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Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZPublic
Arizona State University: A Tranquil Visual Tour Across Our Campuses$11,478
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
74.9
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Arizona State University ..., Arizona State University ..., Northern Arizona
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $1,944 to $40,680/year
Mesa Community College offers the most affordable option at $2,328/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 13 associate's, 6 master's, 3 doctoral in Arizona
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
7 online computer engineering degree programs in Arizona
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Arizona community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
13 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Intel, GoDaddy, Axon, Carvana
Tech hubs in Phoenix and Scottsdale
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 25+ cities across Arizona
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Arizona Computer Engineering programs
We rank 31 accredited computer engineering programs in Arizona using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Arizona Worth It?
Answer
$105,930
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Arizona deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $105,930 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $7,981/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Arizona
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Arizona by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Arizona
3
Programs ranked
$21,755
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arizona ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 9 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Arizona State University ..., Arizona State University ..., Northern Arizona, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Arizona computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $90,041, 8% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Intel, GoDaddy, Axon.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,552 to $40,680 annually, with an average of $15,768/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 73%, with the highest reaching 98%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Arizona's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Arizona, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
Prescott, AZPrivate nonprofit
$42,408
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
71.2
Hakia Score
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Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZPublic
Discover NAU's University Union: Best Eats, Study Spots & Student Life$11,378
Tuition/yr
61%
Grad rate
68.2
Hakia Score
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Arizona
1
Programs ranked
$11,478
Avg tuition/yr
68%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arizona offers 6 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Arizona State University ..., Arizona State University ..., Northern Arizona, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Arizona earn a median salary of $105,930, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Intel, GoDaddy, Axon actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $13,338/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Arizona's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZPublic
Arizona State University: A Tranquil Visual Tour Across Our Campuses$11,478
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
73.5
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Arizona
1
Programs ranked
$11,478
Avg tuition/yr
68%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arizona is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Arizona State University ..., Aspen, U of Arizona are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Arizona PhD holders earning a median of $132,413, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Intel, GoDaddy, Axon.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Arizona programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Arizona, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZPublic
$11,478
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
68.8
Hakia Score
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Arizona
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $7,981/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $19,953/year |
| Community college tuition | $1,995/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $47,888 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $11,972 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Arizona
State Aid Programs
The Arizona Promise Program guarantees tuition and fees for eligible low-income Arizona residents at ASU, UArizona, and NAU (Arizona Promise). Students must be Arizona residents, graduate high school with minimum 2.5 GPA, complete FAFSA by April 1, and qualify for any Pell Grant. This program makes flagship engineering education accessible.
Key Programs & Amounts
Additional Arizona aid programs:
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2024-25
- Arizona Native Scholars Grant: For Native American students
- Engineering scholarships: ASU Fulton Schools offers departmental awards
- Corporate sponsorship: TSMC, Intel fund scholarships and apprenticeships TSMC has launched apprenticeship programs combining work with education at Maricopa community colleges.
Institutional Scholarships
FAFSA priority deadlines matter.
ASU's priority date is January 15. UArizona and NAU use April 1. Complete FAFSA early, by October 1, to maximize aid. Semiconductor company sponsorships increasingly provide tuition assistance for students committing to work at Arizona facilities. Engineering scholarships are competitive but available.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Arizona
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Arizona. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$126,316
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,325,139
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Phoenix, AZ)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Engineering Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Arizona metro areas
Phoenix$117K
Scottsdale$111K
Tempe$106K
Tucson$101K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Phoenix | $117K |
| Scottsdale | $111K |
| Tempe | $106K |
| Tucson | $101K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Arizona
Find computer engineering jobs in Arizona. These major employers across Arizona metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Phoenix
AZThe Phoenix metro is the 5th largest in the US with a growing tech sector. Intel, Amazon, and major defense contractors have significant operations here.
Nearby cities: Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise
Intel
Semiconductor/AI
Amazon
E-commerce/Cloud
Honeywell
Aerospace/Industrial
American Express
Financial Services
Banner Health
Healthcare IT
State Farm
Insurance/Tech
Computer Engineering Jobs in Tucson
AZTucson is home to the University of Arizona and major defense contractors like Raytheon. The metro offers lower cost of living than Phoenix.
Nearby cities: Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita, Green Valley, Sierra Vista
Raytheon
Defense/Aerospace
University of Arizona
Higher Education/Research
Caterpillar
Manufacturing/Mining Tech
Computer Engineering Jobs in Scottsdale
AZThe Scottsdale-Tempe corridor is a major tech hub with GoDaddy, Axon, and numerous startups. ASU drives talent pipeline.
Nearby cities: Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, Carefree
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Arizona
State Transfer System
Arizona's transfer system is coordinated by AZTransfer (aztransfer.com). Maricopa Community Colleges, the nation's largest community college district, offers engineering pathways designed for seamless transfer to ASU, UArizona, and NAU. Course equivalencies are guaranteed through articulation agreements, minimizing credit loss.
How Transfers Work
Strategic transfer preparation for computer engineering:
- 1Complete math early: Calculus I-III, differential equations, linear algebra
- 2Finish physics sequence: Calculus-based physics I and II
- 3Take programming courses: C/C++, digital logic if available
- 4Target 3.0+ GPA: Engineering programs require solid academic records Maricopa, Pima, and Yavapai community colleges offer strong STEM preparation.
Transfer Planning Tips
Transfer saves significant costs.
Community college tuition ranges from $85-$92 per credit hour for in-district students versus ASU's approximately $12,000+ annually. Completing two years at community college saves $15,000-$25,000 on total degree costs. TSMC has partnered with Maricopa Colleges on a 10-day Semiconductor Technician Quick Start program.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Arizona?
Industry & Workforce
Arizona is emerging as America's semiconductor capital, creating unprecedented opportunities for computer engineering graduates. TSMC's $65 billion investment will bring three leading-edge semiconductor fabs to north Phoenix, with the first fab beginning production in 2025 using N4 process technology (TSMC). Intel's $20 billion expansion in Chandler adds to Arizona's semiconductor dominance. These investments are creating thousands of high-paying computer engineering jobs.
Salary Outlook
The salary outlook reflects explosive demand.
Computer hardware engineers in Arizona earn $115,000-$145,000, while software engineers at semiconductor facilities command $107,000-$175,000 (Glassdoor, Levels.fyi). TSMC's average manufacturing salaries exceed Arizona's $88,868 manufacturing average. The CHIPS Act has funneled $6.6 billion to TSMC and $8.5 billion to Intel for Arizona expansion, ensuring sustained demand for years.
Regional Tech Hubs
Arizona universities are expanding to meet demand.
ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering rank among the nation's largest and most comprehensive, with dedicated semiconductor tracks. The University of Arizona emphasizes hardware systems and space technology. Arizona's favorable climate, lower cost of living than California, and industry investment create compelling career opportunities. Compare programs in Texas, California, or explore national rankings.
Computer Engineering Job Growth in Arizona
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer engineering occupations in Arizona through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $105,930 with 22 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Arizona
Employment Outlook
Arizona's tech industry has reached $32.4 billion in earnings with jobs growing twice as fast as other sectors (CompTIA State of Tech Workforce 2025). The semiconductor boom is creating exponential demand. TSMC will employ 6,000 workers across three fabs by the end of the decade, with nearly 4,500 already hired or in process. Intel's Chandler campus adds thousands of additional positions.
Salaries by Metro
Salary ranges reflect semiconductor demand:
- TSMC Software Engineers: $107,000-$175,000 (entry to senior)
- Intel Hardware Engineers: $95,000-$160,000
- Aerospace/Defense Engineers: $100,000-$140,000
- General Tech Companies: $90,000-$130,000
- Entry-Level Engineers: $75,000-$95,000 Phoenix tech salaries are starting at $88,448 on average, with specialized roles commanding significant premiums (Glassdoor).
High-Growth Sectors
High-demand computer engineering skills include: VLSI design, semiconductor manufacturing, embedded systems, FPGA programming, verification/validation, and digital signal processing. The aerospace sector (Raytheon, Boeing, Honeywell) emphasizes reliability and real-time systems. For related paths, explore software engineering or electrical engineering.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Arizona$68,855$153,599
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Arizona
Online Programs
7 available in Arizona
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$7,183/yr$7,981/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Nevada
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $7,900
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Utah
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $6,300
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New Mexico
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 24
- Median Tuition
- $12,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Arizona: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Arizona?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Arizona based on our methodology are: 1) Arizona State University Campus Immersion (81% graduation rate), 2) Arizona State University Digital Immersion, and 3) Northern Arizona University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Arizona offers 22 total accredited programs across 16 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 9 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Arizona?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Arizona vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $7,981/year, while private institutions average $17,558/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $1,995/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $31,924 at public schools to $70,233 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer engineering degree graduates earn in Arizona?
Computer Engineering professionals in Arizona earn a median salary of $105,930, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $68,855, while senior roles exceed $153,599. Salaries vary by metro area: Phoenix ($116,523), Scottsdale ($111,227) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer engineering degree programs in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona offers 7 accredited online Computer Engineering programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Scottsdale Community College and Aspen University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer engineering degree graduates in Arizona?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Arizona include Intel, GoDaddy, Axon, Carvana, Microchip Technology. The Phoenix and Scottsdale metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Arizona universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Arizona's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Arizona?
A computer engineering degree program in Arizona offers strong ROI with a $105,930 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $7,981/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($119,701), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer engineering degree programs take in Arizona?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Arizona are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Arizona community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Arizona university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Arizona?
Arizona computer engineering degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Arizona state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Arizona's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Arizona salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.