The Top 21 Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest

High school graduates planning to study in one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest must carefully read through this post.

The following list of 21 colleges and schools in the Midwest have the best computer science programs designed to help you decide from which to choose. The institutions are numbered from one to twenty-one, with number one being the best-ranked school.

This review is based on feedback from computer science students and graduates from various research institutions. The quality of Faculty, Curriculum, tuition fees and scholarships, and Accreditation from professional bodies will play a vital role in the selection.

Here, you will also read about the various school’s computer science rankings from reputable organizations like CS Rankings.

The scope of this post is limited to the top two universities in each state that falls within the Midwest region – the Midwestern states include Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

My list of 21 best computer science schools in the Midwest should guide students and parents. These schools offer a variety of computer science courses and opportunities, including computer engineering, software development, computer & information system, information technology and more.

Read on to see if your school makes it to our top computer science colleges Midwest!

Best computer science Schools in Midwest

Things to Consider When Choosing a College for Computer Science

There are a few things to consider when choosing schools with the best computer science programs.

1. Quality of the Faculty: Make sure to look at the instructors’ credentials and see if they have experience in the field.
2. Check their Curriculum: Ensure that the courses align with your career goals.
3. Cost of Study: Some schools may have higher tuition rates but offer more scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

You can find some of the best computer science programs in the Midwest at schools like the University of Wisconsin -Madison, the University of Michigan, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. These institutions have competent faculty, demanding curricula, and several student financial aid options.

21 Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest

1. University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest. The school has a long tradition of excellence in computer science and offers a wide range of degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

The computer science program offered at The Grainger College of Engineering is one of the best in the country. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s computer science is ranked #2, and the overall University’s acceptance rate is 69%.

As a top public University in Illinois, the school provides endless opportunities for anyone to pursue their wildest dreams.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has a history of innovation and provides a challenging, progressive environment to help you achieve your goals.

The computer science department is home to world-renowned faculty members, research facilities, and state-of-the-art laboratories. In addition, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a variety of degree programs that prepare students for careers in computer science. The program was designed to give students the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the field.

The University of Illinois computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Annual Cost of Attendance/Study

2. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan is a well-respected public university located in the Detroit Metropolitan Area of Ann Arbor, Michigan. The school has a total enrollment of 29,851 undergraduate students in 2021, making it a comprehensive large university.

Michigan’s admittance rate is under 26%; admissions are selective. However, the University of Michigan computer science course is ranked #5 in the United States by SC Rankings.

The University has one of the best computer science programs in the Midwest. Although the school offers a wide range of courses in computer science, it also has a robust research program and is involved in cutting-edge projects in the field.

Yes! The University of Michigan consistently ranks as one of the top computer science schools in the Midwest and country. They were rated #3 by U.S. News & World Report in 2019.

The University of Michigan has a long history of excellence in computer science. They were one of the first schools in the country to offer a computer science degree. And their faculty includes some of the most respected names in the field.

The Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits the University of Michigan computer science program.

Visit the school’s website if you want a top-notch computer science education.

3. University of Wisconsin – Madison

Wisconsin is a top-notch public research institution located in Madison, Wisconsin. In 2021, the institution had an enrollment of 30,063 undergraduate students. Admissions here are fairly competitive – the acceptance rate is 57%.

The University of Wisconsin offers computer science as a degree and certificate program. Undergraduate students can graduate with a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree. Whichever one you graduated with is very relevant and recognized globally.

Why is the University of Wisconsin one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest? It is because the school focus on innovations, faculty are at the forefront of computer science research, and students have the opportunity to work with faculty on life-changing projects.

The School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences is home to Wisconsin’s prestigious computer science programs. Wisconsin computer science ranks as the #12 best CS program in the USA. Some computer science courses offered by the University of Wisconsin include:

• COMP SCI 200 — Programming I
• COMP SCI 202 — Introduction to Computation
• COMP SCI 220 — Data Science Programming I
• COMP SCI/​MATH  240 — Introduction to Discrete Mathematics
• COMP SCI/​E C E 252 — Introduction to Computer Engineering
• COMP SCI 270 — Fundamentals of Human-Computer Interaction
• COMP SCI 298 — Directed Study in Computer Science
• COMP SCI 300 — Programming II
• COMP SCI 304 — WES-CS Group Meeting
• COMP SCI 310 — Problem Solving Using Computers. ETC.,

Read full details of the University of Wisconsin Comp Sci. course

University of Wisconsin – Madison computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Annual Cost of Attendance/Study

4. Purdue University – West Lafayette

The prestigious Purdue University is a public university in West Lafayette, Indiana’s Wabash Township. In 2021, the school recorded a total of 33,575 undergraduate students enrolled.

Purdue University’s 67% acceptance rate makes admissions a bit tough. Nevertheless, Purdue University at West Lafayette is one of the top computer science colleges in the Midwest.

And offers a wide range of computer science courses, including Computer Graphics and Visualization, Computational Science and Engineering, Database and Information Systems, Foundations of Computer Science and Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, etc.

Purdue University at West Lafayette’s computer science is top-rated, ranking nationally as the 17th best computer science program.

Purdue’s Department of Computer Science produces graduate that works in various sectors, including business, government, healthcare, and finance. As a result, their graduates are in high demand, with a placement record of about 100%.

Many companies collaborate with Purdue to gain access to its top-notch CS graduates. As a result, it indicates that there are many openings for employment and internships.

The Purdue University Computer Engineering, Computer and Information Technology programs are accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Annual Cost of Attendance/Study

Note some majors at Purdue University – West Lafayette attracts additional charges that may not add – for detailed cost, visit the Bursar.

5. Northwestern University

Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University is one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest. The University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in computer science, including a BS in Computer Science, an MS in Computer Science, and a PhD in Computer Science.

Northwestern has an enrollment of 8,095 undergraduate students in 2021. Admissions are very competitive as the acceptance rate is 9%. Northwestern University has a solid commitment to research and teaching. The faculty members are highly experienced and knowledgeable in their field.

Northwestern University computer science ranks 35th among top schools with the best computer science program.

The Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences and the McCormick School of Engineering offers computer science major. A bachelor of science in computer science is available at the McCormick School of Engineering. At the same time, Computer science is available as a bachelor of arts degree at the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences.

The computer science program at Northwestern University exposes students at all levels of computing experience – how to approach problems from an algorithmic perspective, understand the nature and broad reach of computation, and apply that knowledge abstractly.

The Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits the computer science programs at Northwestern University.

6. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota at Twin Cities is one of the best schools for computer science in the Midwest. The school offers a variety of degree programs in computer science, including a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a PhD.

The University of Minnesota is a large area public university located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with an enrollment of 28,989 undergraduate students. Admissions are relatively competitive as the school has an acceptance rate of 70%.

Computer science at the University of Minnesota ranks 35th among top schools with the best computer science program.

The College of Science and Engineering and the College of Liberal Arts offers computer science major. A bachelor of science in computer science is available at the College of Science and Engineering. At the same time, Computer science is available as a bachelor of arts degree at the College of Liberal Arts.

If you study computer science in Minnesota, you are taught to Develop programming languages and operating systems, design computer software and hardware, integrate computational methods into other fields, choose the best programming language for a given task, and advance emerging technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence.

The computer science major at the University of Minnesota is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Annual Cost of Attendance/Study

7. Ohio State University

Ohio State University is one of the top best computer science schools in the Midwest. The school has a long history of excellence in computer science and offers its students many opportunities to learn and grow.

The University has a 68% acceptance rate, making it relatively selective. The computer science and engineering program is ranked #38 according to the CS Rankings.

Ohio State’s computer science and engineering (CSE) major focuses on the development of software and the uses of software to solve real-world problems and enhance modern society’s productivity, well-being, and safety.

The faculty is home to several world-renowned computer science researchers, and its faculty are passionate about teaching and helping students succeed.

The Computer Science and Engineering (BSCSE) at the Ohio State University is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

First-year student’s Cost of Attendance.

8. Michigan State University

Michigan State University is one of the world’s best computer science schools in the Midwest.

The University is one of the top research universities in the world – responsible for educating students to advance the common good with extraordinary will through well-rated programs and exceptional professors.

In 2021, the school recorded an enrollment of 30,189 undergraduate students. Admissions are relatively competitive as the school has an acceptance rate of 76%.

The computer science program of Michigan State University ranks #58 among top-rated computer science schools. Michigan State University also offers several research opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in computer science.

The Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits the Computer Science (BS) at Michigan State University.

9. University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame is a renowned private Catholic institution near South Bend in Portage Township, Indiana. The University is it is a small-sized school with 8,833 undergraduate students enrolled in 2021.

The 19% acceptance percentage at Notre Dame makes admission challenging. The computer science and engineering major ranks #60 among top-rated computer science schools. Graduates of Notre Dame have a 97% employment rate, and their starting income is $61,800.

The College of Engineering houses Notre Dame’s Computer Science and Engineering programs.

Computer Science and Engineering provides two undergraduate degree programs, one in Computer Science and one in Computer Engineering. And these programs are fully accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET.

University of Notre Dame programs are flexible, allowing you to pursue a passion or take a broad look at the area while tailoring your degree.

Computer science and engineering professors and students collaborate to progress the discipline and benefit humanity. No wonder it is among the best computer science schools in the Midwest.

10. Washington University in St. Louis

You can push the boundaries of what learning means at Washington University. The school produce new knowledge for a dynamic environment, enriched by broad exploration and motivated by large ideas.

McKelvey School of Engineering is home to WashU’s Computer Science & Engineering department. Here students can acquire a bachelor of science degree in Computer Science and Engineering.

Washington University in St. Louis faculty are experts in the field and push beyond boundaries. The computer science at Washington University is ranked #60. And the overall school’s acceptance rate is 16%.

Washington University in St. Louis is one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest. You will learn from faculty, break new grounds in their fields and have the opportunity to work alongside them on independent projects.

Study computer science at Washington University in St. Louis for a bright and promising future in the ever-growing field.

11. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers a top-ranked computer science program, with students having the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects. Located picturesque Iowa River in Iowa City, UI provides an excellent education at an affordable price.

The school was established in 1847 as a top-notch public research university. In the fall of 2021, the University had about 32,948 students from 114 countries and all 50 states. UI is relatively liberal, with an acceptance rate of 84%.

UI offers more than 200 majors, minors, and certificates across disciplines to help students find their passion. And it is among our top best computer science schools in the Midwest.

The Computer science program at Iowa University offers a solid foundation for future jobs in networking, computing, software, and hardware development. UI’s computer science ranked as the 74th best CS program in the US.

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences in UI offer computer science majors – Computer Science (BA) and Computer Science (BS). While in the College of Engineering degree is awarded in Computer Science and Engineering (BSE). The courses are ABET Accredited.

Estimated Costs of Attendance

The Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET recognizes Computer Science and Engineering (BSE).

12. Iowa State University

Located in Ames, Iowa, Iowa State is a top-rated public university and one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest. The institution covers a large Acres with an enrollment of 24,461 undergraduate students.

The Iowa State University acceptance rate is 92%, and applicants have more opportunities to get admission. Popular majors include Computer science, Mechanical Engineering, Dentistry and Finance.

Iowa State’s computer science program has steadily ranked among the best in the country. Iowa State computer science was ranked #74 by CS Rankings in 2021. Iowa State is also home to one of the top supercomputing centers in the country, which gives students access to some of the most powerful computing resources in the world.

Within six months of graduating, 95% of the Iowa State graduates get employed and have jobs or do something. In addition, computer science graduates earn an average salary of $72,600.

The Department of Computer Science works hard to provide and continuously enhance cutting-edge educational opportunities for its students.

The Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET accredits the Bachelor of Science degree program in Computer Science.

13. Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is located in Cleveland, Ohio, and it is a private research university. The computer science program at CWRU is one of the best in the nation.

It has 5,286 undergraduate students, with an acceptance rate of 30% and moderately competitive admissions. Computer science, mechanical engineering, bioengineering, and biomedical engineering are some of the popular majors.

Case Western Reserve University’s computer science program ranks as #91 best in the nation. In addition, the college has remained one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest.

Case Western Reserve University has nearly 100 majors and minors programs that help to place you in an advantageous position. In addition, the University is also home to the Center for Cybersecurity and Privacy Protection. This center is dedicated to researching and developing ways to protect people and organizations from cyber-attacks.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

14. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that prepares students for various career paths. The curriculum covers programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.

UN occupies a large land area with an enrollment of 18,949 undergraduate students in 2021. University of Nebraska’s acceptance rate is 78%. Admissions are slightly competitive.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln ranks #101 among the best colleges for computer science by CS Rankings. The University has an excellent reputation and provides students with a high-quality education.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is one of the best computer science schools in the Midwest and an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in computer science.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Therefore, if you desire a school that cares for your future, the University of Nebraska is the best choice.

15. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a cutting-edge research university with a long history of producing graduates who are leaders in their fields.

The UK uses cutting-edge research to expand knowledge, revolutionize the academic environment, and provide solutions. The school is among the top best computer science schools in the Midwest.

KU’s acceptance rate is 91% making it relatively accessible to more students. However, the computer science program ranks #111 among the best computer science colleges in the nation.

About 5,000 courses and more than 400 degree and certificate programs are available at the University of Kansas. Moreover, it has 2,800 faculty members, many of whom are experts in their disciplines.

Students at KU engage in dynamic, multidisciplinary research and learning environments where they share ideas, develop fresh perspectives on the world, and tackle society’s most pressing issues.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree program is accredited by the Computing Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

1. Kansas State University
2. University of Missouri
3. Missouri University of Science & Technology
4. University of Nebraska – Omaha
5. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
6. North Dakota State University

Honorable Mention

Here are some other best computer science schools in the Midwest that I couldn’t discuss more. These universities have top-quality computer science programs. They include:

• University of Chicago
• Wayne State University
• University of Cincinnati
• Indiana University–Bloomington
• Dakota State University
• Marquette University
• Wichita State University

Frequently Asked Question On Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest

Which University in Illinois is Best Computer Science?

Illinois has highly rated colleges to study computer science in the United States, but the University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign stand out the most. For example, when you look at most college review websites and student forums and compare the data, you will see that the University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign is the best computer science school in Illinois.

According to CS Rankings, the University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign ranked #2, and U.S News & World Report ranked them #3 best computer science schools in the nation

Furthermore, the University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign is one of the top-rated in the US for computer science majors and other courses. Therefore, the ROI on the University of Illinois-Urbana – Champaign is very high too.

Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools

The US is home to top-quality undergraduate schools for computer science and some of which include:

• Carnegie Mellon University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Stanford University
• University of California–Berkeley
• Cornell University
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign

Top Universities for Ms in Computer Science in World

Here are the best global universities for Masters in computer science.

• Tsinghua University.
• École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
• Nanyang Technological University.
• University of Toronto
• The National University of Singapore.
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Imperial College London
• Stanford University
• ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology)
• Harvard University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Best Computer Science Schools in California

If you are seeking the best computer science schools in California, then the list below would be a head start.

1. Stanford University
2. University of California–Berkeley
3. California Institute of Technology
4. University of California–Los Angeles
5. California Baptist University
6. California Lutheran University

Conclusion on the Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest

There are several excellent computer science programs in the Midwest, making it a great region to consider if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in this field. In the list above are some of the best computer science schools in the Midwest that offer top-notch programs, so be sure to check them out.

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