- 1.Computer Hardware Engineers earn a median salary of $128,170 with 5% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Computer Engineering programs include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Purdue University-Main Campus, University of Washington-Seattle Campus based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers computer engineering education at $14,768/year with 90% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Computer Engineering programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Computer Engineering Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley EECS is top-ranked with strong tradition of collaboration and close industry ties. ECE BS on track for ABET accreditation. MEng program offers Data Science, Computer Systems, and Visual Computing concentrations. Average admitted MEng students have 3.7 GPA.
Program Overview
University of California-Berkeley's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 1,474 students annually with an impressive 96% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the BAIR Lab and Berkeley Wireless Research Center. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Apple, Intel. Silicon Valley proximity
Hakia Insight: With a 11% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI research
Wireless systems
Location Advantages
- •Silicon Valley proximity
- •Bay Area tech hub
- •Strong industry connections
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon, Intel
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Irvine
UC Irvine is the only independent computing school in the University of California system, enabling a uniquely broad, multidisciplinary approach to software engineering that bridges computer science, engineering, mathematics, and behavioral sciences.
Program Overview
University of California-Irvine's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 806 students annually with an impressive 96% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Software Engineering and Analysis Lab (SEAL) and Software Engineering & Testing Using Artificial Intelligence for Reliable Software (STAIRS). Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Google, Microsoft. Located in Orange County tech corridor
Hakia Insight: University of California-Irvine's partnerships with Amazon and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Software engineering research and analysis
AI-enhanced software testing and reliability
Telecommunications and information technology research
Location Advantages
- •Located in Orange County tech corridor
- •Proximity to major Silicon Valley and Los Angeles tech companies
- •Strong local industry connections in Irvine
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Capital One, Google, Microsoft
Admissions
University of California-San Diego
UCSD ECE won 2024 ECEDHA Innovative Program Award for significantly enhancing ECE education. Program ensures hands-on project-based learning. Starting Summer 2025, students can apply to ECE majors once per year with limited space.
Program Overview
University of California-San Diego's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 881 students annually with an impressive 81% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Jacobs School of Engineering Research and San Diego Supercomputer Center. Industry connections include partnerships with Qualcomm, Google, Illumina. San Diego tech hub
Hakia Insight: With a 23% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
ECE research
High-performance computing
Location Advantages
- •San Diego tech hub
- •Qualcomm headquarters
- •Strong biotech industry
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Qualcomm, Google, Amazon, Apple, Intel
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Los Angeles
UCLA ECE BS is ABET accredited with three major departmental areas: signals and systems, circuits and embedded systems, and physical wave electronics. Computer Engineering focuses on hardware-software systems from small IoT to large data centers.
Program Overview
University of California-Los Angeles's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 530 students annually with an impressive 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the UCLA NESL and Scalable Analytics Institute. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Apple, Netflix. Los Angeles tech hub
Hakia Insight: With a 9% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Networked and Embedded Systems
Data systems
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles tech hub
- •Entertainment industry connections
- •Silicon Beach startups
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Netflix
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
UW Allen School uniquely eliminates the traditional standalone master's degree in favor of specialized pathways: a fully-funded Ph.D. track, an exclusive fifth-year master's for their own undergraduates, and a part-time professional program for regional tech workers, all housed in the state-of-the-art Paul G. Allen Center and Bill & Melinda Gates Center facilities.
Program Overview
University of Washington-Seattle Campus's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 762 students annually with an impressive 97% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Artificial Intelligence Research and Computing + Biology Research. Industry connections include partnerships with Microsoft, Amazon, Google. Located in Seattle, a major technology hub with thriving software and life sciences sectors
Hakia Insight: University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $130,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer engineering curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Core AI research and applications
Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and life sciences
Technology design and human-computer interaction
Location Advantages
- •Located in Seattle, a major technology hub with thriving software and life sciences sectors
- •Close proximity to Microsoft, Amazon, and other major tech companies
- •Access to Puget Sound region's robust technology industry for PMP students
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Apple, Boeing
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Davis
UC Davis CS students developed and taught their own upper-division Android course covering 73% of global mobile devices. iPhone programming course fills within hours. Students can become iOS developers for ASUCD working on the UC Davis Mobile app.
Program Overview
University of California-Davis's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 614 students annually with an impressive 91% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Computer Science Research. Industry connections include partnerships with Sacramento and Bay Area tech. Bay Area proximity
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Mobile and software systems
Location Advantages
- •Bay Area proximity
- •Sacramento capital access
- •Agricultural tech innovation
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Apple, Google, Intel, HP
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Santa Cruz
UCSC pioneered the academic study of games and is consistently ranked among the top 5 game design programs worldwide, with a unique location just one hour from Silicon Valley enabling direct industry connections while maintaining a research-focused academic environment.
Program Overview
University of California-Santa Cruz's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 785 students annually with an impressive 93% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Computational Experience and Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Silicon Valley Tech Companies. One hour from Silicon Valley tech ecosystem
Hakia Insight: University of California-Santa Cruz's Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Silicon Valley Tech Companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Interdisciplinary research center focused on human computer interaction and technology for games and play
Intersection of games, human-computer interaction, and learning science
Location Advantages
- •One hour from Silicon Valley tech ecosystem
- •Close proximity to major game studios and tech companies
- •Access to both Santa Cruz main campus and Silicon Valley campus locations
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Maryland-College Park
UMD is #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities, with unique access to 400+ top industry partners and federal agencies in the National Capital Region including NSA, NIST, and the Laboratory for Physical Sciences.
Program Overview
University of Maryland-College Park's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 1,074 students annually with an impressive 84% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Information Policy and Access Center (iPAC) and Social Data Science (SoDa) Center. Industry connections include partnerships with IBM, Google, CIA. Heart of National Capital Region with access to federal agencies
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's partnerships with IBM and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Research on government decisions and information access impacts at national, regional, and community levels
Survey methods, measurement, information management, visualization, and analytics for social data science
Making digital technologies accessible for all through 'born-accessible' approach
Computer Vision Laboratory and Laboratory for Language and Media Processing
Location Advantages
- •Heart of National Capital Region with access to federal agencies
- •Proximity to NSA, NIST, NASA Goddard, and Department of Defense
- •Strong government contractor presence including Lockheed Martin, Booz Allen Hamilton
- •Access to major tech companies like Amazon Web Services and IBM
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Cornell University
Cornell ECE is ABET accredited with minimum 50 credits required for major courses. Faculty support research in quantum computing, AI, robotics, and mathematical foundations of data science. Major begins spring of sophomore year.
Program Overview
Cornell University's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 607 students annually with an impressive 95% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Security & Privacy Research Group and Artificial Intelligence & Robotics. Industry connections include partnerships with Google, Facebook, Grammarly. Ithaca research campus
Hakia Insight: With a 7% acceptance rate, Cornell University's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
security, privacy and cryptography
computer vision, natural language processing, and machine learning
decision-making support models
accessibility, educational technology, CSCW and social computing
language modeling and natural language processing
Location Advantages
- •Ithaca research campus
- •Cornell Tech NYC campus
- •Strong research facilities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia CS uniquely combines Ivy League academic rigor with Manhattan's tech ecosystem, offering specialized pathways like the dual MS in Journalism and Computer Science and faculty-invite-only personalized tracks that leverage the university's position as a global research hub in one of the world's major technology centers.
Program Overview
Columbia University in the City of New York's undergraduate Computer Engineering program graduates 450 students annually with an impressive 100% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Machine Learning Research Groups and Vision and Robotics Labs. Industry connections include partnerships with New York City Tech Industry. Manhattan location providing access to diverse tech companies and startups
Hakia Insight: Columbia University in the City of New York's Machine Learning Research Groups creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with New York City Tech Industry, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning pathway research
Computer vision, graphics, interaction, and robotics research
Computer security, privacy, and cryptography
Speech and language processing research
Location Advantages
- •Manhattan location providing access to diverse tech companies and startups
- •Proximity to financial services, media, healthcare, and tech industries
- •New York City's position as a global technology and innovation hub
- •Access to Columbia's broader research ecosystem and interdisciplinary programs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Best Computer Engineering Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's — Complete Program Data
#1. University of California-Berkeley
Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 100.0
What makes University of California-Berkeley stand out: Berkeley EECS is top-ranked with strong tradition of collaboration and close industry ties. ECE BS on track for ABET accreditation. MEng program offers Data Science, Computer Systems, and Visual Computing concentrations. Average admitted MEng students have 3.7 GPA.
Hakia Insight: With a 11% acceptance rate, University of California-Berkeley's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: Berkeley EECS combines fundamentals of computer science and electrical engineering in one major through College of Engineering. Students complete minimum 20 units upper division EECS and 40 units engineering courses. ECE BS offers hands-on experience in robotics, integrated circuits, and more.
Degree Programs: BS Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (4 years); BS Electrical and Computer Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: BAIR Lab - AI research; Berkeley Wireless Research Center - Wireless systems
Industry Partners: Google, Apple, Intel
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon, Intel | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 11%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#2. University of California-Irvine
Location: Irvine, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 90.5
What makes University of California-Irvine stand out: UC Irvine is the only independent computing school in the University of California system, enabling a uniquely broad, multidisciplinary approach to software engineering that bridges computer science, engineering, mathematics, and behavioral sciences.
Hakia Insight: University of California-Irvine's partnerships with Amazon and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: UC Irvine's Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences offers two distinct Master of Software Engineering pathways designed for different career goals. The Master of Software Engineering (MSWE) is a professionally-oriented program offering both 15-month full-time and 24-month part-time tracks, specifically tailored for working professionals and career changers. This program emphasizes practical skills through internships and industry capstone projects, with comprehensive coverage of AI for Software Engineering (AI4SE) tools and Software Engineering for AI (SE4AI) systems. For those seeking research-focused training, the M.S. Software Engineering (MSSE) program provides a heavily research-oriented experience requiring thesis completion and designed as preparation for doctoral studies or research careers in corporate and government laboratories. The school's faculty lead cutting-edge research through specialized labs including the Software Engineering and Analysis Lab (SEAL), the Software Engineering & Testing Using Artificial Intelligence for Reliable Software (STAIRS) lab, and collaborations with the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2).
Degree Programs: BS (4 years); MS (2 years); PhD
Research Labs: Software Engineering and Analysis Lab (SEAL) - Software engineering research and analysis; Software Engineering & Testing Using Artificial Intelligence for Reliable Software (STAIRS) - AI-enhanced software testing and reliability; California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2) - Telecommunications and information technology research
Industry Partners: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Capital One, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Costar Group, Veeva Systems, Northrop Grumman
Notable Faculty: Marios C. Papaefthymiou (Dean of Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences)
Admissions:
#3. University of California-San Diego
Location: La Jolla, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 88.0
What makes University of California-San Diego stand out: UCSD ECE won 2024 ECEDHA Innovative Program Award for significantly enhancing ECE education. Program ensures hands-on project-based learning. Starting Summer 2025, students can apply to ECE majors once per year with limited space.
Hakia Insight: With a 23% acceptance rate, University of California-San Diego's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UC San Diego BS Computer Engineering is jointly administered by CSE and ECE departments. Program requires 132 units with strong emphasis on engineering mathematics and computer science. Updated Fall 2024 curriculum enables exploration from both CSE and ECE perspectives.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: Jacobs School of Engineering Research - ECE research; San Diego Supercomputer Center - High-performance computing
Industry Partners: Qualcomm, Google, Illumina
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Qualcomm, Google, Amazon, Apple, Intel | Common Roles: Hardware Engineer, Software Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 23%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#4. University of California-Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 87.8
What makes University of California-Los Angeles stand out: UCLA ECE BS is ABET accredited with three major departmental areas: signals and systems, circuits and embedded systems, and physical wave electronics. Computer Engineering focuses on hardware-software systems from small IoT to large data centers.
Hakia Insight: With a 9% acceptance rate, University of California-Los Angeles's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: UCLA Computer Engineering is a designated capstone major jointly administered by CS and ECE departments. Curriculum covers mathematical and scientific disciplines in data science and embedded networked systems. Includes understanding of IoT, cyber-physical systems, and robotic systems.
Degree Programs: BS; MS; PhD
Research Labs: UCLA NESL - Networked and Embedded Systems; Scalable Analytics Institute - Data systems
Industry Partners: Google, Apple, Netflix
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Netflix | Common Roles: Hardware Engineer, Software Engineer, Systems Engineer
Notable Faculty: Xiang Anthony Chen (Human-computer interaction, sensing and interaction techniques, intelligent user interfaces, computational design and fabrication); Jason Cong (Computer system architecture, energy-efficient computing, reconfigurable computing, electronic design automation); Puneet Gupta (Design-technology co-optimization, variability and reliability-aware computer architecture, electronic design automation); Lei He (Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT), Programmable Logic (FPGA), AI-on-A-Chip, Quantum Computing); Achuta Kadambi (Computational Imaging, Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Robotics, Medical Devices); William Kaiser (Biomedical informatics, embedded systems, biomedical devices); Ankur Mehta (Printable robotics, Rapid design and fabrication, Controls algorithms, Wireless sensor networks); Majid Sarrafzadeh (Embedded systems, health analytics, biomedical systems, and algorithm design); Nader Sehatbakhsh (Security and Privacy, Computer Architecture, IoT/Embedded Systems Security, and Side-Channels); Mani B. Srivastava (Embedded software, Ubiquitous and mobile computing, Human-cyber-physical systems, Security and privacy); Lixia Zhang (Internet architecture and protocol designs, security and resiliency of large-scale systems); Omid Abari (Internet-of-Things (IoT), Digital Health, Ubiquitous Sensing, Wireless and Mobile Systems, Human-computer interaction (HCI))
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 9%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#5. University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 87.5
What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW Allen School uniquely eliminates the traditional standalone master's degree in favor of specialized pathways: a fully-funded Ph.D. track, an exclusive fifth-year master's for their own undergraduates, and a part-time professional program for regional tech workers, all housed in the state-of-the-art Paul G. Allen Center and Bill & Melinda Gates Center facilities.
Hakia Insight: University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $130,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on computer engineering curriculum.
Program Overview: The University of Washington's Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering operates as one of the nation's premier computer science programs, consistently ranking among the top programs nationally. The school offers a comprehensive graduate education ecosystem that uniquely serves different student populations without a traditional standalone master's degree. Instead, UW provides a research-intensive Ph.D. program where students earn both master's and doctoral degrees with full financial support, a Combined B.S./M.S. program (also called the Fifth Year Master's Program) exclusively for current Allen School undergraduates, and a Professional Master's Program designed as a part-time evening option for working professionals in the Puget Sound region. The school recently launched a Graduate Certificate in Modern AI Methods starting fall 2025, designed for working professionals across industries seeking to leverage cutting-edge AI and machine learning techniques.
Degree Programs: Full-time Ph.D. Program (5-7 years); Combined B.S./M.S. Program (Fifth Year Master's) (1 year beyond bachelor's); Professional Master's Program (PMP) (Variable); Graduate Certificate in Modern AI Methods (Variable)
Research Labs: Artificial Intelligence Research - Core AI research and applications; Computing + Biology Research - Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and life sciences; Human-Centered Computing Research - Technology design and human-computer interaction
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Boeing, Intel
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95%+ | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Apple, Boeing, Meta, Intel | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Research Scientist
Notable Faculty: Professor Noah Smith (Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing); Professor Sheng Wang (AI applications in healthcare); Professor Shyam Gollakota (Mobile Intelligence)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited Computer Engineering degree program
#6. University of California-Davis
Location: Davis, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 84.2
What makes University of California-Davis stand out: UC Davis CS students developed and taught their own upper-division Android course covering 73% of global mobile devices. iPhone programming course fills within hours. Students can become iOS developers for ASUCD working on the UC Davis Mobile app.
Program Overview: UC Davis CS department offers mobile development courses including student-taught Android app development and popular iOS/iPhone programming classes. Students can work on the official UC Davis Mobile app as iOS developers.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); iOS Development Specialization (Coursera) (6 months)
Research Labs: Computer Science Research - Mobile and software systems
Industry Partners: Sacramento and Bay Area tech
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Apple, Google, Intel, HP | Common Roles: Mobile Developer, iOS Developer, Software Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 37%
Accreditations: ABET
#7. University of California-Santa Cruz
Location: Santa Cruz, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 83.9
What makes University of California-Santa Cruz stand out: UCSC pioneered the academic study of games and is consistently ranked among the top 5 game design programs worldwide, with a unique location just one hour from Silicon Valley enabling direct industry connections while maintaining a research-focused academic environment.
Hakia Insight: University of California-Santa Cruz's Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Silicon Valley Tech Companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: UC Santa Cruz's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design represents one of the most prestigious and comprehensive game development programs in the world. This four-year undergraduate degree program uniquely fuses technical engineering prowess with artistic vision, focusing on the construction and design of interactive computer games. Students dive deep into the technical, narrative, and artistic foundations of game development, culminating in an intensive year-long game project sequence during their final year where they create professional-quality games from concept to completion. The program is consistently ranked among the top game design programs globally, holding the #5 spot for best game/simulation development program in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report 2024. What sets UCSC apart is its interdisciplinary approach spanning multiple divisions, fostering collaboration between engineering, arts, and social sciences. The program operates through the Baskin School of Engineering's Computational Media Department, which houses world-class research faculty and the Center for Computational Experience - an interdisciplinary research center focused on human-computer interaction and technology for games and play.
Degree Programs: B.S. Computer Science: Computer Game Design (4 years); B.A. Art & Design: Games + Playable Media (4 years); M.S. Games + Playable Media (5 quarters (1.67 years)); M.S. Computational Media (2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Computational Experience - Interdisciplinary research center focused on human computer interaction and technology for games and play; Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab - Intersection of games, human-computer interaction, and learning science
Industry Partners: Silicon Valley Tech Companies
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: not specified
Notable Faculty: Scott Beamer (Computer Hardware and Architecture); Matthew Guthaus (VLSI and Chip Design); Jose Renau (Computer Architecture and Design Automation); Heiner Litz (Computer Systems and Architecture)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: not specified
#8. University of Maryland-College Park
Location: College Park, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,889/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 83.3
What makes University of Maryland-College Park stand out: UMD is #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities, with unique access to 400+ top industry partners and federal agencies in the National Capital Region including NSA, NIST, and the Laboratory for Physical Sciences.
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's partnerships with IBM and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: The University of Maryland-College Park offers a comprehensive Information Technology ecosystem through its College of Information Studies (iSchool) and Robert H. Smith School of Business. The flagship program is the Bachelor of Science in Information Science (InfoSci), a 4-year degree requiring 120 credits that uniquely blends technical skills in database design, cybersecurity, and web development with social sciences and humanities. The program stands out for its hands-on learning approach with over 400 industry partners and access to world-renowned research centers. For graduate students, the Smith School offers both in-person and online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) programs - a 3-semester, 30-credit STEM-designated degree that focuses on AI, data analytics, and business-technology leadership. What sets UMD apart is its strategic location in the National Capital Region, surrounded by federal agencies like NSA, NIST, and major tech firms. The InfoSci program is the fastest-growing undergraduate program at UMD, while the university ranks #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities. Students benefit from partnerships with the Laboratory for Physical Sciences, quantum computing initiatives, and direct access to government and industry professionals who regularly engage in curriculum development and project collaboration.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Science (4 years); Master of Science in Information Systems (In-Person) (3 semesters); Master of Science in Information Systems (Online) (flexible)
Research Labs: Information Policy and Access Center (iPAC) - Research on government decisions and information access impacts at national, regional, and community levels; Social Data Science (SoDa) Center - Survey methods, measurement, information management, visualization, and analytics for social data science; Maryland Initiative for Digital Accessibility (MIDA) - Making digital technologies accessible for all through 'born-accessible' approach; Center for Automation Research - Computer Vision Laboratory and Laboratory for Language and Media Processing
Industry Partners: IBM, Google, CIA, National Archives, Smithsonian, Library of Congress, Laboratory for Physical Sciences, National Institute of Standards and Technology
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian, CIA, IMF, Discovery Channel, New York Times, National Geographic, Amazon, Salesforce, Capital One, Deloitte | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Database Administrator, User Experience Designer, Cybersecurity Specialist, Web Developer, Systems Architect, Business Intelligence Analyst
Notable Faculty: Siva Viswanathan (Platform design, social media and network analytics, information economics and the sharing economy); Sujin Kim (Simulation methodology and stochastic simulation-based optimization in electric power and health service systems); Lauren Rhue (Economic and social implications of technology platforms in minority communities)
Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average GPA for MSIS program
Accreditations: #18 in USA as Public Research Institution (NSF HERD Survey), #7 in USA as University for Undergraduate Entrepreneurship (The Princeton Review), #7 in Management Information Systems, Public Universities (U.S. News and World Report)
#9. Cornell University
Location: Ithaca, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $65,204/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 82.9
What makes Cornell University stand out: Cornell ECE is ABET accredited with minimum 50 credits required for major courses. Faculty support research in quantum computing, AI, robotics, and mathematical foundations of data science. Major begins spring of sophomore year.
Hakia Insight: With a 7% acceptance rate, Cornell University's computer engineering program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: Cornell ECE provides foundation reflecting broad scope of electrical and computer engineering. Concentrations include computer architecture, embedded systems, robotics, power systems, communications, signal processing, VLSI, nanotechnology, and more. Minimum 126 credits required.
Degree Programs: BS; M.Eng. (1 year); M.Eng.; Ph.D.
Research Labs: Security & Privacy Research Group - security, privacy and cryptography; Artificial Intelligence & Robotics - computer vision, natural language processing, and machine learning; Data & Modeling Research Group - decision-making support models; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) & Social Computing - accessibility, educational technology, CSCW and social computing; Cornell Language, Interaction, and Learning (LIL) Lab - language modeling and natural language processing
Industry Partners: Google, Facebook, Grammarly, IBM, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM | Common Roles: Hardware Engineer, Software Engineer, Systems Engineer
Notable Faculty: Vitaly Shmatikov (Digital privacy, computer security, security and privacy issues in machine learning); Yoav Artzi (Language modeling, machine learning, natural language processing); Noah Snavely (Computer vision, computer graphics); Nathan Kallus (Machine learning, data mining and signal processing)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 7%
Accreditations: ABET Accredited
#10. Columbia University in the City of New York
Location: New York, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,526/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 82.1
What makes Columbia University in the City of New York stand out: Columbia CS uniquely combines Ivy League academic rigor with Manhattan's tech ecosystem, offering specialized pathways like the dual MS in Journalism and Computer Science and faculty-invite-only personalized tracks that leverage the university's position as a global research hub in one of the world's major technology centers.
Hakia Insight: Columbia University in the City of New York's Machine Learning Research Groups creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with New York City Tech Industry, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: Columbia University's Computer Science program sits at the heart of Manhattan's vibrant tech ecosystem, offering a comprehensive Master of Science degree that spans ten specialized pathways from Machine Learning to Computational Biology. The 30-credit program requires students to complete coursework at the 4000 level or above, with at least 6 points at the advanced 6000 level, while maintaining a 2.7 GPA. What sets Columbia apart is its faculty-determined pathway system that allows deep specialization in areas like Computer Security, Natural Language Processing, Vision Graphics Interaction and Robotics, and Software Systems, alongside unique offerings like the dual MS in Journalism and Computer Science. The program leverages Columbia's position in New York City to provide unparalleled industry connections and career opportunities across multiple sectors. Students can participate in state-of-the-art research within the department's specialized labs and research groups, while the Columbia Video Network (CVN) option extends access to working professionals. The department also offers an innovative MS Bridge Program and maintains strong ties to Columbia Engineering's broader research ecosystem, including partnerships with the Data Science Institute and various interdisciplinary centers.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (2 years); Dual MS in Journalism and Computer Science (5 semesters); MS Bridge Program (2 years); Computer Engineering MS (2 years)
Research Labs: Machine Learning Research Groups - Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning pathway research; Vision and Robotics Labs - Computer vision, graphics, interaction, and robotics research; Security and Privacy Research Groups - Computer security, privacy, and cryptography; Natural Language Processing Labs - Speech and language processing research
Industry Partners: New York City Tech Industry
Career Outcomes:
Admissions: GPA: Minimum 2.7 GPA to maintain standing
Best Computer Engineering Programs - Compare Top 5 Bachelor's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 90.5/100 |
| #3 University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | 88.0/100 |
| #4 University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | 87.8/100 |
| #5 University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | 87.5/100 |
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Complete Computer Engineering Bachelor's Rankings
| Location | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | $11,834 | 96% | — | 90.5 |
| 3 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | $11,834 | 81% | — | 88 |
| 4 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | $11,834 | 92% | — | 87.8 |
| 5 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | $11,524 | 97% | — | 87.5 |
| 6 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | $11,834 | 91% | — | 84.2 |
| 7 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | $11,834 | 93% | — | 83.9 |
| 8 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | $9,889 | 84% | — | 83.3 |
| 9 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | $65,204 | 95% | — | 82.9 |
| 10 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | $64,526 | 100% | — | 82.1 |
| 11 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | $66,640 | 92% | — | 80.7 |
| 12 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | $5,742 | 83% | — | 80.4 |
| 13 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | $11,834 | 90% | — | 79.9 |
| 14 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | $14,768 | 90% | — | 79.6 |
| 15 | University of California-Merced | Merced, CA | $11,834 | 95% | — | 78.1 |
| 16 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | $9,718 | 83% | — | 78.1 |
| 17 | University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Amherst, MA | $16,591 | 90% | — | 77.1 |
| 18 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | $7,019 | 93% | — | 76.9 |
| 19 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | $9,003 | 84% | — | 76 |
| 20 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | $11,834 | 83% | — | 76 |
| 21 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | $62,260 | 98% | — | 75.6 |
| 22 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | $7,070 | 89% | — | 75.2 |
| 23 | Princeton University | Princeton, NJ | $59,710 | 96% | — | 75.1 |
| 24 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | $5,742 | 100% | — | 74.9 |
| 25 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | $11,678 | 89% | — | 74.5 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
How Much Does a Computer Engineering Bachelors Degree Cost?
The total cost of a bachelors's degree in Computer Engineering ranges from $48,000 at public universities to over $220,000 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (US News, IPEDS 2023-24).
- Public University (In-State): $12,000/year × 4 years = $48,000 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $32,000/year × 4 years = $128,000 total
- Private University: $55,000/year × 4 years = $220,000 total
- Online Programs: $18,000/year × 4 years = $72,000 total
With median starting salaries of $155,020, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
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.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. 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
Bachelor of Arts vs Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
| Factor | Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Bachelor of Science (BS) |
|---|---|---|
| Math Requirements | Not typically offered for computer engineering | Calculus I-III, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Discrete Math, Probability |
| Science Requirements | Not applicable | Physics I-II (with labs), Chemistry, Engineering Sciences |
| Core Credits | Not applicable | Engineering core: 70-90 credits including EE and CS fundamentals |
| Liberal Arts | Not applicable | Technical communication, engineering ethics, project management |
| Career Focus | Not applicable | Hardware Engineer, Embedded Systems, Chip Design, FPGA Development |
Source: ABET criteria, university curriculum analysis (MIT, Stanford, Berkeley)
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering combines electrical engineering and computer science to design and develop computer systems and their components. Students learn both hardware and software development, studying everything from microprocessors and circuit design to programming and software architecture. This interdisciplinary field prepares graduates for careers spanning software engineering, hardware development, and systems integration.
Computer engineering bachelor's programs typically require 128-132 credit hours over four years. Core coursework includes digital logic design, computer architecture, embedded systems, programming languages, data structures, and algorithms. Advanced courses cover topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and machine learning. Most programs require hands-on laboratory work and capstone design projects.
The field offers excellent career prospects with computer hardware engineers earning a median annual wage of $132,360 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Employment is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Graduates find opportunities in technology companies, aerospace firms, telecommunications, and emerging fields like autonomous vehicles and IoT devices.
Getting Started: No Prior Experience Needed
A Computer Engineering bachelor's degree requires no prior programming or technical experience. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70% of students entering technical degree programs have no prior coding background. Programs are designed to take complete beginners to job-ready professionals over four years.
What to Expect Your First Year:
- Introduction to programming fundamentals (typically Python or Java)
- Mathematics foundations including calculus, discrete math, and linear algebra
- Computer systems basics and computational thinking
- Problem-solving methodologies and algorithmic thinking
Research from Computing Research Association shows that students who engage with tutoring services and study groups in their first year have 23% higher retention rates. Most universities offer dedicated support including office hours, peer tutoring, and programming labs. Success comes from consistent practice—not prior experience.
General Education Requirements
Bachelor's programs typically require 40-60 credit hours of general education courses alongside your Computer Engineering major. These requirements, mandated by regional accreditation bodies, ensure graduates develop well-rounded communication and critical thinking skills valued by employers.
Common General Education Requirements:
- English Composition (6 credits) — Technical writing skills are essential; 89% of developers write documentation weekly (Stack Overflow Survey 2024)
- Mathematics (6-12 credits) — Calculus I & II, plus statistics for data-focused roles
- Natural Sciences (6-8 credits) — Physics is particularly relevant for hardware-adjacent specializations
- Social Sciences/Humanities (6-12 credits) — Ethics courses increasingly important given AI regulation
- Communication (3 credits) — Presentation skills for technical demos and stakeholder meetings
Pro tip: Many schools allow AP/IB credits or CLEP exams to satisfy gen-ed requirements, potentially saving $3,000-$10,000 in tuition. Check your target school's transfer credit policies before enrolling.
Campus Resources for Students
Top Computer Engineering programs provide extensive support infrastructure to help students succeed. According to EDUCAUSE research, students who utilize campus resources are 34% more likely to graduate on time.
Essential Campus Resources:
- Computer Labs — 24/7 access to high-performance workstations, often with specialized software (MATLAB, AWS credits, GPU clusters)
- Career Services — Resume reviews, mock interviews, and direct recruiter connections; top programs host 50+ tech companies annually
- Tutoring Centers — Free peer tutoring for programming, math, and core courses; many offer drop-in hours
- Student Organizations — ACM chapters, hackathon teams, and Women in Computing groups provide networking and project experience
- Research Opportunities — Undergraduate research positions with faculty can lead to publications and graduate school recommendations
When evaluating programs, ask about student-to-advisor ratios. The NACADA recommends no more than 300:1 for effective academic advising, though top tech programs often achieve 150:1 or better.
Internships & Co-op Programs
Computer Engineering internships offer the highest compensation of any undergraduate major, with an average hourly wage of $24.76 according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2024 Report. Top-tier companies pay significantly more—often 3-5x the average rate.
Top Employers for Computer Engineering Interns:
- Google — $8,000-$10,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Amazon — $7,500-$9,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Microsoft — $7,000-$9,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Meta — $6,500-$8,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Apple — $6,000-$8,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
53% of interns receive full-time job offers from their internship employers (NACE 2024). For paid internships specifically, the conversion rate jumps to 70-75%. Most applications open August-October for the following summer—start preparing early.
For salary expectations after graduation, see our software developer salary guide.
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems
Hardware Engineer
Design and develop computer hardware components and systems
Systems Engineer
Design and integrate complex computer systems and networks
Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems
Design secure systems and protect against cyber threats
Bridge development and operations to streamline software deployment
Bachelor's vs Associate's vs Bootcamp
Choosing between a bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or coding bootcamp depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path offers distinct advantages for entering the Computer Engineering field.
Bachelor's Degree (4 years, $40K-$160K)
- Comprehensive theoretical foundation plus hands-on skills
- Required for most senior/management positions and graduate school
- Median starting salary: $75,000 (NACE 2024)
- Best for: Students seeking long-term career growth and research opportunities
Associate's Degree (2 years, $10K-$30K)
- Faster entry into entry-level positions
- Many credits transfer to 4-year programs (2+2 pathway)
- Median starting salary: $50,000-$60,000
- Best for: Career changers or those testing interest before committing to 4 years
Coding Bootcamp (12-24 weeks, $10K-$20K)
- Intensive, job-focused training on current industry tools
- Many offer income share agreements (ISAs) or deferred tuition
- Median starting salary: $65,000-$80,000 for graduates with strong portfolios
- Best for: Career changers with self-discipline; see our Computer Engineering bootcamp rankings
For a detailed ROI comparison, read our analysis: Bootcamp vs Master's Degree: Which Has Better ROI?
Preparing for Graduate School
A bachelor's in Computer Engineering provides an excellent foundation for graduate study. According to the Computing Research Association, 25% of CS bachelor's graduates pursue advanced degrees within five years of graduation, with master's holders earning 20-30% more than bachelor's-only peers.
Preparing for Graduate School During Your Bachelor's:
- Maintain GPA above 3.5 — Most competitive programs require 3.3+ minimum; top-10 programs average 3.7+
- Secure research experience — 2+ semesters with faculty dramatically improves PhD admission chances
- Build faculty relationships — You will need 3 strong recommendation letters; start early
- Take graduate-level courses — Many programs allow undergrads to enroll; demonstrates readiness
- Prepare for GRE (if required) — Quantitative scores above 165 expected for top programs
Graduate Degree Options:
- Master's (1-2 years) — Career-focused; average salary boost of $15,000-$25,000; see our best Computer Engineering master's programs
- PhD (4-6 years) — Research-focused; typically fully funded with $30,000-$45,000 stipend; required for professorships and research scientist roles
- Professional Master's — Industry-sponsored programs (Google, Facebook) combine coursework with company projects
Choose Your Program Type Based On
- You plan to pursue graduate school or research careers
- Cost is not a primary concern
- You want small classes and personalized attention
- You're interested in cutting-edge research areas
- You want excellent education at lower cost
- You're comfortable in larger class settings
- You value diverse student body and experiences
- You're focused on industry careers over research
- You want to stay close to home
- You're interested in specific industry partnerships
- You prefer smaller school environment
- Cost and financial aid are primary concerns
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Computer Engineering Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
- Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
- Career services and interview prep included in most programs
- Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
- Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
- Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
- Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
- Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
- May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Computer Engineering careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
We may earn a commission when you use our affiliate link and coupon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Engineering Degrees
Based on 150 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Ranking Factors
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Measures accreditation as a factor in overall program quality.
Return on investment from tuition costs relative to expected earnings.
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing comprehensive information on postsecondary education institutions
U.S. Department of Education database with outcomes and financial data
Federal statistical agency providing employment and wage data
Official accreditor of engineering and technology programs
How to Choose the Right Computer Engineering Program
Selecting the best computer engineering program requires evaluating multiple factors beyond rankings. Start by examining curriculum alignment with your career goals. Students interested in hardware development should prioritize programs with strong electrical engineering foundations and access to fabrication facilities. Those focused on software and systems should look for programs emphasizing programming, algorithms, and software engineering methodologies.
Research opportunities significantly impact your educational experience and career prospects. Look for programs where undergraduates can participate in faculty research projects, particularly in emerging areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, or cybersecurity. Schools like MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon offer extensive undergraduate research programs that often lead to publications and graduate school opportunities.
Consider location and industry connections when making your decision. Programs in tech hubs like California Silicon Valley, Austin, or Seattle provide more internship opportunities and direct industry access. However, don't overlook strong programs in other regions that may offer better value or specialized research areas. Schools like UIUC and Georgia Tech maintain excellent industry relationships despite not being in traditional tech centers.
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.