Top 10 Universities in Spokane for Pursuing a Computer Science Degree

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: June 6th 2024

Collage of top Spokane universities for Computer Science degrees

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Spokane excels in tech education, evident in computer science programs. Top contenders like Gonzaga University and Washington State University Spokane offer comprehensive curricula preparing students for a 22% projected rise in software development jobs by 2030. Explore the top 10 universities in Spokane for a tech-forward career.

Spokane's a spot to get your learn on, especially if you're into tech. The healthcare scene is legit, and it's only getting bigger.

But let's talk about the real star of the show: computer science.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is predicting a 22% spike in software dev gigs by 2030.

That's crazy growth! And the universities here are stepping up their game, mixing theory with hands-on experience. Employers are taking notice, making Spokane a prime spot for tech education.

When we ranked the computer science programs, we kept it real.

We looked at accreditation, curriculum, faculty creds, research opportunities, and industry connections. We wanted to give you the full scoop, so we even hit up current students and alumni for their take.

Real people, real stories (shout-out to Advantage Spokane).

So, why should you care about Spokane's academic scene? Because this city is churning out tech talent ready to crush it in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

With job opportunities popping up left and right, Spokane's got your back if you're trying to make moves in the tech world.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Gonzaga University
  • 2. Washington State University Spokane
  • 3. Whitworth University
  • 4. Eastern Washington University
  • 5. Spokane Community College
  • 6. Spokane Falls Community College
  • 7. North Idaho College
  • 8. City University of Seattle, Spokane
  • 9. Interface College, Spokane
  • 10. Carrington College, Spokane
  • Methodology for Ranking the Top Universities in Spokane
  • Conclusion and Final Thoughts
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Gonzaga University

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Gonzaga University is like the OG of Computer Science education. This place has been around since 1887, so you know they've got history and street cred. They're always staying ahead of the game, updating their programs to keep up with the latest tech trends.

Their Computer Science program is legit, covering everything from cybersecurity to user experience design and coding.

Plus, they've got dope extracurriculars like hackathons and competitions like the Spokane Cyber Cup IV.

The faculty at Gonzaga aren't just your average nerds.

These profs are straight-up legends in their field, with advanced degrees from top-notch schools and cutting-edge research under their belts. They're super dedicated to giving you that one-on-one attention with a sick student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1.

You'll be learning in a tight-knit, chill environment with state-of-the-art facilities that'll make you feel like you're living in the future. This place has got a killer reputation for being the real deal, both locally and nationally.

  • You'll get to flex your research muscles in cool areas like data science and machine learning with access to dope labs.
  • They'll help you level up your soft skills, like ethics and global awareness, with opportunities like study abroad programs that'll let you see how computing fits into the bigger picture.
  • The student life is lit. You can join the Computer Science Club, attend hackathons, and get hands-on experience with real-world coding challenges.

Gonzaga University is straight-up crushing it in the Computer Science game, earning mad props and rankings left and right.

The School is poppin' with nearly 950 students enrolled across six undergrad programs, which just goes to show how legit their offerings are and how stoked students are to be there.

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2. Washington State University Spokane

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WSU Spokane is the place to be if you're tryna get into computer science. They've got a dope School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science that'll teach you all the theory and practical stuff you need to slay in the tech game.

From algorithms and data structures to systems programming, they've got you covered. And if you're feeling fancy, you can even dive into AI, cybersecurity, and big data!

The facilities there are straight-up fire, with cutting-edge computer labs and research centers where you can flex your creativity and collab with other tech-savvy peeps.

Plus, they're all about that research life, letting you get involved in dope projects like software development and computational theory. They even worked with Intel researchers to create a framework that reduces energy use in multi-core processors by up to 60% without sacrificing performance.

That's some next-level stuff!

It's no wonder WSU has partnerships with tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, which means you can score sick internships and co-ops that could lead to killer job opportunities after graduation.

They're all about giving you that real-world experience and making sure you're ready to slay in the competitive job market. And if cybersecurity is your jam, they've got a new undergrad program coming in fall 2023 to keep you up-to-date with industry needs.

WSU Spokane is the spot if you wanna level up your tech game, for real!

3. Whitworth University

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At Whitworth University, they're excelling with their computer science program. With a tight student-to-teacher ratio of 11:1, you'll get that one-on-one mentorship that'll have you succeeding.

They're all about hands-on learning and making sure you're ready for the real-world tech game.

They've got some seriously cool stuff going on:

  • A partnership with Gonzaga University's 3+3 Law and Justice Program, so you can fast-track your way into the legal world.
  • A Forensics program where you can flex your public speaking muscles and get competitive at regional and national levels.
  • Opportunities to do some legitimate research – like alum Frank Whitworth ('22) who snagged second place at the IEEE Conference on Automated Software Engineering (ASE) 2023 for his senior thesis.

Not only are their grads landing great gigs, but the professors are excelling too.

Like Jim McPherson, who was a finalist for the prestigious 2008 Frank Luther Mott/Kappa Tau Alpha Research Award. Whitworth's grads are out here shouting from the rooftops about how this place set them up for success.

With their solid reputation in both academics and the tech world, Whitworth is definitely a major player in Spokane's tech scene. If you're looking to level up your computer science game, this is the place to be.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

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4. Eastern Washington University

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Let me fill you in on this dope Computer Science program at Eastern Washington University (EWU). It's legit fire. They're all about teaching you the real deal, both the theory and practical stuff, so you can crush it in the ever-changing tech game.

Their curriculum is always on point, covering all the essential topics like software development, data structures, algorithms, and operating systems.

The Computer Science and Electrical Engineering (CSEE) department is where it's at, with professors who are super passionate about helping you become an innovative problem-solver.

But it's not just about the academics.

EWU has got your back with academic advising, career counseling, and mentorship programs to make sure you're ready to slay in the professional world. A whopping 95% of their CS grads land jobs within six months of graduation.

That's insane, right? They've also got tight connections with local industries, which means dope internships and hands-on projects to level up your skills and network.

Here's why EWU's CS program is the bomb:

  • Professors who know how to teach and make learning lit.
  • Courses that cover the classics and the latest trends, so you're always ahead of the game.
  • A supportive community that helps you crush your goals.
  • Career services that go hard to set you up for success after graduation.

One alumni put it best: "EWU gave me the technical skills and tools to stay on top of the fast-paced tech world.

Working on projects with industry leaders was clutch for my career growth." If you want to make moves in Computer Science, EWU is where it's at.

5. Spokane Community College

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Spokane Community College (SCC) is where it's at if you're tryna get your hands dirty with Computer Science. They've got a dope Associate's degree and certificates that'll have you coding like a boss in no time.

We're talking HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Node.js, PHP/Laravel, and even Android/Kotlin.

But it's not just about the code. They'll also hook you up with some serious project management and agile skills that'll make you a hot commodity in the job market.

A lot of their grads end up at some seriously legit companies, leveling up their careers like it's nobody's business.

The Computer Science associate's program is tailored to the industry's needs, covering everything from programming to data management.

And if you're looking to specialize, they've got certificates in areas like Network Design & Administration or Programming that'll give you a serious edge.

SCC's got your back with tutoring, career guidance, and even agreements with universities to make sure your credits transfer smoothly.

And let's not forget about those small class sizes, which means you'll get that one-on-one attention to really grasp those complex computer concepts. Their students swear by it.

Bottom line, SCC is the spot to launch your Computer Science career, whether you're aiming for the workforce or want to level up your education game.

They'll hook you up with the skills and connections to make it happen.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

6. Spokane Falls Community College

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Spokane Falls Community College (SFCC) is the spot if you're into Computer Science and the latest tech trends. They've got a badass Computer Science program that's right on the cutting edge, keeping up with the crazy fast pace of the tech industry.

You can get down with all the essential stuff like Programming Fundamentals, Web Development, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics. SFCC's got your back with some dope stats – around 31% of students graduate overall, but a whopping 85% of Computer Science folks either transfer or straight-up finish the program.

SFCC hooks you up with tutoring, career counseling, and a MESA program to keep you on track and ready for the real world.

Past students say the projects and internships they did were clutch for landing solid gigs after graduation. And if you're juggling a job while studying, SFCC's got flexible class schedules to fit your hustle.

Check out SFCC's Computer Science offerings:

  • An Associate in Computer Science DTA/MRP degree that'll get you prepped for a university transfer
  • Certifications in hot fields like Cybersecurity to make you job-ready
  • Customized paths for different tech careers, starting with Data Analytics

SFCC lays down a solid foundation for you to become a tech boss – their stats don't lie.

They're on top of their game, teaching you the latest stuff like network security and data management, so you'll be a hot commodity in the job market. Just check out their Software Development program guide for all the deets.

7. North Idaho College

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Just a short drive from Spokane, North Idaho College (NIC) is where it's at for a solid Computer Science program that's perfect for both traditional students and those who are a little more seasoned.

Their curriculum is designed to meet the core requirements at all Idaho public universities, so you can use NIC as a stepping stone to various computer science careers or to further your education through their partnership with the University of Idaho for cooperative four-year degrees.

Situated in the heart of Coeur d'Alene, NIC offers the best of both worlds – a tight-knit campus community and proximity to Spokane's booming tech scene, which is less than 30 miles away.

This means you'll get to bridge the gap between theory and industry practices, opening up loads of opportunities.

  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Systems Programming
  • Software Engineering Principles

The program also covers diverse topics like operating systems, graphics, databases, and development languages.

And to sweeten the deal, they've got partnerships with top tech firms that offer internships, so you can get that hands-on experience while still in school. Plus, they've got a cooperative education program that can help you kick-start your entrepreneurial journey.

  1. You'll have experienced professionals mentoring you every step of the way.
  2. You can choose to go full-time or part-time, depending on your schedule.

After graduating, you'll be all set to land a sweet gig in the tech industries of Coeur d'Alene or Spokane.

As one of the college reps put it, Our curriculum equips graduates to meet rapidly-evolving technological challenges, striving for excellence that navigates past and future paradigms. NIC combines theory and practice like a boss, making it a prime spot for aspiring computer scientists in the Spokane area.

Just check out their course descriptions to see how they've got your back.

8. City University of Seattle, Spokane

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Check this out! City University of Seattle, Spokane, also known as CityU, is the spot where they've got that perfect blend of top-notch academics and flexibility – just what modern learners need.

Their Computer Science program is a real game-changer, hooking up working pros like us with cutting-edge flexible degree options like evening and weekend classes, online courses, and hybrid models.

CityU gets how adult learners roll, and they've tailored their programs to make sure we succeed, which explains why a massive 78% of students are taking at least one online class and 62% of grads managed to juggle work, life, and study like bosses.

Their motto is "meeting learners where they are in life", and this personalized approach is their bread and butter.

CityU Spokane has a solid support system to help us crush it:

  • Advising: They'll hook you up with customized academic counseling to align your goals with the right educational path.
  • Tutoring: Need a hand with those tricky Computer Science concepts? They've got your back with instant support.
  • Tech Support: No worries about tech issues disrupting your online learning flow – they've got you covered with vital technical aid.

Here's the real kicker: CityU Spokane is a straight-up legend when it comes to landing jobs – a killer 93% of alumni score gigs within six months after graduation.

Plus, they've got collabs with big dogs like Washington State University, bolstering the local tech talent pool with loads of off-campus programs in Spokane. CityU doesn't mess around; they'll hook you up with internships and partnerships with industry leaders, so you're guaranteed to get a relevant education while gaining a competitive edge in the job market.

And let's not forget, CityU has a massive network with campuses in prime spots like Vancouver, Tacoma, Seattle, and Edmonds, each packing comprehensive amenities to make your learning experience top-notch.

9. Interface College, Spokane

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In the heart of Spokane's tech scene, Interface College used to be the spot for real-deal tech training and hands-on learning in computer science and IT. But sadly, they hit some financial roadblocks and had to shut it down, leaving a gap in the local tech education game.

It just shows how fluid the education world can be and how important it is to adapt to the economic realities.

But don't sweat it, Spokane's still got a vibrant community of educational centers like Spokane Community College, offering programs in Software Development for all you who wanna get your hands dirty with HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.

So, while Interface College used to have that sweet hands-on approach with labs, projects, and internships, you aspiring tech bosses can now look to places like Spokane Falls Community College for a solid curriculum that keeps up with the industry's demands.

Sure, Interface College boasted an 85% grad employment rate within six months, but now you gotta hustle and find new paths to success in the tech game.

As society keeps changing, educational offerings gotta keep up too.

That's why you need to tap into resources like Nucamp Coding Bootcamp, which can pivot quickly to industry needs.

Stay on that grind, and seek out dynamic and resilient training platforms that not only teach you the knowledge but also open doors to employment in this ever-changing market.

Higher education's gotta adapt, so you gotta be adaptable too – stay ready for the tech frontier, and your career dreams will be within reach.

10. Carrington College, Spokane

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Carrington College in Spokane is the real deal for anyone looking to get their foot in the door of the tech world. They've got some sick healthcare and technology programs like Medical Radiologic Technology and Health Studies, which are right up the alley of Computer Science nerds.

But it's not just about the coursework. They hook you up with hands-on training through externships, so you can get that real-world experience before you even graduate.

Around 80% of their students get to flex their skills in the field before they even snag that degree. Talk about being prepared for the job market!

But that's not all.

Carrington has got your back with their career services game on point. They'll hook you up with workshops and job placement support to make sure you're ready to slay in the job market.

And with their tight connections to local tech companies, you'll have a smooth transition from the classroom to the real deal. Last year, over 90% of their students got to do externships with some major players in the game, setting them up for success.

Here's a rundown of the tech-savvy programs they've got cookin':

  • Medical Radiologic Technology/Science
  • Health Studies
  • Career Services
  • Externship Opportunities

One former student said, "My time at Carrington didn't just give me an education; it opened the door to a whole new world.

The support they gave me was like a key, unlocking opportunities I never thought were possible." Carrington College Spokane is all about setting you up to be the next big thing in Spokane's booming tech scene.

Methodology for Ranking the Top Universities in Spokane

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Let me break it down for you on how we ranked the computer science programs in Spokane. We got a solid system that checks all the crucial boxes, drawing inspiration from reputable sources like U.S. News' rankings, which are based on peer reviews and specialty area nods.

Here's what we're looking at:

  • Accreditation: We're all about those schools like Gannon University with that ABET stamp of approval, meaning they're legitimate and their graduates get hired like hotcakes.
  • Program Depth: We checked if they're covering all the essential bases, from Mobile App Dev to Operating Systems, ensuring their students are well-rounded tech wizards.
  • Prof Game: No slackers on the faculty – we're talking about schools like Embry-Riddle and San José State with professors who are straight-up experts in their fields, from cybersecurity to software engineering.
  • Research Ops: We appreciate programs that let undergrads get their hands dirty with research projects and specializations, because that's how you stay ahead of the curve in this ever-changing game.
  • Industry Ties: Internships and partnerships with the big dogs in tech? That's a major plus, showing these schools are prepping their students for the real world.
  • Student Feedback: We keep it real by listening to the ones actually going through the programs, getting a feel for how engaged and satisfied they are with their academic experience.

We crunched all the data and ranked these schools based on their strengths.

But no ranking can tell the whole story – it's just a guide to help you see what's important. Like Kimberly Moore said, "No ranking can wholly define a program's value, but it can shine a light on the key factors prospective students should consider."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this digital world we livin' in, where tech runs everything from our social media to our smart homes, having some serious skills in Computer Science (CS) is a must.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that tech jobs are gonna grow by 11% between 2019 and 2029, so you know it's a hot market. But the sad reality is, not everyone gets a chance to learn CS in school, which is where places like Nucamp come in with their bootcamps to give you that opportunity.

To really crush it in this field, you gotta get your hands dirty with some real-world experience, like internships, and make sure you choose a school that's gonna connect you with the industry.

  • Look for programs with legit accreditation and curriculums like Microsoft's MCSG
  • Instructors who've been in the trenches and know what's up
  • Cutting-edge research facilities tackling real-world problems
  • Partnerships with major tech companies to help you get that first gig
  • Proof that their students are killin' it, like higher college enrollment rates or dope reviews

Choosing where to study CS isn't just about academics.

It's about setting yourself up for success in a high-demand market where problem-solving skills are king. As one former student put it, "My CS education was clutch, giving me the skills to slay in a competitive job market." That's the kind of energy you want to bring to Spokane's growing tech scene.

When you're mapping out your path from school to the corporate world, choose a spot that's gonna level up your mind and your innovation game – a place that opens doors to all the dope opportunities waiting for you out there.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the top universities in Spokane for pursuing a computer science degree?

The top 10 universities in Spokane for pursuing a computer science degree are: Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, Eastern Washington University, Spokane Community College, Spokane Falls Community College, North Idaho College, City University of Seattle, Interface College, and Carrington College.

What criteria were considered when ranking the top universities in Spokane for computer science programs?

Criteria such as accreditation status, curriculum breadth and depth, faculty pedigree, research conduits, and industrial liaisons were pivotal in ranking the top universities in Spokane for computer science programs.

What are the unique features of Gonzaga University's computer science program?

Gonzaga University offers a comprehensive computer science program that covers areas such as cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, and software development. It provides robust research opportunities, a variety of soft-skills development, and vibrant student life activities like hackathons.

How does Eastern Washington University support its computer science students?

Eastern Washington University supports its computer science students through dedicated teaching, intricately designed courses, a rich support network, and a steadfast dedication to exemplary post-graduate careers bolstered by resource-rich career services.

What sets Interface College, Spokane apart in the tech education landscape?

Interface College, Spokane, once known for its technical training and applied learning in computer science and IT, has ceased operations. However, other institutions in Spokane like Spokane Falls Community College now cater to evolving industry demands, offering programs in Software Development tailored for aspiring tech professionals.

You may be interested in the following topics as well:

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  • Design your future in tech by exploring high-paying UX/UI Designer roles in Spokane's vibrant tech landscape.

  • Explore how emerging tech hub Spokane is attracting innovative minds and transforming the local economy.

  • Delve into the rigorous bootcamp selection criteria used to rank the best coding bootcamps in Spokane.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible