🥇
$14,600
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad rate
82.0
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Wilmington, U of Delaware, Delaware State
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,575 to $14,040/year
Delaware Technical Commun... offers the most affordable option at $4,575/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 1 associate's, 1 master's, 1 doctoral in Delaware
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Delaware community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours, DuPont
Tech hubs in Wilmington and Newark
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 10+ cities across Delaware
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Delaware Computer Engineering programs
We rank 6 accredited computer engineering programs in Delaware 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 Delaware Worth It?
Answer
$112,340
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Delaware deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $112,340 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $9,857/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Delaware
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Delaware by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Delaware
1
Programs ranked
$14,600
Avg tuition/yr
81%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Delaware ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 3 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Wilmington, U of Delaware, Delaware State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Delaware computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $95,489, 3% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Wilmington, Newark, Dover metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,544 to $14,040 annually, with an average of $11,618/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 73%, with the highest reaching 73%. 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 Delaware's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Delaware, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Delaware
1
Programs ranked
$14,600
Avg tuition/yr
81%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Delaware offers 1 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 Delaware, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Delaware earn a median salary of $112,340, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Wilmington, Newark, Dover creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours 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 $14,040/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 Delaware's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$14,600
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad rate
78.1
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Delaware
1
Programs ranked
$14,600
Avg tuition/yr
81%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Delaware is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Delaware are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Delaware PhD holders earning a median of $140,425, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Wilmington, Newark, Dover region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours.
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 Delaware programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Delaware, 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.
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Delaware
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $9,857/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $24,643/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,464/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $59,144 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $14,786 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Delaware
State Aid Programs
Delaware students pursuing computer engineering have access to several financial aid programs designed to make higher education more affordable. The state's flagship initiative, the SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) Scholarship, covers tuition at Delaware Technical Community College for qualifying high school graduates, making it an excellent pathway for students starting with an associate degree (Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer). This program also supports transfer from Delaware Tech to four-year institutions like the University of Delaware and Delaware State University, creating a cost-effective route to a bachelor's degree in computer engineering.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state aid, computer engineering students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). The average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions in Delaware is $9,053 annually, significantly lower than the out-of-state average of $22,533 (IPEDS). Many Delaware schools, including Wilmington University and Delaware State University, offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages that can further reduce out-of-pocket costs. Prospective students should also explore the College Scorecard tool to compare aid offers and net price calculators across Delaware's 7 institutions offering computer engineering programs (College Scorecard). For more information on national funding options, see our guides on best affordable computer engineering programs and national computer engineering rankings.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Delaware
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Delaware. 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
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
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
$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.
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)$2,712,662
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 (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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 Delaware metro areas
Wilmington$124K
Newark$118K
Dover$112K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Wilmington | $124K |
| Newark | $118K |
| Dover | $112K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Delaware
Find computer engineering jobs in Delaware. These major employers across Delaware metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Wilmington
DEJPMorgan Chase
finance
Bank of America
finance
Capital One
finance
DuPont
chemical
ChristianaCare
healthcare
Computer Engineering Jobs in Newark
DEUniversity of Delaware
education
SevOne
tech
Computer Engineering Jobs in Dover
DEDover Air Force Base
military
Delaware State University
education
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Delaware
State Transfer System
Delaware's transfer system is designed to support students beginning their education at community colleges and advancing to four-year institutions. The Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer program facilitates seamless pathways from Delaware Technical Community College-Terry to bachelor's degree programs at University of Delaware and Delaware State University (Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer). The state currently operates 1 two-year institution. Delaware Technical Community College-Terry, which awarded 8 associate's degree completions in computer engineering in 2023, and 7 four-year institutions offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Articulation agreements ensure that credits earned at Delaware Tech count fully toward bachelor's degrees, eliminating wasted coursework and reducing total time-to-degree.
How Transfers Work
The SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) Scholarship covers tuition at Delaware Tech for qualifying high school graduates, making the associate's pathway virtually cost-free for eligible students (SEED Scholarship). Transfer students complete foundational computer engineering coursework at Delaware Tech, including digital circuits, microcontrollers, and programming fundamentals, before transferring with junior standing to University of Delaware or Delaware State University. This pathway is particularly advantageous for students seeking to minimize debt. Starting at Delaware Tech (tuition: $4,575) and completing a bachelor's at Delaware State University (tuition: $8,544) costs significantly less than entering a four-year institution directly. For more context on educational pathways nationwide, explore Computer Engineering in California and Computer Engineering in Texas to compare state transfer systems and affordability models.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Delaware?
Industry & Workforce
Delaware offers a strong computer engineering education landscape with 7 institutions delivering programs at multiple degree levels, including 3 bachelor's-granting schools, 2 master's programs, and 1 doctoral program (IPEDS). In 2023, Delaware institutions awarded 177 bachelor's degrees, 30 master's degrees, and 19 doctoral degrees in computer engineering, reflecting strong academic output in the field. The state's leading programs. University of Delaware and Wilmington University, collectively produced over 211 completions, demonstrating the depth of talent development in the region. Students benefit from proximity to major tech employers including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and ChristianaCare, creating direct pathways to internships and employment (BLS State Data).
Salary Outlook
Cost of attendance in Delaware is competitive, with average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions standing at just $9,053 annually, compared to out-of-state rates of $22,533 (IPEDS). Delaware State University leads affordability at $8,544, while Wilmington University charges $12,270, making Delaware one of the most accessible states for quality computer engineering education. The state's geographic position within the Delaware Valley and proximity to Wilmington's tech corridor positions graduates for regional career advancement. Explore how Delaware's programs compare to national best bachelor's programs and learn about most affordable programs nationwide to contextualize your options.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in Delaware
4 Programs
Delaware offers 4 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Wilmington, Newark, Dover.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Delaware
Employment Outlook
Delaware's computer engineering job market is supported by a strong educational pipeline and growing demand across multiple sectors. According to the BLS State Data, the state offers competitive opportunities for computer engineering professionals in its major metropolitan areas. The Wilmington-Newark metro area and Dover region serve as primary employment hubs, attracting talent from the state's 7 institutions offering computer engineering programs at various degree levels. The market benefits from proximity to the Delaware Valley region, which extends economic opportunities beyond state borders while keeping talent concentrated in key Delaware cities including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, and Smyrna.
Salaries by Metro
Delaware's computer engineering programs are producing a steady stream of graduates to meet market demands. In 2023, institutions awarded 177 bachelor's degrees, 30 master's degrees, 19 doctoral degrees, and 8 associate's degrees in computer engineering (IPEDS). This diverse talent pipeline supports career advancement at all levels. Students exploring career pathways should review College Scorecard data to understand employment outcomes and salary expectations. For additional context on related technical fields, prospective students can explore Computer Science in Delaware, Software Engineering in Delaware, and Information Technology in Delaware to understand the broader landscape of technology careers available in the state.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Delaware$73,021$162,893
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Delaware
Online Programs
0 available in Delaware
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$8,871/yr$9,857/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 Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $36,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New Jersey
- Total Programs
- 29
- Median Tuition
- $35,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Maryland
- Total Programs
- 31
- Median Tuition
- $9,200
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 New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 74
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Delaware: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Delaware?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Delaware based on our methodology are: 1) Wilmington University (highly ranked), 2) University of Delaware, and 3) Delaware State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Delaware offers 4 total accredited programs across 3 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 3 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Delaware?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Delaware vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $9,857/year, while private institutions average $21,685/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,464/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $39,428 at public schools to $86,742 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 Delaware?
Computer Engineering professionals in Delaware earn a median salary of $112,340, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $73,021, while senior roles exceed $162,893. Salaries vary by metro area: Wilmington ($123,574), Newark ($117,957) 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 Delaware?
Yes, Delaware offers 0 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 various state universities. 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 Delaware?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Delaware include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours, DuPont, AstraZeneca. The Wilmington and Newark metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Delaware universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Delaware's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Delaware?
A computer engineering degree program in Delaware offers strong ROI with a $112,340 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $9,857/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($126,944), 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 Delaware?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Delaware 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. Delaware community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Delaware university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Delaware?
Delaware 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. Delaware 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 Delaware'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
Delaware 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.