Computer engineering/CS programs

Our next up son is a current junior in HS in PA. He is all about computers, with a huge interest in building computers, programming, networks, and even drones. He is a very good student, solid, with a 4.0 unweighted GPA, in the highest level of classes offered, including 4 AP classes this year. Not likely to be top 1%, but probably top 5-10%. He took the ACT last spring as a sophomore and got a 33 (he will retake in December, and I would predict 34-35, and also predict 750+ in Math2 and Physics SAT2s). He is very self-motivated, and would rather just learn how to do something himself by researching it online rather than taking a course. He has taught himself multiple programming languages, and keeps a small ‘portfolio’ of his online projects. He is the ‘go-to’ person in our house (and community) for issues with laptops, cell phones, networks, etc etc. He is a decent athlete (not a recruit) and has played many sports. Currently, he is doing cross country (#4-5 on team), and will do track in spring. He is a little quirky, and has a bunch of close friends, but can be a little oblivious and even socially awkward (even for a teenage boy). He is trying to get a non-paying shadowing position or ‘internship’ at a local company this year, and hopefully will have some real experience next summer.

He is leaning toward applying in Computer Science, or some type of combined computer science/engineering program. He is also looking at a couple combined 5 year engineering/MBA programs.

Based on that description…what are the programs that people might recommend? Either Reaches or Matches? He is going to look all over the country, and knows of the obvious choices (MIT/Stanford/Carnegie Mellon). Any great programs in CS out there under the radar, or combined programs with MBA? THANKS!

Cost constraints?

MBA programs are generally best done after post-bachelor’s degree work experience.

Looking at programs where merit might be an option, but not absolutely required.

If a teeny / limited reach school is ok, take a look at Franklin Olin College of Engineering near Boston. It’s a niche-fit, but it’s worth looking at just to see if project-based learning approach is appealing. Another Reach possibility is Harvey Mudd in CA. It is part of Claremont Consortium, 5 schools that have adjoining campus and shared resources.