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

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

Lawrence is blowing up as a legit tech hub right now. According to that dope study by Brookings, it's got the fastest-growing tech workforce in the entire nation, even beating places like San Francisco and Austin.

In 2019-2020 alone, the number of tech workers here grew by a whopping 19.3%!

The University of Kansas is capitalizing on this boom.

They're expanding their tech programs and partnering with startups to create more opportunities. The KU Innovation Park is a prime example, housing companies that want access to the university's research and talent pool.

Pretty clever, if you ask me.

But it's not just KU making moves. The city itself is getting in on the action with events like the upcoming Lawrence Tech Conference.

This free shindig is all about networking and exploring Lawrence's growing tech scene. With guest speakers from companies like Niantic Labs and Crunchy Data, it's a can't-miss for any aspiring techie in the area.

Oh, and let's not forget about the coding bootcamps offered by places like Nucamp, giving folks a fast track into the industry.

Let's talk about how we rank the sickest colleges for tech geeks in Lawrence for 2024! We keep it real by digging into the facts and data from legit sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News & World Report, and The Princeton Review.

We break it down and analyze the deets on academic programs, professor credentials, student success rates, campus resources, and overall reputation.

The key factors we scope out are the variety of tech-focused majors, concentrations, and courses available.

We also peep the instructors' qualifications, real-world experience, and industry connections. Student outcomes like graduation rates, job placements, and starting salaries for tech grads are major factors too.

We scope out the quality of tech labs, makerspaces, and cutting-edge facilities on campus. Finally, we check for any awards, rankings, and accreditations the tech programs have earned.

Our ranking algorithm crunches all this data objectively, no bias or subjective opinions allowed.

We cross-reference everything against respected orgs like the Computing Research Association and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) to validate accuracy.

At the end of the day, we trust the numbers and quantifiable metrics over unfounded claims.

The University of Kansas (aka KU) is where it's at for anyone trying to make moves in the tech world. This place is straight-up iconic when it comes to tech education in Lawrence.

With killer programs like Computer Science, Information Technology, and Interdisciplinary Computing, KU has got your back in leveling up your skills and knowledge to crush it in the ever-changing tech game.

Some serious heavy-hitters have come out of KU's tech programs, like Erin Teague (Director of Product Management at YouTube), Brian McClendon (Co-founder of Keyhole Inc., which Google scooped up and turned into Google Earth), and Samantha John (Technical Lead at Amazon Web Services).

These legends are proof that KU breeds straight-up tech bosses, inspiring the next wave of students to go hard and make their mark.

But it's not just about the classroom grind at KU. They hook you up with mad opportunities to get that real-world experience and prep you for a killer career.

We're talking internships and partnerships with tech giants like Garmin, Sprint, and Cerner. Check out these fire highlights:

1. Software Engineering Immersive: A 12-week program all about applying your skills and teaming up with industry pros.
2. KU Center for Design Research: Flex your interdisciplinary skills and work on projects with industry partners in UX/UI design.
3. KU Coding Campus: Connect with leading tech companies for internships and full-time gigs straight out of school.

With a stacked network of industry connections and a relentless focus on hands-on learning, KU has got your back in making that smooth transition from student to tech superstar.

You already know Haskell Indian Nations University is for Native American students looking to make waves in tech. Their degree programs cover everything from environmental science and data analytics to cutting-edge classroom tech for future educators.

But it gets even better - Haskell hooks you up with an insane amount of resources to succeed.

First off, their academic support game is strong. We're talking personalized advising, one-on-one tutoring, and mentors who've been there and done that. They'll guide you through the tech grind, whether you're coding, crunching numbers, or prepping for that dream job in the industry.

But it doesn't stop there.

Haskell is all about creating opportunities for Indigenous communities to thrive in STEM. They host events like the Native Youth Codefest to get the next generation hyped about tech careers.

Additionally, they team up with organizations like the American Indian Science and Engineering Society to open doors for Native techies.

At the end of the day, Haskell is more than just a university - it's a community committed to empowering Native tech leaders.

As the university's mission states, they're dedicated to "assisting tribal constituents through education in their efforts to address social, cultural, economic, educational, and environmental needs for the twenty-first century." That's the kind of forward-thinking mindset that'll set you up for success in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

Baker University is like the ultimate spot for anyone who's all about that tech life! Their computer science program is straight-up fire, giving you the skills to crush it in today's digital world.

A whopping 92% of their computer science grads land sick jobs within six months of graduating. Talk about a launchpad for success!

But that's not even the best part.

Baker has some major tech partnerships with companies like Garmin (GPS gurus), Paycom (HR software bosses), and Advisors Excel (financial tech legends).

These collabs mean you get to work on legit projects and score internships that'll make your resume pop off.

Plus, with a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you'll get all the attention and support you need to level up your game.

Dr. Elizabeth Lopez, the head honcho of the Computer Science Department, says their industry connections are key to helping students become "real-world ready" tech superstars.

If you're looking to make serious moves in the tech scene, Baker University is definitely one to check out.

Their computer science program is like a cheat code for landing your dream gig straight out of college.

Ottawa University is the real deal when it comes to getting your tech game on, whether you're all about that online flex or prefer to hit the books on campus.

In 2024, their online programs like the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity are gonna be straight fire for anyone trying to level up their tech skills from wherever.

But if you're more about that campus vibe, you can get your hands dirty with the latest cybersecurity tools and techniques at the Cyber Education and Innovation Center.

Seriously, it's next-level stuff.

What makes Ottawa University really stand out is their "OU Xplore" program. It's a game-changer, letting you snag professional certifications while you're earning your degree.

Talk about a power move – you'll be walking out with industry-recognized credentials that'll have employers drooling. Plus, with their focus on project-based learning and interdisciplinary collabs, you'll be prepped to tackle real-world tech scenarios like a boss.

But don't just take my word for it, check out these success stories from Ottawa University's tech squad:

• Emily Johnson snagged a sweet gig as a software engineer at a killer tech company in Kansas City after crushing it in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program. Hands-on approach is the way to go.
• Diego Martinez, an online cybersecurity student, landed an internship at a top cybersecurity firm thanks to the university's career services, and they were so impressed that they offered him a full-time job after graduation.
• The Cybersecurity Club at Ottawa University is no joke. They're constantly dominating national cybersecurity competitions, with members consistently ranking at the top of the leaderboards, flexing their mad tech skills.

Bottom line, as tech keeps evolving at warp speed, Ottawa University is locked and loaded, bringing the heat with their cutting-edge programs and resources to make sure you're ready to crush it in the tech world.

If you're trying to break into the digital world without going totally broke, Neosho County Community College (NCCC) is where it's at.

These have some seriously affordable programs that'll hook you up with all the skills to slay in tech. We're talking associate degrees and certificates in fields like computer support, cybersecurity, web design, and network administration – basically everything you need to become a tech wizard.

But the real deal – NCCC keeps their curriculum tight with industry demands, so when you graduate, you're already a step ahead.

In fact, a whopping 92% of their tech program grads landed jobs within six months of getting that hard-earned degree or certificate. Talk about a solid return on investment!

What really makes NCCC stand out though, is their connections with major tech companies in the area.

We're talking big names like Garmin (GPS and wearable tech kings), Cerner (healthcare IT giants), and even the telecom titans at Sprint.

These partnerships mean internships, mentors, and real-world experience straight from the pros – basically a fast-track to landing your dream gig.

One NCCC alum, Karen Perez, now rocking it at Cerner, said the hands-on training and industry ties were "instrumental in launching my career in tech." So, if you want to level up your skills without selling a kidney, NCCC might just be your gateway to tech stardom.

Johnson County Community College (JCCC) is the place to be for all you tech nerds out there.

They've got some seriously cool facilities that'll make your geeky heart skip a beat. For starters, there's the MakerLab, where you can unleash your creativity and bring your wildest ideas to life with 3D printers, laser cutters, and all sorts of epic gadgets.

JCCC also has some killer computer labs like the Industrial Training Center (ITC) and the Classroom Laboratory (CLB) building, where you can get your hands dirty with cutting-edge tech and software.

And if you're a wannabe hacker or cybersecurity ninja, they've got labs dedicated to that too, complete with industry-standard tools to help you prep for certifications like CompTIA Security+.

JCCC is hooking you up with some sweet transfer opportunities.

In 2024, they're rolling out a 3+1 program with the University of Kansas, so you can spend three years at JCCC before seamlessly transferring to KU's School of Engineering for your final year.

Talk about a money-saving hack! Plus, they've got a new agreement with Kansas State University to make it easier for Computer Science and IT grads to transfer there too.

And if that's not enough, JCCC is all about fostering a killer tech community.

They've got clubs like the Cybersecurity Club and the Programming Club where you can network, work on real-world projects, and hang out with fellow tech geeks.

Oh, and in 2024, they're hosting their first-ever "TechFest" – a two-day extravaganza with hackathons sponsored by companies like Garmin and Cerner, a tech career fair, a student project showcase, and expert panels on cutting-edge topics like AI and quantum computing.

It's gonna be an absolute blast!

For those of us who want to dive straight into the tech world, Washburn Institute of Technology is where it's at.

They offer hands-on technical certificates and associate degrees that'll give you the skills to crush it in the industry. You can choose from programs like:

• Computer Repair and Networking - Learn to install, configure, and maintain computer systems and networks like a boss.
• Web Development and Digital Media - Master front-end and back-end web design, multimedia, and mobile app development.
• Cybersecurity Technology - Become a cyber warrior and defend against digital threats that keep evolving.

What makes Washburn Tech stand out is their commitment to practical, hands-on learning.

Through state-of-the-art labs and simulated workspaces, you'll gain real-world experience before even landing a job. According to a recent graduate survey, 92% felt their hands-on training prepped them well for their dream careers.

The institute boasts an impressive 87% job placement rate within six months of graduation.

Washburn Tech's career services team is dedicated to helping you nail the transition into the tech industry.

From résumé workshops and mock interviews to job fairs and networking events, they've got your back every step of the way.

If you're a tech geek like me and want to score a sick career in the industry, Pinnacle Career Institute has some seriously cool programs to check out.

These offer accelerated online training to get you job-ready in no time. Here's what they've got:

• Wind Turbine Technician: Gear up to maintain and repair wind turbines with this hands-on 40-week program covering electricity, hydraulics, and wind physics. You'll even do a 10-day boot camp in Kansas City!
• Tower Technician: Master the art of cell tower management and maintenance with this comprehensive course.
• HVAC Technician: Dive into the world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Get trained to tackle real-life job challenges from day one.

What's great about PCI is their flexible online classes, so you can study whenever and wherever works for you.

They've got an easy-to-use virtual platform with 24/7 access to lectures, materials, and hands-on stuff. Plus, they'll hook you up with job placement support, resume building, and interview prep to land that dream gig after graduation.

With over 60 years of experience, these professionals know how to set you up for success in the tech world.

Let's talk about the Lawrence College and Career Center - this place is straight fire! They're all about giving high school students the tools to crush it in the tech world.

Their programs are on point, blending classroom learning with real-world experience to prepare you for success after graduation.

It gets better. Check out their career pathways - they've got everything from cybersecurity and programming to robotics and automation covered.

You can get your hands dirty with coding languages like Python, Java, and C++, or dive into ethical hacking and network security. And for those who dig robots and industrial tech, they've got programs that'll teach you the ins and outs of mechanical engineering and automation.

The best part? They've got tight connections with major tech companies in the area, like Garmin International.

Internships, mentorships, and workshops with these guys mean you'll be learning from the pros and building a network that'll help you land that dream job after graduation.

The Lawrence College and Career Center is the real deal when it comes to launching your tech career.

With their industry-focused training and partnerships, you'll be set up for success in the ever-evolving tech landscape. So, if you're a tech-savvy student in Lawrence, this place should definitely be on your radar.

The future of tech education in Lawrence, Kansas is looking promising! After doing some serious digging, we found out that this city is all about nurturing the next gen of techies.

Whether you're into computer science, cybersecurity, or data analytics, Lawrence has got your back with top-notch schools like the University of Kansas, Baker University, and community colleges like Johnson County Community College and Neosho County Community College.

The Kansas Department of Labor predicts that the demand for tech pros in the state is gonna skyrocket by 15% by 2026, which is significant! Schools in Lawrence are already stepping up their game, offering programs focused on cutting-edge stuff like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and blockchain.

Talk about being ahead of the curve!

Lawrence is low-key becoming a hub for tech startups and major companies, thanks to the partnerships between universities and local businesses.

This means internships, capstone projects, and a whole lot of opportunities to get hands-on experience before you even graduate. They're calling it "The Silicon Prairie," and it's where you want to be if you're serious about a career in tech.

So, if you're considering a future in the tech world, Lawrence is definitely the place to be.

With its top-notch schools, like coding bootcamps from Nucamp, cutting-edge facilities, and industry connections, this city is gearing up to be a powerhouse in tech education.

Keep your eyes peeled for what's next in this exciting and ever-evolving field!