The Top 10 Best Colleges in Charlotte for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024

Look, Charlotte is like the new hotspot for all things tech – it's blowing up! By 2024, the city is expected to have over 36,000 IT professionals with huge names like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google setting up shop.

This tech boom is crazy, making quality tech education a must if you want to score those sweet, high-paying gigs.

Some major things going down in 2024 that are shaping Charlotte's tech scene include the launch of UNC Charlotte's $683 million DART Building – a state-of-the-art research facility for data science and innovation, Centene Corporation bringing in their East Coast headquarters with 3,200 tech jobs, and the expansion of the Charlotte Regional Tech Hub connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and tech companies.

With tech exploding like this, having solid skills in areas like coding, cybersecurity, and data analysis is key to landing those prime jobs. This article ranks the top colleges in Charlotte offering comprehensive tech programs to equip you with the skills to crush it in this rapidly growing industry.

Alright, let's break down how I put together this epic list of the hottest colleges in Charlotte for all you tech geeks out there in 2024. I scoured through loads of legit sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News' college rankings, and the schools' own websites to get the inside scoop.

But that's not all – I also dug into tech industry reports, surveys from real employers, and scholarly articles to make sure these colleges are dishing out top-notch tech programs that'll land you a sweet gig after graduation.

Here's how I sorted out the cream of the crop: First, I zeroed in on colleges in the Charlotte area that offer killer programs in fields like computer science, IT, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

Next, I analyzed hard stats like student-teacher ratios, graduation rates, and how many grads scored epic tech jobs. But it's not just about numbers – I also checked out factors like industry accreditations, prof expertise, research opportunities, and whether the school has state-of-the-art facilities and labs to level up your skills.

Of course, I couldn't ignore the real-life experiences of students and alumni.

So, I combed through their reviews and feedback to get a genuine sense of how much these colleges are prepping them for future success in the tech world.

I even factored in what employers had to say about each school's grads. After weighing all these crucial elements, I assigned scores and crafted the ultimate ranking – a one-stop guide for anyone looking to kickstart an awesome career in tech right here in Charlotte in 2024.

With the tech scene constantly evolving, you can count on this list to steer you toward the best of the best.

Check this out - UNC Charlotte is seriously killing it when it comes to tech programs! They've got this brand new Data Science and Business Analytics program dropping in 2024, which is gonna teach you all about crunching those big data numbers and using them to make smart business moves.

But that's not all they're packing! Their lineup is stacked with dope majors like Computer Science (you can score a B.S., M.S., or even a Ph.D.), Cybersecurity (protecting the digital world from threats), and Game Design and Development (for all you gamers out there).

They've got this insane Cyber-Hunting Operations and Analytic Technology Lab where you can get hands-on training in cybersecurity.

Alumni like James Miller have used that experience to land sweet gigs like being a cybersecurity analyst at Bank of America. But UNC Charlotte doesn't just stop at academics.

Their Ventureprise program has helped over 300 startups get off the ground, including TresGenius, a software company started by their own alumni that's changing the game with intelligent music composition tools.

It's like they're turning students into tech bosses right before our eyes!

Program	Degrees Offered
Computer Science	B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Cybersecurity	B.S., M.S., Graduate Certificate
Game Design and Development	B.A., M.S.

Queens University of Charlotte is seriously the place to be if you're all about that tech life. Their Computer Science and Data Analytics major is on point, setting you up with all the skills you need to slay in the ever-changing tech game.

We're talking courses like Programming Fundamentals, where you'll master coding languages like Python, Java, and C++. And let's not forget about Data Structures and Algorithms, where you'll level up your data manipulation and problem-solving game.

But that's not all.

Queens University is also bringing the heat with courses on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, letting you dive deep into the world of intelligent systems and predictive analytics.

And if cybersecurity is your jam, they've got you covered with classes on ethical hacking, network security, and risk management.

But it's not just about the classroom grind.

Queens University has some seriously cool facilities to take your tech game to the next level.

The Computational Thinking Lab is a hub for hands-on learning, hosting workshops, coding boot camps, and hackathons. And if you're into cybersecurity, the Cyber Security Lab is the spot for you to simulate cyber attacks and develop some serious defense strategies.

And let's not forget about the extracurriculars.

The Women in Technology club is all about empowering the ladies to crush it in STEM fields, while the Robotics Club is perfect for those who want to get their hands dirty with robotics competitions and projects.

And if that's not enough, the annual TechFest is a celebration of all things tech, with guest speakers, coding challenges, and the chance to network with industry pros.

But don't just take my word for it.

Check out what Mary Thomas had to say:

"The hands-on experience and industry connections I gained at Queens University were invaluable. I felt prepared to hit the ground running in my tech career."

So if you're serious about leveling up your tech game, Queens University is definitely the move.

Johnson & Wales University's Computer Science program is straight-up fire! They've got this Bachelor of Science degree that'll make you a coding genius.

You'll learn all the ins and outs of programming languages, data structures, and algorithm analysis – the real deal.

But that's not all! They're leveling up the game with a Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing specialization.

Imagine being the one who protects the world from those pesky cyber threats and masters the art of cloud tech! You'll be like a cyber superhero, saving the day with your mad skills.

JWU ain't messing around, either.

They've got partnerships with tech titans like IBM, Microsoft, and Dell. You'll get hands-on experience with the latest tools and tech, straight from the source.

And let's not forget about the networking events and the epic Tech Summit! It's your chance to rub elbows with industry legends and score some killer internships or job opportunities.

With JWU's cutting-edge approach and industry connections, you'll be unstoppable in the tech world.

As one recent grad put it,

"The university's forward-thinking vibe and industry ties launched me straight into an awesome software development gig."

So, if you're serious about becoming a tech trailblazer, JWU-Charlotte is the place to be!

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) is the place to be for any tech head in Charlotte.

This school isn't messing around when it comes to prepping you for the real deal in the tech world. Their Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees cover the whole spectrum – from computer programming and cybersecurity to systems administration and web development.

It's like they've got the cheat codes to landing a sweet gig straight outta college. But CPCC doesn't stop there, they're all about setting you up for success.

Their Career Services squad hooks you up with dope internships at major players like IBM, Microsoft, and Cisco. Last year alone, over 250 tech students scored these hands-on opportunities to level up their skills and make connections.

It's like having a cheat code for your career before even graduating! CPCC's facilities are straight-up fire! The Information Technology Center is loaded with cutting-edge labs for cybersecurity, network administration, and programming.

You'll be working with the same gear and software used in the industry, so you'll be ready to hit the ground running. Plus, their Technology Incubator is like a breeding ground for the next big tech ideas.

If you've got an entrepreneurial spirit, this is the place to make it happen. CPCC's tech programs have been raking in national recognition left and right. Their cybersecurity degree was ranked #3 in the nation by Intelligent.com in 2023.

That's some serious cred right there, proving these guys aren't playing around when it comes to preparing you for the tech game.

Check this out! Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) is straight-up killing it in the tech game right now. These guys are offering some seriously dope programs to help us get ready for those future tech careers.

In 2024, they're launching a brand new Cybersecurity and Data Analytics bachelor's degree, so you can level up your skills and be a total boss at protecting digital systems and analyzing all that sweet data.

JCSU's Computer Science and Information Systems program is getting a major glow-up too.

You'll learn everything from coding to software engineering to database management, so you can build some sick apps and websites. And let's not forget about the mad support services they've got going on.

The Technology Innovation Center is like a tech playground where you can turn your ideas into reality with 3D printers, VR simulations, and more.

Here's the real kicker though – JCSU is partnering up with tech giants like Microsoft and Google, so you know you'll have access to the latest tools and resources.

It's like having a golden ticket to the tech world! JCSU's students and professors are doing some seriously groundbreaking research. They recently scored a grant to develop autonomous drones for search and rescue, which is just mind-blowing.

And let's not forget about their annual Tech Summit and Hackathon events – these things are straight-up legendary, giving you a chance to show off your skills and network with the big dogs in the industry.

Check it out - Belmont Abbey College may be small, but their tech game is tight! They're all about blending the tech skills with that sweet liberal arts education, so you don't just learn to code but also how to think, communicate, and solve problems like a boss.

Their Computer Science program covers the essentials like programming, data structures, and software engineering, while the Information Systems minor hooks you up with applying tech to business.

But they even offer a Cybersecurity major where you learn to protect digital systems from threats - talk about being a real-life superhero!

What makes Belmont Abbey stand out is how they infuse that liberal arts mindset into the tech courses.

Their goal is to shape well-rounded grads who don't just know the tech stuff but can also think critically, communicate effectively, and tackle problems head-on.

And you know what? It works! Over 90% of their tech grads secure jobs or pursue further education within six months of graduating. We're talking success stories like Nancy Miller, a 2018 Computer Science alum now slaying it as a software engineer at Microsoft, and Robert Perez, a 2016 grad who co-founded a thriving fintech startup.

Pretty impressive, right?

The Carolinas College of Health Sciences is seriously for anyone into the tech side of healthcare.

They've got all kinds of programs to get you up to speed on managing and analyzing medical data using cutting-edge tech. Their Bachelor's in Health Informatics is all about mastering those skills to keep healthcare ops running smoothly and giving patients the best possible care.

What makes this place extra cool is their tight connections with major medical players like Atrium Health and Novant Health.

With these partnerships, you get to go beyond the classroom and gain some serious real-world experience through internships, projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

It's like getting a backstage pass to the healthcare industry before you even graduate.

After finishing up at Carolinas College, you'll be ready to tackle careers like:

1. Health Information Management - Keeping those electronic health records organized and secure, following all the rules and regulations.
2. Clinical Informatics - Using patient data to streamline care, improve workflows, and make smarter decisions based on evidence.
3. Health Data Analytics - Diving deep into huge medical datasets to uncover insights that boost efficiency and cut costs.

With a crazy 97% job placement rate within six months of graduating, this school is clearly doing something right.

As tech keeps transforming healthcare, Carolinas College is at the forefront, prepping students to thrive in this ever-evolving field.

Looking for a solid tech program that'll give you the business know-how to thrive in the real world? Check out Brookstone College of Business.

Their career-focused approach means you'll be learning the practical skills companies want, from data analytics to cybersecurity. And the best part? Most of their programs can be completed in one year or less, so you'll be job-ready in no time.

Brookstone doesn't just teach theory - they make sure you get valuable hands-on experience too.

Through awesome internship opportunities at places like medical offices, banks, and more, over 85% of students get real-world training before graduating.

Talk about a resume booster!

It doesn't stop there. Brookstone has tight connections with major companies and local businesses, meaning career fairs, mock interviews, and site visits are always happening.

Their Career Services squad works hard to give you a competitive edge, and it shows - 92% of tech grads land a job within 6 months. As Charlotte's startup scene keeps booming, Brookstone is prepping the next wave of unstoppable tech entrepreneurs and innovators.

If you want an affordable program that'll make you seriously employable, this could be the place.

Wingate University is the place to be if you're a tech-savvy rebel looking to make waves in Charlotte. They've been excelling in the healthcare education field with programs like pharmacy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

But they're not just about the medical programs – they've got a solid lineup of master's and doctoral programs to enhance your tech skills too.

They're providing you with excellent opportunities even before you graduate.

Their UC Guarantee partnership lets you take classes at South Piedmont Community College while still in high school, setting you up for a smooth transition to Wingate's bachelor's programs.

And if you're interested in becoming a teacher, they've got pathways to become a certified teacher while working as a teacher's assistant.

But it doesn't stop there – Wingate is all about that hands-on experience.

They're connected with major companies for legitimate internships and student projects. Just imagine creating the next groundbreaking app that revolutionizes campus life.

Plus, their annual TechFest brings in industry leaders, so you can network and stay ahead of the curve.

And let's not forget about their career services.

Wingate's got your back when it comes to landing that dream job after graduation. According to their stats, a whopping 92% of their tech graduates were hired within six months of finishing up.

So, if you're ready to enhance your skills and join the ranks of Charlotte's tech professionals, Wingate University is an excellent choice.

Strayer University Charlotte is where it's at for us tech geeks looking to level up our skills in 2024. These have got the whole package covered - you can study online or hit up their campus, whichever works for your lifestyle.

Their online Information Technology degree is a total game-changer, teaching you the ropes of cyber security, coding, and network management.

But that's not all! Strayer also offers some seriously legit on-campus programs, like the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at their North Charlotte campus.

This lets you get hands-on with cutting-edge tech and score valuable internship opportunities with top companies in the area.

What really sets Strayer apart though, is their commitment to helping students succeed.

They've got state-of-the-art computer labs, expert advisors to guide you through your journey, and even master's programs in Educational Technology if you're aiming to become a tech educator yourself.

It's like they've thought of everything to make sure you're prepped for a killer career in this field.

So, if you're a Charlotte-based tech enthusiast looking for a solid education that'll open doors in 2024, Strayer University should definitely be on your radar.

Just check out these top tech companies in Charlotte - with a Strayer degree, you could be working at one of them before you know it!