Is Boston University or the University of Illinois Chicago better for computer science?

Boston University offers the stronger overall computer science experience for most students focused on a tech career. UIC is a solid, more affordable public option with real access to Chicago employers.

At BU, computer science students can combine a rigorous liberal-arts-based CS curriculum with coursework and projects in areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, systems, and software development. The university’s Boston location also places students near a dense concentration of startups, biotech firms, financial-technology companies, hospitals, and research labs.

UIC’s main advantage is its setting in downtown Chicago and its College of Engineering environment. Students can pursue internships during the academic year with Chicago-based companies and organizations, rather than relying only on summer roles. Its CS program can be particularly compelling for a student who wants a large urban public university, a more traditional engineering-school setting, and lower costs, especially for Illinois residents.

Neither school guarantees an internship outcome: students still need strong grades, projects, interview preparation, and early applications. Cost should be the deciding factor if UIC would leave you with substantially less debt, since both schools can lead to strong software and technology opportunities.