Hidden Gem Colleges for Computer Science B Students

Computer Science programs are often be among the most competitive on campus. Here, we’ve rounded up our favorite computer science programs for students who have a B average, hidden gems that might fit your student’s unique interests in computer science.

Colorado State University


Computer Science majors at CSU work toward a BS degree with 6 areas of concentration: general computer science, software engineering, networks and security, AI/ML, human centered computing, and computing systems. The university excels in advancing research, and its computer science students are welcomed by faculty as collaborators in a number of research areas. The College of Natural Sciences is home to Amplify, the living and learning community for STEM students, that strives to foster collaboration among disciplines. 


Admit Rate: 83%


Cost of Attendance: $44,187


Arizona State University 


Arizona State’s School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence offers an ABET-accredited BS in Computer Science with concentrations in either software engineering or cyber security. Students hoping to embed themselves within the ASU engineering community, should consider the array of engineering and CS-focused student groups. Additionally, ASU’s broader school of engineering is home to over 30 pioneering research centers, investigating topics like Applied Nanoionics and Algae Technology.


Admit Rate: 88%


Cost of Attendance: $47, 668


California State Polytechnic University-Pomona


As one of only seven polytechnic universities in the nation, CalPoly-Pomona champions a “learning by doing” philosophy. Their department of Computer Science is no different. In addition to hands-on learning opportunities, students of computer science can choose from multiple electives within their preferred career tracks, like software engineering, data science, game development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. 


Admit Rate: 64%


Cost of Attendance: $40,062


DePauw University


A New England style liberal arts institution in Greencastle, Indiana, DePauw University provides a unique blend of liberal arts education, experiential learning, and career development. The university’s department of computer science boasts a student-centered focus and a community that empowers learning and innovation. In addition to a major in computer science, DePauw also offers minors in computer science and data science. All DePauw students are issued personal computers through the university, and computer science students have access to state-of-the-art labs, computing facilities, and workspaces. 


Admit Rate: 68%


Cost of Attendance: $68,898


The University of Texas at Dallas


Despite its relatively recent founding in 1961, UT Dallas is making a name for itself as a STEM hub. In fact, of the 53 majors offered on campus, nearly half are in the field of science and technology. The Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science offers 6 undergraduate majors and 4 minors with built-in requirements for experiential learning and internships. In order to graduate, all Jonsson School students must complete a group-based capstone project, known as UTDesign, which not only provides real-world design and problem-solving experience, but also mentorship by industry professionals. 


Admit Rate: 79%


Cost of Attendance: $30,744 (in-state)


Oregon State University 


Aspiring computer scientists at Oregon State can pick from two tracks of study, Applied Computer Science or Systems Computer Science depending on their interests. The university boasts a number of labs and technology centers for its students to test ideas, learn skills, or network with industry leaders. Beavers in CS should also take advantage of numerous internship opportunities, both on campus, and in the surrounding community. 


Admit Rate: 82%


Cost of Attendance: $48,609


George Mason University


The largest public research university in the state of Virginia, George Mason University is an up-and-coming heavyweight with a focus on student experience, career preparation, and pre-professional development. The university offers 2 undergraduate CS programs, the ABET-Accredited BS in Computer Science and the BS in Applied Computer Science. Located in northern Virginia just 20 miles from Washington DC, the university’s location is home to one of the highest concentrations of tech firms in the nation. Especially motivated students are offered placement in the accelerated BS/MS pathway. 


Admit Rate: 89%


Cost of Attendance: $54,374


University of Utah


Located in Salt Lake City, the University of Utah is not only the state’s flagship university, but also an emergent leader in science research and development. The School of Computing is responsible for training more than half of the state’s computer scientists and is undergoing a massive renovation to meet the field’s demand. To foster an inclusive and diverse student body, the university launched the Center for Inclusive Computing to ensure its students and graduates are equipped for the ever-changing professional landscape. 


Admit Rate: 79%


Cost of Attendance: $42,883


University of California-Riverside


The most diverse and least selective school in the University of California system, UC Riverside is known for cultivating meaningful student experiences. The Bourns College of Engineering is home to standout academic programs, and admission to them is much more selective than to the college as a whole. Computer Science students can choose from 3 majors, including CSBA, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Business Applications. Students interested in conducting undergraduate research can select from a host of interest areas and while taking advantage of ongoing projects taking place at state-of-the-art facilities. 


Admit Rate: 65%


Cost of Attendance: $65,276


Louisiana State University 


LSU’s Division of Computer Science and Engineering offers an ABET-accredited BS in Computer Science. CS students can choose among an array of concentrations including Data Science & Analytics and Cyber Security. A “Second Discipline” concentration affords CS students the opportunity to complement their computing studies with coursework in another discipline such as economics or business. A partnership with the College of Education allows students to earn a computer science focused concentration in secondary teaching, resulting in a teaching credential 


Admit Rate: 73%


Cost of Attendance: $50,071



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