Computer Science
HOW TO PREPARE NOW FOR APPLYING TO COMPUTER SCIENCE SCHOOLS
SCHOOLS TO CONSIDER THAT MAY NOT BE ON YOUR RADAR
If you want to apply to competitive colleges, top grades, a rigorous curriculum, and well-rounded extracurricular activities are needed. Here and here is advice (written for engineering, but applies to computer science) on how to prepare in each grade for top schools.
Extracurricular activities that allow you to explore computer science, such as science fairs, contests, internships, etc. are probably important to the schools you'll be applying to. Check out the Extracurricular Activities , Examples for aspiring computer science majors, or google other local opportunities.
Structured Summer Programs are important to allow you to explore the field and gain hands-on experience. This and your other Extracurricular Activities help build a strong resume.
The list of colleges to the right are great options beyond the most competitive schools. Even if you apply to the competitive colleges, consider putting some of these on your list as backups. Honors Programs at these schools will give you a more rigorous education, special attention, and privileges not offered to other students. Some of these schools may give merit scholarships if you meet their criteria, but there is no guarantee.
On a college website, look at the Computer Science Department's page to review their subspecialties, minors, resources, equipment, and current research/projects to determine which features are most important to you.
Some schools offer minors to allow you to tailor your computer science degree for data analysis, web design, cybersecurity, etc. This is a great way to customize your education to meet your career goals.
Determine if you'll need a graduate degree for your intended career, and if so, consider an accelerated BS/MS degree program.
Apply by the Early deadlines, if available.
Supplemental College Essays should capture your interest in computer science. You could elaborate on what drove you to the exact field of computer science you wish to pursue. Show admissions officers that you are a candidate who would bring unique experiences to their school.
Click on a school to view its Computer Science Department website.
CALIFORNIA PUBLICS
WUE SCHOOLS
OTHER SCHOOLS
Loyola Marymount Univ (Los Angeles)