Should I choose Arizona State or UIC for computer science?

The biggest practical tradeoff is this: Arizona State usually offers a larger, more developed engineering and computing environment, while UIC gives you direct access to Chicago for internships, employers, and city-based opportunities during the school year. UIC’s advantage is location, especially if you want to build experience with internships and professional connections without leaving campus life far behind.

Academically, I would give ASU the edge for CS. Its Fulton Schools of Engineering are a major part of the university, and that often translates into broader course selection, more research activity, more student organizations tied to computing, and a bigger peer community in tech. If you want the feeling of being in a very large STEM ecosystem, ASU is likely to deliver that more clearly.

UIC is still a solid choice, especially for a student who wants an urban setting and values access to Chicago’s job market. Being in the city can matter a lot for part-time internships, networking, and practical experience during the semester, not just in the summer. That can be especially useful if you are proactive and want to start building a resume early.

Student experience matters here too. ASU has more of a traditional large-campus college feel, while UIC is more integrated into city life and can feel less residential depending on how you engage with campus. Some students thrive with ASU’s size and energy, while others prefer UIC because the professional world feels closer and more immediate.

If cost is similar, I would lean Arizona State for computer science because the program environment is likely stronger overall. I would choose UIC instead only if being in Chicago is a major plus for you and you know you want to take full advantage of that location from the start.