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Best Software Engineering Schools
Ever considered furthering your education in engineering as an international student? Want to know more about software engineer degree schools. Looking for software engineer degree requirements? As a student are you wondering if there are software engineer courses online lately?
College undergraduates who pursue software engineering are almost guaranteed a job right out of college, with a projected job growth rate of 17 percent from 2014 to 2024.
Although the demand for software engineers is high, the financial reward is also quite high. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for software engineers is an impressive $98,260. Even more, first-year graduates can expect to make $50,000 to $70,000 right out of college!
Typically, software engineers work in one of two capacities—as an applications software developer or a systems software developer. In the former, engineers are at the front-end of the product, developing a specific software (like a word processor or an app or a game).
A systems software developer, however, works on the bigger picture and helps organize all of the moving parts of a computer system so that they work efficiently and smoothly.
Here are some jobs that fit perfectly with a BS in Software Engineering, and can apply to almost any work sector, from health care to renewable energy to entertainment:
- Software and Systems Architect
- Software and System Engineer
- Software Programmer, Developer, and Tester
- Requirements Engineer
- Project Leader
- Senior Computer Applications Engineer
If you’re a student who loves numbers and has a knack for seeing how tiny details fit into the bigger picture, a BS in Software Engineering at any of the schools on our list is a great route for you to take. You’re not only securing your financial future, but you also are choosing to join an exciting a cutting-edge field that has virtually endless options.
Best Software Engineering Degrees
RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
---|---|---|
1 | University of California, Irvine | Irvine, CA |
2 | Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ |
3 | California Polytechnic State University | San Luis Obispo, CA |
4 | Iowa State University | Ames, IA |
5 | Michigan Technological University | Houghton, MI |
6 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI |
7 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX |
8 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA |
9 | Auburn University | Auburn University, AL |
10 | Miami University | Hamilton, OH |
Here are twenty best software engineering in the world:
University of California, LOCATION: Irvine, CA GRADUATION RATE: 86%
Overview
Founded in 1965, the University of California Irvine is a public, land-grant research institution that’s home to over 33,000 students. Popularly known as UC Irvine, both students and staff members consider this a Public Ivy. Of the university’s nearly 200 degrees offered within its 15 schools, students may now pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, this program is intended for both those who have no software engineering experience and those who have some programming experience. Depending on your course of study, required courses may include:
- Human Computer Interaction
- Project in Ubiquitous Computing
- Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science
- Data Structure Implementation and Analysis
- Programming in Multitasking Operating Systems
Interested in pursuing a minor? The Bren School offers the following minors: Bioinformatics, Digital Information Systems, Health Informatics, Informatics, Information and Computer Science, and Statistics.
Notables
Students at the University of California Irvine will benefit not only from the program’s comprehensive curriculum but also from the university’s proximity to major tech hubs, including Silicon Valley. With plenty of hands-on experience, undergraduates will complete a three-quarter capstone course to develop a real system for a real client.
Stevens Institute of Technology LOCATION: Hoboken, NJ GRADUATION RATE: 82%
Overview
Located in Hoboken, NJ, Stevens Institute of Technology is a private university that’s home to more than 7,000 students. The school offers over 35 undergraduate majors, nearly 60 master’s programs, and several doctoral degrees. Students may pursue a Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering, offered jointly through the School of Systems and Enterprises, and the School of Engineering and Science.
Program Features
This is a 141-credit program that can be completed in four years. Required courses may include:
- Circuits and Systems
- Software Design Evolution
- Object Based Software Development
- Software Testing and Quality Assurance
- Agile Methods for Software Development
The school’s close proximity to New York City makes it easy to gain hands-on experience in the field prior to graduating. Undergraduates in this program have landed internships at prestigious companies, including Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins, and Citigroup.
Notables
Stevens Institute of Technology allows undergraduates to apply to an accelerated program in which they can start earning credits towards a master’s degree in conjunction with their bachelor’s. Popular careers for graduates include software programmer, software and system engineer, and other related professions.
California Polytechnic State University LOCATION: San Luis, Obispo Graduate Rate: 75%
Overview
Located along the central coast region of California, Cal Polytechnic State University is comprised of six colleges, offering 65 bachelor’s degrees and more than 30 master’s degrees. Cal Poly opened its doors in 1903 and is now home to over 21,000 students. Interested in technology and programming? Check out the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through Cal Poly’s College of Engineering, undergraduate students in this program must complete at least 60 credits of upper-division courses. Required courses may include:
- Ethics, Science, and Technology
- Methods of Proof in Mathematics
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Individual Software Design and Development
- User-Centered Interface Design and Development
Students in this program will have access to a variety of resources, including career services, tech support, a health center, and more.
Notables
California Polytechnic State University has been ranked among the nation’s Top Universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Cal Poly also tied for No. 1 for both lists of the Most Innovative Schools and the Top Public Schools in the U.S. The school’s Center for Engineering, Science, and Mathematics Education also offers a unique Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Student Participation in STEM Program.
Iowa State University LOCATION: Ames, IA GRADUATION RATE: 69%
Overview
Located in Iowa’s central city of Ames, Iowa State is a public flagship land- and space-grant research university. With more than ten schools and colleges offering a variety of unique degree programs, ISU is home to mascot Cy the Cardinal and more than 36,000 students. Interested in software engineering? Iowa State now offers a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s Department of Computer Science and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, students in this program will gain hands-on experience through various research activities and internships. Required courses may include:
- Engineering Economic Analysis
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Software Construction and User Interfaces
- Computer Organization and Assembly Level Programming
- Elementary Differential Equations and Laplace Transforms
This curriculum places an emphasis on software engineering principles, process, and practice. Elective courses are also available in computer engineering and computer science.
Notables
While a co-op or internship is optional in this program, many undergraduates opt for some outside experience prior to graduating. Iowa State has been ranked among the Best Value Schools and Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report.
Michigan Technological University LOCATION: Houghton, MI GRADUATION RATE: 64%
Overview
Founded in 1885, Michigan Tech is a public research university that was founded in 1885 and is located in the state’s Upper Peninsula. Home to just over 7,000 students, MTU’s mission is centered around innovation and research. In fact, the MTU is home to over 20 major research centers. Check out the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s College of Computing, students in this undergraduate program may pursue an accelerated master’s in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Data Science. The master’s can be earned in just one year following the bachelor’s. Undergraduate students may have to fulfill the following course requirements:
- Data Structures
- Compiler Design and Optimization
- Software Processes and Management
- Model-Driven Software Development
- Ethical and Social Aspects of Computing
In addition, all students will have the opportunity to participate in the university’s Enterprise Program. Michigan Tech offers 24 unique Enterprise teams where members work on real projects, with real clients. With assistance from faculty, teams may collaborate to invent products, provide services, and more!
Notables
Michigan Technological University offers two unique Enterprise teams for those in the Software Engineering major. The Husky Game Development team allows students to design and develop games for businesses, educational purposes, and for fun. The Humane Interface Design Enterprise is for those looking to design, develop, and evaluate interfaces to make work more efficient and manageable.
Milwaukee School of Engineering LOCATION: Milwaukee, WI GRADUATION RATE: 56%
Overview
Milwaukee School of Engineering is a private university and has an enrollment of just under 3,000 students. Founded in 1903, this school promotes six core values to its faculty members and students that include collaboration and innovation. When you’re not busy cheering on mascot Roscoe Raider, you may work towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Steeped in computer science, this program integrates both classroom and lab activities and assignments. Required courses may include:
- Electromagnetism and Optics
- Mobile Application Development
- Differential Equations for Engineers
- Software Requirements and Specification
- Software Engineering Tools and Practices
- Ethics for Professional Managers and Engineers
In addition, all undergraduate students will complete a senior design sequence, in which you’ll work in teams to complete a major project. Many students in this program also pursue outside internships in addition to coursework. Elective courses will allow students to dive deeper into topics like image processing, information security, artificial intelligence, and more.
Notables
Milwaukee School of Engineering has been ranked among the Top 10 Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. The school also stands along the Top 10 Best Value Colleges and Top 10 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs.
The University of Texas at Dallas LOCATION: Richardson, TX GRADUATION RATE: 71%
Overview
Founded in 1969, the University of Texas at Dallas boasts an enrollment of over 26,000 students and is home to eight schools, each offering a variety of unique degree programs. From science and business to the arts and engineering, UT Dallas offers over 140 degrees. Check out the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through the university’s Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, this program is rooted in mathematics. With a computer science core, undergraduate students can expect to take the following courses:
- Discrete Mathematics for Computing
- Professional and Technical Communication
- Data Structures and Introduction to Algorithmic Analysis
- Social Issues and Ethics in Computer Science and Engineering
- Software Testing, Verification, Validation, and Quality Assurance
Many undergraduates choose to pursue internships as well. In fact, students have gone on to intern at many prestigious companies, including IBM, Texas Instruments, AT&T, Cisco, and more. UT Dallas also offers a fast track BS/MS option for interested students.
Notables
The University of Texas at Dallas offers many unique areas of research as well. With dedicated, state-of-the-art laboratories, students may pursue further studies in everything from medical imaging and wireless networking to organic electronics, cybersecurity, and more.
Drexel University LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA GRADUATION RATE: 67%
Overview
Founded in the early 1890s, Drexel is a private research university located in Philadelphia and is one of the nation’s 15 largest private universities. Home to mascot Mario the Magnificent as well as over 25,000 students, Drexel heavily promotes student-learning outside of the classroom through co-ops and internships. Check out Drexel’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through Drexel’s College of Computing and Informatics, this degree program is ideal for those who love problem-solving and want to learn how to write and implement code. Required courses may include:
- Software Verification and Validation
- Human-Centered Design Process and Methods
- Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science
- Introduction to Software Engineering and Development
- Computer Networks: Theory, Applications, and Programming
All students must earn at least 186.5 credits to earn their degree, including three writing-intensive courses to be completed freshman year. Undergraduates have the opportunity to complete one co-op experience if they study for four years at Drexel. Additionally, you can opt for three co-ops over the course of five years, or two co-ops if you choose the accelerated 5-year degree BS/MS plan.
Notables
All students have access to Drexel University’s Steinbright Career Development Center. Graduates of this program have gone on to become software engineers, as well as software architects, software project team leaders, and more.
Auburn University LOCATION: Auburn University, AL GRADUATIO RATE: 71%
Overview
Founded in the 1850s in Alabama, Auburn University is home to nearly 30,000 students and mascot Aubie the Tiger. Students may choose from a variety of degrees offered across the university’s 13 schools and colleges. Interested in computers and engineering? Check out the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Offered through Auburn University’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, students in this program are expected to complete at least 120 credit hours. Required courses may include:
- Computer Ethics
- Digital Logic Circuits
- Computer Architecture
- Software Modeling and Design
- Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming
Additionally, all undergraduates must complete either a literature sequence or a history sequence. A senior design project is also required of students who wish to earn their bachelor’s degree.
Notables
Auburn University offers many unique, state-of-the-art research centers for students to take advantage of. These include the Alabama Center for Paper and Bioresource Engineering, Wireless Engineering Research Center, Center for Cyber and Homeland Security, and more. Students may also choose to participate in a co-op program or internship to gain more hands-on experience prior to graduating.
Miami University LOCATION: Hamilton, OH GRADUATION RATE: 27%
Overview
Founded in the early 1800s, Miami University, despite its name, is actually located in Ohio – not Florida! This public research university is named after the Native American nation ‘Miami Tribe’ and is now home to nearly 20,000 students. With more than 120 unique areas of study, students have plenty to choose from – check out the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering.
Program Features
This undergraduate degree is offered through Miami University’s College of Engineering and Computing. Courses in this degree are very collaborative and students will work in teams to build designs and more. Areas of specialization include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Bioinformatics
- Scientific Systems
- Computer Security
- E-business Systems
Many students choose to double major in computer science and software engineering. Even as a double-major, the university’s career services office makes it easy to find internships that offer more hands-on experiences.
Notables
Miami University’s Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering offers plenty of classrooms, labs, and learning spaces for students to take advantage of. These include 24/7 lab areas within student commons and the HIVE – Huge Immersive Virtual Environment. There are also labs specifically for building and experimenting with software and hardware systems, plus spaces for group meetings and to work on team projects.
Top 10 Computer Science Programs in the World
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of California – Berkeley
- Harvard University
- University of Cambridge
- Princeton University
- University of Oxford
- University of Toronto
- ETH Zürich
One of the most important technological advancements of the 21st century is the integration of computers into almost all aspects of our lives. Computer scientists develop powerful software and algorithms that have the incredible predictive power to match products to consumers, predict political elections, and even help people find lifelong romantic partners. They also create software that powers AI, which has led to extremely good facial and voice recognition and even self-driving vehicles. As our ability to collect and process ever larger amounts of data grows, so will the importance of computer scientists.
Computer scientists are responsible for designing and using programming languages to accomplish many different tasks. Computer scientists study topics such as: computer networking, information systems, computer security, data and knowledge engineering, mainframe computing, and software development. The schools on this list are the best in the world at training the next generation of computer scientists. If you love computers and problem solving, then read on to see if one of these programs is right for you.
Taking the QS ranking as our point of departure, we set their ranking against the ranking for computer science programs produced by AcademicInfluence.com. Using machine learning and search algorithms to characterize academic influence on the web, AcademicInfluence.com avoids the human bias that infects most academic rankings.
The rankings uncovered by AcademicInfluence.com are based on the influential faculty and alum publications, citations, and references associated with a school, degree programs, departments, or discipline. This ranking by influence approach elevates a school or degree program based on which members of its academic community are objectively influential in a given discipline.
By weighing both the QS Programmatic World Rankings and Academic Influence’s rankings, we not only created a unique ranking of the top 50 computer science programs, but we reveal why each university computer science program appears where it does.
The Best Computer Science Programs in the World
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Many consider MIT to be the leading science school in the world. The many factors that contribute to its success include its location in the Boston area, which locks it arm-in-arm with elite schools like Harvard, Boston College, Boston University, and Tufts. In addition to its association with this prestigious network, MIT boasts 63 Nobel Prize winners and a $16.4 billion endowment.
In addition to offering some of the best undergraduate computer science programs through its Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT runs several world-class computer research centers, such as its largest research laboratory, the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. Numerous advancements have come from this lab, including the first credible chess program and much of the technology that was fundamental to the internet. In addition, MIT serves as a leader in nanotechnologies, information theory, and bioinformatics.
Unsurprisingly, MIT’s computer science department has produced many famous alumni; these include Colin Angel, who founded the IRobot Corporation and completed considerable work for NASA’s Mars mission, and William Reddington Hewlett, who co-founded Hewlett Packard.
2. Stanford University
Stanford, California
Stanford has long been recognized as one of the leading centers of higher learning, having produced 49 Nobel Prize recipients, 27 MacArthur fellows, and 20 National Medal of Science honorees. The school also boasts a massive endowment of $24.8 billion.
With a 50-year history, Stanford’s Computer Science Department helped build Silicon Valley into the computer hub it is today. Department alumni have founded some of the world’s most recognizable technology companies, such as Google, Yahoo, Taiwan Semiconductor, and Electronic Arts. In addition, Bill Gates and numerous others donated the funds necessary to build Stanford’s state-of-the-art Gates Computer Science Building.
The department wants to ensure that its future holds as much success as its past and has outlined a detailed “Strategic Plan” to guide future endeavors, including online computer science programs.
3. Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
When he founded CMU, Andrew Carnegie wanted to apply the same pragmatic principles that catapulted his entrepreneurial exploits to the hard sciences. Since its founding in 1900, the institution has earned its place among the top research universities through its focus on innovation and creativity. Ranked first in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, CMU’s School of Computer Science contributed to the development of robotic technology and software used on the Mars rovers. Other focus areas of research within the department include crash-avoidance technology in cars and at-home assistance for the elderly.
In addition to general computer science programs, the school’s offerings cover the following areas of study:
- Computational Biology
- Human-computer Interaction
- Language Technologies
- Machine Learning
- Robotics
- Software Engineering
Not surprisingly, CMU has produced many world-class alumni; these include John Nash, whose life was the basis for the popular movie A Beautiful Mind and Professor Scott Falhman, who created the emoticon.
4. University of California – Berkeley
Berkeley, California
One of the most esteemed public schools in the country, Berkeley boasts an incredibly decorated faculty that includes 130 representatives of the National Academy of Sciences, 85 representatives of the National Academy of Engineering, and seven Nobel Prize winners.
In addition, the university can claim a long history of contributing to the field of computer science. Advancements by people associated with Berkeley include:
- Bob Gaskins Co-creation of PowerPoint
- Doug Engelbart’s Invention of the Computer Mouse
- Eric Allman’s Contribution to the Advent of Emails
- Ken Thomson’s Co-creation of Unix
- Paul Morton’s Creation of One of the Early Vacuum Tube Computers (the California Digital Computer)
It’s no surprise that the school has produced nine winners of the Turing Award, the most prestigious accolade in the field of computer science.
Berkeley’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences offers some of the best undergraduate computer science programs in addition to engineering- and research-oriented graduate degrees. The department also features an honors program and study abroad opportunities.
5. Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Founded in 1636, Harvard has since cemented its reputation as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. The university’s Computer Science Department, housed within the John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, offers a variety of computer science programs and conducts research in a variety of areas that include artificial intelligence, program languages, and computational linguistics.
Harvard’ computer science students can access research institutes like:
- The Berkman Center for Internet and Society
- The Center for Research on Computation and Society
- The Institute for Applied Computational Science
These think tanks help Harvard direct its efforts towards a variety of academic areas such as:
- Applied Math
- Applied Physics
- Bioengineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Public Policy
In an effort to reach these widespread and extremely lofty goals, Harvard outlined a plan in November 2014 to increase its computer science faculty by half while also opening up new state-of-the-art facilities on campus.
6. University of Cambridge
Cambridge, England
With over 800 years of history, the University of Cambridge goes back further than the United Kingdom itself. Founded in 1937, the school’s Department of Computer Science and Technology also claims an impressive history and record of excellence. Over 200 researchers within the department focus on various areas within the field, like graphics and interaction, security, computer architecture, digital technology, and artificial intelligence.
Cambridge offers a variety of degrees in computer science, including a Ph.D. and a one-year master’s of philosophy. Undergraduate students who qualify can add a year to their program to earn a master of engineering degree in addition to their bachelor’s degree. Cambridge’s programs are some of the best computer science master’s programs available today. Each week, the computer science department’s laboratory offers seminars on topics like logic and semantics, networks and operating systems, and security. In addition, students can choose to participate in the department’s women@CL initiative, which works to support women in research and roles of academic leadership within the field.
7. Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey
Princeton University is one of the most beautiful North American universities, but its aesthetic qualities may be overshadowed by its reputation for technical-focused academics. The school’s computer science students enjoy all the advantages of a world-class university with a strong representation in their chosen specialization.
Students within Princeton’s Department of Computer Science can research problems in:
- Bioinformatics
- Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies
- Computational Neuroscience
- Georeplicated Cloud Storage and other Leading Subfields of Information Theory
All degree candidates must complete at least one design- or research-related project before becoming eligible for graduation.
Undergraduate students of computer science can pursue either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science in engineering, while graduate students can choose between a master of science in engineering or a Ph.D. Offering some of the best computer science programs available, Princeton’s computer science department is broken down into:
- Computational Biology
- Computer Architecture
- Graphics/vision
- Machine Learning
- Markets/Game Theory/Economics
- Programming Languages/compilers
- Security/privacy/policy
- Systems/networks
- Theory
8. University of Oxford
Oxford, England
Oxford has the unique distinction of serving students as the oldest English-speaking university in the world. The school boasts an extensive list of achievements and accolades; the Times Higher Education World University Rankings named it the top learning institution in the world for academics and research. In addition, Oxford hosts the largest library system in the U.K. and runs the largest and most widely recognized academic publishing house in the world. Alumni include 26 Nobel Prize winners, 120 Olympic medalists, 26 U.K. prime ministers, and over 30 other world leaders.
Established in 1957, Oxford’s Department of Computer Science is one of the oldest in the country. Research topics include:
- Algorithms
- Automated Verification
- Computational Biology
- Information Systems
- Programming Languages
- Security
- Software Engineering
The department offers three undergraduate tracks of study, four master’s tracks, and a Ph.D. in computer science.
9. University of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Established in 1827, the University of Toronto has become Canada’s most respected research institution. The school features three main campus locations, 44 libraries, and affiliations with 10 teaching hospitals. Points of pride for U of T include the world’s first operational broadcasting system without batteries, the first effective use of insulin in treating diabetes, and the world’s first single lung transplant, among many other unique accomplishments.
U of T created its Department of Computer Science in 1947 along with the establishment of the school’s Computation Centre. Students may choose to earn a bachelor of science, master of science, or a Ph.D. in computer science.
Research topics within the department include:
- Applied and Discrete Mathematics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computational Biology
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Systems and Networks
- Database Systems
- Health and Assistive Technology
- Human-computer Interaction
- Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing
- Programming Languages and Methodologies
- Software Engineering
- Theory of Computation
This wide range of concentrations covers virtually every aspect of computer science and gives students seemingly endless opportunities for specialization in completing computer science programs.
10. ETH Zürich
Zürich, Switzerland
Established in 1981 and renowned for its pioneering spirit and interdisciplinary focus, the Department of Computer Science at ETH Zürich sits at the crossroads of mathematics and engineering. In addition to collaborations with other disciplines, such as mechanical engineering and physics, the department maintains research partnerships with respected high-tech industry giants like IBM, Microsoft, and Google.
Specializations include:
- Data Management and Machine Learning
- Information and System Security
- Pervasive Computing Systems
- Visual Computing
Current projects include work on learning systems and algorithmic methods. The distinguished faculty boasts over 30 professors, including Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers fellow Onur Mutlu and Golden Owl Teaching Award winner Juraj Hromkovic.
The department offers computer science master’s programs in cybersecurity, data science, and robotics systems and control. At the undergraduate level, students may specialize in data processing, software engineering, and theoretical computer science. The first year of undergraduate coursework is taught in German, with additional years increasingly taught in English. The department also offers a summer research fellowship for undergraduates and graduate students. The fellowship aims to increase diversity and participation is open to all students worldwide. Students may also opt to complete a part-time continuing education certificate program spanning 1-2 semesters.
11. University of California – Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California
Though relatively young compared to other universities, UCLA already claims an impressive history. Founded in 1919, the school has produced 13 Nobel laureates, 12 MacArthur fellows, over 250 Olympic medalists, and over 140 technology-based companies.
While UCLA didn’t formally establish its Computer Science Department until 1968, the school made contributions to the information revolution as early as the 1940s. In addition to graduate programs, the university offers a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering. Offering online computer science programs, the department features 20 different research groups and laboratories as invaluable resources for students and staff alike. These are incorporated into several research centers:
- The Center for Autonomous Intelligent Networked Systems
- The Center for Domain-Specific Computing
- The Center for Encrypted Functionalities
- The Center for Information and Computation Security
- The Center for SMART Health
- The Scalable Analytics Institute
12. University of Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia
For more than 50 years, Melbourne has been an internationally recognized leader in information technology and computing research. Melbourne’s Computer Science Department began in 1956 with the commissioning of CSIRAC, Australia’s first digital computer. In 1975, Peter Poole served as the first chair of the department, now known as the School of Computing and Information Systems. In 2010, information systems merged with computer science and software engineering to form a single department.
Today, the department’s research specialties include energy-efficient cloud computing, machine learning and optimization, and artificial intelligence language processing. The school invites graduates and industry members to contribute to the ongoing refinement of the curriculum. Collaborative research projects with industry leaders include augmented reality in retail sales and travel data use to predict destinations.
The department offers five undergraduate computer science programs, including data science and spatial systems. Students interested in the social and business aspects of computing may find the school’s undergraduate information systems program an ideal match. Highly skilled students who score well on programming proficiency exams may opt for accelerated study.
The school also admits some graduate students with undergraduate majors in non-tech fields. Master’s program offerings include software engineering, spatial engineering, and information technology.
13. University of Washington
Seattle, Washington
From humble beginnings, UW now hosts three campuses that include 16 schools and colleges run by more than 3,000 full-time faculty members. As a testament to the academic excellence of the school, undergraduate and graduate students now number over 54,000. UW features 440 degree options across 280 programs.
Computer science and engineering at UW was originally established in 1967 as an inter-college graduate program. The undergraduate program was added in 1975, and the program became a department of its own. Continued growth and development of UW’s Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering has led to the employment of 50 faculty members and 75 technical staff members, including three MacArthur fellows. Research topics for the school’s online computer science programs include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Big Data
- Robotics
- Security and Privacy
- Ubiquitous Computing
- Wireless and Sensor Systems
14. Imperial College London
London, England, UK
Located at the South Kensington campus, the Computing Department at Imperial ranks among the largest computer science departments in the UK. The department’s well-known research focus areas include artificial intelligence, analysis and verification, data science, and distributed software engineering.
Top-notch student project work is frequently published in leading academic journals and research conference proceedings. The computing support group, staffed by department members, provides support for teaching, administration, and research.
The department offers up to 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs per year to students holding master’s degrees, and more than 80% of doctoral students receive funding. The department also delivers a special doctoral program in embedded and distributed systems.
All the department’s computer science master’s programs in engineering and computing require a six-month paid industry internship. Imperial maintains a study-abroad program featuring exchange arrangements with ETH Zürich in Switzerland, Ensimag in France, RWTH Aachen in Germany, and additional competitive opportunities in the U.S for third- and fourth-year students.
Each student is matched with a personal tutor and advisor throughout the program. First year students also receive tutoring in programming and mathematics.
15. California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, California
Located in Pasadena, Caltech’s Computing and Mathematical Sciences Department offers some of the best computer science programs in the world. Recognized for its encouragement of collaborations across disciplinary boundaries, the department’s research areas include geometric mechanics and stochastic computing. In 2017, Caltech launched an autonomous systems research center focused on robotics, drones, driverless cars, and machine learning.
The department awards students prize fellowships in areas such as artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, and data science from sources like Google and the National Science Foundation. The distinguished faculty roster includes three MacArthur fellows, three Sloan fellows, and several teaching award winners. The department also proudly hosts the Kortschak scholars program in human and artificial intelligence.
Pioneering efforts at Caltech include a massively parallel supercomputer and the first asynchronous microprocessor. John McCarthy of LISP and Stephen Wolfram of Mathematica are among notable CMS alums. Additionally, companies like Achronix and FastSoft started through Caltech research.
The school’s doctoral programs require full-time attendance and three years of residency. CMS frequently collaborates with disciplines such as bioengineering, geology, and economics, providing students with many options to customize their studies. Students can choose concentrations for majors and minors in areas such as dynamical systems, coding theory, and algorithms.
16. Cornell University
Ithaca, New York
From its founding in 1865, Cornell University has set itself apart from its Ivy League peers through its aggressive and revolutionary principles. Located in Ithaca, New York, the university stands on the cutting edge of research within many fields, including X-ray imaging, self-sustaining robotic exploration, and mapping microbes.
Cornell created its Department of Computer Science in 1965 and has since made substantial research contributions to the field. Gerard Salton, also known as the “father of information retrieval,” joined the department from Harvard and brought with him SMART technology that became the foundation of more than 30 years of research and the Google search engine.
Students, from the undergraduate level to doctoral candidates, must meet high academic standards. Data structure, algorithms, operating systems, programming languages, and theory of computation are just a few of the areas students have to fully understand. At the master’s level, computer science students can pursue a two-semester professional degree in engineering or a two-year master of science. Cornell’s computer science department accepts only 25 doctoral students each year. In completing their computer science programs, these students must demonstrate mastery in programming languages, theory, artificial intelligence, and systems.
17. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, Illinois
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign was founded in 1867 and hosts a highly talented and respected faculty that includes 18 Pulitzer Prize winners. The university enjoys fame for the invention of the first graphical web browser as well as being the first university to provide full access to students with disabilities.
Illinois Computer Science was established in the 1940s and is currently managed by 61 distinguished faculty members, including 16 ACM fellows, 20 IEEE fellows, and 27 NSF career award winners. The department offers seven different computer science programs and more than 90 courses to its students. The university also hosts the largest ACM student chapter in the world.
The school’s innovative Thomas M. Siebel Center for Computer Science laboratory serves as an advanced, interactive way for students to study the most recent and emerging computer technology. Research areas include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Database Systems
- Graphics
- Human-computer Interaction
- Information Retrieval
- Systems and Networking
18. Columbia University
New York, New York
Originally founded as King’s College in 1754, Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States. One of nine colonial colleges established before the American Revolution, Columbia administers the Pulitzer Prize annually and has had 101 Nobel Prize laureates among its students, faculty, and staff. Former notable alumni include five of the nation’s Founding Fathers, nine Supreme Court justices, and three U.S. presidents.
Offering some of the best computer science master’s programs today, Columbia’s Computer Science Department focuses on 10 major research areas:
- Computational Biology
- Computer Engineering
- Graphics/User Interfaces
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing and Speech
- Networking
- Security/Privacy
- Software Systems
- Theory
- Vision/Robotics
Computer science students at Columbia can access 20 different laboratories and research groups. Undergraduate students can choose from among seven degree programs, while master’s students can select from 10 available tracks. Doctoral candidates conduct directed research and are strongly encouraged to dedicate a year of community service to the department.
19. University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
As the sixth-oldest English-speaking university in the world, the University of Edinburgh boasts an impressive history of accolades and academic achievements. A member of the Russell Group and the League of European Research Universities, the university has the third-largest endowment in the United Kingdom (after Cambridge and Oxford). The school’s academic programs fall under three colleges with 25 different departments. Home to more than 35,000 students and 6,000 staff members, the university of Edinburgh can claim association with several esteemed alumni and former or current staff, including 20 Nobel Prize winners, one Pulitzer Prize winner, and three prime ministers.
With some of the best undergraduate computer science programs, the university of Edinburgh’s computer science department is one of the largest in the Science and Engineering Faculty. The Department of Artificial Intelligence, the Centre for Cognitive Science, and the Department of Computer Science combined in 1998 to form the School of Informatics. Research areas that the school is well-known for include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computational Linguistics
- Mathematical Logic
- Systems Biology
- Theoretical Computer Science
20. The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, Texas
Founded in 1883, UT Austin has been consistently recognized as a world-class research university. The school boasts seven museums that feature more than five million collections in addition to 17 libraries that are home to more than 10 million volumes.
UT Austin’s Department of Computer Science has its own proud history. The department manages its own network with more than 1,600 hosts and 12 laboratories featuring state-of-the-art computing resources. In addition, the faculty are highly experienced and recognized worldwide, boasting more than 150 national and international awards.
Students may pursue undergraduate or graduate-level study. Undergraduates are expected to engage in research and networking and must complete an internship to gain hands-on experience. Learners in computer science master’s programs focus on research, with particular focus in the following areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Bioinformatics
- Data Mining
- Formal Methods and Verification
- Networks
- Robotics
- Security
UT Austin’s campus hosts a nonprofit organization, Women in Computer Science, that focuses on helping women network within the business world of computer science.
21. Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, Georgia
Located in sunny Atlanta, Georgia, Georgia Tech was founded on October 13, 1885 to provide technology-based education to its students. Today, the school serves over 21,000 students and ranks in the top 10 for best public universities by U.S. News & World Report.
Georgia Tech’s College of Computing includes three schools, 18 degree programs, 84 academic faculty, 35 research faculty, and over 4,000 students, both graduate and undergraduate.
Computer science at Georgia Tech is broken down into three schools: the School of Computer Science, the School of Interactive Computing, and the School of Computational Science and Engineering. These three schools combine to offer 20 different areas of specialization, including information security, human-centered learning/cognitive science, and machine learning, to students who want to pursue some of the best computer science programs available today.
22. University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania was founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin. Since then, the school has considerably grown to four undergraduate schools and 12 graduate/professional schools. However, Penn’s focus continues to be teaching students with the same intellectual rigor of its founder. The university plays a unique role among the Ivy League institutions in that all its schools connect to a single campus. Penn’s faculty members, highly experienced and globally recognized, include eight MacArthur fellows, four Nobel Prize winners, and five Pulitzer Prize winners.
Under its School of Engineering and Applied Science, Penn hosts its Department of Computer and Information Science. The history of the department traces back to 1946 and the development of the world’s first electronic, large-scale, general-purpose digital computer. With further research and development by renowned professors, Penn’s computer science department can now claim to be the birthplace of the modern computer. Students and faculty continue to conduct cutting-edge research in the areas of intelligent systems, information systems, hardware and software systems, networks, and theory as they participate in some of the best computer science programs today.
23. University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Ontario
In 1957 the University of Waterloo opened with 74 students enrolled. From humble beginnings, the school has become a leading research institution that hosts more than 30,000 undergraduate students and 5,000 graduate students studying in six major areas: applied health sciences, arts, engineering, environment, math, and science. All students can expect high-quality education from more than 1,000 faculty members.
Waterloo’s David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science originated from the Department of Applied Analysis and Computer Science, which was founded in 1967. Today, the computer science school boasts 120 faculty and staff members dedicated to education and research. With more than 2,000 graduate and undergraduate students completing computer science programs, the department has become the largest computer science research center in Canada. Research accomplishments of the department include the development of the WATFOR and WATFIV compilers, the development of the Maple symbolic computation system, and the digitization of the Oxford English Dictionary.
24. (tie) École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne
Lausanne, Switzerland
Located in the picturesque Lake Geneva region of Switzerland, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology receives international renown for its cosmopolitanism, innovation, well-equipped facilities, outstanding infrastructure, and prestigious computer science programs. The school’s research areas include computational biology, signal and image processing, and computer architecture.
Distinguished members of the Computer Science Department have authored books on many diverse subjects, such as signal processing, computational number theory, and hardware accelerators in data centers. Faculty awards include several medals, society awards, and technical field awards from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
The school’s rigorous master’s programs require a six-month internship and offer specializations or minors in areas including:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Networking and Mobility
- Wireless Communications
All graduate programs are taught entirely in English. Programs also feature a competitive admissions process. All doctoral students receive a salary sufficient to support a comfortable life in Switzerland.
The department offers an annual summer research institute that features speakers from industry and academia; anyone can attend this free, public event. Other notable department events include open houses featuring demos and exhibitions on important figures in computer science, such as Alan Turing. EPFL also hosts the Bolo museum, a permanent exhibition of Swiss computing history.
24. (tie) New York University
New York, New York
Among the thriving atmosphere of New York City sits the largest private university in the United States. Founded in 1831, NYU has adapted along with the city. More than 40,000 students attend the institution’s 18 schools and colleges. The university offers more than 2,500 courses overseen by 3,100 full-time faculty members. The faculty has included four Nobel and Crafoord Prize winners, five Pulitzer Prize winners, and 11 MacArthur fellows.
NYU’s Computer Science Department is found in the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. Undergraduates can choose to pursue either a bachelor of arts or a dual bachelor of science and bachelor of engineering. For master’s students, NYU’s computer science department offers three areas of study: computer science, information systems, and science in scientific computing. Students may also pursue a doctorate in computer science. Popular research areas in NYU’s computer science programs include:
- Algorithms and Theory
- Computational Biology
- Computer Graphics
- Cryptography
- Formal Methods and Verification
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language and Speech Processing
- Networks/Operating Systems
- Scientific Computing
Check out Some of New York University’s Other Rankings
26. National University of Singapore
Singapore
In 1905, the National University of Singapore was founded as a medical school in an attempt to fulfill the needs of the local community. NUS subsequently experienced rapid growth and now administers programs at three campuses. The university’s 12 undergraduate schools enroll a total of 28,000 students, while the four graduate schools boast 10,000 students altogether. The success of the university can partially be attributed to the 2,400 faculty who teach from personal experience in their fields.
NUS established its Department of Computer Science in 1998; currently, the department focuses its research primarily in computer science and information systems. Research areas include: Computer science includes areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Intelligence
- Electronic and Social Commerce
- Healthcare Information Systems
- IT-enabled Service Innovation
- Media
- Security
Both faculty and students work to develop new software and applications as part of the school’s computer science programs. Members of the department encourage students to develop prototypes that may have commercial potential.
27. Yale University
New Haven, Connecticut
One of the oldest institutions in America, Yale was founded in 1701 and can trace its roots even further to the 1640s. As a pre-Revolutionary War university, the school boasts a lengthy and impressive academic history consistent with its $25.4 billion endowment. Yale had the first on-campus art museum, the first school of fine arts, the first intramural sports program, and was the first university to award Ph.D.s. The invention of the Frisbee can be attributed to students at Yale, who tossed around Frisbie Pie plates from the same-named pastry company.
Yale breaks down its offerings into three major academic areas: Yale College, the Graduate School of Arts and Science, and the Professional Schools. The student body consists of over 5,000 undergraduates and more than 6,000 graduates/professional students.
Alan Perlis came to Yale in the early 1970s and helped established the school’s Department of Computer Science. The department features five tracks for undergraduates: a BS, a BA, and three programs integrated with the engineering department, math department, and psychology department. In addition, the department offers two graduate-level programs: an MS and a Ph.D. Research areas for the computer science master’s programs include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Music
- Machine Learning
- Security/cryptography
- Social Robotics
28. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Hong Kong
HKUST enjoys an excellent reputation as an international research university. Founded in 1991, the school hosts over 8,000 undergraduate students, over 4,000 postgraduate students, and 531 full-time faculty.
October 1991 saw the opening of HKUST’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The program has since evolved to incorporate multimedia and the most up-to-date technology. In 2000, research teams at the university developed the world’s smallest single-walled carbon nanotube. In the 2018-19 school year, more than 800 undergraduates and nearly 525 graduate students participated in computer science programs at HKUST. The program sponsors over 100 research grants that cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Control and Robotic Systems
- Information and Multimedia Processing
- Integrated Circuits and Systems
- Signal
- Solid-state Electronics and Photonics
- Wireless Communications and Networking
29. University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The University of Michigan began in 1817 as one on the first public universities in the nation and continues to serve students today as a leader in higher education. The school’s staff and faculty have included Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, astronauts, and Supreme Court justices.
U-M’s computer science and engineering department was founded in 1957 by Arthur Burks and Gordon Peterson. Other faculty members include 10 ACM fellows, 15 IEEE fellows, and one MacArthur fellow. Notable alumni of the computer science program are Francs Allen, Edgar Codd, Stephen Cook, and Larry Page, co-founder of Google.
Housed within the College of Engineering, the Computer Science and Engineering division at U-M offers more than 100 courses that encompass four undergraduate computer science programs, two master’s programs, and doctoral-level study. Undergraduate students enjoy the chance to participate in industry-sponsored design projects and internships that allow for hands-on experience in the field.
30. Nanyang Technological University
Singapore
NTU has been rated as one of the top 50 fastest-rising universities in Asia and one of the top 15 most beautiful campuses in the world. Founded in 1981 with a research-intensive focus, the school hosts over 7,000 faculty and staff in addition to 23,700 undergraduates and 9,000 graduate students. NTU was one of seven founding members of the Global Alliance of Technological Universities, a coalition of academic brilliance established to address global issues using state-of-the-art science and technology.
While completing some of the best computer science programs today, students and faculty within the School of Computer Science and Engineering at NTU conduct research in areas like:
- Computational Intelligence
- Computer Vision and Language
- Data Management and Analytics
- Parallel and Distributed Computing
The school features a multitude of research centers, including the Computer Networks and Communications Lab, the Research Centre of Excellence in Active Living for the Elderly, and the Multimedia and Interactive Computing Lab.
31. Peking University
Beijing, China
Peking University was founded in 1898 as the first national comprehensive university in Beijing, China. The school also functions as the oldest active base for the Chinese Communist Party and claims several notable alumni, including Lu Xun, Mao Zedong, Chen Duxiu, and two Nobel Prize winners: Tsung-Dao Lee and Yang Chen Ning.
Thirty colleges, broken down into 12 departments, comprise Peking University. Acting as a major research institution for China, the school hosts 216 research departments and centers working on progressive and cutting-edge topics. Offering a variety of computer science programs, Peking University’s School of Electronics Engineering and Computer Science features four subsections:
- The Department of Computer Science and Technology
- The Department of Electronics
- The Department of Machine Intelligence
- The Department of Microelectronics
Approximately 390 faculty and staff members serve 2,600 students. Key research areas explored by the school include:
- Computational Linguistics
- Digital Media
- Information Science
- Microelectronics
- Physical Electronics
- Quantum Electronics
32. Tsinghua University
Beijing, China
Located in the third-largest capital city in the world, Tsinghua University was founded in 1911. The school has since grown to 14 schools, 56 departments, over 4,000 faculty members, and over 25,900 students. Tsinghua alumni include Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and the nation’s current leader, and Hu Jintao, a former leader.
In 1956, Tsinghua established one of the first computer majors in China under the school’s department of Automatic Control. In 1979, the department was renamed as the Department of Computer Engineering and Science and is now the Department of Computer Science and Technology, featuring a range of computer science programs. Tsinghua has made some significant contributions to the computer revolution. People associated with the university built the first nonlinear analog computer model in 1958, the first tube-based digital computer in 1959, and the first full-transistor digital computer in 1956. In the 2000s, Tsinghua had a leading role in the development of CNGI, the largest pure IPv6 network in the world.
Other major areas of research for the university include:
- Computer Networks
- Computer Systems
- Computer Vision/Media Computing
- Data Knowledge/Software Engineering
- Electronic Design Automation
- Information Processing
- Pervasive Computing
33. Technical University of Munich
Munich, Germany
Located in Germany, TUM has consistently ranked as one of Europe’s top universities. Founded in 1868, the school operates as one of the largest universities in the country with 13 faculties, three integrative research centers, and six corporate research centers. There school hosts more than 9,000 staff members, including 13 Nobel Prize winners, 17 Leibniz prize winners, and 10 IEEE fellows, who serve more than 37,000 students.
TUM’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers programs from the bachelor’s level through the doctoral level. For undergraduate students, available areas of study include:
- Computer Chips
- Electromobility
- Environmentally-friendly Energy Supplies
- Intelligent Grids
Students who wish to pursue some of the best computer science master’s programs can choose among three tracks: a master of science in electrical and computer engineering, a master of science in communications engineering, and a master of science in power engineering. Doctoral candidates focus their research in several subfields, including electronics for life sciences, neuro-engineering, and robotics/autonomy and interaction.
34. The University of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Established in 1975 at one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions, the Department of Computer Science at UTokyo focuses on providing systematic knowledge of information science and technology at the graduate level.
Seeking to foster strong leadership in research and development, the department launched its English program in 2010 to expand its international influence. Instructors deliver all coursework for the master’s and Ph.D. computer science programs in English. UTokyo also offers a massive open online course in interactive computer graphics.
The department maintains several highly respected research laboratories and studies topics such as:
- Algorithm Design and Analysis
- Molecular Computing
- Parallel Numerical Processing
- Quantum Computation
As an affiliate of the Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, the International Center for Information Science and Technology (ICIST) launched in 2007 to promote innovative international research and new fields in information systems. Currently, ICIST supports researchers, maintains links with the community, and promotes international cooperative endeavors with other institutions. The department also maintains labs in other departments, such as medical science and biotechnology.
Recent graduates of computer science programs at UTokyo now work for respected industry leaders, such as Hitachi, Dharma Capital, Toshiba, and Polyphony Digital.
35. University of California – San Diego
La Jolla, California
Founded in 1903 and located along the beautiful Pacific coast, UCSD boasts the distinction of holding the world’s largest collection of work by Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. The school has hosted 16 Nobel laureates on staff and has been ranked in the top 10 public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Formed in 1961, UCSD’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering serves as home to “Gordon,” one of the fastest supercomputers in the world. Students enjoy direct access to Gordon and other multithreaded, parallel supercomputers through the school’s San Diego Supercomputer Center. With such high-powered resources available, the department performs competitively and offers strong undergraduate and graduate computer science programs in areas including:
- Algorithms and Complexity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Vision
- Computer-aided Design
- Data and Knowledge Base Systems
- Embedded Systems
- Graphics
- Meaning and Computation
- Network Security and Cryptography
- Parallel and High-performance Computation
- Processor Architecture and Compilation
- Software Engineering
- Systems and Networking
36. (tie) The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Founded in 1910 and officially opened in 1912, the University of Hong Kong is the oldest tertiary education institution in the city. The school hosts 10 academic departments, covering architecture, arts, business and economics, dentistry, education, engineering, law, medicine, science, and social sciences. In 2003, HKU medical researchers became the first in the world to identify the coronavirus that caused severe acute respiratory syndrome.
The university’s first mainframe computer was installed in the late 1960s along with the creation of the Department of Computer Science. Today, the department features state-of-the-art equipment that includes a high-performance computing grid system with more 270 servers connected by 10GbE Ethernet switches, DDR InfiniBand switches, and a 4X QDR InfiniBand switch. Students in computer science programs can access eight student computing laboratories, open 24/7, for research and study. Research groups include:
- Algorithms and Bioinformatics
- Data and Software Engineering
- Graphics and Computer Vision
- HCI
- Information Security and Forensics
- Systems and Networking
Check out Some of The University of Hong Kong’s Other Rankings
36. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
Boasting a reputation as one of the world’s leading private research universities in addition to a $5.1 billion endowment, USC has had a vibrant and diverse culture since its humble founding in 1880 when Los Angeles was little more than a frontier town. The university hosts a total of 25,000 faculty and staff members and claims 365,000 alumni worldwide. Five Nobel laureates and three MacArthur fellows have worked on staff.
USC’s Department of Computer Science was founded in 1968 and has made contributions to numerous areas of research, including:
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Graphics
- Cryptography
- DNA Computing
- Game Theory
- Human Behavior
- Human-robot Interaction
- Information Theory
- Internet Technologies
- Statistical Natural Language Processing
The department offers four undergraduate programs:
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science and Business Administration
- Computer Science With a Focus on Gaming
- Computer Science
One of the best computer science master’s programs out there today, USC’s master’s degree in computer science features a general program where students can choose from eight different concentrations:
- Computer Networks
- Computer Security
- Data Science
- Game Development
- High-performance Computing and Simulation
- Intelligent Robotics
- Multimedia and Creative Technologies
- Software Engineering
Students may also pursue their Ph.D. in computer science at USC.
38. University of British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia
Consistently ranked among the top 40 universities in the world since 1915, the University of British Columbia has embraced an innovative and entrepreneurial perspective. With more than 59,000 students and 15,000 staff members, the institution features endless networking opportunities. Notable alumni and faculty include seven Nobel laureates, two Canadian prime ministers, and 65 Olympic medalists.
Established in May 1968 and offering some of the best computer science master’s programs, UBC’s Department of Computer Science functions as one of the top three programs in Canada. Fifty-five faculty members work within the department alongside 1,300 undergraduate students, 200 graduate students, and 10 post-doctoral fellows. The department emphasizes support for women and gender minorities within the computer science field. Research facilities include:
- The Imager Laboratory for Graphics, Visualization, and HCI
- The Laboratory for Computational Intelligence
- The Sensory Motor Systems Laboratory
- The Software Practices Laboratory
39. The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Firmly rooted in Chinese culture, the University of Hong Kong began offering programs in 1963. The main campus over looks Tolo Harbor, making it one of the largest and most beautiful campuses in the city. There are a total of 127 undergraduate degrees offered in three or four year curriculums and more than 68 graduate degree tracks. High standards of research achievement are accomplished through the five state key laboratories.
Though the school featured computer courses as early as 1968, it didn’t formally establish its Department of Computer Science and Engineering until 1973. The school installed its first ICL 1904A computer in 1970, during the creation of the Joint Universities Computer Centre. The British Computer Society accredited CUHK’s computer science program in 1983, the first such accreditation granted outside of the United Kingdom. Today, the department offers a variety of degrees, including a bachelor of science, a bachelor of engineering, a master of science, a master of philosophy, and a Ph.D. There are 30 faculty members and a total of 680 students between all computer science programs within CUHK’s computer science department.
40. University College London
London, England
In 1826, the University College London opened its doors to both men and women, which was unique for the time. The school subsequently continued with its progressive outlook, leading to several historical highlights. The first operation under anesthetic, the discovery of all five noble gases, and the first treatment for Hemophilia B are all part of the university’s outstanding record of achievements.
Out of 89 universities, UCL’s Department of Computer Science ranked first in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. Some of the best computer science programs available through the department include a bachelor of science in computer science, a master of engineering in computer science, and a master of engineering in mathematical computation. Graduate students can choose from 17 tracks of study as well as several research degrees. With a heavy emphasis on cutting-edge material, the school has developed 11 research groups, nine research centers, and four interests groups.
41. KAIST
Daejeon, South Korea
KAIST was established on February 16, 1971. Founded as a global research university, the school hosts six colleges, two schools, and 33 departments. KAIST also maintains affiliations with the Korea Institute for Advanced Study, National NanoFab Center, and Korea Science Academy.
The school features a flexible academic system that allows undergraduate students to switch majors at any time. There are more than 10,000 students and more than 1,000 faculty members and researchers at KAIST. The school ranked as the third-best university under the age of 50 by Times Higher Education.
The faculty members in KAIST’s School of Computing, which offers some of the best computer science programs, can claim credit for the development of the Dipole Coil Resonant System as the result of research into long-distance wireless power transfer.
42. University of Sydney
Sydney, Australia
Recognized for its leadership in developing new technologies in emerging fields, the University of Sydney School of Computer Science focuses on advancing computer and data science. The school conducts innovative research in areas such as artificial intelligence, health informatics, and human-centered technology. The department also maintains an advisory committee with industry partners like Microsoft as well as an alliance in biomedical engineering with Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
The school places equal emphasis on technical rigor and understanding technology in systemic, organizational, and social contexts. On-campus facilities include an Artemis Three supercomputer. A research partnership with Fantom, the cryptocurrency platform, supports a dedicated blockchain project.
The school’s honors bachelor of computer science and technology program requires five years of study, with the fifth capstone year focused on a supervised cutting-edge project. Emphasizing analytical ability, business innovation, and critical thinking, the program results in a dual degree in computing and another scientific discipline. Options for the second major area include chemistry, biology, and agroecosystems. This program holds accreditation from the Australian Computer Society. At the postgraduate level, the school focuses on industrial applications of information technology and IT management, offering dual degrees in engineering and IT.
43. Australian National University
Canberra, Australia
Recognized for its global outlook and “big picture” systems approach, the distinguished ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science offers some of the best computer science master’s programs in the world. Located in Canberra and world-renowned for research in automation and control engineering, ANU emphasizes technologically adaptive education and globally relevant skills.
Two advisory boards facilitate collaboration between academia and industry; these boards place a special emphasis on shaping undergraduate education. Holistic skills in analysis, design, and management of complex systems provide a competitive edge for ANU computer science graduates in the workforce.
The college offers flexible dual-degree options, enabling students to choose from over 750 possible combinations. Undergraduate majors include applied data analytics, IT, and mechatronics engineering. The undergraduate computer science honors program offers accelerated tracks for motivated students. The honors bachelor’s degree options include software engineering and advanced research and development computing. The college also features annual summer research programs for high-achieving undergraduates, boasting accommodation, travel reimbursement, and a weekly tax-free stipend for students.
At the graduate level, master’s degree options include advanced computing, machine learning, and computer vision. Postgraduate programs offer applied data analytics and cybersecurity concentrations. Most of the school’s computer science programs hold accreditation from the Australian Computer Society or Engineers Australia.
44. Seoul National University
Seoul, South Korea
As a world-class leader in emerging areas of computer science such as cryptography, biocomputing, mobile computing, and embedded systems, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) at SNU boasts 35 faculty members and maintains close ties with domestic industry. The department emphasizes the development of highly qualified software engineering professionals with exceptional creativity and leadership skills.
The primary language of instruction is Korean, with about 30% of computer science coursework delivered in English. The CSE department features research groups in areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Communication Networks
- Embedded Systems
- Human-computer Interaction
Active research laboratories at the school include a memory and storage architecture lab, a data mining lab, and a software foundations lab. Computer science students can also complete research in probabilistic programming and compiler verification. The department also features the Center for Manycore Programming, which focuses on developing practice systems and programming models to employ the full potential of multi-core processors.
The CSE department offers several specialized student interest clubs for system administration, security, algorithms, and data structures. Eligible graduate students may receive scholarships for computer science master’s programs through the Korean government and local companies, such as Samsung.
45. University of New South Wales
Kensington, Australia
One of Australia’s leading research universities, UNSW Sydney was founded in 1949 in response to the demands of WWII and developments in science and technology. The school started with 46 students and now educates more than 50,000 bright minds. The academic departments include eight faculties: art and design, arts and social sciences, built environment, business, engineering, law, medicine, and science.
Through UNSW Sydney’s engineering division, students can pursue computer science programs from the School of Computer Science and Engineering. Founded in 1991, the university’s computer science department has become one of the largest in Australia and serves as a member of the National ICT Australia group. Faculty members focus on numerous areas of research, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Databases
- Embedded and Operating Systems
- Networks
- Programming Languages
- Service Oriented Computing
- Software Engineering
- Theory
46. National Taiwan University
Taipei, Taiwan
Founded in 1928 by the Japanese colonial administration, NTU functions as Taiwan’s lead university research and training university. To this end, the university hosts 11 colleges with 54 departments and 103 graduate institutes. NTU also offers students four main research centers: the Population and Gender Studies Center, the Biotechnology Center, the Condensed Matter Sciences Center, and the Biodiversity Center. More than 33,000 students take advantage of these resources each year as they participate in various computer science programs.
NTU formally established its College of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in 1997. The college features two departments in electrical engineering and computer science/information engineering in addition to five graduate institutes that cover:
- Biomedical Electronics/Bioinformatics
- Communication Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Networking and Multimedia
- Photonics and Optoelectronics
NTU claims many famous alumni. These include Andrew Chi-Chih Yao, who received acclaim for using the minimax theorem to prove the principle now named after him, and Rick Tsai, the president and CEO of industry leader Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company.
47. Politecnico di Milano
Milan, Italy
Operating since 1863, Politecnico di Milano ranks among the premier technical institutions of higher education in Europe. The school’s Computer Science Department, formed in 2013 through a merger of three previous departments, hosts 235 faculty members and emphasizes quality and impact through excellence in fundamental interdisciplinary research.
Known for its commitment to groundbreaking applied research, the department conducts advanced research in bioengineering, telecommunications, and systems and control. The department also maintains strategic alliances with other European technical universities, including Alliance4Tech and IDEA League. Spin-off companies founded by alums include WebRatio, Nova Labs, and Zehus.
Undergraduate students complete a three-year laurea program in computer science and engineering of computing systems; the third year taking the form of an internship. Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, the laurea ranks among the best undergraduate computer science programs worldwide. Other computer science programs available include a laurea magistrale or two-year master’s program with specializations such as ambient and data intelligence, cybersecurity, and pervasive systems.
International master’s students receive personalized tutoring. In cooperation with the Cremona campus, the department also offers a special study track at the master’s level in audio and musical acoustics. Doctoral program tracks include bioengineering and IT. Instructors conduct all courses in English.
48. Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Shanghai, China
With a world-renowned reputation, SJTU offers students access to 28 schools/departments, 26 affiliated institutions, and 12 affiliated hospitals. The student body consists of nearly 17,000 undergraduates and 28,000 postgraduates. The well-experienced faculty includes almost 2,900 full-time teachers.
One of the first three universities in China to offer study in computer science, SJTU formally established its Department of Computer Science and Engineering in 1956. Students work in five research areas: computer science theory, parallel and distributed computing, intelligence and human computer interaction, cryptography and information security, and computer applications.
According to assessments of the Ministry of Education by the Graduate Education Development Center for 2006, SJTU’s computer science department was ranked sixth in China among computer science program rankings and rose to rank fourth for 2012. The Microsoft Intelligent Computing and Intelligent Systems Laboratory was established in September of 2005 between SJTU and Microsoft Research Asia.
49. Lomonosov Moscow State University
Moscow, Russia
Established in 1970 through the initiative of renowned Russian scientist Andrey Nicolaevich Tikhonov, the Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics (CMC) at MSU specializes in two primary areas of research: computational and applied mathematics and information theory and programming.
Chaired by 13 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences and comprising 19 separate departments, the CMC faculty conducts research in mathematical cybernetics, information security, and artificial intelligence. Facilities and institutes affiliated with the department include laboratories for statistical modeling and computational electrodynamics.
Undergraduate students may choose from two four-year bachelor’s programs: fundamental informatics and information technologies or applied mathematics and informatics. At the graduate level, the school’s offerings rank among the most well-regarded computer science master’s programs internationally. MSU offers several two-year master’s programs and four-year Ph.D. programs, in areas such as mathematical cybernetics and software engineering for computer networks. MSU also offers a five-year specialist program in applied mathematics and information theory, enabling students to earn dual qualifications as a systems programmer and mathematician.
The CMC faculty holds membership in the Microsoft Imagine Academy program. The CMC faculty also maintains close ties and exchange agreements with foreign academic institutions and IT companies, such as Intel and Cisco.
Check out Some of Lomonosov Moscow State University’s Other Rankings
50. City University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Located in Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong and established in 1994, CityU now has three colleges and four schools: the College of Business, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of Science and Engineering, the School of Creative Media, the School of Energy and Environment, the School of Law, and the School of Veterinary Medicine. There are 17,000 total students and approximately 1,000 staff members.
CityU established its Department of Computer Science in 1984. Students in some of the best undergraduate computer science programs available explore subjects like:
- Computer Architecture
- Distributed Databases
- High-speed Networking
- Internet and Mobile Computing
- Parallel Programming
- Software Engineering
Research areas include:
- Algorithms and Theory
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Networks and Distributed Systems
- Information Security
- Mobile and Real-time Computing
- Multimedia and Image Computing
- Object Technology
- Software Engineering
Computer science degrees vary in their focus and specialisms. Some courses are very theoretical, while others are more focused on programming.
The ranking uses the same methodology as the World University Rankings, but with slightly higher weighting given to the innovation metric and lower weighting for citations. The full methodology can be found here.
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Top 5 universities for computer science
1. University of Oxford
Although computer science is a relatively modern discipline, the University of Oxford has one of the oldest departments in the country, formerly known as the Oxford University Computing Laboratory.
Since its beginnings, the department has provided lectures for undergraduates and trained research students at postgraduate level.
In addition to core computer science topics, students can take courses in computational biology, quantum computing, information systems, software verification, software engineering and computational linguistics.
The department offers three undergraduate degrees: single honours computer science, maths and computer science, and computer science and philosophy.
Like students of other subjects, computer science students – whether undergraduate or postgraduate – belong to one of Oxford’s colleges, where they have the option to eat, socialise, study and live.
2. Stanford University
The Stanford University computer science department was established in 1965. The department offers bachelor’s of science, master’s of science and a doctor of philosophy.
The department undertakes research in many areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, foundations of computer science, scientific computing and programming systems. There is also a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research across chemistry, genetics, linguistics, construction and medicine, among others.
The home of the computer science department is the Gates Computer Science Building, named after Bill Gates, who donated $6 million to the project.
3. ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich has a history of developing software and designing computer systems. Eventually, these projects called for a dedicated computer science department, which was created in 1981.
The department covers many areas of computer science, including computational intelligence, networks and distributed systems, algorithms and theory, and information security. Different programming languages are also taught on software engineering courses.
There are close relationships with other departments within the university and with partners in business and industry, such as IBM, Microsoft, Google, SAP and Disney, with which the university collaborates on research projects.
ETH Zurich dates back to 1855, just a few years after the formation of the federal state of Switzerland. Created as a centre for scientific knowledge and innovation, it remains a top institution for a range of subjects.
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The department of electrical engineering and computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology confidently declares: “Our students change the world.”
Many of its alumni feature on lists of influential entrepreneurs who are making changes at home and abroad.
Students are encouraged to develop start-ups, and research projects have explored problems such as calculating the financial risks of renewable energy and developing faster parallel computing.
Undergraduates are enrolled on a flexible curriculum that allows them to focus on both abstract theory and practical problems in computer science. Students can major in computer science or in both computer science and molecular biology.
Graduates go on to design video games, work on supercomputers, research robotics and often join big companies such as Google and Microsoft.
5. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge computer science department offers undergraduate students the Computer Science Tripos course, a three- or four-year computer science course.
The university also offers an MPhil in computer science as a general master’s degree, which helps to prepare students for a PhD in computer science.
There are many research groups based in the computer science department, exploring topics such as artificial intelligence, security, graphics and interaction, and computer architecture.
Best universities for computer science 2020
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