University campus in Indiana
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top computer engineering colleges in Indiana. 32 accredited computer engineering schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Ivy Tech Community College to Purdue University-Main Campus.

#1 ProgramPurdue
Avg Salary$103,570
Tuition From$4,912/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

15

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$103,570

Indiana median computer engineering salary

BLS OEWS 2024

91.5/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

5%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best computer engineering degree programs: Purdue, U of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomi...

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $4,912 to $62,186/year

Ivy Tech Community College offers the most affordable option at $4,912/yr

IPEDS 2024

Computer Engineering degree programs available: 3 associate's, 7 master's, 4 doctoral in Indiana

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

4 online computer engineering degree programs in Indiana

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2024

Indiana community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

3 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Salesforce, Angie, Cummins, Eli Lilly

Tech hubs in Indianapolis and Carmel

Hakia Research 2026

Computer Engineering degree programs near 49+ cities across Indiana

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Indiana Computer Engineering programs

We rank 42 accredited computer engineering programs in Indiana 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 methodology

Are Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana Worth It?

Answer
$103,570
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Indiana deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,570 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $27,292/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Indiana

Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Indiana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana

12
Programs ranked
$31,594
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Indiana ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 28 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 10 public and 18 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Purdue, U of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomi..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Indiana computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $88,035, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $7,259 to $62,186 annually, with an average of $30,089/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 89%, with the highest reaching 99%. 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 Indiana's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Indiana, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

#4
Taylor University
Upland, INPrivate nonprofit
$39,500
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
71.8
Hakia Score
Show all 12 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6University of IndianapolisIndianapolis, INPrivate nonprofit$35,44856%67.8
#7Trine UniversityAngola, INPrivate nonprofit$35,95064%67.0
#8Valparaiso UniversityValparaiso, INPrivate nonprofit$46,94070%66.8
#9Purdue University NorthwestHammond, INPublic$7,53643%65.8
#10Indiana Institute of TechnologyFort Wayne, INPrivate nonprofit$30,83648%64.3
#11Purdue University Fort WayneFort Wayne, INPublic$8,29136%61.6
#12Anderson UniversityAnderson, INPrivate nonprofit$36,15054%60.4

Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana

2
Programs ranked
$37,570
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Indiana offers 7 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Purdue, Indiana University-Bloomi..., U of Notre Dame, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Indiana earn a median salary of $103,570, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Salesforce, Angie, Cummins 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 $16,640/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 Indiana's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana

1
Programs ranked
$64,518
Avg tuition/yr
95%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Indiana is home to 4 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Purdue, U of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Bloomi... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.

Career Outcomes

Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Indiana PhD holders earning a median of $129,463, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Salesforce, Angie, Cummins.

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 Indiana programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Indiana, 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 Indiana

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$27,292/year
Average out-of-state tuition$68,230/year
Community college tuition$6,823/year
4-year savings for residents$163,752
2+2 transfer pathway savings$40,938

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Indiana

State Aid Programs

Indiana students pursuing computer engineering degrees have access to comprehensive financial aid programs designed to make higher education affordable. The state's flagship aid initiative, the 21st Century Scholars program, covers up to 100% of tuition at Indiana public institutions for low-income students who meet eligibility requirements. This need-based grant represents a significant opportunity for qualifying families, eliminating a major barrier to completing a computer engineering degree at schools like Purdue University-Main Campus or Indiana University-Bloomington.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state grants, Indiana computer engineering students can access federal financial aid through the standard FAFSA process. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens doors to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many Indiana institutions, particularly public universities, offer institutional scholarships and merit-based awards tailored to engineering students with strong academic records. The Indiana Commission for Higher Education oversees state aid distribution and provides guidance on available funding sources. Students should explore all three funding layers, federal, state, and institutional, to maximize their aid package and reduce out-of-pocket costs when enrolling in Computer Science in Indiana or related engineering programs.

Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Indiana

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Indiana. 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 Indiana metro areas

Indianapolis$114K
Carmel$109K
Fort Wayne$104K
View data table
CategoryValue
Indianapolis$114K
Carmel$109K
Fort Wayne$104K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Indiana

Find computer engineering jobs in Indiana. These major employers across Indiana metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Computer Engineering Jobs in Indianapolis

IN
Salesforce
tech
Eli Lilly
pharma
Infosys
consulting
Rolls-Royce
aerospace
Cummins
manufacturing

Computer Engineering Jobs in Carmel

IN
Genesys
tech
KAR Global
automotive-tech

Computer Engineering Jobs in Fort Wayne

IN
Sweetwater Sound
ecommerce
Raytheon
defense

Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Indiana

State Transfer System

Indiana's Indiana Core Transfer Library (CTL) provides a streamlined pathway for students beginning their education at two-year institutions and transferring to four-year universities. The CTL guarantees transfer of core courses statewide, simplifying the transition process and protecting student investment in coursework (Indiana Core Transfer Library). Indiana currently has 12 two-year institutions offering associate's degree programs, with 3 specifically offering computer engineering. Institutions like Ivy Tech Community College (tuition: $4,912) and Vincennes University (tuition: $6,330) provide affordable entry points for students pursuing computer engineering degrees before transferring to four-year institutions like Purdue University-Main Campus or Indiana University-Bloomington.

How Transfers Work

Transfer articulation agreements between Indiana's community colleges and universities help smooth transitions for computer engineering students. Purdue University Fort Wayne (tuition: $8,049) and Indiana Institute of Technology serve as both transfer destinations and direct computer engineering providers. Students completing associate's degrees in computer engineering or related technical fields gain college credits that transfer directly, reducing overall time-to-degree and education costs. The transfer pathway is particularly valuable given Indiana's average public in-state tuition of $8,373 for four-year institutions, starting at a community college can save thousands in initial costs. Prospective transfer students should connect with academic advisors at their home institution to ensure course alignment with four-year program requirements. Explore complementary pathways through Software Engineering in Indiana and Computer Science in Indiana for additional transfer options.

Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Indiana?

Industry & Workforce

Indiana has established itself as a strong hub for computer engineering education, with 46 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state produced 2,102 bachelor's degree completions in computer engineering during 2023, demonstrating strong undergraduate enrollment and graduation rates. Leading institutions like Purdue University-Main Campus dominate the field with 1,445 completions, making it one of the nation's premier computer engineering producers. Students choosing Indiana benefit from access to programs without sacrificing affordability, average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions stands at just $8,373, significantly below the national average.

Salary Outlook

Indiana's geographic position and economic landscape create exceptional career opportunities for computer engineering graduates. Major technology employers including Indiana University Health, Eli Lilly, Walmart, and Amazon maintain substantial operations throughout the state, with particular concentration in the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, Fort Wayne, and South Bend-Mishawaka metropolitan areas. The state's 21st Century Scholars program offers additional financial support, covering up to 100% of tuition at Indiana public institutions for eligible low-income students (21st Century Scholars). Students interested in related fields may also explore Computer Science in Indiana and Software Engineering in Indiana for complementary educational pathways.

Computer Engineering Program Availability in Indiana

32 Programs
Indiana offers 32 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Indianapolis, Carmel, Fort Wayne.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Indiana

Employment Outlook

Indiana's computer engineering job market is strong and growing, supported by a diverse employment landscape across multiple metropolitan regions. The state's major tech hubs include the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson metro area, Fort Wayne, and the South Bend-Mishawaka region, each offering distinct career opportunities for computer engineers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indiana has a competitive salary landscape for computer engineering professionals. The state's 46 institutions offering computer engineering programs, including 30 bachelor's degree providers, demonstrate substantial educational capacity to meet regional employer demand. Indiana's public four-year universities maintain an average in-state tuition of $8,373, making education accessible for aspiring engineers who will fuel the state's tech sector.

Salaries by Metro

Major employers driving the Indiana computer engineering market include Indiana University Health, Eli Lilly, Walmart, and Amazon, creating opportunities across healthcare technology, pharmaceuticals, retail innovation, and logistics engineering. These organizations actively recruit graduates from top programs like Purdue University-Main Campus, which produces 1,445 completions in computer engineering, and Indiana University-Bloomington, which graduates 440 completions. The state's geographic distribution of employers means career opportunities extend beyond major cities to secondary markets in Evansville, Carmel, Fishers, and Hammond. Students pursuing computer engineering in Indiana benefit from proximity to major Fortune 500 companies and growing tech startups, positioning graduates competitively in national and regional job markets.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Indiana$67,321$150,177
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Indiana

Online Programs

4 available in Indiana

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$24,563/yr$27,292/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

Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Indiana: FAQ

What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Indiana?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Indiana based on our methodology are: 1) Purdue University-Main Campus (83% graduation rate), 2) University of Notre Dame, and 3) Indiana University-Bloomington. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Indiana offers 32 total accredited programs across 13 public and 19 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 28 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Indiana?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Indiana vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $27,292/year, while private institutions average $60,042/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,823/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $109,168 at public schools to $240,170 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 Indiana?
Computer Engineering professionals in Indiana earn a median salary of $103,570, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,321, while senior roles exceed $150,177. Salaries vary by metro area: Indianapolis ($113,927), Carmel ($108,749) 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 Indiana?
Yes, Indiana offers 4 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 Earlham College and Manchester University. 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 Indiana?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Indiana include Salesforce, Angie, Cummins, Eli Lilly, Infosys. The Indianapolis and Carmel metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Indiana universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Indiana's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Indiana?
A computer engineering degree program in Indiana offers strong ROI with a $103,570 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $27,292/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($117,034), 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 Indiana?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Indiana 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. Indiana community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Indiana university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Indiana?
Indiana 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. Indiana 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 Indiana'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

Indiana 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.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Computer Engineering program profiles in Indiana

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Notre DameNotre Dame, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Wireless Institute — Wireless communications, antenna design, RF systems
  • Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster — High-performance computing, scientific computing

Industry partners

IBMRaytheon Technologies

Notable faculty

  • Martin Haissig (Digital signal processing, wireless systems)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub

#2Purdue University-Main CampusWest Lafayette, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Purdue Microelectronics Research Laboratory — VLSI design, nanoelectronics, circuit design
  • Distributed Systems and Parallel Computing Lab — Computer architecture, parallel systems
  • Power Electronics and Power Systems Laboratory — Power conversion, renewable energy systems

Industry partners

IntelMicrosoftGoogleTexas InstrumentsQualcommAnalog Devices

Notable faculty

  • David Inderrieden (Analog and mixed-signal circuit design)
  • Mireille Boutin (Digital signal processing and embedded systems)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Proximity to Chicago's tech scene and Indianapolis's growing tech corridor; strong pipeline to California's Silicon Valley via Purdue alumni networks

#3Rose-Hulman Institute of TechnologyTerre Haute, IN

Why it stands out. 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 & institutes

  • Robotics Lab — Autonomous systems, networked robotics, embedded control
  • Digital Systems Lab — FPGA design, hardware acceleration, computer architecture

Industry partners

CumminsGeneral MotorsRaytheon TechnologiesRoche DiagnosticsEli Lilly

Career outcomes

$7,000,075,000 median salary

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)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Indianapolis metro tech and automotive manufacturing proximity; access to Cummins, major defense contractors, and pharmaceutical engineering roles

#4Taylor UniversityUpland, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited
#5Indiana University-IndianapolisIndianapolis, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Biomedical Signal Processing Laboratory — Medical device design and health monitoring systems

Industry partners

Roche DiagnosticsEli Lilly and CompanySalesforceZimmer Biomet

Career outcomes

Top employers: Roche Diagnostics, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Zimmer Biomet, LocalTaxi

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Headquarters location for Eli Lilly and Roche Diagnostics Strong medical device and biotech manufacturing sector Access to Indianapolis life sciences and healthcare technology ecosystem Multiple Fortune 500 and regional tech company presence

#7Trine UniversityAngola, IN

Why it stands out. 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 & institutes

  • Engineering Design Studio — Capstone projects, embedded systems prototyping, industrial applications

Industry partners

General MotorsHoneywellBoschParkview Health

Career outcomes

Top employers: Magnum Enterprises, Regional automotive suppliers, Industrial automation firms

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Proximity to automotive suppliers in northern Indiana Access to industrial automation and control systems companies Regional manufacturing and electronics firms

#9Purdue University NorthwestHammond, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics Lab — Control systems and industrial automation

Industry partners

ArcelorMittalAM GeneralActuant Corporation

Career outcomes

Top employers: Cisco, Intel

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Proximity to Northwest Indiana manufacturing corridor Access to automotive and steel industry internships Regional industrial automation and controls companies

Best Master's Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Notre DameNotre Dame, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Wireless Institute — Wireless communications, antenna design, RF systems
  • Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster — High-performance computing, scientific computing

Industry partners

IBMRaytheon Technologies

Notable faculty

  • Martin Haissig (Digital signal processing, wireless systems)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub

#2Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington, IN

Why it stands out. 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

Research labs & institutes

  • Embedded Systems and VLSI Lab — Digital design, FPGA, microarchitecture
  • Computer Networks Research Group — Network systems, communications protocols

Industry partners

Cummins

Career outcomes

Top employers: Cummins, Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Microsoft, Amazon

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Bloomington's tech community and proximity to Indianapolis's manufacturing and tech sector; strong regional industry connections

Best Doctoral Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Notre DameNotre Dame, IN

Why it stands out. 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 & institutes

  • Wireless Institute — Wireless communications, antenna design, RF systems
  • Notre Dame Research Computing Cluster — High-performance computing, scientific computing

Industry partners

IBMRaytheon Technologies

Career outcomes

Top employers: IBM, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Intel, Raytheon

Notable faculty

  • Martin Haissig (Digital signal processing, wireless systems)

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Access to Midwest tech ecosystem; proximity to Chicago's growing tech hub