Best Associate's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana
Ivy Tech Community College — Indianapolis, IN
Hakia Insight: Ivy Tech's embedded Purdue articulation agreement isn't just a transfer pathway; it means your first two years count directly toward Purdue's five specialization tracks, effectively letting you skip entry-level coursework and launch into specialized depth immediately.
At the associate's level, with one of Indiana's largest CC networks and deep partnerships with Purdue University, Ivy Tech's computer engineering program gives you a direct on-ramp to a four-year degree without the sticker shock. You'll spend your first two years in hands-on labs learning circuit design, digital systems, and embedded programming—work that transfers seamlessly into Purdue's engineering pipeline. Employers across Indiana's tech corridor (from Indianapolis to Fort Wayne) actively recruit Ivy Tech associates because they arrive job-ready with practical troubleshooting skills and internship experience. The program's real strength is its articulation agreements: you know exactly which credits count toward a bachelor's degree before you enroll. Whether you want to transfer or jump straight into a technician role, Ivy Tech's scale means you'll have access to modern equipment, multiple campus locations, and career services that actually know the local hiring landscape.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Purdue University IT, Eli Lilly and Company (IT support roles), Local government IT departments, Regional telecommunications firms, Healthcare IT departments (hospitals and clinics across Indiana).
Top Transfer Destinations
- Purdue University (Fort Wayne and West Lafayette campuses)
- Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
- Ball State University
- Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Field Service Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Vincennes University — Vincennes, IN
Hakia Insight: Vincennes University's placement emphasis on customer-facing technical roles signals a deliberate curriculum around support engineering and field troubleshooting—ideal if you want hands-on responsibility faster than transfer-track peers at four-year institutions.
At the associate's level, vincennes University's computer engineering program stands out because it emphasizes real-world troubleshooting and customer-facing technical roles—ideal if you want to work independently or lead small teams quickly. The curriculum blends hardware fundamentals with networking and cybersecurity basics, so graduates aren't locked into one specialization. VU's location in southwestern Indiana gives you access to manufacturing and logistics employers who desperately need skilled technicians; many graduates land jobs before graduation through campus recruiting. The program is known for smaller class sizes and faculty who actually remember your name, which means better mentorship for hands-on projects like building and configuring networks from scratch. If you're transfer-minded, VU has solid articulations with Purdue and Ball State, but the program also launches plenty of students directly into well-paying technician and support roles.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Local manufacturing facilities (technical support), Regional ISPs and telecommunications, County and municipal IT departments, Healthcare networks in southwestern Indiana, Logistics and distribution center IT teams.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Purdue University
- Ball State University
- Indiana State University
- University of Southern Indiana
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Computer Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCENT/CCNA intro courses
- Microsoft certification tracks (basic)
Location Advantages:
Indiana Institute of Technology-College of Professional Studies — Fort Wayne, IN
Hakia Insight: Indiana Tech's accelerated model with built-in internships creates a compressed timeline where you're paid to work in local tech companies before graduation, collapsing the traditional gap between associate's completion and first employment.
At the associate's level, indiana Tech's professional studies division focuses on getting you job-ready fast through accelerated, career-focused computer engineering curricula with built-in internship components. The program prioritizes employer partnerships and real-time skill alignment, so you're learning tools and systems that local companies actually use right now—not textbook theory from five years ago. Many students complete certifications (CompTIA, Cisco basics) while earning their degree, which makes your resume competitive immediately after graduation. The smaller cohort model means instructors know your strengths and weaknesses, and the College of Professional Studies actively connects you with hiring managers before you graduate. This is the right choice if you want a direct path to employment over a traditional transfer degree, though Indiana Tech also has pathways to four-year programs for students who decide mid-program they want to go further.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Fort Wayne-area tech companies, Regional healthcare IT departments, Manufacturing IT support teams, Local government IT departments, Indiana Tech's own IT infrastructure.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Purdue University (Indianapolis)
- Indiana University-Purdue University (IPUI)
- Indiana State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- Cisco CCNA basics (introduction level)
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: ABET-accredited program. Five specialization tracks available
Hakia Insight: Purdue's five specialization tracks within a single BSCmpE degree—combined with Intel, Microsoft, and Google partnerships—let you customize your hardware or systems focus without reapplying or changing majors, a flexibility competitors only offer at graduate level.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCmpE) at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering prepares students to design and develop computer systems, hardware, and software. The program is ABET-accredited and requires a minimum 2.0 GPA in major courses, with at least 32 credits of upper-level ECE courses completed at the West Lafayette campus. Students choose from five specialization tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Computer Systems, Microelectronics and Semiconductors, Software Engineering, and general CmpE. The curriculum integrates engineering breadth requirements, advanced mathematics, science electives, and general education components. Graduates pursue careers in app development, embedded systems design, cybersecurity, gaming, autonomous vehicle systems, and consumer electronics with major tech companies and innovative startups.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Purdue Microelectronics Research Laboratory
- Distributed Systems and Parallel Computing Lab
- Power Electronics and Power Systems Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Texas Instruments (corporate)
- Qualcomm (corporate)
- Analog Devices (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- David Inderrieden — Analog and mixed-signal circuit design
- Mireille Boutin — Digital signal processing and embedded systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Chicago's tech scene and Indianapolis's growing tech corridor; strong pipeline to California's Silicon Valley via Purdue alumni networks
University of Notre Dame — Notre Dame, IN
Key Distinction: Mandatory design tools and modern techniques introduced early and used throughout program. Semester and summer undergraduate research opportunities available for course credit or pay
Hakia Insight: Notre Dame's requirement that students earn course credit (or pay) for undergraduate research transforms summer work from résumé-padding into degree progress, meaning financially stretched students can actually graduate faster by researching.
Notre Dame's Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering prepares students for careers at the intersection of hardware and software. The program, jointly administered by Computer Science and Engineering and Electrical Engineering departments, emphasizes modern design tools and techniques introduced early and used throughout. Students complete a rigorous curriculum covering digital logic devices, circuits, computer architectures, embedded systems, programming languages, operating systems, and algorithms. Hands-on learning includes semester and summer research opportunities, internships facilitated through Fall and Winter Career Expos, and study abroad options in London, Rome, Ireland (Dublin City University), and other locations. Graduates achieve near 100% placement rates and are highly sought by top companies including those in computing, finance, engineering, startups, consulting, medical informatics, and government sectors. The program does not require prior programming experience.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Wireless Institute
- Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Martin Haissig — Digital signal processing, wireless systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: Real-world capstone project showcasing engineering skills. Hands-on problem-solving emphasis
Hakia Insight: IU Bloomington's capstone requirement paired with direct employer pipelines to Cummins and Eli Lilly (both headquartered in-state) means your final design project often becomes a functional prototype Cummins or Eli Lilly actually uses—turning coursework into portfolio credentials.
Indiana University Bloomington's B.S. in Computer Engineering blends computer science, electrical engineering, and artificial intelligence to prepare students for careers in tech, hardware design, and software systems. The 94-credit curriculum includes 37 credits of engineering core (software systems, circuits, intelligent systems, design), 30 credits of mathematics and science (calculus, linear algebra, probability, physics), and 27 credits of technical electives (advanced circuits, digital design, computer architecture, robotics, deep learning). Students work directly with expert faculty in world-class facilities and complete a real-world capstone project. The program emphasizes hands-on problem-solving and is supported by the Luddy School's expertise in high-performance computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. Graduates are prepared for careers in computing, electronics, and digital systems. The program also offers an accelerated master's degree option, allowing students to earn a master's in just one additional year in areas like secure computing, intelligent systems engineering, and data science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Embedded Systems and VLSI Lab
- Computer Networks Research Group
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Cummins, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Microsoft, Amazon.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Bloomington's tech community and proximity to Indianapolis's manufacturing and tech sector; strong regional industry connections
Purdue University Northwest — Hammond, IN
Key Distinction: Two-semester team-based capstone senior-design project in Year Four. Hands-on experience in cutting-edge AI and ML labs
Hakia Insight: Purdue Northwest's two-semester team capstone in Year Four, combined with the ArcelorMittal and AM General partnerships, positions students to solve real industrial automation challenges rather than hypothetical projects—rare for a regional campus program.
Purdue University Northwest's Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering with an Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning concentration prepares students for careers designing AI-optimized systems and intelligent technologies. The ABET-accredited program blends theoretical coursework with hands-on laboratory experience across four years, progressing from engineering fundamentals and calculus in Year One through digital systems and programming in Year Two, to software engineering and embedded systems in Year Three, culminating in a two-semester team-based capstone senior-design project in Year Four. Students take electives in machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, big data, and network security. The program emphasizes practical laboratory experimentation, project management, and effective communication skills. Faculty hold Ph.D. degrees and actively research neural networks, big data, and deep learning. Graduates are recruited by companies including Cisco Systems, Hewlett Packard, and National Semiconductor with competitive starting salaries. Small class sizes and hands-on experience in cutting-edge AI and ML labs distinguish the program.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, Concentration: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics Lab
Industry Partners
- ArcelorMittal (corporate)
- AM General (corporate)
- Actuant Corporation (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Cisco, Intel.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northwest Indiana manufacturing corridorAccess to automotive and steel industry internshipsRegional industrial automation and controls companies
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Required experiential learning component with multiple options: Senior Project, Project in Professional Practice, or Capstone Internship. Multiple certificate specializations available (Applied Data Science, Applied Information Science, Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction, Legal Informatics, Multi-Device Development, Software Bots for Cognitive Automation)
Hakia Insight: IU Indianapolis's six stackable certificate specializations (Applied Data Science, AI, HCI, Legal Informatics, etc.) mean you can tailor a computer science degree into a life sciences or medical device focus while staying in the Eli Lilly and Roche Diagnostics hiring corridor—a structure most engineering programs don't offer.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at IU Indianapolis is a 120-credit program designed to provide foundational and advanced knowledge in computing. The curriculum includes core computer science courses in programming, data structures, computer architecture, operating systems, and algorithms, complemented by 42 credits of general education requirements. Students gain hands-on experience through required experiential learning options, including a Senior Project, Project in Professional Practice, or Capstone Internship. The program offers specialization flexibility through 18 credits of electives and five certificates: Applied Data Science, Applied Information Science, Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction, and Legal Informatics. Career readiness is integrated into the curriculum, and students work closely with academic advisors to plan their coursework.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Biomedical Signal Processing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Roche Diagnostics (corporate)
- Eli Lilly and Company (corporate)
- Salesforce (corporate)
- Zimmer Biomet (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Roche Diagnostics, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Zimmer Biomet, LocalTaxi.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Headquarters location for Eli Lilly and Roche DiagnosticsStrong medical device and biotech manufacturing sectorAccess to Indianapolis life sciences and healthcare technology ecosystemMultiple Fortune 500 and regional tech company presence
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology — Terre Haute, IN
Key Distinction: Quarter-system enables specialized depth in emerging areas (cybersecurity, ML hardware, FPGA) while maintaining strong fundamentals; top-tier employer reputation and well-funded undergraduate research.
Hakia Insight: Rose-Hulman's quarter system compresses traditional semesters into tighter cycles, enabling students to complete 4-5 specialized electives in cybersecurity or ML hardware per year while maintaining fundamentals—a depth cadence semester schools can't match without extending time-to-degree.
At the bachelor's level, rose-Hulman's computer engineering program is built on a quarter-system curriculum that allows deeper exploration of specialized topics while maintaining breadth—students move through foundational work in digital logic, computer architecture, and embedded systems before branching into advanced electives in cybersecurity, robotics, FPGA design, machine learning hardware, and biomedical systems. The program benefits from Rose-Hulman's reputation as a top employer-preferred engineering school; companies actively recruit from campus, and many students secure internships at Fortune 500 technology and defense firms. Faculty integrate research opportunities throughout—undergraduates contribute to projects in networked robotics, secure hardware design, and real-time systems rather than waiting for graduate school. The institute's small size (under 2,000 students) and engineering-focused culture create a tight-knit community where computer engineering design teams are well-funded, students have direct faculty mentorship, and career outcomes consistently report high median salaries and low unemployment. Terre Haute's location offers surprising proximity to Indianapolis tech corridors and direct pipelines to major employers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Robotics Lab
- Digital Systems Lab
Industry Partners
- Cummins (corporate)
- General Motors (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
- Roche Diagnostics (corporate)
- Eli Lilly (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Cummins, General Motors, Raytheon Technologies, Eli Lilly, Texas Instruments, Intel, Qualcomm.
Notable Faculty
- null — Cybersecurity and secure hardware design
- null — Autonomous robotics and real-time systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Indianapolis metro tech and automotive manufacturing proximity; access to Cummins, major defense contractors, and pharmaceutical engineering roles
University of Evansville — Evansville, IN
Key Distinction: Strong emphasis on embedded systems design and hands-on capstone projects with direct industry placement pathways in manufacturing and automation.
Hakia Insight: Evansville's embedded systems-first design emphasis means you're soldering real circuit boards and debugging firmware in Year One, not Year Three, giving you a portfolio of working prototypes before internship recruiting season begins.
At the bachelor's level, computer engineering at Evansville emphasizes hands-on design projects and embedded systems work, giving students real circuit board experience before graduation. The program's strength lies in its project-based curriculum where undergraduates tackle capstone designs involving microcontrollers, signal processing, and real-world problem-solving—not just theory. Faculty maintain close relationships with regional manufacturing and automation companies, creating internship pipelines that often convert to full-time offers. The program balances digital logic, processor architecture, and embedded software, preparing graduates for roles in industrial automation, medical device engineering, and automotive systems. Small class sizes mean students work directly with professors on their designs, and the university's location in southwestern Indiana positions graduates well for opportunities in nearby manufacturing hubs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Indiana manufacturing and industrial automation companies
Trine University — Angola, IN
Key Distinction: Trine's computer engineering program stands out for embedding hardware design and embedded systems projects throughout all four years, creating graduates with exceptional confidence in physical prototyping and real-time system implementation.
Hakia Insight: Trine's four-year hardware integration model—not backloaded into senior capstone—produces graduates with physical prototyping confidence that transfer-track and lecture-heavy peers lack, a resume differentiator in manufacturing automation hiring.
At the bachelor's level, trine's computer engineering program distinguishes itself through a project-intensive curriculum that frontloads hands-on hardware and embedded systems work from the first year. Students engage with real microcontroller platforms, FPGA design, and circuit implementation early, rather than delaying applied work until upper-level courses. The program emphasizes a balanced depth across digital logic, microprocessors, signal processing, and embedded systems—preparing graduates who can design and troubleshoot complete systems rather than specializing too narrowly. Faculty maintain active connections with regional manufacturers and control systems integrators, creating internship pipelines that often convert into full-time placements. Trine's location in northeastern Indiana provides proximity to automotive suppliers and industrial automation companies, industries where the program has built particular strength in control systems and real-time computing applications. The capstone sequence requires students to conceive, prototype, and validate a computer engineering system with direct industry sponsorship opportunities, and many projects continue into publishable research or patent disclosures.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Engineering Design Studio
Industry Partners
- General Motors (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
- Bosch (corporate)
- Parkview Health (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Magnum Enterprises, Regional automotive suppliers, Industrial automation firms.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to automotive suppliers in northern IndianaAccess to industrial automation and control systems companiesRegional manufacturing and electronics firms
Taylor University — Upland, IN
Key Distinction: Engineering ethics and faith-informed design integrated throughout curriculum, with continuous hands-on lab and prototyping work from freshman year.
Hakia Insight: Taylor's integration of engineering ethics alongside continuous hands-on prototyping creates an unusual competitive advantage in defense, aerospace, and medical device sectors where ethical design documentation increasingly influences contract awards.
At the bachelor's level, computer engineering at Taylor is structured around a rigorous engineering science foundation paired with hands-on design and prototyping throughout all four years. The program deliberately sequences coursework to build from circuits and digital logic through processor design, embedded systems, and senior capstone projects where students ship real products or solve community engineering challenges. What distinguishes Taylor's approach is the integration of faith and ethics in engineering decision-making—curriculum explicitly engages students with professional responsibility, sustainable design, and the societal impact of their work. Faculty are actively involved in mentoring design teams, and many students participate in summer research or consulting projects that strengthen portfolios before graduation. The university's commitment to hands-on learning means labs are well-equipped and accessible; students don't wait until senior year to touch hardware.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
DePauw University — Greencastle, IN
Key Distinction: DePauw University offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: DePauw's regional accessibility as a private institution with comprehensive computer engineering pathways offers an alternative to Purdue's scale for students seeking mentorship-rich environments without the state school price premium.
DePauw University offers Computer Engineering programs in Greencastle, IN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: Fully online, asynchronous format designed for working professionals. Course-based track (no thesis required)
Hakia Insight: Purdue's online ECE master's strategically positions graduates within Intel, Microsoft, and Google's recruiting pipelines while maintaining asynchronous flexibility—a rare combination that lets working engineers at tier-one tech firms pursue credentials without leaving their roles.
Purdue's online Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering is designed for working engineers seeking career advancement without sacrificing quality. The fully online, course-based program (no thesis option) allows completion in 24 months with 30 credits while maintaining full-time employment. Students select up to two concentrations from eight focus areas including Microelectronics and Advanced Semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and emerging areas like quantum computing. The program delivers identical curriculum and world-class faculty as the on-campus degree. Career outcomes show median advertised salaries of $132k with 7.6% projected growth through 2029. Research indicates master's degree holders experience salary increases from 25% to over 75% compared to bachelor's degree holders. The program supports professional advancement into roles such as Electrical Engineer, Principal Engineer, and Manufacturing Engineer across aerospace, semiconductor, and automotive industries.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Electrical & Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Purdue Microelectronics Research Laboratory
- Distributed Systems and Parallel Computing Lab
- Power Electronics and Power Systems Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Texas Instruments (corporate)
- Qualcomm (corporate)
- Analog Devices (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- David Inderrieden — Analog and mixed-signal circuit design
- Mireille Boutin — Digital signal processing and embedded systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Chicago's tech scene and Indianapolis's growing tech corridor; strong pipeline to California's Silicon Valley via Purdue alumni networks
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: Four flexible paradigms: coursework-only, internship track (up to 6 credits industry experience), project-based capstone (6 credits), or research track (6-9 credits for Ph.D. preparation). Customizable curriculum with six specialized tracks
Hakia Insight: IU Bloomington's four-track flexibility (coursework, internship, capstone, research) lets students pivot mid-program based on employer interest, a pedagogical agility that most fixed-curriculum competitors don't offer.
The M.S. in Intelligent Systems Engineering at Indiana University Bloomington is a two-year, 30-credit program designed for professionals seeking technical expertise in computational engineering and artificial intelligence. The program offers four flexible paradigms: coursework-only, internship track (up to 6 credits), project-based capstone (6 credits), or research track (6-9 credits for Ph.D. preparation). Students choose from six specialized tracks including Computer Engineering, Bioengineering, Cyber-Physical Systems, Environmental Engineering, Molecular and Nanoscale Engineering, and Neuroengineering. The customizable curriculum allows working professionals to tailor their degree toward specific career goals such as big data analysis, deep learning systems, or high-performance computing. Graduates are prepared for Ph.D. programs or high-demand careers in engineering and technology sectors. The university offers support for international students and comprehensive advising through the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Intelligent Systems Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Embedded Systems and VLSI Lab
- Computer Networks Research Group
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Cummins, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Microsoft, Amazon.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Bloomington's tech community and proximity to Indianapolis's manufacturing and tech sector; strong regional industry connections
University of Notre Dame — Notre Dame, IN
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. project track options. Accelerated 11-month completion pathway for well-prepared students
Hakia Insight: Notre Dame's 11-month accelerated pathway exists specifically for engineers mid-career at IBM or Raytheon who need a credential without two years away from projects—a quiet advantage for time-constrained professionals.
Notre Dame's Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering offers rigorous technical training across AI, machine learning, algorithms, computer vision, security, software engineering, and more. The program features both project and thesis options, with accelerated completion in 11 months for well-prepared students. Full-time on-campus format with 1-semester minimum residency requirement. Designed for career advancement in tech startups, industry, and government sectors. GRE is optional. The program emphasizes depth and breadth of knowledge to enable significant career progression and mid-career salary advancement in competitive tech markets.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Wireless Institute
- Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Martin Haissig — Digital signal processing, wireless systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub
Purdue University Northwest — Hammond, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue Northwest's computer engineering program stands out for its embedded systems-first pedagogy and integrated project experience with regional industrial partners in manufacturing and automation.
Hakia Insight: Purdue Northwest's embedded-systems-first curriculum directly feeds ArcelorMittal and Valmont Industries' automation teams, making it the only program in Indiana explicitly designed around the regional manufacturing control pipeline.
At the master's level, purdue Northwest's computer engineering program emphasizes a hands-on, project-centered curriculum that bridges theoretical fundamentals with direct industrial application. The program distinguishes itself through early exposure to embedded systems and hardware design—students engage with real microcontroller platforms and FPGA development starting in the sophomore year, rather than deferring such work to advanced electives. The faculty maintain active connections to manufacturing and industrial automation sectors across the broader Northwest Indiana region, which translates into capstone projects frequently sponsored by regional employers in automotive, steel, and precision manufacturing. You'll find the program structured around core competencies in digital systems, signal processing, and control systems, with flexibility to pursue deeper specialization in either embedded systems or power electronics depending on career interests. The smaller cohort sizes typical of the Northwest campus create genuine mentorship opportunities with faculty who are accessible and invested in student success. Graduates consistently enter roles in firmware development, hardware validation, and control systems engineering at companies with local and regional operations, though many also leverage Purdue's broader network for positions in larger tech ecosystems.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics Lab
Industry Partners
- ArcelorMittal (corporate)
- AM General (corporate)
- Actuant Corporation (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: ArcelorMittal, Valmont Industries, Regional automotive suppliers.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northwest Indiana manufacturing corridorAccess to automotive and steel industry internshipsRegional industrial automation and controls companies
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: Flexible curriculum customizable to focus on specialization interests. Individual courses designed to prepare students for industry certifications
Hakia Insight: IUPUI's Luddy School situates its computer science master's at the literal headquarters of Eli Lilly and Roche Diagnostics, meaning biomedical signal processing coursework translates directly into capstone projects with the world's largest medical device employers.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Indiana University-Indianapolis Luddy School prepares working professionals for advanced technical roles through a flexible, customizable curriculum combining foundational knowledge with emerging technologies. The program offers 30 credit hours of graduate coursework completable in 1.5 years including summer, accommodating part-time study. Students gain expertise in algorithms, software systems, databases, networks, and security, with electives in artificial intelligence, data science, and cloud computing. Individual courses prepare students for industry certifications. Graduates achieve median starting salaries of $85–$110k and secure employment with major employers including Salesforce, Eli Lilly, Raytheon, Infosys, and Cummins. The program emphasizes research mastery, project management, and communication skills valued across tech-driven industries. Admission-based scholarships range from $500–$2,250 per semester for full-time students. GRE is optional, and career services support internships and job placement.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Biomedical Signal Processing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Roche Diagnostics (corporate)
- Eli Lilly and Company (corporate)
- Salesforce (corporate)
- Zimmer Biomet (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Salesforce.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Headquarters location for Eli Lilly and Roche DiagnosticsStrong medical device and biotech manufacturing sectorAccess to Indianapolis life sciences and healthcare technology ecosystemMultiple Fortune 500 and regional tech company presence
Purdue University Fort Wayne — Fort Wayne, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue Fort Wayne's computer engineering program prioritizes embedded systems and hardware-software co-design through continuous laboratory work and deep regional industry partnerships with manufacturing and defense sectors.
Hakia Insight: Purdue Fort Wayne's embedded systems laboratory integrates continuous hardware-software co-design across the full degree, giving students the rare advantage of building defense-grade systems (General Dynamics, Raytheon clients) before graduation.
At the master's level, purdue Fort Wayne's computer engineering program emphasizes applied problem-solving through robust hands-on laboratory work and real-world project experience integrated throughout the curriculum. Rather than pure theory, the program is built on a foundation where students design, prototype, and test embedded systems, digital signal processing applications, and hardware-software integration projects from sophomore year onward. The faculty bring industry experience and maintain active partnerships with regional manufacturers and defense contractors, creating pathways for internships and senior capstone projects that often transition into full-time employment. The proximity to automotive suppliers, medical device manufacturers, and industrial automation companies in northeast Indiana means students work on problems that companies are actively solving—not simulated scenarios. Graduates commonly enter roles in embedded systems development, FPGA design, and control systems engineering, with many staying in the Fort Wayne region where employers actively recruit from the program.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Embedded Systems Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Sweetwater Sound (corporate)
- Lincoln Electric (corporate)
- Vera Bradley (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: General Dynamics, Raytheon, Lincoln Electric.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Lincoln Electric and regional automotive suppliersAccess to northeast Indiana manufacturing ecosystemConnection to Fort Wayne's growing tech sector
Indiana State University — Terre Haute, IN
Key Distinction: Indiana State emphasizes systems integration and industrial control applications, preparing graduates specifically for roles in manufacturing automation and critical infrastructure sectors.
Hakia Insight: Indiana State's control systems focus on critical infrastructure—not IoT or consumer applications—positions graduates uniquely for Duke Energy and Vectren roles where power grid reliability engineering commands premium compensation.
At the master's level, indiana State's computer engineering program carves its niche through strength in power systems, control theory, and applications to critical infrastructure. The curriculum has evolved to address real needs in energy systems modernization, grid resilience, and industrial process control—domains where the Midwest has substantial opportunity. Students gain exposure to both theoretical foundations and contemporary tools used by utilities and manufacturing operations. The program benefits from ISU's proximity to major power generation facilities and industrial plants throughout the Wabash Valley region. Faculty research in power electronics and distributed systems creates natural pathways for undergraduate involvement in meaningful projects. Graduates find positions across the utilities sector, manufacturing operations, and industrial automation firms—career paths often characterized by strong job security and good advancement potential. For students specifically interested in making computer engineering applicable to infrastructure and energy challenges, this program offers genuine specialization depth that most computer engineering schools don't prioritize.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Control Systems Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Duke Energy (corporate)
- Vectren (CenterPoint Energy subsidiary) (corporate)
- local manufacturing firms (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Duke Energy, Vectren, Siemens.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to major power generation and utility infrastructureAccess to Wabash Valley industrial sectorRegional energy and utilities job market
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus — West Lafayette, IN
Key Distinction: Purdue's computer engineering program combines elite research output with industry recruitment pipelines and specialization flexibility that few peers match.
Hakia Insight: Purdue's doctoral program operates three specialized labs (microelectronics, distributed systems, power electronics) that collectively generate more co-authored publications with Intel and Microsoft than most peer institutions produce individually.
At the doctoral level, computer engineering at Purdue's West Lafayette campus is built on a foundation of cutting-edge research infrastructure and deep industry collaboration—you're not just learning about circuits and systems, you're working alongside faculty pushing the boundaries of chip design, power systems, and autonomous computing. The program offers multiple specialization tracks: digital systems and VLSI, computer architecture, embedded systems, and power electronics, so you can sharpen focus on what excites you. Research opportunities are abundant; undergraduates regularly contribute to faculty labs funded by NSF, DARPA, and industry sponsors, and many co-author conference papers before graduating. Purdue's reputation as a feeder school to Silicon Valley and major tech companies means internship and career pipelines are robust—Microsoft, Intel, Google, and others recruit heavily on campus. Capstone projects often emerge from real industry challenges, and the school's commitment to hands-on learning is reflected in state-of-the-art computer engineering labs and maker spaces. If you want a program where research, curriculum, and career outcomes are tightly integrated, Purdue's scale and resources create an unmatched ecosystem.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Purdue Microelectronics Research Laboratory
- Distributed Systems and Parallel Computing Lab
- Power Electronics and Power Systems Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Texas Instruments (corporate)
- Qualcomm (corporate)
- Analog Devices (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Intel, Microsoft, Google, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, Analog Devices, Amazon, Apple.
Notable Faculty
- David Inderrieden — Analog and mixed-signal circuit design
- Mireille Boutin — Digital signal processing and embedded systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Chicago's tech scene and Indianapolis's growing tech corridor; strong pipeline to California's Silicon Valley via Purdue alumni networks
University of Notre Dame — Notre Dame, IN
Key Distinction: Notre Dame's computer engineering program uniquely integrates technical depth with ethical reflection and interdisciplinary collaboration across computing and engineering.
Hakia Insight: Notre Dame's wireless institute lab and research computing cluster together enable dissertation topics that straddle classical RF engineering and AI—a rare interdisciplinary depth that aligns with how Google and IBM actually structure their research teams.
At the doctoral level, notre Dame's computer engineering program bridges classical electrical engineering fundamentals with emerging computational challenges, grounded in the university's commitment to ethics and societal impact. The curriculum emphasizes signal processing, digital systems, and the application of computing to real-world problems—climate modeling, biomedical devices, autonomous systems—rather than treating computer engineering as isolated from its broader context. You'll find close collaboration between the Computer Science and Electrical Engineering departments, giving you flexibility to weight your courses toward hardware design or software-hardware integration. Research opportunities are woven throughout; faculty labs tackle challenges in wireless systems, high-performance computing, and intelligent systems, and undergraduates are encouraged to participate early. The university's strong Catholic mission infuses discussions of technology ethics, responsible innovation, and the role of engineers in society—conversations that matter more as computing becomes embedded in nearly every domain. For students who want technical excellence paired with reflection on technology's human implications, Notre Dame offers an intellectually whole approach to the discipline.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Wireless Institute
- Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Intel, Raytheon.
Notable Faculty
- Martin Haissig — Digital signal processing, wireless systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub
Indiana University-Bloomington — Bloomington, IN
Key Distinction: Financial support provided to all Ph.D. students during academic careers. Six specialized tracks plus general major option
Hakia Insight: IU Bloomington guarantees financial support for all Ph.D. students and offers six specialized tracks in intelligent systems, reducing the funding anxiety that makes many doctoral candidates defer tech industry offers.
The Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems Engineering at IU Bloomington offers a multidisciplinary program focusing on AI, embedded computing, and data interpretation. The program strives to provide financial support to all Ph.D. students during their academic careers, though specific stipend amounts are not detailed. Students choose from six specialized tracks: Bioengineering, Computer Engineering, Cyber-physical Systems, Environmental Engineering, Molecular and Nanoscale Engineering, or Neuroengineering. The curriculum includes core ISE courses, methodology and theory seminars, electives leading to a Ph.D. minor, a qualifying exam, and dissertation with proposal and defense. The program emphasizes hands-on designing and building of systems, particularly smaller-scale mobile and consumer technologies. Students work with faculty experts in areas like embedded systems, IoT, cloud computing, medical imaging, machine learning, and computational toxicology. The program leverages IU's vast technological resources and offers access to a global community of international students and faculty.
Programs Offered
- Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Embedded Systems and VLSI Lab
- Computer Networks Research Group
Industry Partners
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Bloomington's tech community and proximity to Indianapolis's manufacturing and tech sector; strong regional industry connections
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis, IN
Key Distinction: IUPUI's computer engineering program uniquely integrates biomedical and healthcare technology applications, leveraging its Indianapolis location and research mission to prepare graduates for the region's thriving life sciences and medical device industry.
Hakia Insight: IUPUI's biomedical signal processing laboratory positions doctoral candidates to solve actual problems for Zimmer Biomet and Eli Lilly during their dissertations—the rare program where your research directly serves Fortune 500 employers in your metro area.
At the doctoral level, IUPUI's computer engineering program is built on a collaborative, interdisciplinary foundation that positions students at the intersection of computing and real-world problem-solving across healthcare, engineering, and technology sectors. Rather than isolating computer engineering within a traditional silo, the program encourages cross-disciplinary partnerships—you'll find opportunities to apply computer engineering expertise to biomedical devices, health informatics systems, and clinical technology challenges alongside students from nursing, medicine, and engineering. The curriculum balances digital design fundamentals with systems-level thinking, offering specialization pathways in medical device engineering, signal processing, and systems design that directly align with Indianapolis's growing life sciences and medical technology ecosystem. Faculty research often centers on applications in healthcare technology and biomedical signal processing, giving undergraduates genuine exposure to how computer engineering drives innovation in one of the region's strongest industry sectors. The urban Indianapolis location provides direct internship and employment pipelines with Roche Diagnostics, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, and other major employers headquartered or heavily operating in the region. Cooperative education and internship placements are deeply embedded in the program culture, meaning most students graduate with 6+ months of professional experience already on their résumé.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Biomedical Signal Processing Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Roche Diagnostics (corporate)
- Eli Lilly and Company (corporate)
- Salesforce (corporate)
- Zimmer Biomet (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Roche Diagnostics, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Zimmer Biomet, LocalTaxi.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Headquarters location for Eli Lilly and Roche DiagnosticsStrong medical device and biotech manufacturing sectorAccess to Indianapolis life sciences and healthcare technology ecosystemMultiple Fortune 500 and regional tech company presence
