Best Computer Science Colleges in Illinois
Illinois is home to a multitude of universities and colleges that excel in the realm of computer science. From large, research-driven universities to more minor, liberal arts colleges, students have a wealth of options to choose from. This article delves into Illinois’s top computer science colleges, discussing their programs, annual costs, enrollment numbers, and SAT ranges.
University of Chicago
Information About Computer Science Programs
The University of Chicago’s Computer Science Department offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science. The programs balance theory with practical applications, giving students a robust understanding of programming languages, algorithms, machine learning, and data science.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attendance at the University of Chicago is approximately $81,531. The university has about 17,000 students; the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is 1500-1560.
Northwestern University
Information About Computer Science Programs
Northwestern University’s Department of Computer Science offers comprehensive programs from undergraduate to Ph.D. levels. Courses cover many topics, including artificial intelligence, data science, human-computer interaction, and computational biology.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending Northwestern University is approximately $78,654. The university has an enrollment of around 22,000 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1440 and 1550.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Information About Computer Science Programs
The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is renowned for its computer science program. They offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in computer science, covering data structures, algorithms, software design, and computer systems.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attendance for out-of-state students at UIUC is approximately $50,410; for in-state students, it’s around $33,352. The university has an enrollment of about 51,000 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1300 and 1480.
University of Illinois Chicago
Information About Computer Science Programs
The College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago offers comprehensive programs in computer science. The curriculum covers theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for roles in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost for out-of-state students at UIC is approximately $41,978; for in-state students, it’s around $30,680. The university has an enrollment of about 33,500 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1130 and 1340.
DePaul University
Information About Computer Science Programs
DePaul University’s School of Computing offers a wide range of programs in computer science. These programs emphasize theoretical foundations, hands-on practical skills, and professional preparation in software development, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending DePaul University is around $42,760. The university has an enrollment of about 22,500 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1110 and 1300.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Information About Computer Science Programs
The Illinois Institute of Technology’s Department of Computer Science offers programs from Bachelor’s to Ph.D. levels. These programs provide a solid foundation in computer science principles, and focus areas include cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, and cloud computing.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending the Illinois Institute of Technology is approximately $51,454. The university has an enrollment of around 6,900 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1230 and 1420.
Illinois Wesleyan University
Information About Computer Science Programs
Illinois Wesleyan University offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. These programs provide students with a strong foundation in computer science theory and practical skills in software development, algorithms, and data structures.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending Illinois Wesleyan University is approximately $50,846. The university enrolls around 1,700 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is generally between 1140 and 1340.
Loyola University Chicago
Information About Computer Science Programs
Loyola University Chicago offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs in Computer Science. The programs focus on fundamental computer science principles and their practical applications, preparing students for various careers in the tech industry.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending Loyola University Chicago is approximately $45,500. The university enrolls around 17,000 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1130 and 1310.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Information About Computer Science Programs
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that provides a solid foundation in algorithms, programming languages, computer networks, and software engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost for out-of-state students at SIUE is approximately $22,512; for in-state students, it’s around $11,105. The university enrolls around 13,000 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1020 and 1220.
Knox College
Information About Computer Science Programs
Knox College offers a Computer Science major emphasizing both the theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. The program prepares students for various roles in the tech industry or further academic study.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending Knox College is around $48,594. The university has an enrollment of about 1,400 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is between 1080 and 1310.
Best Computer Science Colleges in Three Other States
Best Computer Science Colleges in Iowa
Iowa State University and the University of Iowa are well known for their vital computer science programs, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. They provide students with a solid foundation in computer science theory and practice and prepare them for diverse career paths in the tech industry.
Best Computer Science Colleges in Michigan
The University of Michigan and Michigan State University are renowned for their computer science programs. Their curricula cover programming, algorithms, data structures, and artificial intelligence, equipping students with the skills needed for a successful career in the tech industry.
Best Computer Science Colleges in Indiana
Purdue University and Indiana University Bloomington are among Indiana’s top computer science choices. They offer robust computer science programs that cover various subfields, preparing students for careers in software development, data analysis, research, and more.
How to Prepare for the SAT On Your Own
Preparing for the SAT independently requires dedication, disciplined study habits, and adequate resources. Here are some steps to follow:
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the SAT structure, the types of questions asked, and the scoring system.
- Create a Study Schedule: Plan a realistic and consistent study schedule. Divide your study time between reading, writing, and math sections.
- Use Practice Tests: Practice tests help you understand your strengths and weaknesses. The College Board provides free SAT practice tests.
- Review Mistakes: After each practice test, spend time reviewing your mistakes. Understand why you made them and how to avoid them in the future.
- Use SAT Prep Books and Online Resources: SAT prep books offer strategies, practice questions, and comprehensive content reviews. Online resources like Khan Academy provide personalized practice pathways.
- Stay Consistent: Consistency is vital in test prep. Regular, focused study sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming. Remember to take breaks to avoid burnout.
Remember, self-preparation requires self-discipline and determination. With the right approach, you can achieve a competitive score on the SAT.
