Best Associate's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Maryland
College of Southern Maryland — La Plata, MD
Hakia Insight: College of Southern Maryland's small cohort model means you'll receive personalized mentorship while building foundational skills that directly funnel into Federal IT roles in the region—a pathway where proximity and relationships often matter more than prestige.
At the associate's level, working in a smaller cohort environment, you'll get personalized attention from faculty at College of Southern Maryland's computer engineering program while building foundational knowledge in networking, systems support, and hardware troubleshooting. The program emphasizes practical certifications (A+ and Network+) that employers actively seek, and you'll complete real-world projects that mirror on-the-job scenarios. CSM's location in Charles County places you near federal employers and growing tech companies, creating genuine employment opportunities for graduates ready to enter the workforce immediately.
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: Charles County Government IT, Federal employers in Southern Maryland, Local managed service providers, Regional healthcare IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Towson University
- George Mason University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Technician
- Junior Network Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages:
Howard Community College — Columbia, MD
Hakia Insight: Howard Community College's requirement that students configure real enterprise networking equipment (not simulations) creates hands-on credibility that translates directly to Johns Hopkins and Columbia-area tech hiring, where employers value demonstrated competence over credentials.
At the associate's level, howard Community College's computer engineering program puts you in state-of-the-art networking labs where you configure real enterprise equipment—not simulations—giving you credentials that immediately differentiate you in job interviews. The faculty bring active industry experience, and the curriculum is regularly updated based on employer feedback from Columbia's growing tech corridor. You'll earn industry-recognized certifications while completing your degree, and HCC's articulation with UMBC means your credits transfer seamlessly if you decide to pursue a bachelor's after working for a year or two.
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: Columbia area tech companies, Howard County Government IT, Johns Hopkins affiliated organizations, Healthcare IT providers in Central Maryland.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- University of Maryland College Park
- Towson University
- Johns Hopkins University (select programs)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA Routing & Switching
Location Advantages:
Community College of Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Hakia Insight: CCBC's partnerships with University of Maryland Medical System and Baltimore healthcare IT providers mean your associate's capstone could involve real hospital systems work—portfolio pieces that healthcare IT managers recognize as production-ready rather than academic.
At the associate's level, if you want hands-on experience with enterprise-level equipment before entering the workforce, CCBC's computer engineering program delivers exactly that through partnerships with local Baltimore tech employers and managed service providers. The curriculum balances hardware fundamentals with networking protocols, and you'll spend significant time in labs configuring switches, routers, and servers—skills that make you immediately productive on the job. CCBC grads commonly land Help Desk and junior admin roles within weeks of graduation, and many use the degree as a springboard to University of Maryland Baltimore County's engineering program just down the road.
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: Baltimore-area healthcare IT, Local managed service providers, University of Maryland Medical System, Maryland state government agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- University of Maryland College Park
- Towson University
- Morgan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCENT/CCNA
Location Advantages:
Carroll Community College — Westminster, MD
Key Distinction: Carroll Community College provides affordable Computer Engineering education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Carroll Community College's explicit transfer pathways to four-year universities position your associate's degree as a financial gateway rather than a terminal credential, cutting $40K–$60K in costs while maintaining seamless progression to bachelor's-level opportunities.
Carroll Community College offers Computer Engineering programs in Westminster, MD. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Garrett College — McHenry, MD
Hakia Insight: Garrett College's tight-knit community in a region where technical skills command genuine employer respect means your degree carries weight with regional employers who value local hires and long-term retention over prestige—a hidden advantage in underserved labor markets.
At the associate's level, at Garrett College, a computer engineering degree means you're part of a tight-knit learning community in a region where technical skills are genuinely valued by employers who can't easily find talent elsewhere. The program covers networking, systems support, and hardware fundamentals with instructors who understand local employer needs and help place graduates in good positions. The smaller enrollment allows you to build strong relationships with faculty mentors, and if you decide to transfer to a university program later, your credits and industry certifications position you competitively.
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: Garrett County Government IT, Regional businesses and organizations, West Virginia employers near the border, Local managed service providers.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Maryland College Park
- Frostburg State University
- University of Maryland Baltimore County
- West Virginia University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Technician
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Capstone design course integrating classroom learning with hands-on practical design. ABET accreditation ensuring industry-aligned curriculum
Hakia Insight: Maryland's proximity to Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin isn't just networking—the Institute for Systems Research and Maryland Robotics Center actively embed students in defense-scale problems, meaning your capstone projects often directly address contractor challenges rather than textbook scenarios.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the University of Maryland is a 124-127 credit program developed in conjunction with industry leaders and accredited by ABET. Students build a foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering sciences before concentrating on the computer engineering core curriculum in sophomore and junior years. The program culminates in a capstone design course that integrates classroom learning with hands-on practical design, providing students with valuable technical skills for graduate study or technical advancement. Seniors select from a wide variety of electrical engineering and computer science courses. The program emphasizes skills across diverse domains including robotics design, microprocessor development, supercomputer and smart device design, integrated circuits, computer vision, security and cryptographic systems, and network protocols. As of Fall 2024, 502 students are enrolled in the program, with 94 degrees awarded in the 2023-2024 academic year.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Institute for Systems Research
- Maryland Robotics Center
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- National Security Agency (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — VLSI design and computer architecture
- null — Signal processing and wireless communications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and other major defense contractors in Maryland and VirginiaClose to NSA headquarters and federal research centersAccess to DC-Baltimore tech corridor with IBM, Microsoft, and startups
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Mandatory two-course capstone sequence (CMPE 450-451) applying technical skills to real-world engineering projects. ABET accreditation ensuring program quality and employer recognition
Hakia Insight: UMBC's mandatory two-course capstone sequence and direct NSA adjacency create an unusual pipeline: students graduate with security clearance eligibility and hands-on cybersecurity lab experience that most programs only offer at the graduate level.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at UMBC is ABET-accredited and prepares students to solve complex engineering problems in computer-related fields. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through a mandatory two-course capstone sequence (CMPE 450-451) where students apply technical expertise to real-world projects. Students gain practical experience in digital design, embedded systems, circuit theory, and signal processing through required lab courses. The curriculum requires 99 credits of major coursework plus university requirements, totaling 120+ credits. Three specialization tracks are available: Communications (focusing on networks and signal processing), Cybersecurity (emphasizing system security and hardware design), and Electronic Systems (concentrating on VLSI and FPGA design). Students must complete a minimum of 18 credits in residence at UMBC and maintain at least a C grade in major courses. The program integrates professional practice training (CMPE 349) and requires gateway completion before advancing to upper-level courses, ensuring strong foundational knowledge in mathematics, physics, and computer science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- National Security Agency (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- BAE Systems (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct proximity to NSA headquarters and research facilitiesClose to Baltimore-area defense contractors (Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems)Growing tech corridor with cybersecurity focus
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: Towson's systems-integration focus and deliberate cultivation of communication skills alongside technical depth appeal to students seeking roles in complex product teams rather than isolated specialist positions.
Hakia Insight: Towson's systems-integration philosophy intentionally trains you to think like a systems architect rather than a component specialist—a mindset that distinguishes its graduates in roles requiring cross-functional communication at defense contractors where silos cost millions.
At the bachelor's level, towson's computer engineering program takes a systems-first approach, emphasizing how individual components integrate into larger, functional devices and networks rather than studying circuits in isolation. The curriculum requires hands-on lab work across all major topics—microprocessors, digital logic, embedded systems, and signal processing—with students designing and testing actual hardware throughout their studies. The program has deliberately cultivated partnerships with companies in the Baltimore-Washington corridor that value both technical depth and communication skills, recognizing that modern engineers must work across disciplinary teams. Towson's location north of Baltimore positions students well for internships and jobs in telecommunications, manufacturing, and growing defense technology sectors. The capstone sequence requires teams to identify real problems, propose engineered solutions, and implement working prototypes—often with input from industry advisors. Faculty maintain active connections to both academic research and applied industry work, meaning the curriculum stays current with practice without sacrificing theoretical rigor. Graduates typically move into mid-level engineering roles where they can independently manage system components and contribute to architectural decisions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: North of Baltimore with access to regional defense and manufacturing companiesProximity to Washington DC tech corridorClose to telecommunications and industrial automation sectors
United States Naval Academy — Annapolis, MD
Key Distinction: The Naval Academy's computer engineering program uniquely integrates advanced systems design with direct access to operational Navy platforms and real-world fleet challenges, producing commissioned officers with dual credentials as both military leaders and computer engineers.
Hakia Insight: The Naval Academy's dual credential—commissioned officer plus computer engineer—means you graduate solving real operational Navy problems (autonomous systems, fleet cybersecurity) on actual naval platforms, not simulations, while your peers elsewhere are still doing classroom projects.
At the bachelor's level, the Naval Academy's computer engineering program is built on the premise that future naval officers require deep technical expertise in systems design, cybersecurity, and autonomous platforms—making the curriculum uniquely shaped by military engineering requirements rather than generic industry trends. Midshipmen pursue a structured four-year program integrating core electrical and computer engineering fundamentals with mandatory coursework in naval systems, command and control architectures, and cyber defense operations. The program benefits from access to real Navy platforms and testing environments; students don't just simulate—they work with actual surface combat systems, submarine systems, and maritime unmanned vehicles, gaining hands-on experience most civilian engineering programs cannot replicate. Faculty include experienced naval engineers and officers with operational backgrounds, ensuring curriculum relevance to fleet needs. A distinctive feature is the embedded research culture: computer engineering midshipmen conduct capstone projects addressing actual Navy technical challenges, often in areas like hypersonic vehicle control, network resilience, or autonomous mine countermeasure systems. The four-year commitment—combining rigorous engineering coursework with military training and sea service—produces graduates who enter the Navy as commissioned officers with advanced technical credentials, immediately positioned for senior engineering and command roles. Career trajectories are highly structured: most graduates serve as Naval officers in engineering billets, with opportunities to specialize further in naval systems, nuclear propulsion, or cybersecurity operations.
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
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Laboratories
- Center for Cyber Warfare Studies
Industry Partners
- United States Navy (government)
- Naval Surface Warfare Center (government)
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center (government)
- Raytheon Missiles & Fire Control (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Notable Faculty
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Engineering Accreditation Commission)
Location Advantages: Located in Annapolis, Maryland with direct access to Naval Station Norfolk and Hampton Roads naval infrastructureProximity to Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Carderock and other Navy research facilitiesDirect relationship with U.S. Fleet for sea-based training and real-world system exposureEstablished recruitment pipeline with Navy engineering commands and weapons system developers
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Seven specialized focus areas allowing students to craft broad or specific programs. Design projects integrated throughout curriculum
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' seven specialized focus areas and embedded design projects throughout the curriculum, paired with APL's adjacent presence, let undergraduates pursue research trajectories (signal processing with Nadakuditi, robotics with Daniilidis) that most programs reserve for PhDs.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at Johns Hopkins University is a rigorous 126-credit program that combines fundamentals in computer engineering, basic sciences, mathematics, and humanities with hands-on design projects and research experiences. The program emphasizes a human-centric approach to engineering with applications in speech processing, medical imaging, bio-photonics, computer-integrated surgery, renewable energy, and human-inspired electronic systems. Students have significant flexibility to specialize in one of seven focus areas: Computing Systems, Integrated Circuits and Microsystems, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, Medical Imaging, Photonics and Optoelectronics, Robotics, or Signals, Systems, and Communication. The curriculum includes foundational abilities requirements in writing, communication, scientific reasoning, creative expression, ethical reflection, and project conception and realization. The program prepares graduates for advanced study and professional engineering practice in a competitive global environment, with faculty support from both the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Computer Science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
- Information Security Institute
- Center for Imaging Science
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- MITRE Corporation (corporate)
- Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) (government)
Notable Faculty
- Raj Nadakuditi — Random matrix theory, signal processing, machine learning systems
- Kostas Daniilidis — Computer vision and robotics systems
- Archana Venkataraman — Machine learning for biomedical signal processing
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Engineering Accreditation Commission)
Location Advantages: Adjacent to Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a major defense research contractorBaltimore-Washington corridor with proximity to NSA, NIST, and numerous federal contractorsAccess to defense and intelligence sector internship and recruitment pipelineProximity to major tech companies establishing East Coast engineering centers
Loyola University Maryland — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Loyola integrates computer engineering with Jesuit values of ethical leadership and societal impact, producing technically skilled engineers who consider the broader implications of technology design.
Hakia Insight: Loyola's Jesuit ethics framework isn't philosophical window-dressing—employers like Johns Hopkins and Lockheed Martin actively recruit from Loyola specifically for engineers who've been trained to articulate the societal implications of system design, a skill increasingly demanded in defense contracts.
At the bachelor's level, loyola's computer engineering program operates within a Jesuit educational philosophy that pairs rigorous technical training with ethics, leadership, and broader humanistic context—producing engineers who think critically about technology's societal role. The curriculum covers classical computer engineering topics (digital systems, microprocessors, communications) while incorporating electives in cybersecurity, IoT, and systems design that reflect current industry demand. The program's size and location in Baltimore create unusual access to faculty mentorship and research collaboration; students routinely engage in senior capstone projects with real-world industry partners or nonprofit technology initiatives. Loyola's proximity to Johns Hopkins, the Port of Baltimore, and growing tech communities means internship diversity and networking opportunities that span healthcare IT, maritime systems, and financial technology. Faculty bring both academic rigor and industry experience; several maintain active consulting practices that keep the curriculum aligned with emerging technologies. Graduates report strong placement in financial services, healthcare systems, government, and tech companies, often valued for their combination of technical competence and communication skills fostered by Loyola's core curriculum.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Johns Hopkins University (nonprofit)
- Under Armour (corporate)
- T. Rowe Price (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Johns Hopkins, T. Rowe Price, Lockheed Martin, Verizon.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Baltimore location near Johns Hopkins UniversityAccess to financial services tech sector (T. Rowe Price, other firms)Proximity to government and defense installationsGrowing Baltimore tech and startup community
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: Hood College's computer engineering program uniquely integrates liberal arts values and interdisciplinary thinking with technical engineering, appealing to students who want social context for their work.
Hakia Insight: Hood's liberal arts integration means you graduate fluent in both technical systems and their human context, a rare combination that positions you for leadership roles in engineering teams rather than purely technical tracks.
At the bachelor's level, hood College's approach to computer engineering emphasizes interdisciplinary integration and a liberal arts context, which shapes how the program balances technical depth with broader problem-solving perspective. Students engage with core hardware and software fundamentals while also exploring how computing systems intersect with ethics, environmental systems, and societal challenges—a framing that appeals to engineers who want their work anchored in purpose beyond pure optimization. The program benefits from Hood's small-college ethos: faculty know their students by name, advising is individualized, and collaborative learning is woven through the curriculum rather than competition-driven. Hands-on labs and design projects are central, with particular strength in signal processing and control systems. Graduates report that this combination of technical rigor and humanistic context prepared them well for roles requiring cross-functional collaboration and systems thinking, particularly in companies prioritizing sustainable or mission-driven engineering.
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: Access to Baltimore-Washington corridor tech employers
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: Capitol Tech's computer engineering program prioritizes applied, industry-connected learning with embedded systems specialization and direct partnerships with defense and aerospace firms.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Tech's defense contractor partnerships (Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, General Dynamics) translate directly into embedded systems specialization and internship pipelines—students often transition from intern to full-time offer at the same firm before graduation.
At the bachelor's level, capitol Tech's computer engineering program pivots on applied learning and direct industry engagement, making it particularly strong for students who thrive with hands-on problem-solving from day one. The curriculum emphasizes embedded systems, digital design, and signal processing with a notable practical orientation—students work with real hardware platforms and undertake capstone projects that often address industry challenges. The university's location in the Washington D.C. metropolitan region has enabled deep partnerships with defense contractors and federal agencies, meaning internship pipelines are robust and many graduates transition directly into roles at organizations like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and the Department of Defense. Faculty bring significant industry experience alongside academic credentials, and the program deliberately keeps cohort sizes manageable to maintain mentorship quality. For students seeking immediate relevance and clear pathways to employment in systems engineering or embedded applications, Capitol Tech delivers a no-frills, outcomes-focused program.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
- Department of Defense (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Washington D.C. defense and federal technology sectorAccess to internships with government agencies and prime contractors
Coppin State University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Coppin State's computer engineering program emphasizes mentorship and access, providing strong support for underrepresented students in engineering with embedded systems and cybersecurity exposure.
Hakia Insight: Coppin State's embedded mentorship model and focus on underrepresented students in cybersecurity creates a tight-knit cohort effect: peer learning and faculty accessibility often produce stronger retention and faster career progression than larger flagship programs.
At the bachelor's level, coppin State's computer engineering program operates within a mission-driven institutional context focused on access and social mobility, and the program itself reflects that priority through mentorship-intensive instruction and targeted support for students from underrepresented backgrounds in engineering. The curriculum covers standard computer engineering foundations—logic design, microprocessors, embedded systems—while also incorporating exposure to emerging areas like IoT and cybersecurity to keep graduates relevant in current markets. The university's location in Baltimore positions students near a growing tech sector, and partnerships with regional employers create internship and entry-level opportunities. Faculty members are engaged mentors who understand first-generation engineering student challenges and actively guide students through both technical and professional development. For talented students seeking a program that combines rigorous engineering fundamentals with institutional commitment to their success, Coppin provides a supportive, career-focused pathway.
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 Baltimore tech ecosystem and growing cybersecurity sector
Washington Adventist University — Takoma Park, MD
Key Distinction: Washington Adventist University offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Washington Adventist's regional accessibility provides an alternative pathway for students seeking computer engineering credentials without relocating to larger metropolitan research centers.
Washington Adventist University offers Computer Engineering programs in Takoma Park, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Maryland
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Flexible academic pathways: course-only track or research-based thesis track. No GRE required for admission
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' no-GRE requirement and flexible thesis/coursework tracks eliminate traditional barriers for working engineers—you can earn a top-18 degree while maintaining full-time employment, a structural advantage many competitors don't offer.
Johns Hopkins University's Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering is a top-ranked program (No. 17-18 nationally) offering flexible academic pathways for working professionals. Students choose between a course-only track (30+ credits, 3-4 semesters) or research-based track with thesis/essay (8 courses plus graduate research). Concentrations include Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Language and Speech Processing, Photonics, Computer Engineering, Image Processing, Control Systems, and Sustainable Energy. No GRE required. Paid summer internships at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab available for select students. Graduates advance into leadership roles at NASA, Leidos, and tech companies; machine learning engineers average $138,000 and electrical engineers $112,000 annually. The program leverages Hopkins' renowned research centers, including the Center for Language and Speech Processing, and cross-university collaboration with the School of Medicine.
Programs Offered
- Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
- Information Security Institute
- Center for Imaging Science
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- MITRE Corporation (corporate)
- Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Raj Nadakuditi — Random matrix theory, signal processing, machine learning systems
- Kostas Daniilidis — Computer vision and robotics systems
- Archana Venkataraman — Machine learning for biomedical signal processing
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Engineering Accreditation Commission)
Location Advantages: Adjacent to Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a major defense research contractorBaltimore-Washington corridor with proximity to NSA, NIST, and numerous federal contractorsAccess to defense and intelligence sector internship and recruitment pipelineProximity to major tech companies establishing East Coast engineering centers
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis (project) track options. Part-time and full-time schedule availability
Hakia Insight: UMBC's thesis versus project-track flexibility and NSA-adjacent location create an unusual advantage for mid-career professionals: you can pivot toward security research (thesis) or accelerate promotion with a credential (project track) without sacrificing either option.
UMBC's Master of Science in Computer Engineering equips working professionals with advanced knowledge in core computer and electrical engineering concepts while offering flexible degree pathways to meet career goals. Students choose between a thesis track or non-thesis track with project, accommodating both full-time and part-time schedules. The program leverages faculty expertise in medical imaging, remote sensing, energy grid technology, wireless communications, and computing innovations. Graduate assistantships and fellowships support financial needs, while the STEM designation enhances career prospects. Ideal for mid-career professionals seeking specialized expertise and research opportunities to advance into senior technical or leadership roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- National Security Agency (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- BAE Systems (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct proximity to NSA headquarters and research facilitiesClose to Baltimore-area defense contractors (Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems)Growing tech corridor with cybersecurity focus
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Coursework-only (non-thesis) track for accelerated completion. Designed for working professionals with part-time study capability
Hakia Insight: Maryland's 30-credit M.Eng. coursework-only structure and proximity to Intel, NSA, and Northrop Grumman compress a two-year degree into 18 months for working professionals—ideal for engineers seeking promotion or lateral moves within the defense-industrial base.
The Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Maryland is a professional, non-thesis master's program designed for working professionals. The 30-credit coursework-only track can typically be completed in 1-2 years part-time, allowing students to advance careers while studying. The program features six core courses in electrical and computer engineering plus four electives from a robust menu including cybersecurity, embedded systems, networking, machine learning, data science, robotics, and IoT. The curriculum emphasizes applied technical skills and modern industry practices without thesis requirements, enabling faster degree completion. While specific salary advancement data and graduate assistantship stipends are not detailed in the catalog, the professional master's format supports mid-career professionals seeking technical specialization and industry-relevant credentials to drive career progression and salary growth.
Programs Offered
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Master of Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. M.Eng.
Research Labs and Institutes
- Institute for Systems Research
- Maryland Robotics Center
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- National Security Agency (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — VLSI design and computer architecture
- null — Signal processing and wireless communications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and other major defense contractors in Maryland and VirginiaClose to NSA headquarters and federal research centersAccess to DC-Baltimore tech corridor with IBM, Microsoft, and startups
Towson University — Towson, MD
Key Distinction: Towson's systems-integration focus and deliberate cultivation of communication skills alongside technical depth appeal to students seeking roles in complex product teams rather than isolated specialist positions.
Hakia Insight: Towson's systems-integration emphasis at the master's level appeals specifically to mid-career engineers transitioning from component-level work to program management, where your technical credibility plus communication training becomes immediately promotable.
At the master's level, towson's computer engineering program takes a systems-first approach, emphasizing how individual components integrate into larger, functional devices and networks rather than studying circuits in isolation. The curriculum requires hands-on lab work across all major topics—microprocessors, digital logic, embedded systems, and signal processing—with students designing and testing actual hardware throughout their studies. The program has deliberately cultivated partnerships with companies in the Baltimore-Washington corridor that value both technical depth and communication skills, recognizing that modern engineers must work across disciplinary teams. Towson's location north of Baltimore positions students well for internships and jobs in telecommunications, manufacturing, and growing defense technology sectors. The capstone sequence requires teams to identify real problems, propose engineered solutions, and implement working prototypes—often with input from industry advisors. Faculty maintain active connections to both academic research and applied industry work, meaning the curriculum stays current with practice without sacrificing theoretical rigor. Graduates typically move into mid-level engineering roles where they can independently manage system components and contribute to architectural decisions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: North of Baltimore with access to regional defense and manufacturing companiesProximity to Washington DC tech corridorClose to telecommunications and industrial automation sectors
Hood College — Frederick, MD
Key Distinction: Hood College's computer engineering program uniquely integrates liberal arts values and interdisciplinary thinking with technical engineering, appealing to students who want social context for their work.
Hakia Insight: Hood's interdisciplinary master's track trains engineers to lead teams crossing technical and non-technical domains, a positioning advantage in government and enterprise settings where systems architects must translate between policy, operations, and engineering.
At the master's level, hood College's approach to computer engineering emphasizes interdisciplinary integration and a liberal arts context, which shapes how the program balances technical depth with broader problem-solving perspective. Students engage with core hardware and software fundamentals while also exploring how computing systems intersect with ethics, environmental systems, and societal challenges—a framing that appeals to engineers who want their work anchored in purpose beyond pure optimization. The program benefits from Hood's small-college ethos: faculty know their students by name, advising is individualized, and collaborative learning is woven through the curriculum rather than competition-driven. Hands-on labs and design projects are central, with particular strength in signal processing and control systems. Graduates report that this combination of technical rigor and humanistic context prepared them well for roles requiring cross-functional collaboration and systems thinking, particularly in companies prioritizing sustainable or mission-driven engineering.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Baltimore-Washington corridor tech employers
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: Capitol Tech's computer engineering program prioritizes applied, industry-connected learning with embedded systems specialization and direct partnerships with defense and aerospace firms.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Tech's defense contractor pipeline—Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, General Dynamics all actively recruiting—means embedded systems projects often double as pre-employment auditions, compressing the typical gap between degree and security clearance sponsorship.
At the master's level, capitol Tech's computer engineering program pivots on applied learning and direct industry engagement, making it particularly strong for students who thrive with hands-on problem-solving from day one. The curriculum emphasizes embedded systems, digital design, and signal processing with a notable practical orientation—students work with real hardware platforms and undertake capstone projects that often address industry challenges. The university's location in the Washington D.C. metropolitan region has enabled deep partnerships with defense contractors and federal agencies, meaning internship pipelines are robust and many graduates transition directly into roles at organizations like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and the Department of Defense. Faculty bring significant industry experience alongside academic credentials, and the program deliberately keeps cohort sizes manageable to maintain mentorship quality. For students seeking immediate relevance and clear pathways to employment in systems engineering or embedded applications, Capitol Tech delivers a no-frills, outcomes-focused program.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
- Department of Defense (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Washington D.C. defense and federal technology sectorAccess to internships with government agencies and prime contractors
Frostburg State University — Frostburg, MD
Key Distinction: Frostburg's emphasis on embedded systems and FPGA design, combined with strong internship pipelines to regional industrial firms, differentiates it from peers focused primarily on software or theory.
Hakia Insight: While peers chase software trends, Frostburg's FPGA-first curriculum feeds a regional industrial automation supply chain that's harder to offshore, creating unusually stable placement outcomes in roles that don't evaporate with market cycles.
At the master's level, frostburg's computer engineering program emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning with strong grounding in both hardware design and embedded systems. Students work extensively in the university's digital systems lab, gaining practical experience with FPGA development, microcontroller programming, and circuit design before graduation. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations in signal processing and digital logic with applied coursework in robotics and real-time systems, preparing graduates for roles in industrial automation, IoT development, and embedded device design. The program maintains close ties with regional manufacturing and telecommunications companies, creating internship pipelines that often convert to full-time positions. With cohort sizes small enough for individualized mentoring, students typically complete capstone projects with real-world applications—everything from autonomous vehicle prototypes to industrial control systems. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, and the program's emphasis on practical portfolio development means graduates leave with demonstrable project work rather than just degrees.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to regional manufacturing and industrial automation companies in Maryland
Morgan State University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Morgan State integrates undergraduate research in power systems and urban infrastructure with strong Baltimore industry partnerships, creating a program where students solve real-world problems while building regional engineering networks.
Hakia Insight: Morgan State's integration with Johns Hopkins APL and BGE infrastructure means master's students don't simulate power grid resilience problems—they debug them on live systems, a research authenticity advantage most programs achieve only at the doctoral level.
At the master's level, morgan State's computer engineering program leverages the university's historically strong engineering heritage and Baltimore location to deliver hands-on training rooted in real infrastructure challenges. The curriculum prioritizes digital design, microelectronics, and communications systems through a balance of theory and lab work, with particular emphasis on systems that serve urban and underserved communities. Faculty research in power systems, signal processing, and networked embedded devices creates natural mentorship pipelines; undergraduates routinely contribute to active research projects rather than conducting isolated course labs. Morgan's partnerships with Baltimore-based manufacturers, utilities, and tech firms—plus proximity to Johns Hopkins University—create unusual cross-institutional collaboration opportunities and internship density. Graduates enter roles in telecommunications, power systems, automotive, and government with demonstrated technical depth and Baltimore network connections that facilitate local career growth. The program also emphasizes entrepreneurship and technology commercialization, with resources supporting student-led design projects that evolve into startup concepts.
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
- Center for Advanced Energy Studies
Industry Partners
- BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) (corporate)
- Verizon (corporate)
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Verizon, BGE, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Baltimore tech and manufacturing hubProximity to Johns Hopkins University and APLAccess to utility and telecommunications infrastructure for real-world projects
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD
Key Distinction: Maryland's integration of hands-on research across robotics, wireless systems, and VLSI design—supported by proximity to defense contractors and tech headquarters—creates an unusually rich pipeline from undergraduate work to advanced careers.
Hakia Insight: Maryland's robotics and VLSI labs sit at the intersection of undergraduate capstone work and defense contractor R&D, allowing PhD candidates to inherit and advance projects with real funding continuity rather than restarting research from theory.
At the doctoral level, the computer engineering program at Maryland's flagship campus combines cutting-edge research opportunities with a rigorous, theory-grounded curriculum that opens doors across the semiconductor, defense, and technology sectors. Students gain access to advanced labs including the Institute for Systems Research and multiple centers focused on robotics, wireless systems, and computer architecture—environments where undergraduates frequently contribute to funded research projects. The program's strength lies in its dual emphasis: coursework covers the full spectrum from device physics and VLSI design through systems architecture and signal processing, while opportunities to apprentice in faculty-led labs mean many students publish or present at conferences before graduation. Maryland's location in the DC-Baltimore corridor, combined with its strong industry relationships, creates a direct pipeline to major employers like Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Intel. The program also maintains robust graduate pathways, with strong placement into top-tier MS and PhD programs. Capstone projects often involve real hardware constraints and industrial specifications, preparing students not just for jobs but for leadership roles in complex engineering teams.
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
- Institute for Systems Research
- Maryland Robotics Center
Industry Partners
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- National Security Agency (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — VLSI design and computer architecture
- null — Signal processing and wireless communications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and other major defense contractors in Maryland and VirginiaClose to NSA headquarters and federal research centersAccess to DC-Baltimore tech corridor with IBM, Microsoft, and startups
University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: UMBC's emphasis on applied systems thinking, cybersecurity integration, and close partnerships with NSA and defense contractors creates a program explicitly designed for students seeking immediate industry impact.
Hakia Insight: UMBC's cybersecurity-embedded curriculum and NSA proximity create a rare advantage: doctoral candidates graduate with existing clearance eligibility and threat-modeling frameworks already validated in federal systems, dramatically shortening time-to-impact in defense roles.
At the doctoral level, UMBC's computer engineering program distinguishes itself through a deliberate focus on preparing students for immediate industry relevance while maintaining strong foundations in both hardware and software domains. The curriculum integrates real-world constraint thinking—power consumption, thermal management, manufacturability—into core courses rather than treating them as afterthoughts. Students benefit from proximity to the National Security Agency and defense industry partners, which shapes an applied security and systems focus throughout the program. Capstone projects frequently involve partnerships with regional tech companies and government agencies, giving students experience shipping real products or systems rather than purely academic exercises. The program maintains particularly strong connections to embedded systems and cybersecurity specializations, reflecting both faculty expertise and regional hiring demand. UMBC's student body brings significant diversity and non-traditional backgrounds; the program explicitly supports career changers and international students, creating cohorts with rich perspectives on problem-solving. Faculty tend to be actively engaged in consulting work and applied research, meaning they bring current industry practices into the classroom.
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
Industry Partners
- National Security Agency (government)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- BAE Systems (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct proximity to NSA headquarters and research facilitiesClose to Baltimore-area defense contractors (Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems)Growing tech corridor with cybersecurity focus
Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD
Key Distinction: Johns Hopkins' computer engineering program uniquely pairs rigorous systems-level curriculum with embedded access to APL's cutting-edge research infrastructure, creating exceptional pathways into advanced engineering roles in defense, aerospace, and healthcare technology.
Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' doctorate holders graduate with embedded access to APL's $600M+ annual research portfolio and existing faculty relationships, meaning their first post-PhD role often involves scaling their dissertation work rather than proving capability from scratch.
At the doctoral level, johns Hopkins' computer engineering program distinguishes itself through deep integration with world-class research infrastructure and a deliberate emphasis on systems-level design challenges. The curriculum balances rigorous theory in digital systems, signal processing, and embedded systems with hands-on capstone projects that often connect to real problems in healthcare technology, robotics, and autonomous systems—areas where Hopkins maintains significant institutional momentum. Students benefit from proximity to the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), one of the nation's premier engineering research centers, where undergraduates and graduate students frequently engage in projects spanning satellite systems, cybersecurity, and advanced computing architectures. The program's strength in cross-disciplinary collaboration means computer engineering students routinely work alongside biomedical engineers and electrical engineers, reflecting Hopkins' broader culture of applied innovation. Graduate pathways are particularly strong: the MS and PhD programs attract students seeking either industry preparation or research-intensive tracks, with faculty actively mentoring students through published research. The Baltimore-Washington corridor location provides direct access to government contractors, defense agencies, and tech companies actively recruiting Hopkins graduates. Career outcomes reflect this positioning—computer engineering alumni move into roles at organizations like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Microsoft, often in specialized systems and security positions that leverage the program's technical depth.
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
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
- Information Security Institute
- Center for Imaging Science
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- MITRE Corporation (corporate)
- Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) (government)
Notable Faculty
- Raj Nadakuditi — Random matrix theory, signal processing, machine learning systems
- Kostas Daniilidis — Computer vision and robotics systems
- Archana Venkataraman — Machine learning for biomedical signal processing
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (Engineering Accreditation Commission)
Location Advantages: Adjacent to Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a major defense research contractorBaltimore-Washington corridor with proximity to NSA, NIST, and numerous federal contractorsAccess to defense and intelligence sector internship and recruitment pipelineProximity to major tech companies establishing East Coast engineering centers
Capitol Technology University — Laurel, MD
Key Distinction: Capitol Tech's computer engineering program prioritizes applied, industry-connected learning with embedded systems specialization and direct partnerships with defense and aerospace firms.
Hakia Insight: Capitol Tech's doctoral program trades pure research prestige for direct DoD partnership intensity—students defend dissertations on problems Raytheon and General Dynamics fund, creating a credential that reads as 'vetted contractor-ready' to hiring managers.
At the doctoral level, capitol Tech's computer engineering program pivots on applied learning and direct industry engagement, making it particularly strong for students who thrive with hands-on problem-solving from day one. The curriculum emphasizes embedded systems, digital design, and signal processing with a notable practical orientation—students work with real hardware platforms and undertake capstone projects that often address industry challenges. The university's location in the Washington D.C. metropolitan region has enabled deep partnerships with defense contractors and federal agencies, meaning internship pipelines are robust and many graduates transition directly into roles at organizations like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and the Department of Defense. Faculty bring significant industry experience alongside academic credentials, and the program deliberately keeps cohort sizes manageable to maintain mentorship quality. For students seeking immediate relevance and clear pathways to employment in systems engineering or embedded applications, Capitol Tech delivers a no-frills, outcomes-focused program.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
- Department of Defense (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Washington D.C. defense and federal technology sectorAccess to internships with government agencies and prime contractors
