Top 3 Best Value Computer Engineering Programs
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.Public universities dominate value rankings with in-state tuition averaging $13,400 annually
- 2.Top value programs show 87% average graduation rates and +
- 3.Computer engineering graduates see 15% job growth projected through 2032 according to BLS data
- 4.Best ROI programs combine low tuition with strong industry connections and co-op opportunities
- 5.Geographic location significantly impacts both program costs and post-graduation salary potential
Best Value Computer Engineering Programs 2025
| Rank | School | Location | Type | In-State Tuition | Grad Rate | Starting Salary | 10-Year ROI | Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | — | — |
| 2 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | — | — |
| 3 | Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, OH | Public | $11,826 | 90% | — | — | — |
| 4 | University of California-Merced | Merced, CA | Public | $11,834 | 95% | — | — | — |
| 5 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | — | — |
| 6 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | — | — | — |
| 7 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | — | — |
| 8 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | — | — |
| 9 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Atlanta, GA | Public | $10,258 | 76% | — | — | — |
| 10 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | — | — |
| 11 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | — | — |
| 12 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | — | — |
| 13 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | — | — |
| 14 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | — | — |
| 15 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | — | — |
| 16 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | Private | $64,526 | 100% | — | — | — |
| 17 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | — | — | — |
| 18 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | — | — |
| 19 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | — | — |
| 20 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | Private | $58,587 | 91% | — | — | — |
| 21 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | — | — |
| 22 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | Public | $6,535 | 85% | — | — | — |
| 23 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | — | — |
| 24 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona, CA | Public | $5,742 | 87% | — | — | — |
| 25 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | — | — |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Compare Top 5 Unknown 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 |
Computer Engineering Career Outcomes and Salary Analysis
Computer engineering graduates enter one of the most dynamic and well-compensated fields in technology, with career paths spanning hardware design, embedded systems, and software-hardware integration. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer hardware engineers through 2032, significantly faster than the 3% average for all occupations.
Entry-level positions for computer engineering graduates include embedded systems engineer, hardware design engineer, and systems integration specialist roles. These positions typically start between $75,000-$95,000 annually, with top program graduates commanding premium salaries due to their comprehensive technical preparation and problem-solving capabilities.
The field offers exceptional advancement opportunities, with senior computer engineers and technical leads earning $120,000-$180,000+ within 5-10 years of graduation. Many professionals transition into specialized roles such as AI/ML engineering, semiconductor design, or IoT development, where demand continues to outpace supply.
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential, with Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Austin offering the highest compensation packages. However, when adjusted for cost of living, graduates from programs in North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia often achieve superior financial outcomes due to lower living expenses and competitive local tech markets.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Computer Engineering Career Outcomes and Salary Analysis
Computer engineering graduates enter one of the most dynamic and well-compensated fields in technology, with career paths spanning hardware design, embedded systems, and software-hardware integration. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer hardware engineers through 2032, significantly faster than the 3% average for all occupations.
Entry-level positions for computer engineering graduates include embedded systems engineer, hardware design engineer, and systems integration specialist roles. These positions typically start between $75,000-$95,000 annually, with top program graduates commanding premium salaries due to their comprehensive technical preparation and problem-solving capabilities.
The field offers exceptional advancement opportunities, with senior computer engineers and technical leads earning $120,000-$180,000+ within 5-10 years of graduation. Many professionals transition into specialized roles such as AI/ML engineering, semiconductor design, or IoT development, where demand continues to outpace supply.
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential, with Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Austin offering the highest compensation packages. However, when adjusted for cost of living, graduates from programs in North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia often achieve superior financial outcomes due to lower living expenses and competitive local tech markets.
Career Paths
Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and develop computer systems, processors, and electronic components
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 15-1132Develop software and hardware for specialized computing devices
Systems Integration Specialist
SOC 15-1199Ensure hardware and software components work together effectively
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop artificial intelligence systems and machine learning algorithms
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications and systems
Best Value Computer Engineering Programs by State
California
Texas
Georgia
Illinois
Virginia
North Carolina
Michigan
Washington
Choosing the Right Computer Engineering Program for Maximum Value
Program selection should prioritize alignment between career goals, financial constraints, and learning preferences rather than simply choosing the highest-ranked institution. Students interested in hardware design should seek programs with strong electrical engineering foundations, while those focusing on embedded systems need robust software development curricula.
Geographic considerations extend beyond tuition costs to include internship opportunities, local industry presence, and post-graduation job markets. Programs in established tech hubs like Austin, Atlanta, and Seattle provide natural advantages through proximity to major employers and networking opportunities with software engineering professionals.
Research opportunities and faculty expertise should influence decisions for students considering graduate school or research careers. Programs with active research in emerging areas like quantum computing, cybersecurity hardware, or AI acceleration provide valuable preparation for advanced study and specialized career paths.
Accreditation through ABET remains essential for professional credibility and graduate school admission. However, students should also evaluate curriculum flexibility, technical skill development, and industry partnership quality when comparing accredited programs.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want maximum value with in-state tuition
- Research opportunities are important to your goals
- You prefer comprehensive campus resources
- You want strong alumni networks in major companies
- You prefer smaller class sizes with public pricing
- Regional industry connections meet your career goals
- You value close faculty mentorship
- You want active campus life with affordable costs
- You can afford premium tuition costs
- Specialized curriculum matches your interests
- You want extensive industry partnerships
- Small class sizes and personalized attention are priorities
- You need scheduling flexibility for work commitments
- You live far from quality in-person programs
- You have strong self-directed learning skills
- Cost reduction is your primary concern
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Engineering Program Value
Computer Engineering Program Cost Analysis and Financial Considerations
Total cost analysis reveals significant variation in computer engineering program expenses, with in-state public universities offering the most favorable financial outcomes. The average annual tuition for top-ranked public programs is $13,400, compared to $52,800 for comparable private institutions, creating a substantial advantage for state residents.
Beyond tuition, students should budget for laboratory fees, technology requirements, and living expenses that can add $15,000-$25,000 annually to program costs. However, many computer engineering programs offer paid internship opportunities that can offset educational expenses while providing valuable industry experience.
Financial aid opportunities specifically target STEM students, with federal programs like the National Science Foundation scholarships and state-specific grants reducing net costs for qualified applicants. The FAFSA application process opens additional funding sources that many computer engineering students successfully utilize to minimize debt burden.
Return on investment calculations demonstrate that even higher-cost programs can provide excellent value when graduate employment rates and starting salaries justify the additional expense. Programs with strong industry partnerships often facilitate direct hiring relationships that accelerate career progression and salary growth.
Based on 125 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
Related Computer Engineering Resources
Taylor Rupe
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