|
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) |
5 |
$56,862 (INR 47,38,020) |
|
University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign |
6 (tie) |
$31,664 (INR 26,38,398) (in-state), $49,020 (INR 40,84,580) (out-of-state) |
|
Georgia Institute of Technology |
6 (tie) |
$13,310 (INR 11,09,050) (in-state), $33,794 (INR 28,15,880) (out-of-state) |
|
University of Washington |
8 |
$11,745 (INR 9,77,360) (in-state), $39,114 (INR 32,54,880) (out-of-state) |
|
University of Texas--Austin |
9 |
$11,448 (INR 9,52,790) (in-state), $40,032 (INR 33,31,770) (out-of-state) |
|
University of Michigan--Ann Arbor |
10 (tie) |
$15,948 (INR 13,27,320) (in-state), $52,266 (INR (INR 43,49,970) (out-of-state) |
Let us now learn about each of these best universities for MS in computer science in the USA, in detail:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Its computer science program is particularly well-known for research in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Stanford University
Located in Palo Alto, California, Stanford is another highly prestigious university with a top-ranked computer science program. Students can pursue a variety of sub-fields within computer science, including artificial intelligence, computer graphics, and computer security.
Carnegie Mellon University
Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon is known for its strong computer science program, and its emphasis on interdisciplinary research. Popular programs include computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics.
University of California, Berkeley
Highly renowned worldwide, UC Berkeley is located in Berkeley, California, and is a public university, part of the University of California system. Its computer science program is highly ranked and offers a wide range of specializations, including data science, human-computer interaction, and cybersecurity.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Located in Pasadena, California, Caltech is a small, highly selective university with a strong computer science program. Students can pursue research in areas such as algorithms, computer networks, and quantum computing.
University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign
Located in Urbana, Illinois, this public university is known for its research in computer science, and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Popular programs include computer architecture, programming languages, and database systems.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Georgia Tech is a public university with a highly regarded computer science program. Students can specialize in areas such as machine learning, computer vision, and human-computer interaction.
University of Washington
Located in Seattle, Washington, UW is a public university with a strong computer science program known for research in artificial intelligence and data science.
University of Texas, Austin
Located in Austin, Texas, UT Austin is a public university with a highly regarded computer science program that emphasizes the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. Popular programs include computer graphics, software engineering, and computer security.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, UM is a public university with a strong computer science program, which offers a range of specializations, including artificial intelligence, computer architecture, and computer networks. The university has a diverse student body, including many international students.
Once you’ve defined your goals, the next step is to shortlist the best programs and universities. At Yocket, our job is to help you transform the search for the best universities, and find suitable matches. Head to Yocket College Finder to get one step closer to your dream university in the US.
Most Prestigious Computer Science Programs Offered in the USA
In the USA, you have numerous computer science programs to select from. Undergraduate programs encompass fundamental subjects like algorithms, programming languages, and computer architecture, while also offering elective courses in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and human-computer interaction. On the graduate level, programs provide specialized coursework in advanced areas like computer graphics, distributed systems, and machine learning.
Given below are some of the best computer science programs in the USA offered at renowned universities:
|
University Name |
Course Name |
Average Tuition Fees per year |
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Molecular Biology Master of Engineering in Computer Science Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science |
$56,450 (INR 4,572,450) |
|
Stanford University |
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Master of Science in Computer Science, Systems Track Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction Master of Science in Computer Science, Computer Security Track |
$54,015 (INR 4,375,215) |
|
Carnegie Mellon University |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Master of Science in Computational Data Science Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science |
$43,815 (INR 3,549,015) |
|
University of California, Berkeley |
Master of Science in Computer Science Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Master of Information and Data Science Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences |
$29,233 (INR 2,367,873) |
|
California Institute of Technology |
Master of Science in Computer Science Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Master of Science in Computing and Mathematical Sciences |
$56,862 (INR 4,605,822) |
|
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
MS in Data Science and Analytics MS in Computational Science and Engineering |
$47,700 (INR 3,863,700) |
|
University of Washington |
MS in Computer Science MS in Data Science |
$34,722 (INR 2,812,482) |
|
University of California, San Diego |
Master of Science in Computer Science with specializations in Bioinformatics, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics, Computer Science and Philosophy, and Human-Computer Interaction |
$28,454 (INR 2,304,774) |
|
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor |
MS in Computer Science and Engineering |
$49,350 (INR 3,997,350) |
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Admission Requirements for Top Computer Science Schools in the USA
Admission requirements for top computer science schools in the USA may vary slightly depending on the specific institution, but some general requirements include
- A completed application form, including personal information, academic history, and relevant test scores.
- Official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended, demonstrating a strong academic background, especially in mathematics, science, and computer science courses.
- Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs, and GRE for graduate programs.
- Letters of recommendation from academic advisors, professors, or other professional contacts who can attest to the applicant's academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success in the computer science field.
Check out: How to Write Sample LOR for MS in Computer Science?
- A well-written personal statement or essay that explains the applicant's interest in computer science, career goals, and how the chosen program will help achieve those goals.
- Evidence of proficiency in the English language, as demonstrated by TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students.
- In addition to these general requirements, some computer science programs may have additional prerequisites or requirements, such as prior coursework in specific programming languages or areas of computer science, a portfolio of previous coding projects, or participation in coding competitions or hackathons.
If you’re planning to apply for graduate programs in Computer Science, taking the GRE will enhance your application, and make it stand out. Yocket Prep is here to support you with all the resources, that will help you ace the exam. Head to Yocket’s sample tests, and get access to GRE prep right now!
Application Process to Study at Best Colleges for Computer Science in the USA
The application process to study at the best colleges for computer science in the USA typically involves the following steps:
- Researching and choosing the schools: Start by researching the top colleges for computer science in the USA and choose the ones that best fit your interests and goals.
- Meeting admission requirements: Each college may have its own admission requirements, but generally, they will include submitting transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and essays.
- Submitting applications: Once you have met the admission requirements, you will need to submit your applications to the colleges you have chosen. Most colleges use the Common Application or their application system.
- Paying application fees: Each college may have an application fee that needs to be paid at the time of application submission.
- Attending interviews: Some colleges may require interviews as part of their application process. Interviews can be conducted over an online meeting or phone call.
- Waiting for admission decisions: After submitting your applications, you will need to wait for the admission decisions. Admission decisions are usually released in the spring, and you will need to choose the college you will attend by the May 1st deadline.
- Applying for financial aid: Universities in the USA have several merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students, which you can apply for. You may need to submit essays for the same.
- Accepting admission and preparing for enrollment: Once you have been accepted to a college, you will need to accept the admission offer and prepare for enrollment by registering for classes and attending orientation sessions. You will have to arrange for an i-20 form, apply for the F1 visa, and undertake travel bookings.
Tired of reading blogs to begin the application process for the US? Speak to a Yocket Expert, and begin right away!
Scholarships Available for International Students to Study Computer Science in the USA
There are also many scholarships available to international students studying computer science in the US. Some of these scholarships are offered by the universities themselves, while others are offered by private organizations. Given below are some of the most popular scholarships for computer science available in US universities for international students:
|
Scholarship Name |
Amount Offered |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Google Lime Scholarship |
$10,000 (INR 810,000) |
Students with disabilities planning to pursue, or enrolled in a university in either USA or Canada. This scholarship encourages students with disabilities to pursue education in a technical field. |
|
Microsoft Scholarship Program |
Varies |
Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in computer science or a related STEM field. |
|
Women Techmakers Scholars Program |
$10,000 (INR 810,000) |
Women enrolled in a computer science or related program at an accredited university. |
|
Society of Women Engineers Scholarship |
Varies |
Female students pursuing a degree in engineering, including computer science, at an ABET-accredited program. |
|
IBM Scholarship |
Varies |
Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in computer science or related fields. |
|
BHW Scholarship |
$3,000 (INR 243,000) |
Women pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science, information technology, management information systems, or related fields. |
Suggested: Cost of Studying an MS in the USA
Career Opportunities Post Studying Computer Science in the USA
Computer Science is a rapidly growing field, and a degree in this field from a top-ranked university in the US can provide excellent career opportunities. Some of the most popular career paths for graduates in Computer Science include:
|
Job Role |
Average Salary in USD |
Average Salary in INR |
|
Software Developer |
$107,510 |
8,708,310 |
|
Computer Systems Analyst |
$93,730 |
7,592,130 |
|
Information Security Analyst |
$103,590 |
8,830,790 |
|
Data Scientist |
$105,000 |
8,505,000 |
|
Computer Network Architect |
$112,690 |
9,127,690 |
|
Database Administrator |
$98,860 |
8,007,660 |
|
Web Developer |
$77,200 |
6,253,200 |
|
Computer and Information Research Scientist |
$126,830 |
10,273,230 |
|
Computer Hardware Engineer |
$119,560 |
9,684,360 |
|
Computer and Information Systems Manager |
$146,360 |
11,855,160 |
From the Desk of Yocket
Computer Science in the USA presents a horizon of limitless opportunities. The field's rapid evolution has spurred a growing demand for skilled professionals, expanding well beyond traditional software development. It now encompasses cutting-edge domains like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, cybersecurity, and even robotics.
With tech giants like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Facebook headquartered here, the USA beckons with enticing career prospects and generous compensation packages. Moreover, it fosters an ideal environment for budding startups.
As you contemplate this exciting journey, remember that Yocket Experts are your trusted guides. They stand ready to provide invaluable insights and guidance. So, when the time comes, you know what to do—reach out to them, and let the adventure begin! 😉