Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in California 2025
University of California-Irvine
191 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
University of California-Merced
217 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
University of California-San Diego
174 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
- 1.California has 20+ ABET-accredited computer engineering bachelor's programs, more than any other state
- 2.Stanford University ranks #1 with 94% graduation rate and direct pipeline to Silicon Valley hardware companies
- 3.UC Berkeley offers world-class computer engineering education at $14,312 in-state tuition—75% less than private alternatives
- 4.California computer hardware engineers earn median $142,650 annually—18% above the national median according to BLS California data
- 5.Silicon Valley hosts major employers including Apple, NVIDIA, Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm with 45,000+ computer engineering jobs
Computer Engineering Education Landscape in California
California leads the nation in computer engineering education, offering more ABET-accredited programs than any other state. From Stanford's world-renowned program in the heart of Silicon Valley to the exceptional value of the UC system, California provides unmatched opportunities for aspiring computer engineers.
The state's unique position as home to major semiconductor and tech companies creates direct pathways from classroom to career. Students benefit from industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and recruiting relationships that are difficult to find elsewhere. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our best computer engineering programs ranking.
California's computer engineering programs emphasize both hardware and software integration, preparing graduates for careers in chip design, embedded systems, robotics, and emerging technologies like AI hardware acceleration. The proximity to companies like Apple, NVIDIA, Intel, and countless startups provides unparalleled real-world learning opportunities.
California Computer Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 96.3 |
| 2 | University of California-Merced | Merced, CA | Public | $11,834 | 95% | — | 95.6 |
| 3 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 91 |
| 4 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | Public | $5,742 | 83% | — | 84.3 |
| 5 | University of California-Davis | Davis, CA | Public | $11,834 | 91% | — | 82.3 |
| 6 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 80.6 |
| 7 | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $11,834 | 92% | — | 79.8 |
| 8 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona, CA | Public | $5,742 | 87% | — | 76.3 |
| 9 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | Private | $58,587 | 91% | — | 75.5 |
| 10 | University of California-Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Public | $11,834 | 90% | — | 75 |
| 11 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 74.9 |
| 12 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 73.9 |
| 13 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 70.3 |
| 14 | California State University-Long Beach | Long Beach, CA | Public | $5,742 | 73% | — | 67.3 |
| 15 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | Public | $11,834 | 83% | — | 64.2 |
| 16 | California State University-Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | Public | $5,742 | 92% | — | 62.9 |
| 17 | California State University-Northridge | Northridge, CA | Public | $5,742 | 95% | — | 59.9 |
| 18 | California State University-Fullerton | Fullerton, CA | Public | $5,742 | 65% | — | 55.3 |
| 19 | Chapman University | Orange, CA | Private | $62,400 | 93% | — | 54.5 |
| 20 | California State University-Fresno | Fresno, CA | Public | $5,742 | 97% | — | 54.2 |
Showing 1–20 of 26
Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs in California: Side-by-Side
| School | USC | UC Berkeley | UC Irvine | UC San Diego | UCLA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $66,640 | $11,834 | $11,834 | $11,834 | $11,834 |
| Graduation Rate | 92% | 96% | 96% | 81% | 92% |
| Annual Graduates | 1673 | 1474 | 806 | 881 | 530 |
| Acceptance Rate | 10% | 12% | 26% | 25% | 9% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 100.0/100 | 99.2/100 | 87.4/100 | 84.8/100 | 84.8/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Engineering in California
California offers 59 bachelor's-level computer engineering programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of California-Berkeley, University of California-Irvine, University of California-San Diego. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $102,039 in the California market.
A bachelor's in computer engineering typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UC Berkeley | $11,834 | 96% | 1474 | 99.2 |
| #2 UC Irvine | $11,834 | 96% | 806 | 87.4 |
| #3 UC San Diego | $11,834 | 81% | 881 | 84.8 |
Top Computer Engineering Schools for Master's Degrees in California
For graduate study, California offers 40 master's-level computer engineering programs. Leading institutions include University of Southern California, University of California-San Diego, University of California-Los Angeles. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in California reaching $189,501 or more.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Master's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 USC | $66,640 | 92% | 1673 | 100.0 |
| #2 UC San Diego | $11,834 | 81% | 716 | 82.2 |
| #3 UCLA | $11,834 | 92% | 371 | 81.4 |
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Colleges in California
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer engineering programs in California are at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($5,742/year), San Diego State University ($5,742/year), San Jose State University ($5,742/year). These programs offer strong ROI given California's competitive tech salaries.
At California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,968 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $102,039, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs in California (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 California Polytechnic... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 San Diego State | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #3 San Jose State | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 1,673 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 1,673 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (1,673 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USC's Computer Engineering and Computer Science program is administered jointly by the departments of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, providing students with scientific and engineering skills to design and implement computer systems that integrate developing hardware and software technologies. The program requires 128 units and includes both computer science fundamentals and electrical engineering coursework with multiple capstone project options.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 125g Calculus I
- •MATH 126g Calculus II
- •MATH 225 Linear Algebra and Linear Differential Equations
- •MATH 226g Calculus III
- •PHYS 151Lg Fundamentals of Physics I
- •PHYS 152L Fundamentals of Physics II
- •EE 364 Introduction to Probability and Statistics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 128 units
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 1,474 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 99.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 1,474 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 99.2 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (1,474 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UC Berkeley's Electrical & Computer Engineering program is part of a world-renowned research university with graduates achieving exceptional economic outcomes, including over 75% earning above California's median household income by their late 30s. The program requires a major design experience and offers comprehensive technical training through rigorous coursework in computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 806 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 26%
- • Ranking Score: 87.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 806 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 87.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (806 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (26% 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: 881 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 84.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 881 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (881 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), 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
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 530 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 9%
- • Ranking Score: 84.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 530 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.8 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (530 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (9% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Computer Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and develop computer systems, processors, circuit boards, and hardware components. Work on cutting-edge technologies like AI chips, quantum processors, and embedded systems.
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop software applications, systems software, and embedded firmware. Strong computer engineering background provides advantage in system-level programming and hardware-software integration.
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 17-2072Design and implement software for embedded systems, IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Combine hardware knowledge with programming skills.
Chip Design Engineer
SOC 17-2071Design integrated circuits, microprocessors, and specialized chips for applications like graphics processing, AI acceleration, and mobile devices.
Robotics Engineer
SOC 17-2199Design, build, and program robotic systems for manufacturing, healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and consumer applications. Integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components.
California University Systems for Computer Engineering
California's computer engineering programs are offered through three main university systems, each serving different student needs and career goals.
The University of California (UC) system provides research-focused programs with world-class faculty and extensive graduate school preparation. UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, and UC Irvine all rank among the nation's top computer engineering programs, offering exceptional value for in-state students at around $14,000 annual tuition.
The California State University (CSU) system emphasizes practical, hands-on education with strong industry connections. Programs like Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and San Jose State focus on preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce, with extensive lab facilities and internship partnerships.
Private institutions like Stanford, Caltech, USC, and Santa Clara University offer smaller class sizes, extensive research opportunities, and premium facilities, though at significantly higher tuition costs. These programs often provide the most direct pathways to top tech companies and graduate school admissions.
Other Tech Degree Programs in California
Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest concentration of tech companies
- Proximity to Silicon Valley for internships and networking
- Exceptional public university options with strong programs
- Opportunities to work on cutting-edge hardware and software projects
- Climate and lifestyle benefits alongside academic excellence
- Direct pathways to careers at Apple, Google, NVIDIA, Intel, and other major employers
- Lower cost of living and housing costs
- In-state tuition rates in your home state
- Smaller, more intimate program environments
- Different industry focuses (aerospace, automotive, defense)
- More predictable weather and seasonal variation
- Family and social connections in other regions
Frequently Asked Questions About California Computer Engineering Programs
Based on 20 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
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
California-specific salary data for computer hardware engineers and related occupations
Engineering program accreditation status and requirements
Graduate school placement and research output data
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.