Navigating the World of Computer Engineering: A Guide to the Best Undergraduate Programs
The field of Computer Engineering is at the epicenter of an amazing computer revolution that has rapidly changed the way much of the world works. It is a dynamic and broadly interdisciplinary field that experiences rapid professional growth and impacts every area of human endeavor. Developments in radio, television, radar, transistors, computers, and robotics have fundamentally altered human life. Selecting the best undergraduate computer engineering program is crucial for high school students aiming to thrive in fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and hardware design.
What is Computer Engineering?
If you major in Computer Engineering, you'll learn all about the hardware and software aspects of computer science. You'll gain a solid understanding of circuit theory and electronic circuits, too. The computer engineering curriculum provides a balanced view of hardware, software, hardware-software tradeoffs, analysis, design and implementation techniques. The degree encompasses nearly all of the core material of computer science and electrical engineering degrees. Also, because Computer Engineering is closely linked with Electrical Engineering, the fields are found in the same department at many universities. Consequently, many undergraduate programs incorporate most of the core curricula in both electrical engineering and computer science so graduates will be prepared to work in either field.
Computer engineering is a good field for students interested in cybersecurity issues, computer system design, and embedded systems. A degree in computer engineering can develop in-demand technical skills used in many industries. Computer and security jobs will likely remain important as technology becomes increasingly embedded in our everyday lives. Computer engineering professionals have analytical, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Why Study Computer Engineering?
A degree in computer engineering focuses on computer hardware and software system development, testing, and design. Here are some compelling reasons to pursue a computer engineering degree:
- High Wages: Computer engineers can earn higher-than-average wages.
- Transferable Skills: Computer engineering majors develop coding, communication, problem-solving, and design skills. They become familiar with digital signal processing, operating systems, and debugging.
Computer Engineering vs. Cybersecurity: Which is Right for You?
Because the degree titles are similar, students may wonder if they should get a degree in computer engineering or a degree in cybersecurity. Both degrees can prepare students for high-earning, in-demand careers in the tech field. Computer engineering programs are very tech heavy. Students who want to develop advanced technical skills designing, testing, and analyzing computer hardware and software should pursue a computer engineering degree. Students less interested in technical skills might major instead in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity programs take a more interdisciplinary focus and require courses less technical than a standard computer engineering program.
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Types of Computer Engineering Degrees
Computer engineering programs offer different levels of computer engineering degrees. The higher the level of degree, often the better the salary potential and available jobs.
- Associate Degree: Associate in computer engineering degrees provide a foundation in the basic skills and principles of computer engineering. Students explore electronic devices, computer networks, digital communication, and digital circuits design. Some associate degrees in computer engineering transfer to a four-year program. A typical program requires 61-65 semester credits and takes about two full-time years to complete. Ohlone College offers an Associate's Degree in Computer Engineering.
- Bachelor's Degree: Computer engineering bachelor's programs combine engineering, mathematics, and computer science with a focus on engineering principles and techniques. Students learn to design, test, and analyze computer hardware and software. Schools offer computer engineering degrees by different names, including computer engineering technology, computer science and engineering, and electrical and computer engineering. Many bachelor's programs require a computer engineering capstone project. Some schools provide concentrations like cybersecurity or software engineering. San Francisco State University, University of Central Arkansas, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater, Montana State University, Wichita State University, Northern Arizona University - Flagstaff Mountain, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, New York Institute of Technology - New York (NYIT), and Cleveland State University offer Bachelor's degrees in Computer Engineering. The Texas A&M University College of Engineering freshman year curriculum is identical for most undergraduate degree programs. Undergraduate students are admitted to the Texas A&M College of Engineering with a preference for the major noted on their admissions application and follow the same first-year engineering curriculum.
- Master's Degree: A master's degree in computer engineering picks up where undergraduate study leaves off, focusing on advanced aspects of computer science and electrical engineering. Admission requirements for computer engineering master's programs include a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related subject, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and letters of recommendation. A computer engineering master's degree requires 32 semester credits and takes about two full-time years to complete. Some programs offer specializations like hardware and computer architecture and cybersecurity.
- Ph.D.: The best computer engineering programs that offer Phds prepare students for advanced leadership careers in the field. Graduates can pursue high-level careers in academia, research, and industry. A doctoral degree in computer engineering requires about 64-72 credits and takes 4-5 years to complete. Students take classes like network penetration and security, scalable software architectures, and Ph.D. Computer engineering Ph.D. programs require a dissertation.
Most computer engineering programs, regardless of degree level, focus on the principles of computing, hardware and software development, and electrical engineering. Some of the best computer engineering colleges hold accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Career Paths for Computer Engineering Graduates
The best schools for computer engineering prepare graduates for computing, information technology, and cybersecurity jobs. Here are some potential career paths:
- Security Engineer: Security engineers often need at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering. Security engineers create security systems to stop cyberattacks. They build firewalls, identify security weaknesses, and investigate attacks.
- Security Manager: Security managers oversee their organizations' computer and digital security. Duties vary by employer and industry, but may include managing other IT personnel, implementing security measures, and keeping information safe.
- Computer Hardware Engineer: Computer hardware engineers often work in research labs, creating and testing computer models. Typical tasks include modifying designs, updating equipment, and designing new hardware. Computer hardware engineers need a bachelor's degree in computer engineering.
- Computer Programmer: Computer programmers write and test code and scripts that help devices function. They often work with software developers. Most computer programmers work for the computer systems design and related services industry.
- Security Analyst: Security analysts initiate security measures to protect their organizations' computer systems and networks. Typical duties include maintaining software, helping computer users, and researching IT security trends and developments.
Top Undergraduate Computer Engineering Programs
The computer engineering ranking undergraduatemetric helps students identify top-tier programs that offer a strong foundation in both hardware and software development. These rankings evaluate programs based on academic rigor, research output, faculty credentials, and industry partnerships. Here's a look at some of the top programs in the USA:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - B.S. in Computer Science and Engineering: MITâs computer engineering program, a global leader, excels in AI, quantum computing, and systems design with hands-on research opportunities.
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- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM backgrounds
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$83,600/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web
Stanford University - B.S. in Computer Science (Computer Engineering Track): Stanfordâs computer engineering program focuses on hardware, networks, and robotics with strong Silicon Valley ties for internships.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$82,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Restrictive Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: CMUâs computer engineering program is renowned for cybersecurity and hardware design research with robust industry connections.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$83,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Andy Bechtolsheim, Sun Microsystems co-founder
University of California, Berkeley - B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences: UC Berkeleyâs computer engineering program offers research in embedded systems and AI with proximity to Silicon Valley.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$48,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Steve Wozniak, Apple co-founder
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - B.S. in Computer Science: Caltechâs computer engineering program excels in computational mathematics and hardware design with personalized research.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with exceptional STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Carver Mead, pioneer in VLSI design
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UIUCâs computer engineering program is known for computer architecture and large-scale research opportunities.
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- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$41,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Marc Andreessen, Netscape co-founder
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (UMich) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UMichâs computer engineering program excels in AI and hardware systems with strong industry partnerships.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$63,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), February (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Larry Page, Google co-founder
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Georgia Techâs computer engineering program offers expertise in cybersecurity and computer architecture with affordable tuition.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$34,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: October (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Jeff Dean, Google AI lead
University of California, San Diego (UCSD) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UCSDâs computer engineering program focuses on embedded systems and machine learning with strong tech industry connections.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$47,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Andrew Ng, AI pioneer
University of Texas, Austin (UT Austin) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UT Austinâs computer engineering program excels in hardware design and AI with tech hub proximity.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$41,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: October (Priority), December (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Michael Dell, Dell Technologies founder
Purdue University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Purdueâs computer engineering program is renowned for systems design and cybersecurity with strong industry ties.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong math/science skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$41,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Neil Armstrong, astronaut (engineering background)
University of Washington (UW) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UWâs computer engineering program in Seattle offers research in AI and embedded systems with tech industry connections.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$42,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder
Cornell University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Cornellâs computer engineering program excels in hardware systems and AI with interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$84,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Bill Nye, science communicator (engineering background)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UCLAâs computer engineering program focuses on AI and hardware design with strong tech industry partnerships.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$47,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Vinton Cerf, internet pioneer
University of Wisconsin, Madison (UW-Madison) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UW-Madisonâs computer engineering program offers research in computer architecture and AI with industry ties.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$42,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), February (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: John Bardeen, transistor co-inventor
University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UMDâs computer engineering program excels in cybersecurity and embedded systems with robust research opportunities.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$41,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Sergey Brin, Google co-founder
University of Southern California (USC) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: USCâs computer engineering program in LA focuses on AI and hardware design with strong industry connections.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Neil Siegel, GPS innovator
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UCSBâs computer engineering program offers research in computer architecture and embedded systems with coastal tech hub access.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$47,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Alan Kay, GUI pioneer
University of California, Davis (UC Davis) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UC Davisâ computer engineering program excels in hardware systems and AI with sustainability-focused research.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$47,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: John Hennessy, former Stanford president
University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UC Irvineâs computer engineering program focuses on embedded systems and cybersecurity with strong tech industry ties.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$47,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November
- Notable Alumni: Roy Fielding, REST architecture creator
Princeton University - B.S.E. in Computer Science: Princetonâs computer engineering program offers a liberal arts approach with research in AI and hardware systems.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder
University of Pennsylvania - B.S.E. in Computer Engineering: Pennâs computer engineering program excels in AI and hardware design with interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Elon Musk, Tesla/SpaceX CEO
Columbia University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Columbiaâs computer engineering program in NYC focuses on AI and cybersecurity with urban tech hub access.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Robert Moog, synthesizer inventor
Duke University - B.S.E. in Computer Engineering: Dukeâs computer engineering program offers research in AI and hardware systems with strong job placement rates.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$84,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Melinda Gates, philanthropist
Northwestern University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Northwesternâs computer engineering program excels in hardware design and AI with interdisciplinary projects.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$85,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Edwin Catmull, Pixar co-founder
Johns Hopkins University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: JHUâs computer engineering program focuses on AI and cybersecurity with biomedical applications.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with excellent academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$83,000/year (financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Decision), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Michael Bloomberg, Bloomberg LP founder
University of Virginia - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UVAâs computer engineering program offers research in hardware systems and cybersecurity with collaborative projects.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$60,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UNCâs computer engineering program focuses on AI and hardware design with affordable tuition.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with strong academic records
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$39,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: October (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Paul Jones, internet archive founder
University of Florida - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UFâs computer engineering program excels in hardware systems and AI with strong research opportunities.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM skills
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$30,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Priority), March (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Tim Cook, Apple CEO
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities - B.S. in Computer Engineering: UMNâs computer engineering program offers research in computer architecture and AI with industry connections.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$37,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: November (Early Action), January (Regular)
- Notable Alumni: Seymour Cray, supercomputer pioneer
Texas A&M University - B.S. in Computer Engineering: Texas A&Mâs computer engineering program excels in hardware systems and cybersecurity with strong industry ties. The Texas A&M University College of Engineering freshman year curriculum is identical for most undergraduate degree programs. Undergraduate students are admitted to the Texas A&M College of Engineering with a preference for the major noted on their admissions application and follow the same first-year engineering curriculum.
- Eligibility: High school graduates with STEM preparation
- Program Dates: Fall and spring semesters
- Cost: ~$41,000/year (out-of-state, financial aid available)
- Application Deadline: October (Early Action)
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program
Finding the best schools for computer engineering takes research. Here are some factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Students should look for accredited institutions. Attending an institutionally accredited school makes it easier to qualify for financial aid, transfer credit to another school, and receive a high-quality education.
- Cost/Financial Aid: Consider the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses.
- Program Length: Students who want to prioritize graduating quickly can look for accelerated programs.
- University Resources/Career Services: What types of student resources does the school offer?
Online Computer Engineering Programs
Some schools offer computer engineering degree programs fully or partly online. Benefits of distance education include greater flexibility and convenience compared to traditional on-campus programs. Computer engineering may be particularly suited to online learning, because students gain so much experience working with computers and in the digital environment. Learners should weigh the pros and cons of earning their degree in computer engineering online.
Real-World Experience: The ECST Capstone Program
The ECST Capstone Program provides students with a project experience in which they apply their theoretical knowledge to an industry-defined problem, working with a real client to solve a real problem.
Supporting Student Success: The Acceleration Initiative
ECST is committed to accelerating the success of our students, through programs that build community, develop skills, and reinforce core STEM concepts, helping current and prospective Golden Eagles off to a strong start on their path toward a successful STEM career. Acceleration Initiative programs have been awarded funding by the National Science Foundation, the Helmsley Charitable Trust, the Weingart Foundation, the College Futures Foundation, the Ralph M. Parsons Foundation, and the Dwight Stuart Youth Fund.
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