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University of Hartford
West Hartford, CTPrivate nonprofit
$45,682
Tuition/yr
54%
Grad rate
66.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: U of Connecticut, Wesleyan, Yale
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,392 to $66,716/year
Connecticut State Communi... offers the most affordable option at $4,392/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 2 associate's, 8 master's, 3 doctoral in Connecticut
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Connecticut community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers, Hartford Financial
Tech hubs in Stamford and Hartford
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 37+ cities across Connecticut
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Connecticut Computer Engineering programs
We rank 25 accredited computer engineering programs in Connecticut using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Connecticut Worth It?
Answer
$105,050
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $105,050 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $41,862/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Connecticut
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Connecticut by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Engineering Programs in Connecticut
1
Programs ranked
$45,682
Avg tuition/yr
54%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Connecticut offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in computer engineering, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Connecticut State Communi..., U of Hartford, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Connecticut offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $24,371/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $57,778 in Connecticut.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Connecticut's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Stamford, Hartford, New Haven areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer engineering schools in Connecticut, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer engineering degrees in Connecticut.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Connecticut
5
Programs ranked
$38,256
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Connecticut ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 12 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 10 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Connecticut, Wesleyan, Yale, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Connecticut computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $89,293, 9% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Stamford, Hartford, New Haven metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $16,332 to $66,716 annually, with an average of $48,468/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 83%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Connecticut's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Connecticut, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$17,010
Tuition/yr
83%
Grad rate
87.6
Hakia Score
#4
University of Hartford
West Hartford, CTPrivate nonprofit
$45,682
Tuition/yr
54%
Grad rate
61.2
Hakia Score
#5
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CTPrivate nonprofit
$32,860
Tuition/yr
41%
Grad rate
59.1
Hakia Score
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Connecticut
2
Programs ranked
$24,935
Avg tuition/yr
62%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Connecticut offers 8 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Bridgeport, U of New Haven, Yale, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Connecticut earn a median salary of $105,050, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Stamford, Hartford, New Haven creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $41,404/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Connecticut's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$17,010
Tuition/yr
83%
Grad rate
82.7
Hakia Score
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University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CTPrivate nonprofit
$32,860
Tuition/yr
41%
Grad rate
58.7
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Connecticut
2
Programs ranked
$24,935
Avg tuition/yr
62%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Connecticut is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Connecticut, Yale, U of Bridgeport are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Connecticut PhD holders earning a median of $131,313, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Stamford, Hartford, New Haven region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Connecticut programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Connecticut, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CTPrivate nonprofit
$32,860
Tuition/yr
41%
Grad rate
54.3
Hakia Score
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Connecticut
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $41,862/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $104,655/year |
| Community college tuition | $10,466/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $251,172 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $62,792 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Connecticut
State Aid Programs
Connecticut students pursuing computer engineering degrees have access to multiple federal and state financial aid options. The foundation of financial aid begins with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through (Federal Student Aid), which determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Connecticut residents attending public institutions can also benefit from the Governors Scholarship Program, a merit-based award specifically designed for students enrolling in Connecticut public colleges and universities. This program provides significant support to qualified applicants and represents a key advantage for in-state students. More information about this program is available through the (Connecticut Office of Higher Education).
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, many Connecticut institutions offer institutional scholarships and merit awards for computer engineering majors. Public institutions like the University of Connecticut and the Connecticut State University system schools frequently provide competitive scholarships for STEM students. The average public in-state tuition across Connecticut four-year institutions is $11,621, making state schools particularly accessible for students seeking affordability combined with quality education. For detailed information about federal aid options, eligibility requirements, and loan programs, the (Federal Student Aid portal) provides comprehensive resources. Students should also explore individual institution financial aid offices, which can provide tailored aid packages and guidance on maximizing available funding sources.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Connecticut
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Connecticut. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1116%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$2,064,777
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$94,118
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,100,185
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (New York City, NY)$160,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.6%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Engineering Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Connecticut metro areas
Stamford$116K
Hartford$110K
New Haven$105K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Stamford | $116K |
| Hartford | $110K |
| New Haven | $105K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Connecticut
Find computer engineering jobs in Connecticut. These major employers across Connecticut metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Stamford
CTCharter Communications
telecom
Indeed
tech
WWE
entertainment
Synchrony Financial
finance
Computer Engineering Jobs in Hartford
CTThe Hartford
insurance
Travelers
insurance
Infosys
consulting
Raytheon Technologies
defense
Computer Engineering Jobs in New Haven
CTYale University
education
Seeq Corporation
tech
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Connecticut
State Transfer System
Connecticut provides structured transfer pathways for computer engineering students through the Transfer and Articulation Policy (TAP), which guarantees admission to four-year institutions for community college graduates who meet specific requirements (Transfer and Articulation Policy). This system is particularly valuable for students beginning their education at one of Connecticut's 8 two-year institutions, including Connecticut State Community College, the state's largest community college system. Connecticut State Community College awarded 94 completions in computer engineering in 2023, serving as a primary gateway for students seeking affordable entry into the field with tuition of only $4,392. TAP agreements ensure that credits completed at accredited community colleges transfer directly to bachelor's programs without loss of credit, allowing students to save significantly on tuition while maintaining academic progress. The policy eliminates the uncertainty often associated with transfer admissions and streamlines the process for pursuing bachelor's and advanced degrees at institutions like the University of Connecticut, Yale University, and Sacred Heart University.
How Transfers Work
Community college students in Connecticut's computer engineering programs complete foundational coursework in digital electronics, programming fundamentals, and basic circuit analysis before transferring to four-year institutions. The guaranteed admission pathway through TAP applies to students achieving a 2.0 or higher GPA in program-specific courses, providing clear benchmarks for success. Transfer students often complete an additional 60-90 credit hours at four-year institutions to earn their bachelor's degree, allowing them to take advanced courses in microprocessor design, embedded systems, and capstone projects. The University of Connecticut, University of New Haven, and University of Bridgeport actively recruit transfer students and offer articulation agreements that recognize prior coursework. Students interested in complementary technical fields should explore transfer options for network administration, information technology, and computer science programs, which share similar foundational curricula. The Connecticut Office of Higher Education maintains detailed transfer guides and institutional contacts to support student transitions, while FAFSA and state financial aid continue uninterrupted through the transfer process.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Connecticut?
Industry & Workforce
Connecticut offers a strong computer engineering education landscape with 26 institutions offering programs across all degree levels, from associate's to doctoral degrees (IPEDS). In 2023 alone, Connecticut institutions awarded 505 bachelor's degrees, 401 master's degrees, and 39 doctoral degrees in computer engineering, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to the field. The University of Connecticut leads the state with 338 completions, while the University of New Haven and University of Bridgeport also contribute significantly with 206 and 175 completions respectively. This concentration of quality programs provides students with diverse educational pathways and networking opportunities.
Salary Outlook
The state's location within a major technology corridor positions graduates for immediate career opportunities. Connecticut is home to major employers including United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers, and Yale University, creating strong industry partnerships and internship networks. Students benefit from proximity to the Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk and Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown metro areas, which serve as regional tech hubs. For those seeking affordable education, Connecticut's public institutions offer competitive pricing, with average in-state tuition at $11,621 compared to out-of-state tuition of $26,277. The state's Governor's Scholarship Program provides additional merit-based financial aid for students attending Connecticut public institutions (Connecticut Office of Higher Education). Whether you're interested in computer science or software engineering specializations, Connecticut provides comprehensive educational and career resources for computer engineering students.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in Connecticut
14 Programs
Connecticut offers 14 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Stamford, Hartford, New Haven.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Connecticut
Employment Outlook
Connecticut's computer engineering job market is shaped by a diverse employer base concentrated in three major metropolitan regions: the Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk metro area in Fairfield County, the Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown corridor in Greater Hartford, and the New Haven-Milford region in New Haven County. These job centers drive demand for computer engineers across insurance, aerospace, healthcare, and technology sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Connecticut's professional and technical services sectors continue to employ significant numbers of computer engineers, with career pathways spanning both established corporations and emerging tech startups. The state's proximity to major Northeast tech corridors positions it as an attractive market for computer engineering professionals seeking regional opportunities without relocating to major coastal cities.
Salaries by Metro
Educational pipelines in Connecticut support this job market through 26 institutions offering computer engineering programs, including 13 bachelor's degree programs and 8 master's degree programs (IPEDS 2024). The University of Connecticut, Yale University, and Wesleyan University lead regional program completions, preparing graduates for positions in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Bridgeport, Waterbury, Norwalk, and Danbury. Public in-state tuition averages $11,621 at four-year institutions, making Connecticut programs accessible compared to national private alternatives. Students pursuing computer science in Connecticut or software engineering in Connecticut find complementary career pathways in overlapping employers and metros. Entry-level computer engineers in Connecticut benefit from established salary standards and advancement opportunities within Fortune 500 companies headquartered throughout the state.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Connecticut$68,283$152,323
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Connecticut
Online Programs
1 available in Connecticut
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$37,676/yr$41,862/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 74
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Rhode Island
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $27,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 24
- Median Tuition
- $12,100
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Connecticut: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut based on our methodology are: 1) University of Connecticut (88% graduation rate), 2) Wesleyan University, and 3) Yale University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Connecticut offers 14 total accredited programs across 4 public and 10 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 12 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Connecticut?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Connecticut vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $41,862/year, while private institutions average $92,096/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $10,466/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $167,448 at public schools to $368,386 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer engineering degree graduates earn in Connecticut?
Computer Engineering professionals in Connecticut earn a median salary of $105,050, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $68,283, while senior roles exceed $152,323. Salaries vary by metro area: Stamford ($115,555), Hartford ($110,303) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut?
Yes, Connecticut offers 1 accredited online Computer Engineering programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from University of Saint Joseph. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer engineering degree graduates in Connecticut?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Connecticut include United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers, Hartford Financial, ESPN. The Stamford and Hartford metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Connecticut universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Connecticut's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Connecticut?
A computer engineering degree program in Connecticut offers strong ROI with a $105,050 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $41,862/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($118,706), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer engineering degree programs take in Connecticut?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Connecticut are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Connecticut community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Connecticut university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Connecticut?
Connecticut computer engineering degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Connecticut state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Connecticut's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Connecticut salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.