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

Columbus is quickly becoming the Midwest's tech hub, and the city's colleges are stepping up to meet the demand for skilled techies.

With major players like Intel investing billions, the need for a tech-savvy workforce is skyrocketing.

Smart students are locking down spots at Columbus universities that prioritize cutting-edge programs, affordable tuition, and direct connections to the booming local tech scene.

Beyond just theory, these schools hook you up with hands-on experience through makerspaces, coding clubs, and partnerships with companies like CrossChx.

With tech job growth exploding and new startups popping up every day, scoring a degree from a Columbus college can be your golden ticket to a future-proof career in this booming industry.

Alright! To sort out the baddest colleges for us code warriors in Columbus, we had to get serious with our research game. We pored over stats from legit sources like the National Center for Education Statistics and U.S. News rankings, plus that sweet College Scorecard data.

But we didn't stop there.

Our main focus was on the stuff that really matters to rookie techies trying to break into the scene.

We checked out the range of tech programs each school offered, from computer science to cybersecurity and everything in between. Accreditations and hands-on learning opportunities were key too.

Affordability was a major factor – we wanted options with decent tuition costs, scholarships, and low student debt risks.

Support systems were crucial as well.

The top colleges had solid career counseling, tutoring services, and access to sick tech labs.

But what really caught our eye were the beginner-friendly curriculums – intro courses, bridge programs, and flexible learning options like online or part-time classes.

We didn't just rely on the numbers though.

We talked to real people, read endless reviews, and got insights from industry pros like Daniel Martin, CTO at TechOhio.

He summed it up perfectly:

"A truly exceptional tech education must balance theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience to prepare students for the ever-evolving job market."

By focusing on accessibility, affordability, and a newbie-friendly approach, our rankings give aspiring tech enthusiasts in Columbus the tools to crush it in their chosen fields.

Ohio State is a beast when it comes to tech education. As one of the most respected public research universities, it's been crushing it for over 150 years, staying ahead of the game and offering top-notch programs to keep up with the ever-changing tech world.

This place is a straight-up hub for innovation!

Their College of Engineering ain't playing around, with majors like Computer Science and Engineering (ranked #24 nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report), Electrical and Computer Engineering (#18), Aerospace Engineering (#21), and Industrial and Systems Engineering (#3).

But it doesn't stop there – Ohio State's interdisciplinary game is on point too, with the Translational Data Analytics Institute and the Center for Automotive Research bringing students together for some serious collaborative research and hands-on learning.

Dr. Richard Hernandez, Vice Provost for Diversity and Inclusion, says, "Ohio State is all about delivering an educational experience that'll blow your mind.

Our tech programs are designed to give students the knowledge and skills to land killer jobs in tech and drive innovation like never before."

But it's not just about the academics – Ohio State's campus life is lit! With a massive community of over 60,000 students, there's always something poppin' off.

Student organizations, state-of-the-art facilities, and support services like career counseling, tutoring, and mentorship programs make sure tech enthusiasts are set up for success.

Ohio State is shaping the future of technology, one innovative mind at a time!

Columbus State Community College is the spot if you're looking to get into tech without breaking the bank. With their in-state tuition just $4,365 for 2023-2024, it's an affordable way to chase your passion for all things digital.

Their programs have got you covered, whether you're into Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Web Dev, or Networking. But it doesn't stop there – they also offer sweet industry-recognized certs like CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA, AWS Cloud Practitioner, and Microsoft MTA to really level up your skills.

The real game-changer, though? Columbus State has your back if you want to take it further with a four-year degree.

They've got partnerships with schools like Ohio State and Franklin University, so you can easily transfer over with your associate's degree without losing any credits.

Dr. Sarah Martin, the Dean of STEM, says

"We offer guaranteed transfer options for our associate degree graduates,"

which is a serious win.

With connections to cool startups like CrossChx, Columbus State is the real deal for launching a killer tech career.

Alright, let's talk about Franklin University. This place is a total game-changer for anyone trying to juggle work, life, and getting an education in tech.

They've been all about supporting working adults for over 120 years, so they know what's up. With online classes that fit your schedule like a glove, you can study whenever and wherever works best for you.

But it's not just about convenience; Franklin's tech programs are legit.

They've got a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology that covers everything from software development to cybersecurity.

And if you're looking to level up, check out their Master's in Computer Science with its focus on AI, machine learning, and data analytics. They're staying on top of the latest trends, so you'll be ready to crush it in the tech world.

What really sets Franklin apart is their support system.

They've got advisors and mentors who have your back from day one, guiding you through every step. Plus, their online classrooms and collab tools make learning interactive and engaging, even when you're studying from home.

As Dr. David Decker, the President, says, "Our commitment to adult learners and cutting-edge tech means you'll be prepared to thrive in the ever-changing tech landscape." Sounds like a winning combo to me.

Capital University is the place to be if you're all about that tech life! While it's a liberal arts school, they've got some seriously dope programs that blend old-school smarts with cutting-edge tech.

We're talking majors like Computer Science, where you'll learn the ins and outs of programming, data structures, and software engineering. Or check out their Integrated Media major – it's like a one-stop shop for graphic design, web dev, and multimedia production.

Capital U has some mind-blowing facilities to support your tech pursuits.

The Convergence Media Center is a legit multimedia lab decked out with the latest gadgets and gizmos for all your digital media needs.

And let's not forget the Blackmore Library, stocked with over 300,000 books, e-resources, and academic databases – perfect for fueling your tech knowledge.

What really sets Capital U apart, though, is how they blend their liberal arts foundation with tech education.

You'll develop critical thinking, creativity, and ethical reasoning skills that'll help you navigate the ever-changing tech world like a boss. As one student put it, "Capital University has given me the tools to not just understand technology, but to shape it responsibly and ethically." So if you're looking for a well-rounded tech education with a side of old-school smarts, Capital U might just be your jam!

Otterbein University is killin' it when it comes to blending liberal arts and tech programs! They've got this dope lineup of majors like Computer Science, Systems Engineering, and an ABET-accredited Engineering degree that's straight fire! With these programs, you'll be learning the cutting-edge skills to score those sweet tech jobs while also developing critical thinking and communication skills that employers crave.

But it's not just about the coursework.

Otterbein has this tight-knit community that'll support you every step of the way. They've got a rich history dating back to 1847 and a massive alumni network of over 25,000 professionals killin' it in tech and other industries.

And their Career Center? They're hooking you up with internships, job search assistance, and all the guidance you need to land that dream gig after graduation.

So, if you're looking for a school that'll set you up for success in the tech world while also providing a well-rounded education, Otterbein should definitely be on your radar.

They're keeping it real with their innovative programs, supportive community, and pathways to kickstart your career. Trust me, this place is the real deal.

DeVry University's Columbus Campus is straight-up killing it when it comes to tech programs. These dudes have their game on point, offering courses in cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud computing—all the buzzwords that'll make you irresistible to employers in 2024.

92% of their alumni in Columbus landed jobs in their field within six months of graduating. Talk about a solid investment!

DeVry understands that juggling work and studies is a real struggle, so they've got your back with flexible class options.

Evening and weekend sessions? Check. Fully online degrees? You bet! And thanks to their slick Connected Classroom tech, online students can tune in live and feel like they're right there in the thick of it.

Multitasking made easy!

Here's the real kicker, though—DeVry has major corporate partners in Columbus, like JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide Insurance, and Cardinal Health.

These big dogs offer internships, mentorships, and even help shape the curriculum to make sure you're learning the skills companies actually want. With DeVry's seal of approval, 83% of grads score gigs at top firms within their first year out.

One alum even said DeVry's industry connections gave them the "competitive edge" to dominate the local tech scene. Now that's what I call a power move!

Ohio Dominican University is fantastic for anyone who's into tech! They've got a ton of majors to pick from, like Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Information Technology.

With these new programs, you'll be learning all the skills you need to excel in the tech world. We're talking hacking knowledge, data analysis with Python and SQL, and managing IT systems like a boss.

But ODU isn't just about the tech side of things.

They keep it balanced by offering a solid education in other areas too. You can join clubs like the Association for Computing Machinery or Women in Computing to connect with others who share your passion.

Plus, their Career Development Center will hook you up with internships and job prep to make sure you're ready to crush it after graduation.

Some of the coolest parts about studying tech at ODU include:

• Hands-on experience through capstone projects and working with professors on research
• Industry certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ to level up your resume
• Access to facilities with all the latest gear and software
• Opportunities at hackathons and tech competitions to flex your skills

With their balanced approach to education and focus on prepping you for the tech world, Ohio Dominican University is an awesome choice for anyone looking to pursue their passion for technology in Columbus.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is excelling when it comes to using tech to level up healthcare education.

These individuals are all about applying the latest and greatest tech tools to nursing programs. Their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is where it's at, incorporating healthcare simulations, electronic health record systems, and telehealth tech right into the curriculum.

If you're looking to specialize, they've got a Healthcare Data Analytics Post-Baccalaureate Certificate that'll teach you how to analyze and understand complex healthcare data, so you can make informed decisions and improve patient care.

And their Nursing Informatics Certificate is your ticket to mastering the use of tech for efficient and secure management of patient info.

Mount Carmel is all about hands-on experience.

You'll get to train in their cutting-edge Simulation Center with high-fidelity manikins and virtual reality sims. Plus, you'll get to do clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities like OhioHealth and Mount Carmel Health System.

And to top it off, you'll work on capstone projects and internships with industry partners, so you can apply your tech skills in the real world.

Mount Carmel's commitment to tech in healthcare is significant – they've even been recognized by the National League for Nursing as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education for 2022-2026.

With their top-notch programs, cutting-edge resources, and focus on practical experience, Mount Carmel College of Nursing is definitely the place to be for tech-savvy individuals who want to make a difference in healthcare.

Hondros College of Nursing is totally killing it when it comes to preparing future nurses for the tech side of healthcare.

In 2024, they're taking things up a notch with their revamped programs that integrate the latest medical tech. Whether you're aiming for that Practical Nursing Diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing, or even the new Medical Assisting program, you'll be trained to rock the cutting-edge tools used in hospitals and clinics.

We're talking hands-on experience with Electronic Health Records, telehealth systems for remote patient monitoring, and even high-tech simulation labs that feel like the real deal.

Plus, you'll dive into nursing informatics and data analytics, which are game-changers in the healthcare field. It's like they're giving you a cheat code to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving industry.

But that's not all – Hondros College has your back with:

• 24/7 online tutoring, virtual simulation software, and on-campus computer labs loaded with the latest healthcare software.
• Partnerships with local healthcare facilities, so you can get that invaluable hands-on training with the actual tech tools used by professionals.

One of the current students, Lisa Lee, summed it up perfectly:

"Hondros College truly understands the importance of technology in nursing. Their programs are designed to make us future-ready, ensuring we can seamlessly transition into tech-driven healthcare environments."

Sounds like a solid plan to me!

Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware is a total tech powerhouse! They've got some mega partnerships with heavyweights like JPMorgan Chase, Huntington Bank, and Honda, so you know their curriculum is on point.

Not only do you get access to rad internships and real-world projects, but their Computer Science program is legit accredited by ABET. They've got serious skills in coding, algorithms, and software engineering.

But that's just the tip of the iceberg - they've also got specialized tracks in cybersecurity, data analytics, web dev, and even AI!

The best part? OWU has your back every step of the way.

Their Academic Resource Center hooks you up with tutoring, writing help, and academic coaching, ensuring you're always on top of your game. And when it's time to level up and snag that dream job, the Career Services squad is ready to connect you with sick internships and job opportunities.

Just Robert Moore, Class of '23 and Computer Science major, said "OWU's commitment to student success is unparalleled." They've got a holistic approach that'll prep you for the tech industry like a boss!

So if you're about leveling up your tech game, OWU in Delaware is definitely worth checking out.

With their cutting-edge curriculum, industry connections, and unbeatable support system, you'll be unstoppable in the tech world!