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What is Computer Engineering?

A computer engineering degree is a field of study melding disciplines of computer science and electrical engineering to design and create computer hardware, computer systems, technological devices, and computer software.  Engineers specializing in computers will typically require deep knowledge in the following areas of specialty:

  • System Connectivity
  • Application Design
  • System Design
  • Digital Circuit Design
  • Computer Programming
  • Technology Design
  • Linear System Analysis
  • Information Technology
  • Computer Networking
  • User Design and User Interface
  • Network System Architecture

Students earning a degree in computer engineering must assimilate knowledge from disciplines such as software applications and computer hardware to systems connectivity and computer integration.  Degree programs in computer engineering are on the leading edge of technology.  Universities help push the bounds of microprocessor, output devices, computer programming languages, data storage limits, operating systems, artificial intelligence applications, systems security, and cloud computing.

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Computer Engineering Degree

Renowned for its combination of academic and outdoor life, the California State University-Long Beach is one of the best-valued institutions across the nation with affordable tuition fees, high social mobility frequency, and possible employment after graduation.  California State University is noted as one of the Best Regional Universities West by the U.S. News and World Report.

CSU offers two Bachelor's Degree majors and three minors, namely B.S. in Computer Engineering; B.S. Computer Science; Minor in Computer Science, Minor in Cybersecurity Applications, and Minor in Web Technologies and Applications.

The BS Computer Science major offers a foundation in problem-solving, computer programming, algorithm and software design, database systems, operating systems, and computer security. On the other hand, B.S. Computer Engineering imparts a solid foundation in problem-solving, computer programming, embedded systems, microprocessors, and system-on-chip design. CSU also offers Masters in Computer Science, Interdisciplinary Masters in Engineering, Ph.D. in Engineering, and Computational Mathematics.

Acceptance Rate

39.27

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

LeTourneau University is a private institution founded in 1946, located in Longview, Texas. LETU takes delight in being selective on its admissions, with an acceptance rate of 45%. The university offers more than 140 graduate and undergraduate programs.

LETU's Computer Engineering Department offers a four-year program experience and extensive coursework in the areas of advanced circuits, digital electronics, microcomputer design, networks and data communications, digital signal processing, and senior design 1&2. Moreover, the program offers a concentration; a student can choose from either Computer Engineering (CPE) degree or Electrical Engineering (E.E.) primary. The E.E. Concentration focuses on the hardware parts of electrical structures. Simultaneously, the CPE concentration retains several courses from the E.E. concentration and further the learning; the attention provides intense training in programming by necessitating students to take supplementary computer science classes.

Acceptance Rate

44.51

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) is a private institution founded in 1904. The institution is offering programs that are in-demand in the workforce market. The U.S. News and World Reports rank WIT 38th Best Colleges in Regional Universities North.

WIT offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, a program accredited by the Engineering Association Commission of ABET. This program incorporates a project-based course of education and a pro-active learning environment. Students are taught to strategize, create, analyze, and assess computer systems. WIT ensures their students to work with top-tier companies through their cooperative education.

Acceptance Rate

68.55

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Houston is a public institution in Texas and the entire University of Houston System's main campus. The System's main campus is guided by its mission in empowering students for their search of invention, learning, leadership, and commitment.

Houston University offers a degree in Computer Engineering is very proud of its exceptional offering in academics, research, scholarships, and student organizations to help the student excel in the field. According to the program, their faculty and staff in the department are committed to undergraduate education with its small classes rule, especially during the junior and senior year; their real-world and practical training within the field sums up their academic competence. In terms of research, the university provides numerous opportunities for students interested in conducting research. The department also offers several scholarships available for current and incoming students. To condense the learning, the department also has several student organizations that will allow the students to establish rapport, camaraderie, communication, leadership, and networking skills among the department and within the field.

Acceptance Rate

64.98

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

The University of Dayton is a private and Catholic institution founded by the Society of Mary in 1850. Dayton ranks first Catholic university for engineering research and development and number one across the nation for materials research and development.

Dayton's School of Computer Engineering features a customizable education to pair the student's concentration and prepare them for a possible career after graduation. The university's Computer Engineering Degree Program offers an exceptional education by combining theory with practice. Students will learn to plan and advance digital and computer-based systems by matching and assimilating hardware factors and software in this curriculum. As part of Dayton's Marianist Tradition, it has a vast network with its alumni to help the undergraduate and graduate students continue the institution's cycle of service-learning and excellence.

Acceptance Rate

72.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

SUNY College of Technology is a public institution in Alfred, New York, founded in 1908. The school utilizes a semester-based calendar. SUNY College of Technology at Alfred is ranked 9th as Best Regional Colleges, North.

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred offers a Bachelor's Degree and Associate Degree in Computer Engineering Technology. This program will impart the students with the necessary knowledge and skills for employment as an applied engineer capable of installing, designing, supporting, and maintaining computer systems and networks. This program puts an emphasis on computer hardware systems and network set-up as well as operating systems.

Acceptance Rate

66.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The Rochester Institute of Technology is a private institution founded in 1829. RIT is one of the nation's premier universities, working at the crossroads of technology, the arts, and design. The university has external campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai, and Kosovo.

RIT's Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program is a five-year degree program. Students enrolled in this program will strategize on computer hardware components and software to develop next invention products and machines that include implanted systems. Rochester's Computer Engineering program provides students an in-depth understanding of an area of specific interest within the discipline's scope. Moreover, this program requires students to complete a year of cooperative education experience.

If you are interested in RIT's Computer Engineering Program, you may visit their website for more information.

Acceptance Rate

70.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Central Connecticut State University is a community-university located in New Britain, Connecticut. The school was founded in 1849. CSSU comprises four academic schools; the School of Business, School of Engineering, Science and Technology, School of Education and Professional Studies, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. 

The BS Computer Engineering Technology is a program under the Computer Electronics and Graphic Technology of the School of Engineering, Science, and Technology. The program offers extensive education and skills training with computer-related systems and devices based on physics and applied math. The curriculum will also further the students' learning on hardware and software design, implementation, integration, and support systems involving microprocessors, computers, and networks. CCSU's Computer Engineering Technology is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Acceptance Rate

65.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Farmingdale State College is a public technology college in New York founded in 1912. The institution is one of the Best Regional Colleges North, according to the U.S. News and World Reports 2021, and one of the Best Value colleges according to the Forbes Magazine in 2019.

The college offers B.S. in Computer Engineering Technology, for the reason to address the mounting need for graduates possessing skills both in computer programming and computer hardware and in networking's primary principles. This program specializes in a technology-driven program that develops the critical thinking skills needed to provide innovative and practical solutions concerning the technology. This program will offer coursework in applied mathematics and physics, including the necessary electrical engineering technology values, elective choices in the arts, sciences, and humanities.

For additional information about this offering, you may visit their website.

Acceptance Rate

54.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati is a premier public university in Cincinnati, Oklahoma. The U.S. News and World Reports ranked the university as one of the Best Universities across the nation.

The university offers a degree in Computer Engineering. This program integrates mathematics and sciences with electrical engineering to develop a graduate who is adept at analyzing and designing all features of computer systems. Students will have rigorous coursework that is necessary for them to excel in this field. To cap off this program, students will experience cooperative education to round their skills upon graduation.

Acceptance Rate

76.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The Ball State University (BSU) takes delight in its mission that engages its students in academic, research, and creative activities that empower them to fulfill their career goals. It is a comprehensive public institution located on a beautiful campus in Muncie, Indiana. 

The BA/BS in Computer Engineering at BSU prepares graduates to be at the frontiers of the ever-changing world of technology. BSU takes pride in its hands-on training that allows the students to explore their potential in the discipline’s field.  At Ball State University, Computer Science majors receive a firm grounding in programming, algorithms, and discrete mathematics before the specialization classes like software engineering, theory, programming languages, web and mobile development, networking, operating systems, and databases. Furthermore, the department offers two minor programs in computer science and computer security.

Acceptance Rate

76.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The SUNY Institute of Technology at Utica Rome was renamed as SUNY Polytechnic Institute Utica in 2014 when the New York Board of Trustees unanimously agreed to merge the latter and the SUNY College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering in Albany.  SUNY Poly offers relevant programs in the ever-changing career fields in the 21st Century.

SUNY Poly offers a Bachelor’s Degree Computer Engineering (ECE). The ECE comprises two fields of study: science and engineering, liberal arts and math coursework, and integrated studies in computer engineering and electrical engineering. SUNY Poly’s ECE majors will graduate with a solid grounding in mathematics, physics, humanities and social sciences, and engineering design and analysis, and more. Additionally, SUNY Poly also offers a degree in Computer Engineering Technology. The program prepares students for entry-level positions requiring a firm knowledge of software and hardware applications and computer-based systems. The program highlights the analytical, technical, problem-solving, and communications skills needed to transcend technical work.

Students who wish to know more about the programs may check the BS ECE or the BS Computer Engineering Technology brochures.

Acceptance Rate

69.02

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

To collaborate across distinctive disciplines, diversify viewpoints, and widen worldviews is one of the University of Hartford's missions, a private educational institution in Connecticut. The university has three campuses: the main campus is situated in Hartford, and the satellite campuses are located in West Hartford and Bloomfield.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at Hartford University is a four-year program allowing students to learn, especially the thorough foundations in mathematics, physical sciences, and a foundation in computer hardware and computer science necessary for them upon pursuing the course. The program is noted for its holistic approach in learning from the technical aspect up to the communication perspective. As part of the curriculum, students are required to take at least one design-related course, and students are also allowed to earn a minor in Computer Science.

Acceptance Rate

76.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Minnesota State University at Mankato, New York, is a public university founded in 1868. MSUM offers more than 130 undergraduate programs and more than 90 graduate degree programs. The Council on Undergraduate Research recognizes the university as one of the Top 20 Universities in undergraduate research across the nation.

MSUM offers B.S. Computer Engineering to educate professionals who acquire resonating ideas and analytical background combined with a strong laboratory applying the discipline's concept. Moreover, the program offers a comprehensive education from the necessary knowledge and skill to communication, humanities, arts, and social sciences. The department requires a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) to maintain.

Acceptance Rate

62.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

The University of Pittsburgh Johnstown was founded in 1927. The university is the first and largest regional campus of the University of Pittsburgh system. The university provides a high-standard educational experience that is intently designed for students to thrive in the workplace of the 21st Century.

UPJ's B.S. Computer Engineering Program educates students with excellent skills in both hardware and software facets of computer engineering. This program offers thorough training on digital electronics, assembly programming, embedded controls, digital control systems, digital signal processing, data structures, computer networks, and operating systems. The department also imparts necessary skills such as communication skills and making sure that their graduates thrive and excel in the discipline field. UPJ's Computer Engineering Program is an ABET-accredited.  You may reach through UPJ's website for further details.

Acceptance Rate

78.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Started from a humble beginning with a small number of students, it has now evolved into a university; Northern Michigan University is a comprehensive public university located in Marquette, Michigan. The university is renowned for its leadership programs, advanced technology initiatives, and nationally recognized academic programs.

The university offers a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering under the Mathematics and Computer Sciences Department's supervision. The department combines courses in practical programming, computer architecture, networking, and algorithm design/analysis with mathematics and computing theory. The exciting areas of learning in this program are about the latest technologies like mobile devices, internet applications, and robotics.

Acceptance Rate

65.59

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Kent State University is a public research institution in Kent, OH. It is one among the largest universities in the state of Ohio. Kent State University comprises eight campuses in OH with six other locations across the nation and four campuses worldwide.

KSU offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Information Technology. The program allows the students to learn about computer systems and software-hardware interfaces to excel as computer and networking experts. The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering recognizes KSU’s Computer Engineering Technology program. Additionally, KSU offers a Master of Science in Computer Engineering that advances students for positions in the discipline’s field. Computer Engineering students learn about software-hardware co-design concepts and ideas, devices and sensors, the architecture of software and hardware, communications protocols, and more. 

Acceptance Rate

85.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Central Washington University is a public university in Ellensburg, Washington. The university takes pride in their small classes and passionate professors and students' hands-on experience as its secret formula for their success.  CWU's Computer Science Degree envisions preparing their students willing to help the society that is increasingly affected by information technology. This program offers thorough training on basic technological literacy to the development of problem-solving skills. This program focuses on software engineering, intelligent systems, computational science, graphics, visualization and computation, and much more.

Acceptance Rate

84.92

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Sam Houston State University is a public university in Huntsville, Texas. The university is the state's third-oldest public university. SHSU offers over 90 bachelor's degree programs, more than 60 master's degree programs, andten0 doctoral programs.

SHSU offers a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering Technology designed to train students for application-centered careers in various engineering fields. Moreover, the Computer Engineering Technology program educates students to master circuit design, simulation, troubleshooting of electrical systems, microcontroller applications, programming, automation and control, and robotics. This program requires 120 credit hours.  For additional features about the program, one may visit their official internet site.

Acceptance Rate

83.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Formerly, the Capitol College, now, the Capitol Technology University is a private research institution in South Laurel, MD. The Capitol Technology University prepares students for professions in our fast-changing society.

The Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree program is a total of 122 credits that prepares students for exceptional careers as computer engineers, senior computer engineers, scientists, and senior computer scientists. The BSCE program at the Capitol Technology University covers the courses of engineering, computer and programming, mathematics and sciences, technical courses, English and social sciences courses. On the other hand, CapTech also offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. The program is a total of 120 credits and it covers mathematics and sciences, technical courses, and English and social sciences courses. Students in both programs can take these on-campus.

Acceptance Rate

83.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Indiana University-Purdue is an urban public research university founded in 1969. The university is committed to providing transformative educational opportunities to the lives of students, the community, and our dynamic world.

The university's Computer Engineering Department offers two programs related to the field. The first program is the B.S. in Computer Engineering; students will learn to combine analytical skills, hardware proficiency, and software experience to design the computer systems, software, network, and operating systems in this program. Second and last, the B.S. in Computer Engineering Technology, the students enrolled in this field are taught to design, develop, and implement computer-based applications that drive society; to sum up, this program focuses on the ICT Curriculum. The department is confident that their students will learn much and succeed through their high-caliber faculty and staff and strong industry connections, both locally and internationally.

Acceptance Rate

80.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

UA at Little Rock offers traditional and virtual classes with diplomas in various degree programs. It is a public research university in Little Rock, AR. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock serves more than 11,000 students annually, and it is committed to providing quality learning to its students.

The Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology at UA Little Rock combines engineering knowledge, methods, physical sciences, and technical skills that assist engineering activities. On the other hand, UA Little Rock also offers an Associate Degree in Electronics and computer engineering technology. The program is a two-year sequence that prepares students for a computer or electronics professions. Graduates of the program may further their education by taking the BS Degree of the discipline. Both degrees are accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Acceptance Rate

65.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Eastern Michigan University is a public institution founded in 1849. EMU combines comprehensive academic resources and community initiatives. The school offers more than 200 undergraduate programs, minors, certificates, and 150 graduate programs.

EMU's Computer Engineering Technology is designated to prepare students to apply scientific, computer, and engineering knowledge, combined with technical skills, to support computerized activities. Students are required to render a cooperative education in the industry during their junior or senior year. One of the best things about this program is that they offer day and evening classes. The EMU Computer Engineering Technology is an ABET-Accredited program.  Interested applicants about this program may refer to the department's website for additional information.

Acceptance Rate

74.06

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Youngstown State University, also known as YSU, is home to several degree programs offered to students to aid them in their career track and goals. It is an institution located in Youngstown, Ohio, that is publicly-funded. YSU has more or less 15,000 enrollees annually.

The Electrical Engineering at YSU is designed to advance expertise in all points of electrical engineering and its related fields. The program offers three majors students can select from: the Traditional Option, the Computer/Digital Option, and the Biomedical Option. Students who opt to take the Computer/Digital option will obtain the degree with 131-semester hours in total. Additionally, the program students will study more about computer engineering/science courses with a solid grounding of electrical engineering units.

Acceptance Rate

67.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The University of Toledo (UT) offers a comprehensive choice of academic programs students can pick from. It is a public research university founded in  1872, located in an urban setting in Toledo, OH. UT is steadfast in its mission of providing students with endless possibilities and opportunities.

The Computer Engineering degree at the University of Toledo is designed to develop students' employment in the field's related discipline. It is a Bachelor's Degree program that integrates electrical engineering and computer science. The Computer Science and Engineering majors learn about the discipline's fundamental theory and practice. Additionally, the program offers mandatory co-ops to shape the students' educational and first-hand experience.

Acceptance Rate

96.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Top Degrees in Computer Engineering

Degrees in computer engineering are designed to prepare students for work that blends principles of engineering with technical skills to solve a variety of issues. Students completing a degree at a computer engineering college should be able to service, install, and maintain stand-alone computer systems, computer networks, peripherals, computer-controlled equipment, and an array of microprocessors.

Below you will find a summary of degree programs in computer engineering includes certificate programs through bachelor's degree programs, all of which are gateways to graduate degree programs in computer science, computer programming, system administration, or MBA programs. To find the best computer engineering schools, simply search and sort schools below.

Online Certificate in Computer Engineering

The certificate program in computer engineering is a concentrated cluster of classes that yield a certificate of completion for graduates. Online certificates can be either an undergraduate or graduate-level program. Undergraduate certificates are built on foundational principles that are essential for computer engineers to know as they progress in their education.

Undergraduate certificates are used by students as an entry-point into the field or as a steppingstone to a degree program. A graduate certificate in computer engineering is a program designed for experienced professionals and qualifying students to gain greater knowledge in the field, upskill, prepare for a career transition, help increase compensation, and/or to remain competitive in their current position.

Online Computer Engineering Associate's Degree

An online associate degree in computer engineering is conferred as an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) depending in the schools design and program emphasis. Associate degrees earned in class or online will take students 2-years to complete based on a full-time enrollment status or longer for part-time students.

The AAS and AS degree track in computer engineering will fuse general education courses such as English, communications, philosophy, creative writing, history, and sociology with core classes. While each school will have their own unique set of core curriculum, students will generally have the opportunity to take classes such as: computer repair, voice and data cabling, computer upgrade, introduction to electricity, circuit analysis, software for technicians, local area networks, motors and controls, WAN/LAN, analog electronics, computer programming, computer hardware engineers, introduction to microprocessors, communication systems, and digital electronics.

Online Bachelor Degree in Computer Engineering

The in-class or online bachelor engineering degree in computer engineering is typically conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS). Bachelor's degrees are 4-year programs of full-time matriculation with part-time students taking longer to complete as a function of their pace and course load.

Much like the associate degree, the bachelor's degree programs blend liberal arts education with core classes to help provide students with a well-rounded education. Typical core classes found in the BS or BAS computer engineering program include calculus, introduction to engineering, java programming, computer engineering basics, linear algebra, trigonometry, circuit analysis, digital design, signal processing, digital systems, computer science, control systems, electrical machinery, digital communications, and logic controllers.

Computer Engineering Programs

In terms of computer engineering requirements, you can expect specific types of classes to be integrated into an engineering program.  The educational requirements will flex by school location but will generally include classes that prepare students for the rigors of work in the field.  Examples of classes in a computer engineering school include:

Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Computer Engineering Technology

Employment & Computer Engineering Jobs

Employment specialization for computer engineers is seemingly limitless.  The fields can range from a small tech startup to a multinational pharmaceutical corporation.  Specializations within those disparate fields can include jobs that rely upon the core skills learned during the course of study in college.  Examples of computer engineering specialties include network architect, research scientist, computer programmer, information research scientist, computer programmer, information security specialist, database administrator, network manager, application developer, computer systems architect, software programmer, and web developer.

Where Do Computer Engineers Work?

Computer engineers work in a variety of organizations from public corporations, private companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.  With an education in math, computer programming, prototyping, solid state circuitry, computer installation, electronics, and computer systems design graduates can launch a career in the following areas of the technology sector:

  • Computer Services
  • Electronics Technology
  • Server Maintenance
  • Computer Networking
  • Computer Systems
  • Computer Programming
  • Systems Design
  • Information Technology Support
  • Cloud Computing

Featured: UW, Digipen, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Student and industry feedback place the University of Washington (UW), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Digipen at the top of the list. Computer engineers that graduate from these programs tend to take on significant roles at large corporations or join start-ups. In either case, the curriculum and overall strength of each program is worthy of further research for any computer engineer student.

Computer Engineer Salary

Computer engineer pay is also expected to remain well above the national average. The mean annual income for a computer engineer in the United States is currently $119,650 which translates to $57.52 an hour. It is worth noting the bottom ten percent will average $66,290 a year with the top 10% earning in excess of $176,000 annually on average. The disparity in salary range is a function of work experience, job responsibility, organization type, and location.

Job opportunities for computer engineers are slated to be exceptional for college graduates. In fact, a recent publication by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the expected growth in jobs to be a meteoric 21% in the coming decade. Compare this to the national average of 6% and students can understand the potential career opportunities in computer engineering.

Industry: Computer Engineering Programs & Resources

For additional information, students may be interested in plugging in to any number of trade organizations or associations. Top-rated associations include the ACET, Association for Computer Engineers (ACE), and the IEEE Computer Society. Quickly sort the best colleges for computer engineering by leveraging our school finder below to learn more today.

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