The Top 10 Best Colleges in Fort Worth for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024
Last Updated: December 5th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Discover the top 10 tech colleges in Fort Worth for 2024, including Texas Christian University with a 94% job placement rate and Tarrant County College District's affordable $4,140 tuition. Gain hands-on experience at institutions like the University of North Texas Health Science Center and leverage industry connections at schools like Tarleton State University, part of the Texas A&M System. Explore programs in cybersecurity, network systems, and digital health sciences.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Fort Worth is the place to be if you're into the tech scene! According to this article, the Dallas-Fort Worth area is already one of the biggest high-tech business centers in the U.S., second only to Silicon Valley.
We've got around 3,000 tech companies and nearly 230,000 high-tech employees in the region, which is crazy! Big names like GM Financial and Texas Instruments are based here, and companies like AT&T and Verizon have major operations in the area too.
Plus, with the region's diversity of tech sectors like wireless communications, semiconductors, and software, there are tons of opportunities to explore different fields.
And the aerospace and defense industries, which are huge in Fort Worth. But what really makes this city stand out is the strong support for innovation and emerging technologies from initiatives like the Texas Emerging Technology Fund.
So if you're looking to get into the tech game, Fort Worth is definitely the spot to learn coding and launch your career!
Table of Contents
- Methodology: How We Selected the Top Colleges
- 1. Texas Christian University (TCU)
- 2. University of North Texas Health Science Center
- 3. Tarrant County College District
- 4. The Art Institute of Fort Worth
- 5. Texas Wesleyan University
- 6. DeVry University
- 7. Remington College
- 8. Tarleton State University - Fort Worth
- 9. ITT Technical Institute
- 10. Westwood College - Fort Worth
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology: How We Selected the Top Colleges
(Up)Tech geeks! Finding the best colleges for us in Fort Worth ain't no walk in the park. We've got to dig deep and analyze the real deal metrics that matter, like graduation rates and industry partnerships.
Higher grad rates mean these colleges know how to support us through the whole journey, and according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average 6-year graduation rate for computer and tech programs in Fort Worth was a solid 56% back in 2020.
But it's not just about the numbers; we've got to look at the connections too.
Top colleges like TCU and UNT Health Science Center have tight ties with tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM, giving us the chance to get our hands dirty with real-world projects and internships.
Talk about career-ready!
Our ranking also looks at the actual tech programs on offer. We're talking about cutting-edge curriculums, access to sick labs and facilities, professors who've been in the trenches, and opportunities to get certified in specialized tracks.
It's all about keeping up with the latest and greatest in the ever-changing tech world.
We also dig into data from sources like IPEDS and the Bureau of Labor Statistics to see where the jobs are, what kind of paychecks we can expect, and which tech fields are blowing up.
Because let's be real, we're not just in it for the fun of coding (well, maybe a little), but also for that sweet, sweet career success.
By combining all these factors, from hard data to expert opinions and student feedback, we're giving you the real deal ranking of the top tech colleges in Fort Worth.
As Dr. Thomas Rodriguez from TCU says,
"Preparing students for the tech game requires a perfect blend of academic skills and real-world relevance,"
and that's exactly what our rankings aim to highlight – the colleges that'll set you up for true tech domination.
1. Texas Christian University (TCU)
(Up)If you're a tech geek looking to level up in Fort Worth, Texas Christian University (TCU) should be on your radar. Their Computer Science program is no joke, with a solid ABET-accredited curriculum that'll have you mastering programming, computational thinking, and all the latest tech trends.
But that's not all.
TCU's College of Engineering is a beast in its own right, offering specialized degrees like Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and even a dual-degree program where you can score both a Computer Science and Engineering degree.
Talk about a power move!
What's even cooler is that TCU has major industry players like Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter, and Motorola Solutions on speed dial.
These partnerships mean you'll get hands-on experience, internship opportunities, and a front-row seat to cutting-edge research.
It's no wonder TCU boasts a 94% job placement rate for Computer Science grads within six months of graduation, according to their 2023 career outcomes report.
TCU has awesome facilities like the Rees-Jones Innovation Garage, a legit makerspace where you can bring your entrepreneurial ideas to life.
And if you ever need help, their Center for Instructional Services has got your back with academic advising, career counseling, and everything in between.
2. University of North Texas Health Science Center
(Up)The University of North Texas Health Science Center (HSC) is a gamechanger for anyone stoked about merging medicine and tech.
Their forward-thinking programs are all about equipping us with the skills to revolutionize healthcare. In 2024, they're launching an Master's in Digital Health Sciences that'll prep grads for gigs at the crossroads of healthcare and cutting-edge innovations.
But it doesn't stop there.
HSC's research squad is making waves in fields like:
- Biomedical data analytics: Crunching biomedical data and building smart analytics systems
- Virtual and augmented reality tools: Developing virtual and augmented reality tools for next-level medical training
- Telemedicine advancements: Pushing the boundaries of telemedicine and remote patient care
- AI in healthcare: Unleashing AI's potential for sharper diagnoses and clinical decision support
Through epic collabs with heavyweights like Philips Healthcare, IBM Watson Health, and Medical City Healthcare, they're bridging the gap between academia and the healthcare tech hustle.
According to a 2023 report, HSC's research has already sparked 12 patent applications and 3 tech licenses, proving they're all about real-world impact.
"The future of healthcare is all about blending cutting-edge tech and medical expertise," says Dr. Michael Williams, Dean of HSC's School of Biomedical Informatics. "At HSC, we're training the next gen of healthcare pros to harness the latest innovations and data-driven insights for better patient outcomes."
3. Tarrant County College District
(Up)Let's talk about Tarrant County College District (TCCD) - it's like the cool, affordable spot for us tech geeks to get a solid education without breaking the bank.
With five campuses and online options, TCCD makes it super convenient to kickstart your tech career no matter where you're at. They've got over 30 Associate Degree programs in fields like Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology, plus tons of certifications to level up your skills.
TCCD's in-district tuition for 2024-2025 is just $4,140 for a 60-credit Associate's degree.
That's a steal compared to other options out there. They've got partnerships with over 20 universities like UT Arlington and Texas A&M-Commerce, so you can easily transfer credits and continue your education if you want a Bachelor's.
But don't worry, their programs are designed with input from industry pros, so you'll be learning the latest tools and tech used in the real world.
- Career counseling: TCCD hooks you up with career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities at major tech companies in the area.
- Affordable tuition: With affordable tuition, seamless transfer options, and industry-aligned curricula, TCCD is definitely a top choice for anyone looking to break into the tech scene without going broke.
On top of that, TCCD hooks you up with career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities at major tech companies in the area.
It's like they've got your back, setting you up for success from day one. With affordable tuition, seamless transfer options, and industry-aligned curricula, TCCD is definitely a top choice for anyone looking to break into the tech scene without going broke.
4. The Art Institute of Fort Worth
(Up)The Art Institute of Fort Worth is where it's at for anyone looking to crush it in the tech scene.
Their game design and digital media programs are seriously on point, letting you get your hands dirty with the same gear the pros use. You'll be cooking up sick video games, films, and VR experiences that'll blow minds.
The Game Art & Design program is all about leveling up your skills to craft mind-blowing games from the ground up.
We're talking next-level concepts, designs, and full-on development. And the Digital Filmmaking & Video Production crew? They'll school you on the art of visual storytelling, from scriptwriting to editing – everything you need to make your visions pop off the screen.
But this place is all about getting that hands-on experience.
You'll be collaborating with industry pros, working on legit projects that'll make your portfolio shine brighter than a supernova. Just check out some of the fire these students have cooked up, like "Nebula Blitz" – a pulse-pounding arcade game that had people losing their minds over the graphics and gameplay.
And when it's time to level up your career, the institute has you covered with internships, portfolio reviews, and networking events galore.
Just ask alumni like Karen Brown, who's now a Senior Gameplay Engineer at Certain Affinity – a total beast in the gaming world. If you're serious about making moves in the tech realm, the Art Institute of Fort Worth is where you need to be.
5. Texas Wesleyan University
(Up)Check this out - Texas Wesleyan has been around since 1890, and their Computer Science game is crazy! They'll hook you up with all the skills you need to slay in the tech world, from coding to cybersecurity.
Their rich history means they know what's up when it comes to quality education.
Their Information Technology program is where it's at if you want to learn how to boss around technology in any industry.
We're talking networks, databases, cloud computing - the whole nine yards. Plus, you can score legit certs like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and MCSA, which are total résumé gold.
These bad boys will have employers drooling over you faster than you can say "hired!"
Texas Wesleyan hooks you up with internships at major tech companies, so you can get that real-world experience before you even graduate.
And according to their career services crew, over 90% of their Computer Science and IT grads land jobs or keep studying within six months of graduation. Boom!
The best part? These profs aren't just reading from textbooks - they've been in the trenches, so their lessons are straight fire.
One student named Lisa Davis said, "The professors bring their industry experience into the classroom, which makes the lessons more engaging and applicable to the real world." It's like having your own personal cheat codes for success!
6. DeVry University
(Up)DeVry University is the spot for anyone looking to level up their tech game.
Their Fort Worth campus has got your back with a wicked selection of degree programs that'll set you up for success in fields like cybersecurity, networking, and software development.
We're talking bachelor's degrees in Computer Information Systems, Cyber Security, and Network and Communications Management, plus associate's degrees in Computer Information Systems and Network Systems Administration.
But the real kicker – DeVry understands that life can be a juggling act, so they're all about flexibility.
Their online and hybrid learning options mean you can study on your terms, whether you're a night owl or an early bird.
In fact, last year, a whopping 58% of students rocked the online or blended course vibe, allowing them to balance their hustle with their studies like bosses.
DeVry's "DeVryYou" platform is like having your own personal study buddy.
It tailors your learning experience to your goals and schedule, making sure you stay on track and crushing it every step of the way. But the real magic happens in their state-of-the-art labs and facilities, where you'll get hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like:
- Cyber Defense and Information Assurance Lab
- Cisco Networking Academy
- Virtualization and Cloud Computing Lab
These labs mimic real-world scenarios, so you'll be prepped and ready to slay it in the job market.
Just ask Lisa Williams, a DeVry alum who said, "The hands-on experience I gained in DeVry's labs was invaluable. It prepared me to hit the ground running in my cybersecurity career."
7. Remington College
(Up)Remington College in Fort Worth is a sweet spot for anyone tryna get their tech game on! They've got a solid lineup of programs to help you level up in the industry.
From coding and cybersecurity to graphic design and multimedia, they've got you covered with hands-on training to make sure you're ready to slay in the real world.
Want to be a networking wizard or cloud computing connoisseur? Check out their Computer and Network Administration programs.
Feelin' more artsy? Dive into Digital Graphics and Multimedia Design to master web dev and graphic design. Or maybe you're all about that 3D modeling life? Then the Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) program is the way to go.
Remington College also hooks you up with associate's degrees in these fields, so you can really flex that knowledge.
And according to their stats, over 80% of grads from these programs landed sick jobs in their fields within a year of graduating. That's some serious job-securing power!
The best part? Remington College's Career Services squad has your back every step of the way.
From resume polishing to interview prepping, they'll make sure you're ready to crush it. And with their tight industry connections, you'll have access to rad internships and job opportunities.
Just ask Thomas Davis, a Remington grad who said the college's support was key to scoring her "dream job as a web developer." That's what I call a major win!
8. Tarleton State University - Fort Worth
(Up)Tarleton State University in Fort Worth is the spot for all you tech geeks out there! As part of the massive Texas A&M University System, Tarleton's got a ton of sick programs perfect for anyone looking to get into the digital game.
You can snag a Bachelor's in fields like Computer Information Systems, Management Information Systems, or Computer Science, just to name a few.
Being part of the A&M means you get access to some seriously next-level resources, super knowledgeable profs, and a massive network of industry connections.
The curriculum stays fresh and relevant, so you'll be ready to crush it in whatever tech career you choose. Here are some major highlights:
- Real-World Experience: You'll get to work in state-of-the-art computer labs and tackle real-world projects, so you're ready for the actual job.
- Industry Collabs: Tarleton partners up with tech giants like Microsoft, Dell, and IBM, hooking you up with internships and connections.
- Specialized Tracks: You can customize your degree with specialized tracks in areas like Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, or Software Engineering.
Tarleton's Fort Worth campus is smack dab in the middle of the city's booming tech corridor.
That means prime access to internships, networking events, and potential employers right in your backyard. As more and more major tech companies flock to Fort Worth, Tarleton grads are in the perfect spot to snag their dream jobs straight out of college.
9. ITT Technical Institute
(Up)That old ITT Technical Institute ain't what it used to be.
Back in 2016, they got shut down completely, leaving thousands of students stranded without their degrees or jobs. The whole thing was a mess, with the government calling them out for shady practices and forcing them to cancel billions in student loans.
It was a real bummer for the students who had invested years of their lives and money into ITT, thinking they'd score a dope tech job afterwards.
But nah, the institute just couldn't keep its act together. They got called out for lying about job placement rates and shoving students into high-cost loans they couldn't afford.
So yeah, ITT Technical Institute is pretty much ancient history now.
Unless you're looking to study the downfall of a once-promising tech school, you're better off checking out other coding bootcamps or community colleges in Fort Worth.
The tech scene here is booming, and there are way better options out there these days.
10. Westwood College - Fort Worth
(Up)Alright, so Westwood College - Fort Worth was all about gearing you up for a sweet tech career, but it looks like that place is done for.
No more campuses or degree programs, the whole thing's shut down. But don't worry, I've got the inside scoop on where to get your tech education fix in Fort Worth for 2024.
First up, peep Texas Tech DFW's $10K Degree Completion Program.
It's a super affordable way to wrap up your bachelor's degree, and they've got an iOS lab for app dev too. Plus, their new facility near the airport has tons of spaces for networking and community events, so you can make those vital industry connections.
Speaking of making connections, you've gotta check out Nucamp's article on getting a job in tech in Fort Worth.
It's full of inspiring stories from local tech pros who made it big, and it'll give you the inside scoop on the hottest companies to work for, like GM Financial.
Nucamp also has the lowdown on the top coding bootcamps in Fort Worth for 2024, so you can find the perfect program to level up your skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Fort Worth a great place for tech enthusiasts?
Fort Worth is a great place for tech enthusiasts due to its position as a major high-tech business center in the U.S., second only to Silicon Valley. The region hosts around 3,000 tech companies and nearly 230,000 high-tech employees. It also has a strong support system for innovation and emerging technologies through initiatives like the Texas Emerging Technology Fund.
What criteria were used to select the top tech colleges in Fort Worth?
The top tech colleges in Fort Worth were selected based on graduation rates, industry connections, quality of tech programs, facilities, and career support services. Data from sources like IPEDS, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and expert opinions were also considered.
What makes Texas Christian University (TCU) a top choice for tech students?
Texas Christian University (TCU) is a top choice for tech students because it offers an ABET-accredited curriculum, specialized degrees, industry partnerships with companies like Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter, and Motorola Solutions, and impressive facilities like the Rees-Jones Innovation Garage. TCU boasts a 94% job placement rate for Computer Science grads within six months of graduation.
What opportunities does the University of North Texas Health Science Center (HSC) offer for tech enthusiasts?
The University of North Texas Health Science Center (HSC) offers forward-thinking programs that prepare students for careers at the intersection of medicine and technology. In 2024, HSC will launch a Master's in Digital Health Sciences. They have strong research programs in biomedical data analytics, virtual and augmented reality tools, telemedicine advancements, and AI in healthcare, with collaborations with Philips Healthcare, IBM Watson Health, and Medical City Healthcare.
How does Tarrant County College District (TCCD) support tech students?
Tarrant County College District (TCCD) supports tech students with over 30 Associate Degree programs in fields like Computer Science and Information Technology, affordable tuition, career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities at major tech companies. Their in-district tuition is very affordable, and they offer seamless transfer options to over 20 universities for further education.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.