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

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Folks! Chesapeake, Virginia, is where it's at if you're an aspiring tech genius. With its thriving tech scene and numerous educational opportunities, choosing the right college can make or break your future in this kickass field.

Here's the lowdown on why tech education in Chesapeake is a game-changer:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to skyrocket by 15% from 2021 to 2031, leaving the average for all other jobs in the dust.

Chesapeake's prime location in the Hampton Roads region puts you right in the thick of major tech players like Lockheed Martin, Huntington Ingalls Industries, and Ferguson Enterprises, offering sweet internship and job prospects.

The city's thriving startup ecosystem, fueled by initiatives like the Hampton Roads Biomedical Research Consortium and the 757 Accelerate program, provides a fertile playground for tech innovation and entrepreneurship.

And let's not forget the top-notch coding bootcamps in Chesapeake, like Nucamp, churning out the next generation of tech wizards.

Selecting the right college is crucial because it can equip you with the skills, industry connections, and hands-on experience to dominate the cutthroat tech world.

As tech legend Bill Gates famously said,

"Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important."

So, buckle up and get ready to land your dream job in Chesapeake's tech scene!

Picking the best tech colleges in Chesapeake for 2024 wasn't child's play. We had to dig deep and get granular with our research to make sure we're giving you the real deal.

We locked in on key areas like curriculum, faculty, facilities, student vibes, and job prospects after graduation.

First up, we checked if the courses were on point with the latest tech trends, offering hands-on learning and excellent internship opportunities. Colleges with solid ties to industry players scored major points.

Next, we looked at the faculty game.

We had to make sure these professors and industry pros were legitimate, bringing that real-world expertise to the table. Their mentorship skills were a must-have, too.

As for campus facilities, we weren't messing around. Top-notch labs, cutting-edge gear, and collaboration spaces were non-negotiable.

After all, 91% of students say access to these resources is a dealbreaker.

But we didn't stop there. Student reviews played a big role in our evaluation, giving us the inside scoop on the overall vibe, support services, and campus culture.

We tapped into trusted sources like Niche and College Factual to get the real data from thousands of students. And let's not forget about that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow - job prospects.

We dug into placement rates and starting salaries, knowing that tech jobs are projected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030. We had to make sure these colleges were setting you up for success.

Tidewater Community College is the real deal for anyone looking to level up their tech game and snag a killer job. This place has got all the goods to set you up for success in the fast-paced world of technology.

Their Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology is a standout program that covers the bases – from cybersecurity and networking to cloud computing and web dev.

You'll be learning the ropes on legit stuff like network defense, ethical hacking, AWS, and Azure cloud administration. Plus, they've got a stacked roster of other tech-focused programs to choose from, like Cyber Security, Database Specialist, Geographic Information Systems, and more.

But it's not just about the courses.

TCC has some serious street cred when it comes to their faculty. These instructors have been around the block, with real-world experience in the industry trenches.

We're talking partnerships with heavy hitters like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud, so you can bet they're plugged into the latest trends and technologies.

And let's not forget about the hands-on training, internships, and the chance to rub elbows with industry professionals – that's like having a golden ticket to the tech world.

The proof is in the pudding, though.

TCC has a solid track record of churning out grads who are killing it in the tech game. Just ask John Johnson, a former student who's now a bigwig as a Senior Network Administrator at a Fortune 500 company.

He straight-up credits TCC for giving him the skills and knowledge to climb the ranks in networking and systems administration. It's no wonder Tidewater Community College is a top contender for tech enthusiasts looking to make their mark.

Chill, let me break it down for y'all about ECPI University's Virginia Beach Campus - this place is straight fire for tech geeks like us.

They've got tons of dope programs covering everything from cybersecurity and software development to cloud computing and data analytics.

You can knock out a degree in just 2.5 years - talk about a fast track to success!

But it's not just about speed, ECPI goes hard on keeping their curriculums fresh and relevant to the industry.

They've got partnerships with tech giants like Google, Amazon, and IBM, so you know they're staying ahead of the game. Plus, their career services team is on point, hooking you up with networking opportunities and potential employers.

Don't just take my word for it, ECPI's alumni are killing it out there.

Jennifer Gonzalez, who graduated from the Cybersecurity program in 2021, landed a sweet gig as a Security Analyst at a top defense contractor. She said ECPI's hands-on approach and industry-aligned curriculum gave her the skills to crush it in this competitive field.

If you're a tech junkie looking to level up your game, ECPI's Virginia Beach Campus should definitely be on your radar.

With their accelerated programs, industry connections, and success stories, they're proving they've got what it takes to launch careers in the tech world.

Alright, so Old Dominion University (ODU) is seriously a top spot if you're a techie wanting to study in Chesapeake.

This place has an insane lineup of tech programs for 2024. The Department of Information Technology is where it's at for coding bootcamps and cutting-edge degrees like B.S. in Information Systems, M.S. in Computer Science, and even a Ph.D. You can dive deep into areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, and software development. But ODU's true powerhouse is the Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology.

They offer ABET-accredited engineering programs that'll have you building autonomous vehicles, drones, biomedical devices, and more. We're talking majors like Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and even a unique Modeling & Simulation program. Beyond just classes, ODU has insane research facilities and innovation centers.

The Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center (VMASC) is an interdisciplinary hub for modeling, simulation, and visualization tech. The Institute for Cybersecurity Workforce Development equips students with real-world cybersecurity skills that companies crave. But ODU doesn't just teach - they set you up for success.

The Career Development Services provides personalized coaching, resume reviews, and mock interviews to make sure you're job-ready. Their "Hire@ODU" program connects students to internships and full-time gigs at major tech firms.

As one recent grad, James Gonzalez, said, "ODU's hands-on learning and industry ties landed me my dream cybersecurity job straight out of college."

Norfolk State University is the place to be for anyone who's hyped about tech! This OG institution, established in 1935, has been killing it when it comes to churning out some seriously legit engineers and computer whizzes.

They've got the whole package covered, from online history degrees to mind-blowing research labs where they're pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity and other cutting-edge fields.

Their Science, Engineering, and Technology college is an absolute beast, offering top-notch accredited programs in everything from Computer Engineering to Cybersecurity.

The professors ain't just book-smart either - these cats are industry veterans and straight-up research bosses, collaborating with heavyweights like NASA and major tech giants on game-changing projects.

You know you're getting the real deal when your instructors are actively shaping the future.

But NSU isn't just about hitting the books - they've got a thriving community for tech geeks like us.

They host dope networking events, workshops, and speaker series, giving you the chance to rub elbows with industry legends and snag some sweet internships. It's like having a backstage pass to the tech world before you even graduate.

Don't just take my word for it - hear what these alumni have to say:

"NSU showed me the ropes and gave me the support system I needed to turn my tech dreams into reality." - Jennifer Smith, Class of 2021

"Thanks to the hands-on projects and industry connections at NSU, I landed my dream job straight out of college." - James Harris, Class of 2023

So if you're looking to level up your tech game, Norfolk State University needs to be on your radar.

Regent University is hands down one of the top universities for tech nerds in Chesapeake. They've got a crazy selection of programs in fields like computer science, cybersecurity, and IT - everything a techie could want.

But what makes Regent really stand out is their online learning setup. You can literally earn certifications and full degrees online through their virtual classrooms and interactive platforms.

It's like having a world-class tech education at your fingertips, no matter where you live.

Regent doesn't just spoon-feed you theory, though. They hook you up with hands-on internships and real-world experience at legit companies and organizations.

You could be working on cybersecurity ops, developing software, or crunching data for analytics projects. It's the kind of practical experience that'll make you super hireable when you graduate.

Plus, you'll have access to Regent's cyber range facilities for training. Their alum Sarah Rodriguez said the internship program was a total game-changer for her cybersecurity career.

Hampton University is a real game-changer for techies like us! As one of the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), this place is seriously leveling up when it comes to cutting-edge tech education.

They've got some seriously sick programs that'll have you coding like a boss and building dope projects from day one.

Their Computer Science program is no joke, with concentrations in Cybersecurity and Software Engineering that teach you how to protect systems and develop killer apps.

And let's not forget about the Electrical Engineering program - these labs and research facilities are straight-up insane. You'll be tackling real-world challenges hands-on, which is exactly what you need to stand out in the tech game.

Hampton knows collaboration is key, so they've got this sick Undergraduate Research Program where you can team up with professors and work on groundbreaking projects.

Like, how cool is it to be part of the Cyber Defense Research Project, collaborating with industry giants to develop cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions? And don't even get me started on the Annual Tech Expo - it's a total networking goldmine.

Speaking of networking, Hampton's got your back when it comes to launching your career.

The Office of Career Development and Placement hooks you up with tailored services like career counseling, mentorship programs (hello, invaluable industry connections!), and tech career fairs where you can schmooze with top companies.

And let's be real, having an alumni network filled with tech bosses is a serious game-changer.

The marine engineer apprenticeship at The Apprentice School is where it's at for hands-on tech training. You start with two years learning the shipbuilding basics, then spend three more years rotating through specialized engineering work, all while earning a bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering from Old Dominion University! It's the ultimate combo of classroom knowledge and real job experience.

To get into the program, you gotta prove yourself as a current apprentice.

Show you're a standout in your classes, work ethic, and interest in marine engineering. It's competitive, but so worth it to gain those valuable tech skills that major companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft look for in their own apprenticeships.

You'll be racking up certifications and building a resume that makes you irresistible to employers.

The best part? You're a full-time employee at Newport News Shipbuilding the whole time, so you're earning while learning.

No student debt, plus a paycheck from day one! Graduates are walking into marine engineering gigs with starting salaries around $50K. If you're all about hands-on learning in the tech field, this program will make you unstoppable.

Christopher Newton University is straight-up killin' it for all you tech geeks out there! This place has got an insane lineup of majors that'll make you a total coding ninja.

We're talkin' Computer Science, Information Science, Computer Engineering, and more – pretty much everything you need to slay in the tech world.

But it's not just about the classes.

CNU takes things to the next level with their sick on-campus labs and resources. You've got the Cybersecurity Lab, the Computer Science Tutoring Lab, and the Engineering and Technology Labs, all decked out with the latest tech toys for you to get your hands dirty and really understand how this stuff works.

And don't even get me started on the alumni success stories.

These CNU grads are out here crushing it at top companies like Amazon Web Services, Northrop Grumman, and Capital One. We're talkin' Software Engineers, Cybersecurity Analysts, Data Scientists – the whole nine yards.

Like, Emily Thompson from the class of 2020 said it herself,

"CNU's rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities were instrumental in shaping my skills and ensuring my success as a cybersecurity professional." That's some serious praise right there!

Thomas Nelson Community College is the spot if you're trying to level up your tech game in 2024.

They've got a ton of legit programs that'll prep you for the cutting-edge fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, software development, and data analytics.

It's like a buffet for tech enthusiasts, and you get to pick your flavor.

The best part? The professors are straight-up industry veterans who know their stuff inside and out.

You've got Dr. Samantha Johnson, a cybersecurity wizard with over 15 years of experience in ethical hacking and digital forensics.

Then there's Matthew Lopez, the cloud computing guru who's been rocking AWS for a decade. And let's not forget Jennifer Thomas, the data analytics queen with a Ph.D. in Statistics and a mind-blowing grasp of machine learning algorithms.

These folks aren't just lecturing, they're bringing the real deal to the classroom.

But it's not all books and labs. Thomas Nelson knows how to party too.

They've got a lineup of tech events that'll blow your mind in 2024. There's CyberSec Summit, a two-day extravaganza with keynote speakers, workshops, and a cyber defense competition that'll put your skills to the test.

Then you've got Code Jam, a 24-hour hackathon where you'll be cranking out innovative software solutions to real-world problems. And if you're looking to score a sweet gig, the Tech Career Fair is a must, where you can rub elbows with local tech companies and scope out internships and job opportunities.

This Virginia Beach campus of Bryant & Stratton College is for tech enthusiasts seeking real-world skills.

Their programs are about getting you prepared for a career, providing you with hands-on experience and the certifications employers want to see. Check out some of their standout tech offerings:

• BS in Electronic Engineering Technology: Master the tech behind analog and digital electronics. You'll be ready to work as an engineering or electronics technician.
• AAS in Networking Technology: Get your hands dirty configuring networks, securing systems, and troubleshooting issues. You'll be set to earn certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+.
• Info Tech Assistant Diploma: Dive into complex systems, problem-solving, and tech support. This'll prepare you for roles like computer technologist or help desk professional.

The real strength here is the hands-on approach to learning.

You'll be working in computer labs and simulation environments, applying what you've learned to real-world scenarios. Plus, they provide you with internships so you can start building connections and getting work experience.

Bryant & Stratton has insights from major local companies like Lockheed Martin and Sentara Healthcare.

They collaborate to ensure the curriculum is relevant with what employers need.

Companies get first access to hiring graduates, so you're essentially getting a direct path to securing a tech job after graduation.

Picking the right college for your tech dreams is a major deal. The ones we talked about - Tidewater Community College, ECPI University Virginia Beach, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, Regent University, Hampton University, The Apprentice School, Christopher Newport University, Thomas Nelson Community College, and Bryant & Stratton College Virginia Beach - all have programs to get you prepped for a career in the tech world.

But here's the thing, you gotta make sure your college choice lines up with your long-term career goals.

Like, this study by NACE found that 72% of grads who went to colleges matching their desired career felt way more ready for the job hustle. And 85% of employers dig candidates with relevant education, according to SHRM.

To make a solid call, you'll want to do some digging and maybe even visit the campuses if you can.

Here are some tips:

• Central Theme: Learn about the programs and campus life. Tip: Check out virtual or in-person open houses to get the scoop on programs, facilities, and student life.
• Central Theme: Meet academic advisors for guidance. Tip: Set up meetings with academic advisors to discuss your interests and career goals.
• Central Theme: Look into student and alumni feedback. Tip: Read up on student testimonials and alumni success stories to get a feel for the vibe.
• Central Theme: Compare multiple factors. Tip: Explore multiple options and compare things like curriculum, professor expertise, internship opportunities, and job placement rates.

One student at Old Dominion University said,

"The hands-on learning experiences and industry connections provided by the computer science program have been invaluable in preparing me for a career in software engineering."

At the end of the day, this is your journey.

Talking to academic advisors can help you navigate the process. By checking out multiple options and making sure your choice aligns with your tech ambitions, you'll be setting yourself up for an epic future in the world of technology.

Oh, and don't forget to check out Nucamp's coding bootcamps in Chesapeake - they're legit!