Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana 2025
Purdue University-Main Campus
1053 computer engineering graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
University of Notre Dame
73 computer engineering graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Indiana University-Bloomington
243 computer engineering graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
- 1.Indiana offers 29+ accredited computer engineering programs across public and private universities
- 2.Purdue University-Main Campus leads with 83% graduation rate
- 3.Indiana software developers earn median $103,570 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- 5.Cost of living index: 91.5% of US average (below average)
Computer Engineering Education in Indiana: Overview
Indiana offers 29 accredited computer engineering programs, producing approximately 2,231 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne, with major employers including Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.
With a median software developer salary of $103,570 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 91.5% compared to the US average, Indiana offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top computer engineering programs in the state are led by Purdue University-Main Campus, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomington, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Engineering degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Indiana-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Indiana Computer Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | 83.9 |
| 2 | University of Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN | Private | $62,186 | 99% | 69 |
| 3 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | Public | $10,312 | 84% | 58.8 |
| 4 | Purdue University Northwest | Hammond, IN | Public | $7,259 | 92% | 50.1 |
| 5 | Indiana University-Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Public | $9,241 | — | 48.3 |
| 6 | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Terre Haute, IN | Private | $52,998 | — | 47.8 |
| 7 | University of Evansville | Evansville, IN | Private | $41,400 | 96% | 45.2 |
| 8 | Trine University | Angola, IN | Private | $35,000 | 89% | 44.4 |
| 9 | Taylor University | Upland, IN | Private | $38,140 | 80% | 44 |
| 10 | DePauw University | Greencastle, IN | Private | $56,030 | — | 43.2 |
| 11 | Ball State University | Muncie, IN | Public | $8,688 | — | 42.2 |
| 12 | Butler University | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $44,990 | 92% | 41 |
| 13 | Purdue University Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, IN | Public | $8,049 | — | 40.3 |
| 14 | Indiana Institute of Technology | Fort Wayne, IN | Private | $29,936 | — | 40.1 |
| 15 | Anderson University | Anderson, IN | Private | $34,590 | — | 40.1 |
| 16 | Wabash College | Crawfordsville, IN | Private | $48,200 | — | 37.7 |
| 17 | University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | Private | $34,416 | — | 36.7 |
| 18 | Valparaiso University | Valparaiso, IN | Private | $45,136 | — | 35.8 |
| 19 | Indiana University-Southeast | New Albany, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 35.1 |
| 20 | University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | Public | $8,751 | — | 34.9 |
| 21 | Earlham College | Richmond, IN | Private | $50,970 | — | 34.6 |
| 22 | Franklin College | Franklin, IN | Private | $36,600 | — | 34 |
| 23 | Indiana University-South Bend | South Bend, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 33.2 |
| 24 | Indiana State University | Terre Haute, IN | Public | $9,712 | — | 33.1 |
| 25 | Indiana University-Kokomo | Kokomo, IN | Public | $7,492 | — | 32.9 |
Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana: Side-by-Side
| School | Purdue | Notre Dame | IU Bloomington | Purdue University Northwest | Indiana University-Indian... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,718 | $62,186 | $10,312 | $7,259 | $9,241 |
| Graduation Rate | 83% | 99% | 84% | 92% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 1053 | 73 | 243 | 45 | 206 |
| Acceptance Rate | 50% | 12% | 80% | 71% | 81% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 83.9/100 | 69.0/100 | 58.8/100 | 50.1/100 | 48.3/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Engineering in Indiana
Indiana offers 28 bachelor's-level computer engineering programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Purdue University-Main Campus, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomington. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,499 in the Indiana 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 Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 1053 | 83.9 |
| #2 Notre Dame | $62,186 | 99% | 73 | 69.0 |
| #3 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 184 | 56.5 |
Top Computer Engineering Schools for Master's Degrees in Indiana
For graduate study, Indiana offers 7 master's-level computer engineering programs. Leading institutions include Purdue University-Main Campus, Indiana University-Bloomington, University of Notre Dame. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Indiana reaching $134,641 or more.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Master's Programs in Indiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue | $9,718 | 83% | 334 | 83.9 |
| #2 IU Bloomington | $10,312 | 84% | 243 | 58.8 |
| #3 Notre Dame | $62,186 | 99% | 31 | 67.2 |
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Colleges in Indiana
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer engineering programs in Indiana are at Purdue University Northwest ($7,259/year), Indiana University-Southeast ($7,492/year), Indiana University-South Bend ($7,492/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Indiana's competitive tech salaries.
At Purdue University Northwest, a 4-year degree costs approximately $29,036 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,499, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.8 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Purdue University Northwest | $7,259 | $29,036 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #2 Indiana University-Southeast | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #3 Indiana University-South... | $7,492 | $29,968 | 0.8 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Engineering Schools in Indiana
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer engineering programs in Indiana, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,718 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 1,053 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 83.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 1,053 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (1,053 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Purdue's Computer Engineering program ranks #10 nationally and offers hands-on research opportunities in cutting-edge areas like AI, networks, and security. Graduates launch careers with top companies like Amazon and Apple, earning an average starting salary of $91,948.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Math – 4 years
- •English – 4 years
- •Lab science – 3 years
- •Social studies – 3 years
- •World language – 2 years
- •Calculus
- •Biology
- •Chemistry
- •Physics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $91,948
- Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, Bae Systems, Cummins Inc., JPMorgan Chase & Co., John Deere, Texas Instruments Inc.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,186 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 73 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 69.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 73 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 69.0 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (73 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame's Computer Engineering program offers a comprehensive 125-credit curriculum combining core engineering fundamentals with specialized computer engineering courses. The program requires a capstone design project and is housed within the College of Engineering with structured prerequisites ensuring strong technical foundations.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus I
- •Calculus II
- •Chemistry I (with lab)
- •Calculus-based Physics I (with lab)
- •Writing and Rhetoric or Composition
- •rigorous science technical elective
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 125 credits
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,312 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 243 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 58.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 243 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 58.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (243 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
IU's B.S. in Computer Engineering blends computer science, electrical engineering, and artificial intelligence with support from the Luddy School's expertise in high-performance computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on problem-solving and culminates in a real-world capstone project, with the option to add a master's degree in just one more year.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 94 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,259 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 45 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 71%
- • Ranking Score: 50.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 45 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.1 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (45 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (71% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
PNW's Computer Engineering program offers both a traditional 4-year Bachelor's degree and an accelerated 4+1 combined Bachelor's/Master's option, allowing students to complete both degrees in five years instead of six. The program is ABET-accredited with small class sizes, state-of-the-art labs, and faculty who all hold Ph.D. degrees and are active in research.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Minimum of 65 credits toward BSCMPE
- •B- or higher grade in all completed Electrical Engineering core courses
- •Minimum grade of C- required for MA 16300, 16400, and 26100; PHYS 15200
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.25
Program Details
- Credits: 122 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,241 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 206 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 48.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 206 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 48.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (206 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,570), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers flexible learning options with online, on-campus, or hybrid delivery, and allows students to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees in 5 years. Students can customize their education with various specializations and gain workforce readiness through real-world projects and internships.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $69,515.00
- Top Employers: Amazon, Eli Lilly & Company, Charles Schwab & Company
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Indiana with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (91.5% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Salesforce or Angie
- You prefer Indiana's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Indiana's 29)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
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Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Engineering in Indiana FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Indiana salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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