Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in Iowa 2025
Iowa State University
461 computer engineering graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Grinnell College
62 computer engineering graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
University of Iowa
207 computer engineering graduates annually, 93% graduation rate
- 1.Iowa offers 20+ accredited computer engineering programs across public and private universities
- 2.Iowa State University leads with 99% graduation rate
- 3.Iowa software developers earn median $89,450 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City
- 5.Cost of living index: 90.1% of US average (below average)
Computer Engineering Education in Iowa: Overview
Iowa offers 20 accredited computer engineering programs, producing approximately 1,203 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, with major employers including Principal Financial, Wellmark, Rockwell Collins.
With a median software developer salary of $89,450 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 90.1% compared to the US average, Iowa offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers.
The top computer engineering programs in the state are led by Iowa State University, Grinnell College, University of Iowa, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Iowa Computer Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Iowa State University | Ames, IA | Public | $8,982 | 99% | 78.1 |
| 2 | Grinnell College | Grinnell, IA | Private | $64,342 | 98% | 70.3 |
| 3 | University of Iowa | Iowa City, IA | Public | $9,016 | 93% | 65.1 |
| 4 | Maharishi International University | Fairfield, IA | Private | $16,000 | 55% | 59.2 |
| 5 | William Penn University | Oskaloosa, IA | Private | $28,750 | 95% | 48.2 |
| 6 | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA | Private | $35,000 | 99% | 43.3 |
| 7 | Clarke University | Dubuque, IA | Private | $38,400 | 81% | 42.7 |
| 8 | Dordt University | Sioux Center, IA | Private | $35,360 | 87% | 42.6 |
| 9 | Grand View University | Des Moines, IA | Private | $32,800 | 99% | 41.9 |
| 10 | Simpson College | Indianola, IA | Private | $45,306 | 87% | 39.8 |
| 11 | Briar Cliff University | Sioux City, IA | Private | $33,369 | — | 37.6 |
| 12 | Luther College | Decorah, IA | Private | $49,650 | — | 36.9 |
| 13 | Saint Ambrose University | Davenport, IA | Private | $35,318 | — | 36.1 |
| 14 | Coe College | Cedar Rapids, IA | Private | $52,226 | — | 35.7 |
| 15 | University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls, IA | Public | $8,396 | — | 34.9 |
| 16 | Cornell College | Mount Vernon, IA | Private | $49,970 | — | 34.9 |
| 17 | Central College | Pella, IA | Private | $20,988 | — | 33.6 |
| 18 | Mount Mercy University | Cedar Rapids, IA | Private | $38,070 | — | 31.8 |
| 19 | Loras College | Dubuque, IA | Private | $36,454 | — | 30.7 |
| 20 | Upper Iowa University | Fayette, IA | Private | $18,000 | — | 28.5 |
Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs in Iowa: Side-by-Side
| School | Iowa State | Grinnell College | U of Iowa | Maharishi International | William Penn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,982 | $64,342 | $9,016 | $16,000 | $28,750 |
| Graduation Rate | 99% | 98% | 93% | 55% | 95% |
| Annual Graduates | 461 | 62 | 207 | 334 | 5 |
| Acceptance Rate | 89% | 13% | 85% | 97% | 57% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Private | Private |
| Score | 78.1/100 | 70.3/100 | 65.1/100 | 59.2/100 | 48.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Engineering in Iowa
Iowa offers 20 bachelor's-level computer engineering programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Iowa State University, Grinnell College, University of Iowa. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $62,615 in the Iowa market.
A bachelor's in computer engineering typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs in Iowa
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Iowa State | $8,982 | 99% | 461 | 78.1 |
| #2 Grinnell College | $64,342 | 98% | 62 | 70.3 |
| #3 U of Iowa | $9,016 | 93% | 207 | 65.1 |
Top Computer Engineering Schools for Master's Degrees in Iowa
For graduate study, Iowa offers 3 master's-level computer engineering programs. Leading institutions include Maharishi International University, Iowa State University, University of Iowa. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Iowa reaching $116,285 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer engineering master's programs for more options beyond Iowa.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Master's Programs in Iowa
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Maharishi International | $16,000 | 55% | 334 | 59.2 |
| #2 Iowa State | $8,982 | 99% | 59 | 56.8 |
| #3 U of Iowa | $9,016 | 93% | 15 | 46.0 |
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Colleges in Iowa
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer engineering programs in Iowa are at University of Northern Iowa ($8,396/year), Iowa State University ($8,982/year), University of Iowa ($9,016/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Iowa's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Northern Iowa, a 4-year degree costs approximately $33,584 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $62,615, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1.2 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs in Iowa (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Northern Iowa | $8,396 | $33,584 | 1.2 years | Public |
| #2 Iowa State | $8,982 | $35,928 | 1.3 years | Public |
| #3 U of Iowa | $9,016 | $36,064 | 1.3 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Engineering Schools in Iowa
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer engineering programs in Iowa, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Iowa State University
Ames, IA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,982 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 461 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 78.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 461 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 78.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (461 graduates), state salary outcomes ($89,450), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Iowa State's Computer Engineering program offers a comprehensive 127-credit curriculum with hands-on learning through project-based courses and laboratory experiences. The program provides strong technical foundations in areas like operating systems, computer organization, and algorithms while offering undergraduate research opportunities.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus I
- •Calculus II
- •General Chemistry
- •Introduction to Classical Physics I
- •Critical Thinking and Communication
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
Program Details
- Credits: 127 credits
Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,342 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 62 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 13%
- • Ranking Score: 70.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 62 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 70.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (62 graduates), state salary outcomes ($89,450), and selectivity (13% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Grinnell offers a 3-2 Engineering Program allowing students to earn both a bachelor of arts from Grinnell and a bachelor of science or engineering degree from prestigious partner institutions like Columbia, Caltech, RPI, or Washington University. The program integrates natural sciences with a strong liberal arts foundation in humanities and social sciences.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus I/II
- •Linear Algebra
- •Differential Equations
- •Calculus-based Physics I/II
- •Introduction to Chemistry
- •Introduction to Economics
- •Computer Science taught in C/C++/Java
- •College writing/English composition
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.3
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Apple, Amazon, Amazon Web Services, Allstate Corporation, Airtable, Anchorage Digital
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,016 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 207 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 65.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 207 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (207 graduates), state salary outcomes ($89,450), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Iowa's Computer Science and Engineering program is the first in the state and one of only 12 programs nationwide offering accredited degrees in this major, seeking dual accreditation from both Engineering and Computing Accreditation Councils. The program features direct admission to engineering with strong industry connections through advisory boards and exceptional job placement rates.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 years English
- •4 years mathematics
- •3 years science
- •2 years social studies
- •2 years same world language
Program Details
- Credits: 129 credits
- Capstone Project Required
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 96 percent employed, continuing education, or not seeking work within six months
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rankings & Recognition
- U.S. News & World Report ranks Iowa's undergraduate program in the top third of engineering programs nationwide
- one of only 12 programs nationwide that offer accredited degrees in this major
- first in the state
Maharishi International University
Fairfield, IA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $16,000 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 55% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 334 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 97%
- • Ranking Score: 59.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 55% graduation rate
- 334 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 59.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (55%), program size (334 graduates), state salary outcomes ($89,450), and selectivity (97% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
William Penn University
Oskaloosa, IA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $28,750 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 57%
- • Ranking Score: 48.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 5 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 48.2 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($89,450), and selectivity (57% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
William Penn University's Mathematics Department provides students with one-on-one attention and graduates tend to receive higher starting salaries and more job offers than expected. The program offers both Applied and General Mathematics tracks with strong industry connections including internships with companies like Musco Lighting.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Prism Projection, Pella Corporation, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, State Farm Insurance, Musco Lighting
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Iowa with strong job growth.
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Systems Analyst opportunities in Iowa with strong job growth.
IT Manager
SOC 15-1299IT Manager opportunities in Iowa with strong job growth.
Technical Consultant
SOC 15-1299Technical Consultant opportunities in Iowa with strong job growth.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Database Administrator opportunities in Iowa with strong job growth.
Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City
- You're seeking lower cost of living (90.1% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Principal Financial or Wellmark
- You prefer Iowa's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Iowa's 20)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration
Computer Engineering in Iowa FAQ
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Engineering degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Iowa-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Iowa salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
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