Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs 2025
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
396 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
University of California-Irvine
191 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
Ohio State University-Main Campus
455 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
- 1.486 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 14.0901)
- 2.Median tuition of $13,250/year for in-state students at public universities compared to $45,120 at private institutions
- 3.72% average 6-year graduation rate across all programs with top-tier schools exceeding 90% (IPEDS 2023 gr2023)
- 4.Median starting salary of $78,000 for computer engineering graduates with top programs achieving $85,000-$115,000 (BLS OEWS May 2024)
- 5.High job growth projected at 8% from 2022-2032, faster than average for all occupations (BLS Employment Projections)
Computer Engineering Degree Overview: What You'll Learn
Computer engineering combines electrical engineering principles with computer science concepts to design and develop computer systems and hardware. This interdisciplinary field prepares graduates for careers in software engineering, AI/ML engineering, embedded systems design, and hardware development.
Our comprehensive analysis of 486 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs uses data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024 to rank programs based on graduation rates (40%), student-faculty ratios (30%), career outcomes (20%), and selectivity (10%). The computer engineering degree hub provides additional program information and career pathways.
Computer engineering graduates pursue diverse career paths including DevOps engineering, systems architecture, cybersecurity analysis, and embedded software development. The field offers strong job security with 8% projected growth through 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.
Top Programs Analysis: Elite vs Accessible Excellence
The top-ranked computer engineering programs demonstrate clear patterns in their success factors. MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley maintain their dominance through exceptional faculty-to-student ratios, world-class research facilities, and strong industry partnerships. These programs consistently produce graduates with starting salaries exceeding $100,000 annually.
Public universities like Georgia Tech (#5) and University of Illinois (#6) offer exceptional value propositions, combining rigorous academics with affordable tuition. Georgia Tech's in-state tuition of $10,258 represents outstanding value for a program ranked in the top 5 globally, while maintaining a 90% graduation rate and strong career outcomes.
Top 50 Computer Engineering Programs 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 86 |
| 2 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 85.7 |
| 3 | Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, OH | Public | $11,826 | 90% | — | 85 |
| 4 | University of California-Merced | Merced, CA | Public | $11,834 | 95% | — | 84.2 |
| 5 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 80.9 |
| 6 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | — | 79.7 |
| 7 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | 78.5 |
| 8 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | 75.8 |
| 9 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Atlanta, GA | Public | $10,258 | 76% | — | 74.6 |
| 10 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 74.5 |
| 11 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 74 |
| 12 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 73.9 |
| 13 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 73.3 |
| 14 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 71.2 |
| 15 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 70.7 |
| 16 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | 70.7 |
| 17 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | 70.3 |
| 18 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | 70.3 |
| 19 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | 69.4 |
| 20 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | Private | $58,587 | 91% | — | 68.8 |
| 21 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 68.6 |
| 22 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | Public | $6,535 | 85% | — | 68.5 |
| 23 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 68.3 |
| 24 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona, CA | Public | $5,742 | 87% | — | 68 |
| 25 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 66.7 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Compare Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | 86.0 |
| #2 University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 85.7 |
| #3 Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, OH | Public | $11,826 | 90% | 85.0 |
| #4 University of California-Merced | Merced, CA | Public | $11,834 | 95% | 84.2 |
| #5 University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | 80.9 |
Program Spotlights: Deep Dive into Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs
These detailed program profiles showcase what makes each top-ranked computer engineering program exceptional. From MIT's pioneering research labs to Georgia Tech's industry partnerships, these institutions set the standard for computer engineering education and career preparation.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,768 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 396 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 44%
- • Ranking Score: 86.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 396 computer engineering graduates annually
- Located in IL with median salary of $113,200
- Public institution with 44% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 86.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 for Computer Engineering based on graduation rate (90%), program size (396 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (44% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Computer Engineering program offers extensive specializations across 18 different areas including AI, quantum systems, and cybersecurity. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities, industry partnerships, and specialized facilities like PCB prototyping labs.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 191 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 26%
- • Ranking Score: 85.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 191 computer engineering graduates annually
- Located in CA with median salary of $145,770
- Public institution with 26% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 85.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 for Computer Engineering based on graduation rate (96%), program size (191 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (26% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
University of California-Irvine offers a strong Computer Engineering program, maintaining high academic standards with a selective 26% acceptance rate. Located in California, students benefit from proximity to major tech employers and strong industry connections.
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,826 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 455 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 51%
- • Ranking Score: 85.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 455 computer engineering graduates annually
- Located in OH with median salary of $100,180
- Public institution with 51% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 85.0 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Computer Engineering based on graduation rate (90%), program size (455 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (51% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers specialized tracks in both Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering, providing flexibility in career focus. Students have access to extensive undergraduate research opportunities including distinguished research forums and scholarship programs, supported by industry partnerships like Honda-Ohio State.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-Merced
Merced, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 217 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 39%
- • Ranking Score: 84.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 217 computer engineering graduates annually
- Located in CA with median salary of $145,770
- Public institution with 39% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 84.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 for Computer Engineering based on graduation rate (95%), program size (217 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (39% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UC Merced offers a Computer Science and Engineering B.S. program taught by faculty from world's top-ranked universities, with comprehensive career support including specialized career guides and assessment tools. The program requires strong mathematical foundation and maintains rigorous academic standards with C- minimum grade requirements.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 021: Calculus I for Physical Sciences and Engineering
- •MATH 022: Calculus II for Physical Sciences and Engineering
- •MATH 023: Vector Calculus
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 174 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 80.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 174 computer engineering graduates annually
- Located in CA with median salary of $145,770
- Public institution with 25% acceptance rate
- Overall score: 80.9 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 for Computer Engineering based on graduation rate (81%), program size (174 graduates), state salary outcomes, and selectivity (25% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UCSD's Computer Engineering program offers strong research opportunities through partnerships with the San Diego Supercomputer Center and Calit2's Qualcomm Institute, while providing industry connections for internships that allow students to apply academic knowledge toward commercial technologies.
Admission Prerequisites
- •History/social science (2 years)
- •English (4 years)
- •Mathematics (3 years, 4 recommended)
- •Laboratory science (2 years, 3 recommended)
- •Language other than English (2 years, 3 recommended)
- •Visual and performing arts (1 year)
- •College preparatory elective (1 year)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0 for California residents, 3.4 for non-California residents
Program Details
- Credits: 124 units
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Outcomes: High-Paying Paths for Computer Engineering Graduates
Computer engineering graduates enjoy excellent career prospects across multiple high-growth technology sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree opens doors to roles in software development, AI/ML engineering, embedded systems, and hardware design. through 2032, significantly faster than average, computer engineering remains one of the most stable and lucrative STEM career paths.
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms using programming languages and development frameworks.
Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and develop computer hardware components including processors, memory devices, and circuit boards.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems for applications in automation, data analysis, and intelligent systems.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1299Bridge development and operations teams by implementing automation, continuous integration, and deployment pipelines.
Cybersecurity Engineer
SOC 15-1212Design and implement security systems to protect computer networks, systems, and data from cyber threats.
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 17-2061Develop software and firmware for embedded systems in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and IoT applications.
Network Architect
SOC 15-1241Design and implement computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and cloud infrastructure.
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Analyze business requirements and design technology solutions to improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Computer Engineering Programs by State: Geographic Distribution
Computer engineering programs are distributed across all 50 states, with significant concentrations in technology hubs and states with strong engineering traditions. California programs lead in quantity and quality, while states like Texas and New York offer diverse options for students seeking different regional opportunities and specializations.
Top States for Computer Engineering Education
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Pennsylvania
Illinois
Ohio
Michigan
Georgia
How Much Does a Computer Engineering Degree Cost?
Computer engineering degree costs vary significantly by institution type and state residency. Public universities offer substantial savings for in-state students, with median annual tuition of $13,250 compared to $45,120 at private institutions. When considering total 4-year costs including room, board, and fees, the difference can exceed $150,000.
Financial aid opportunities are abundant for computer engineering students. Merit-based scholarships often target STEM majors, while need-based aid can significantly reduce costs. Many students also participate in paid internships and co-op programs that provide both experience and income. For comprehensive financial planning, see our FAFSA guide for STEM majors and scholarship opportunities for women in tech.
Choosing the Right Computer Engineering Program: Decision Framework
Selecting the optimal computer engineering program requires balancing multiple factors including academic quality, cost, location, and career goals. Consider your preferred learning environment, research interests, and target career path when evaluating programs.
Which Should You Choose?
- You prioritize prestige and are willing to pay premium tuition
- You want access to cutting-edge research and top-tier faculty
- You're targeting roles at major tech companies or startups
- You plan to pursue graduate school or academic research
- You want excellent education at lower cost, especially in-state
- You value large, diverse student populations and extensive resources
- You're interested in strong industry partnerships and co-op programs
- You want access to major tech hubs with reasonable tuition
- You're a working professional seeking career advancement
- You need flexible scheduling to balance work and family
- You prefer self-paced learning with recorded lectures
- You want to minimize relocation and living expenses
- You want smaller class sizes and more personalized attention
- You're interested in specific specializations like embedded systems
- You prefer to stay close to home or target regional employers
- You want to minimize debt while still getting quality education
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Engineering Programs
Alternative Paths to Computer Engineering Careers
While a traditional computer engineering degree provides the most comprehensive preparation, alternative pathways exist for career changers and those seeking faster entry into the field. Tech bootcamps offer intensive training in specific skills like software development, while cloud certifications can provide direct pathways to infrastructure roles.
Self-taught developers can build portfolios through open source contributions and personal projects. However, computer engineering roles often require deeper understanding of hardware-software integration and systems-level thinking that formal education provides. Consider hybrid approaches like completing a computer science degree with embedded systems coursework.
Is a Computer Engineering Degree Worth It in 2025?
Computer engineering offers excellent return on investment with high starting salaries, strong job security, and growing demand. The median starting salary of $78,000 provides quick payback on educational investment, while mid-career salaries exceeding $125,000 offer long-term financial stability.
The field's versatility allows graduates to pivot between hardware and software roles as technology evolves. Skills in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity remain highly valued across industries. For career transition guidance, see our transitioning to tech guide and tech career pivots analysis.
Based on 486 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Engineering degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer engineering salaries from BLS OES 2024
Data Sources and References
Institutional characteristics, completion data, graduation rates, admissions data, and tuition information for all accredited institutions
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for computer hardware engineers and related occupations
Accreditation status and program information for engineering and technology programs
Engineering education statistics and workforce data
Explore Related Computer Engineering Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.