Top Computer Science Schools in North Carolina: A Guide to the Best Programs
North Carolina boasts a variety of prestigious institutions offering exceptional computer science programs. Whether you’re interested in artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, or data science, the state has several schools that provide top-notch education, research opportunities, and industry connections. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best computer science schools in North Carolina, highlighting the unique features of each program and providing links to their websites and scholarship opportunities.

Top Computer Science Schools in North Carolina
Great Computer Science Programs in NC
Duke University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
Duke University’s Department of Computer Science offers one of the top-ranked computer science programs in the country. The department emphasizes cutting-edge research in areas like machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and robotics. Students have access to world-class faculty, interdisciplinary research centers, and the opportunity to engage with the tech industry in the Research Triangle area. The program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees, with flexible options for specialization.
- Key Specializations: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Data Science.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- Duke University Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at Duke
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
UNC Chapel Hill’s Department of Computer Science offers undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for leadership in computer science and related fields. The program focuses on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with specializations in areas like data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity. The department is closely connected to the thriving tech scene in the Research Triangle, offering students opportunities for internships, research, and collaboration with industry leaders.
- Key Specializations: Data Science, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- UNC Chapel Hill Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at UNC Chapel Hill
North Carolina State University (NC State) – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
NC State’s Department of Computer Science is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovative programs. The school offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees with a focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity. NC State’s location in Raleigh, part of the Research Triangle, provides students with access to numerous tech companies, internships, and research collaborations.
- Key Specializations: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- NC State Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at NC State
Wake Forest University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
Wake Forest University’s Department of Computer Science offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on both the theoretical and practical aspects of computing. The program prepares students for careers in fields like data science, software development, and cybersecurity. With small class sizes and an emphasis on student-faculty interaction, Wake Forest provides a personalized education that encourages interdisciplinary research and innovation.
- Key Specializations: Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Machine Learning.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- Wake Forest University Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at Wake Forest
University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Computer Science offers an exceptional undergraduate and graduate program in computer science. The department is known for its emphasis on real-world applications, with specializations in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and computer vision. Students benefit from UNC Charlotte’s proximity to Charlotte’s growing tech industry, providing ample internship and job opportunities.
- Key Specializations: Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Vision.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- UNC Charlotte Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at UNC Charlotte
Appalachian State University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
Appalachian State University’s Department of Computer Science offers a rigorous undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in software development, data analysis, and systems engineering. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with opportunities for internships, research, and collaborations with industry. Students can choose from a variety of specializations and gain hands-on experience through the department’s state-of-the-art labs and projects.
- Key Specializations: Software Development, Data Analysis, Systems Engineering.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- Appalachian State University Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at Appalachian State
East Carolina University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
East Carolina University’s Department of Computer Science offers a comprehensive undergraduate program that prepares students for careers in software engineering, information systems, and cybersecurity. The program focuses on developing strong problem-solving and programming skills, with hands-on experience in real-world applications. ECU offers students access to research labs and opportunities to engage with the growing tech industry in eastern North Carolina.
- Key Specializations: Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Information Systems.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- ECU Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at ECU
North Carolina A&T State University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
North Carolina A&T’s Department of Computer Science provides an excellent foundation in computer science with a focus on preparing students for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs and provides students with access to research opportunities and internships. The department’s close ties with industry partners in the tech and government sectors create unique opportunities for students.
- Key Specializations: Software Development, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s, Master’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- NC A&T Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at NC A&T
Western Carolina University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
Western Carolina University’s Department of Computer Science offers a well-rounded undergraduate program designed to give students the skills they need to pursue careers in software development, systems analysis, and data science. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and provides students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and engage with local tech companies.
- Key Specializations: Software Development, Systems Analysis, Data Science.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- WCU Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at WCU
Fayetteville State University – Department of Computer Science
Program Summary:
Fayetteville State University’s Department of Computer Science offers an undergraduate program that focuses on preparing students for careers in software engineering, computer systems, and cybersecurity. The program provides a solid foundation in programming and problem-solving, with a focus on hands-on learning through internships and real-world projects.
- Key Specializations: Software Engineering, Computer Systems, Cybersecurity.
- Program Format: Bachelor’s.
- Accreditation: ABET accredited.
- Fayetteville State University Computer Science Website
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at Fayetteville State
Conclusion
North Carolina offers a wide range of top-tier computer science programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. Whether you’re interested in software engineering, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity, these schools offer outstanding programs with access to research opportunities, internships, and industry connections. Be sure to explore their websites for more information on admissions, scholarships, and program details.
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