The Midwest consists of different states known for providing high-quality education. According to US News & World Report, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Kansas are among Midwest’s Best States for Higher Education. Schools in Midwest states like Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin are also known as some of the top computer science schools in the US.
Computer science degrees prepare students for in-demand jobs in the tech industry. You can apply for software development, cyber security, or data analytics jobs that bring competitive salaries and benefits. In this article, we give you a list of Midwest school rankings and other important details about these institutions.
How to Choose a Good Computer Science School
To choose the best school for you, you should consider the school’s employment outcome, the available degree levels, and the method of course delivery. You must also look into the eligibility requirements and the curriculum of the program. In addition, you should also ensure that your choice aligns with your career goals.
Degree Levels Offered
This will depend on your career goals. If you plan to pursue a graduate degree later on, you should find a school that offers a bachelor’s program. Most computer science bachelor’s degrees prepare students for a master’s degree. However, if you want to earn basic skills for immediate employment, select the school that offers the best associate degree.
Curricular Content/Availability of Electives
Choose a degree program that will train you for your desired career. For instance, if you want to be a software engineer, choose a program that includes software development in its coursework. If you want to pursue a career in information security, select a program that includes information systems and cyber security in its curriculum.
Flexibility/Format
The program you’ll select should match your schedule and preferences. Several academic institutions offer online and part-time degree programs for working professionals. Other schools also allow students to customize their degree schedules to earn a degree without sacrificing their other commitments.
Employment Outcomes
The best computer science schools have a high rate of employment outcomes. This can tell potential students what standard of education a school has. You can learn this information from testimonials of previous students or from the data that the school provides, like the number of graduates that found a job after graduation.
Barriers to Admission
Before applying to a school, you should first check its eligibility requirements. You should know if you are qualified for the program or if you have all the required documents. Some schools require prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA, or minimum test scores for applicants.
Midwest School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Science Programs?
| Computer Science School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Computer Science | #5 |
| University of Michigan – Ann Arbor | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Design | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | #11 |
| University of Wisconsin – Madison | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | MS Computer Sciences: Professional Program | #17 |
| Northwestern University | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science and Learning Sciences | #28 |
| University of Chicago | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Mathematics and Computer Science | #28 |
| University of Minnesota – Twin Cities | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Computer Science | #34 |
| Indiana University – Bloomington | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science | #55 |
| Case Western Reserve University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #63 |
| University of Nebraska – Lincoln | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science (Bioinformatics Specialization) | #82 |
| Kansas State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | PhD in Computer Science | #106 |
Midwest Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Science Schools
To rank the top schools in the field within the Midwest, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science programs as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest Explained
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the school rankings and the relevant programs they offer. Read on to learn more about your options and which program is right for you. You will learn the tuition cost, curriculum, and available degree levels in each school listed in the above table.
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools in the Midwest
The best undergraduate schools offer the top associate and bachelor’s degree programs that help graduates become competitive job candidates. The section below provides information about the best computer science associate degree and bachelor’s degree schools and the top undergraduate program they offer.
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Schools in the Midwest
- Western Dakota Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science. Western Dakota Technical College offers this 69-credit program that you can complete within 18 months. This school has a low faculty-to-student ratio, which means professors have more time to engage with students and teach them effectively.
- Purdue University Fort Wayne | Associate of Science in Computer Science. Purdue University Fort Wayne equips students with the foundational skills for employment in the computer science field with this associate degree. You can also use its credit courses for transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in a related field.
- Crowder College | Associate of Arts in Computer Science. Crowder College offers an associate degree that will equip you with essential knowledge in programming, mathematics, and physical science. You can complete all its degree requirements within two years. With this degree, you can be qualified for entry-level jobs, such as programmer and systems analyst.
- Sinclair Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Science. Accredited by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), this associate degree from Sinclair Community College is a 61-credit program that will allow you to transfer credits to a four-year bachelor’s degree.
- City Colleges of Chicago | Associate in Science in Computer Science. City Colleges of Chicago offers an associate degree with up to 61 credits of courses that you can complete in four semesters if you are a full-time student. You can customize your study plan and take this course according to your schedule. This will also prepare you for a bachelor’s degree.
Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs in the Midwest
- Ohio University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Ohio University offers a bachelor’s degree with an intensive curriculum that will train you to work efficiently in a team and communicate well with other members. This will help you learn and analyze the real-world applications of computer science. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore your areas of interest through design experiences.
- Augsburg University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The bachelor’s degree at Augsburg University will give you a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science using cutting-edge technologies and a rigorous curriculum. This will also prepare you for graduate study in the field.
- Rose-Hulman Institute Of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The institute offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, and International Computer Science. In your first year, a mentor will be assigned for your succeeding academic years to help guide you and ensure that you complete your studies.
- Iowa State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This undergraduate degree at Iowa State University trains students to be effective in working and communicating in a team. You’ll learn how to create solutions for various problems of interest using the expertise that you have learned through coursework.
- Bowling Green State University | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. Bowling Green State University offers a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degrees in Computer Science that will help you gain intensive knowledge of computing. These degrees will also enable you to design effective solutions for complex problems within the field.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Science in the Midwest
The best graduate computer science schools in the Midwest offer plenty of opportunities for research that allow students to engage in projects where they can use their knowledge for real-world applications. Read on and learn about the top master’s degrees and PhD degrees in different states in the region.
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Best Schools for Master’s in Computer Science
- University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign | Master of Computer Science. This university offers computer science master’s degree programs that let you engage in intensive research and learn from world-class CS faculty. Some programs are available either online or on campus.
- Case Western Reserve University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Students who enroll in a master’s degree at Case Western University will not only learn from the classroom but will also have research opportunities in a company to widen their research experience.
- University of Wisconsin – Madison | Master of Science in Computer Sciences Professional Program. University of Wisconsin – Madison offers this master’s degree program for working professionals. This helps them earn a graduate degree in two years and expand their knowledge within the field.
- University of Notre Dame | Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering. A master’s degree from the University of Notre Dame will allow you to broaden your technical skills through rigorous coursework. You can earn this degree for 11 months only, which includes a summer session.
- Michigan State University | Master of Science in Computer Science. This program at Michigan State University engages students with interdisciplinary research projects in collaboration with other organizations outside the school.
Best PhD in Computer Science Universities
- Northwestern University | PhD in Computer Science and Learning Sciences. Northwestern University offers a PhD program that provides a broad learning experience in computing. In this curriculum, you won’t only study computer science but also learn sciences, including crowdsourcing, learning analytics, and cognitive modeling.
- University of Chicago | PhD in Mathematics and Computer Science. The University of Chicago offers a PhD program that will let you enhance your research and technical skills. It has comprehensive academic phases, which include research and exams.
- University of Iowa | PhD in Computer Science. This doctorate at the University of Iowa is a research-oriented degree that also includes advanced and practical courses in computer science.
- University of Michigan | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering. This doctoral degree from the University of Michigan allows students to learn advanced topics in computer science and engineering (CSE) and perform research that will contribute to the CSE industry.
- Ohio State University | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering. Ohio University offers this rigorous PhD program that includes research, seminars, exams, and coursework.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Computer Science Schools in the Midwest
The basic admission requirements for schools in the Midwest are different for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate programs accept applicants with a high school diploma or GED, while graduate programs require a bachelor’s degree in a similar area of study.
Applicants may also need to submit ACT or SAT test scores when applying for an undergraduate degree, while graduate degrees may require GRE scores. Below is a detailed list of the admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs.
Computer Science Schools in the Midwest: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Online application
- High school transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- ACT or SAT test scores
- Application essay
Computer Science Schools in the Midwest: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Online application
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or any related field of study
- College transcripts
- At least 3.0 GPA
- GRE
- Statement of purpose
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Science in the Midwest?
No, it’s not hard to get into a school for computer science in the Midwest. Plenty of colleges and national universities in this region have open admissions, which means they accept any applicants with a high school diploma or GED regardless of their academic records. However, graduates from schools with a high standard of admission are likely to stand out in job applications.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in the Midwest for Computer Science
- East-West University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. East-West University is a private institution in Chicago, Illinois. The school accepts all or most applicants with a high school diploma or GED. It offers undergraduate degrees in business administration, behavioral sciences, computer and information science, and electronics engineering.
- Briar Cliff University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Briar Cliff University is a private university in Iowa. The school offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and other programs in accounting, chemistry, and biology.
- Franklin University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This school is a private university in Columbus, Ohio. You can enroll in several of its degree programs in different majors, such as computer science, web development, and business forensics.
- Missouri Southern State University | Acceptance Rate: 98%. This is a public university in Joplin, Missouri. The school offers degrees in education, law enforcement, paramedics, and history.
- University of Southern Indiana | Acceptance Rate: 94%. University of Southern Indiana is a public university in Evansville, Indiana. The school requires a minimum of 2.5 GPA for freshmen admission. It offers degree programs in arts, communications, computer science, computer information systems, and criminal justice.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Computer Science in the Midwest
The best online schools in the region are University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign, Kansas State University, University of North Dakota. In addition, Concordia University – Wisconsin and Indiana State University are two other top choices. Below, you will find information about each school’s graduation rates, which are based on the National Center for Education Statistics’ data.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Science Program |
|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign | 86% | Master of Computer Science |
| Kansas State University | 62% | Integrated Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree |
| Concordia University – Wisconsin | 53% | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| University of North Dakota | 50% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
| Indiana State University | 44% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science in the Midwest
The most affordable colleges in the area are Bismarck State College, Indiana University – Kokomo, Purdue University Northwest, Vincennes University, and Central State University. Read below to learn the tuition cost that students at each university pay as well as their available academic programs.
How to Attend the Top Computer Science Schools in the Midwest With Financial Aid
To apply to top schools with financial aid, you should pass the minimum requirements and eligibility criteria, including the GPA requirement. Most schools will require you to complete your FAFSA application before you can apply to any financial aid program, such as student employment, student loans, and grants.
Best Computer Science Scholarships for Midwest Students
- Steven G. Anderson Scholarship for Computer Science & Engineering | Amount: $1,000. A full-time student can receive this scholarship for a computer science undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota.
- UW-Eau Claire Karlgaard Computer Science Scholarship | Amount: $5,000. This scholarship is for 15 eligible undergraduate students in computer science at UW-Eau Claire.
- Neve STEM Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. Two Neve STEM scholarships are available every year. Applicants should be undergraduate students pursuing a degree in STEM, and a minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA is also required. This scholarship is available from May to August.
- Wes Schreiner Scholarship | Amount: $1,000. Students pursuing a degree in computer science or computer engineering at North Dakota State University who also demonstrate a financial need can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
- Joseph Barkmeier and Ann Tice Computer Science Scholarship | Amount: $2,500. This scholarship is open to all students at the University of Iowa, but those pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science are preferred. Two scholarships are available annually.
Midwest Employment Outlook for Computer Science
The Midwest’s employment outlook varies from state to state. For instance, Minnesota has projected job openings of 89,295 between 2020 and 2030 in the computer science field, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Based on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri has around 2.9 million people employed as of April 2022, while Michigan has about 4.6 million people employed as of April 2022.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Careers in the Midwest
| Computer Science Job | Computer Science Degree | Average Salary in the Midwest |
|---|---|---|
| Research Scientist | Master’s degree | $116,040, Illinois |
| Database Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $106,500, Kansas |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $96,900, Wisconsin |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $86,410, Indiana |
| Web Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $77,100, Missouri |
Best Computer Science Jobs in the Midwest Explained
The best jobs including working as a research scientist, database architect, information security analyst, software developer, and web developer. Below, we give you essential information about these high-paying jobs in different Midwest states, such as the average salary, job growth, and job description.
Does It Matter What Computer Science School in the Midwest I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school in the Midwest you go to. Schools in different cities offer different curricula, and not all programs match your preferences. Schools also differ in academic rigor and strictness in the admissions process.
With this in mind, you should assess each school based on the programs they offer, their admissions requirements, and employment outcomes to ensure that they align with your goals.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
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Best Computer Science Schools in the Midwest FAQ
Yes, it’s hard to learn computer science. It’s one of the most challenging majors, as it requires you to be detail-oriented and have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills. You should also have a strong knowledge of software and hardware, in addition to a wide range of networking skills. However, a good background in mathematics and technology will help you succeed in this field.
According to the US News & World Report’s rankings, the best computer science school in the Midwest is University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign. This school ranks #5 in the Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs rankings and Best Computer Science Graduate Schools.
Many companies in the Midwest hire computer science graduates and provide them with excellent job offers. Fiserv in Wisconsin, Chewy in Minnesota, ActiveCampaign in Illinois, and Apirrio in Indiana are only a few examples. These companies have open tech job opportunities for applicants with expertise in software development, information security, and other tech skills. They can also offer their employees higher salaries than the national average.
You can search for job openings using different job sites, such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. You can also visit specific tech job boards or the official website of the company you want to apply to and search for available job opportunities.
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