Strategic College Application Tips for Purdue University's Computer Science Program

Purdue University has been a leader in technology research for over 150 years, and is home to the oldest computer science program in the United States. 

It has maintained a state-of-the-art curriculum in this field since the days when computers took up whole rooms and programmers used punch cards to process data.  Purdue’s CS curriculum is ranked in the top 20, vying with Harvard, Yale, and UPenn as some of its closest-ranking competitors. However, with such a storied legacy in the field, there are few other colleges that command a similarly far-reaching reputation for innovation and technological excellence.

Purdue’s Computer Science Program: An Overview

Purdue’s Computer Science department is renowned for its rich history and cutting-edge research, offering an exceptional academic experience for students passionate about technology. However, getting into Purdue's CS program can be challenging due to its competitive acceptance rate. With an overall acceptance rate of 29% for CS, applicants need to meet high academic standards to be considered. Notably, out-of-state students face even tougher competition, with acceptance rates thought to be around 10%.

Strategies for Standing Out in Purdue’s Competitive CS Program

Given the competitiveness of Purdue’s CS program, it’s important to develop a strategic application plan to improve your chances of admission. Here’s a lowdown on everything you need to know about how Purdue evaluates college applications:

1. Strong Academic Profile

Purdue’s CS program values high academic achievement. Applicants should aim for an unweighted GPA of 3.85 or higher, and high standardized test scores are crucial. A 1450 SAT or 32 ACT is recommended to demonstrate your academic readiness. Although Purdue is technically test-optional, submitting strong scores is advantageous for admissions chances, particularly for out-of-state applicants.

2. Relevant Extracurriculars

Purdue places significant importance on extracurricular activities related to computer science, such as coding clubs, hackathons, internships, or volunteering in tech-related roles. Aim for cultivating a variety of activities in these areas to stand out as an applicant.

3. Strength of Application Essays

Your essays are an exceptionally consequential opportunity to highlight your passion for computer science, your academic journey, and your interest in the specific qualities of Purdue’s program. In your supplemental essay responses, discuss how Purdue’s offerings align with your career goals, and consider incorporating any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to technology and innovation. In your personal statement, try to show a journey of character development and personal growth that demonstrates your readiness to fully immerse yourself in the boilermaker experience.

That’s a high bar, and you may be wondering whether you’re ready to accomplish those objectives with your essay responses. If that sounds like you, consider reaching out to Pathivy to schedule a call with our placement specialists to ensure your written materials are a stand-out asset for your application, instead of a liability. 

Exploring Purdue’s Specialized Tracks

While Purdue’s core CS program is highly selective, there are alternative pathways within the Department of Computer Science that can also provide excellent opportunities for students while reducing the intensity of competition:

AI and Data Science Programs

Purdue offers specialized tracks in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science within the CS department. These tracks are modestly less competitive than the core CS track, making them a good option for students with a relevant background in mathematics, statistics, or engineering. If you’re passionate about AI or data science, these programs can provide a great alternative route while still allowing you to tap into Purdue’s esteemed CS resources.

Department of Engineering

Purdue’s Engineering department, while still competitive, has a markedly higher acceptance rate of 37%. If you’re interested in both CS and engineering, this could be an ideal fit. Applicants to the College of Engineering are admitted as undifferentiated engineering majors and can choose their track (including computer engineering) after starting their studies. This track is particularly well-suited for individuals interested in robotics, or in specific industry applications of computer science, from systems design to environmental applications.

Polytechnic Institute

For students who are more interested in practical, hands-on application of technology, Purdue’s Polytechnic Institute offers a range of CS-related programs. These programs emphasize real-world skills in areas like IT, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Though these programs are less competitive than Purdue’s traditional CS program, they still offer excellent opportunities for students seeking careers in technology-focused fields and carry the same name-brand weight of the traditional programs in the vast majority of possible career trajectories. 

Maximize Your Education’s ROI with Degree+

Purdue’s Degree+ program allows students to combine two fields of study to expand the breadth of a student’s academic focus without the full burden of a traditional double major that includes a liberal arts core. 

If you’re looking to combine your technical expertise with skills in communication, management, or another humanities field, Degree+ can offer a greater return on investment vs. a traditional liberal arts education. 

However, applicants should note that this program requires participants to select fields that cross college boundaries, meaning that it’s not a way to double up on two closely-related fields in the same school. The best way to think about Degree+ is through the program’s unique ability to offer students extensive specialization in two fields: for example, a student might study both AI and Philosophy, helping them cultivate deeper insights into the ethical implications of the latest developments in machine learning.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re applying directly to the core CS track, considering the AI or Data Science specialization, or exploring engineering or polytechnic options, be sure to present a compelling, academically rigorous application that highlights your passion for technology, innovation, your future goals, and how Purdue’s offerings are well-suited to help you achieve them. 

If that sounds like an overwhelming task, or you need additional support and guidance through this complex and ever-evolving process—let’s connect! Pathivy helps hundreds of students achieve their college applications goals every year.