Which School to Attend for Computer Science?

Parents Forum
1

<p>Our son is deciding between Univ of Illinois, RIT, U Rochester and Northeastern for Computer Science. Any comments on where he'd fare better? Illinois is very highly rated but does that translate into any tangible benefits that make it a best choice from these 4 schools?</p>

2

<p>Illinois! </p>

<p>I have a bias because S went there, did very well, and now works for Google. He loved the program and the school, and was on the ACM ICPC (International Collegiate Programming Contest) team that went to the international level competition twice. :)</p>

<p>Edit: fixed the name of the competition</p>

3

<p>My son is sold on RIT for the many different options and routes within the computer science arena. Right now he is into Software eng., but should he change his mind, there are so many other related options. I also like the co-ops where he can earn good money to help defray tuition costs. We also loved all the resources, new buildings, and equipment at RIT. But, we’ve not seen the others on your list.</p>

4

<p>^Co-op is a wonderful thing!</p>

<p>If I recall correctly, UIUC has an optional co-op program that you can organize yourself, not required like RIT or U of Cinti. My S did do interesting summer jobs, including an internship at Microsoft.</p>

5

<p>I don’t know much about NEU Comp Sci, but I do know that their co-op program is excellent and well respected.</p>

6

<p>Illinois academics may be better- it is known for comp sci and as a flagship will have a lot more diversity in other courses available. If money is not an issue consider the overall college experience- the caliber of students (include Honors programs), depth and breadth of course offerings et al. Do not worry if UIUC is too close to home. Go for the best overall fit. Do not be afraid of a large flagship- there could be more opportunities than at some small school.</p>

7

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<p>Unless NEU is offering a full-ride and entry into their honors program, I’d pass. Even if they did…I’d carefully ponder considering how NEU’s CS rep from what I’ve heard from most employers tends to be lower than the other choices above…especially UIUC. </p>

<p>From the way they hired grads, the ranking was something like:</p>

<ol>
<li><p>UIUC</p></li>
<li><p>URochester</p></li>
<li><p>RIT (Only slightly below/with #2 depending on employer)</p></li>
<li><p>NEU</p></li>
</ol>