Best Associate's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota
Normandale Community College — Bloomington, MN
Hakia Insight: Normandale's emphasis on laboratory work pre-transfer positions students to hit four-year programs with hands-on fluency rather than theory gaps—a compounding advantage when transferring to competitive bachelor's tracks where lab-naive transfers often struggle in their junior year.
At the associate's level, if you're serious about hands-on learning before transferring to a four-year program, Normandale's computer engineering curriculum emphasizes laboratory work and real-world troubleshooting from day one. Students build practical skills in networking, systems administration, and hardware configuration while maintaining a clear pipeline to University of Minnesota and Minnesota State University programs. The program balances theoretical foundations with certifications like CompTIA A+ and Network+, positioning graduates for immediate employment or seamless transfer without losing credits. Employers in the Twin Cities actively recruit Normandale graduates for their technical competency and work-ready mindset.
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: Target Corporation, Best Buy, Verizon, Local school districts.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Systems Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College — Coon Rapids, MN
Hakia Insight: Anoka-Ramsey's multi-campus model and flexible scheduling aren't just convenience; they create a cohort of working students with real industrial context—employers like 3M and Medtronic find these graduates arrive with job-ready communication skills and realistic timelines, not just theory.
At the associate's level, with multiple campus locations serving the north Twin Cities, Anoka-Ramsey makes computer engineering accessible through flexible scheduling—many students balance work and family while earning their degree. The program covers networking fundamentals, system administration, and cybersecurity essentials, with strong industry partnerships that lead directly to internships and entry-level positions. Graduates regularly move into Help Desk and Desktop Support roles at Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Minnesota, while others transfer seamlessly to Minnesota State University and University of Minnesota programs with full credit recognition.
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: UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Medtronic, Best Buy.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Winona State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Systems Administrator (entry-level)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
North Hennepin Community College — Brooklyn Park, MN
Hakia Insight: North Hennepin's curriculum co-design with nearby employers means internship conversations happen during the program, not after graduation—students graduate with actual relationships and demonstrated capability in employers' specific tech stacks rather than generic skill sets.
At the associate's level, partnerships with technology employers in the northwest metro give North Hennepin students a distinct advantage—internship opportunities emerge organically from curriculum connections with companies actively hiring associates-level technicians. The program mirrors industry-standard workflows through capstone projects and live networking labs where students troubleshoot actual infrastructure scenarios. Graduates enter the workforce immediately as Help Desk Technicians or Desktop Support Specialists, while those pursuing further education transfer to four-year programs with strong academic standing and no prerequisite gaps.
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: Cargill, Best Buy headquarters, Local managed service providers, Minneapolis-area school districts.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Bethel University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCENT (introduction level)
Location Advantages:
Rochester Community and Technical College — Rochester, MN
Hakia Insight: Rochester's Mayo Clinic saturation creates a rare pipeline where healthcare IT infrastructure experience becomes the default career path—graduates enter positions maintaining systems for 70,000+ employees, a scale of responsibility most associate degree holders don't access until years into employment.
At the associate's level, mayo Clinic's massive presence in Rochester creates an extraordinary employment pipeline for computer engineering graduates—the program directly connects students with internships and permanent positions in one of Minnesota's largest employers. RCTC's curriculum emphasizes medical technology systems, networking reliability, and systems administration relevant to healthcare IT, while maintaining standard computer engineering certifications for broader career mobility. Graduates enjoy low unemployment rates and high starting salaries compared to state averages, with many advancing into specialized roles within Mayo's technology infrastructure.
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: Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic Health System, IBM Rochester, Olmsted County government.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Rochester Institute of Technology (out-of-state partnership)
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Healthcare IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Systems Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Healthcare IT certifications (program-specific)
Location Advantages:
Saint Paul College — Saint Paul, MN
Hakia Insight: Saint Paul College's location between Target headquarters and UnitedHealth's sprawling Twin Cities operations means recruiters actively scan campus—unlike most community colleges, students benefit from direct talent scouts rather than competing through job boards.
At the associate's level, urban location and strong industry connections position Saint Paul College graduates for rapid placement in Twin Cities tech companies and Fortune 500 headquarters scattered throughout the metro. The curriculum moves at a practical pace, focusing on systems administration, networking, and cybersecurity fundamentals that employers demand immediately. Students benefit from proximity to corporate partners who recruit directly from campus, while those transferring to four-year programs find excellent credit articulation agreements with Minnesota State University system schools.
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: Target Corporation, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Twin Cities-area tech companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Augsburg University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Technical Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Fundamentals certifications
Location Advantages:
Century College — White Bear Lake, MN
Hakia Insight: Century College embeds cybersecurity throughout rather than isolating it as a capstone, which subtly shifts how graduates approach embedded systems, firmware, and IoT design—they think threat modeling from day one, a habit that makes them immediately valuable in industries where connected devices require secure-by-design thinking.
At the associate's level, serving the east metro and St. Croix Valley region, Century College embeds cybersecurity awareness throughout its computer engineering program rather than treating it as an add-on—increasingly relevant as employers demand security-conscious technicians at every level. The hands-on labs feature current equipment, and instructors bring real-world experience from managed service provider and corporate IT environments. Transfer partnerships with nearby universities ensure smooth pathways for students pursuing bachelor's degrees, while graduates workforce-ready status makes them immediately marketable.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Local managed service providers, School districts in east metro, St. Croix Valley employers, Regional insurance companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Wisconsin-Stout University (nearby option)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Security Analyst (with Security+ track)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+ (security track)
Location Advantages:
Inver Hills Community College — Inver Grove Heights, MN
Hakia Insight: Inver Hills' explicit reputation for 'communication-ready technicians' signals a curriculum that pairs technical depth with articulation skills—in practice, this means graduates advance faster into supervisory and systems integration roles where many associate degree holders plateau.
At the associate's level, close ties to south metro employers and a reputation for graduating technically competent, communication-ready technicians make Inver Hills a solid choice for students seeking immediate employment in the 612/952 area codes. The program balances hardware and software skills with soft skills training that employers consistently cite as a differentiator—help desk managers value Inver Hills graduates' ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users. Strong articulation agreements with Minnesota State University system schools also mean transfer students arrive with junior standing and relevant prerequisites already satisfied.
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: Best Buy (south metro locations), Local school districts, South metro healthcare providers, Regional tech companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Technical Support Associate
- Field Service Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Fundamentals certifications
Location Advantages:
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's hybrid model doesn't just serve working adults; it attracts students with existing industry exposure who can immediately contextualize coursework within real problems—this maturity compresses the typical two-year onboarding gap that traditional community college students face.
At the associate's level, career-focused curriculum and flexible online/hybrid options make Rasmussen ideal for working adults who need degree completion around existing employment—many students maintain full-time jobs while earning their computer engineering credential in accelerated terms. The program emphasizes practical certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+) alongside degree requirements, ensuring graduates leave job-ready rather than job-seeking. Small class sizes and instructor accessibility support student success, particularly for those balancing multiple responsibilities.
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: Technology service providers, Call centers and support organizations, Regional corporate IT departments, Retail technology support.
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Technical Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Fundamentals certifications
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Minnesota's program uniquely combines classical computer engineering rigor with embedded systems specialization and embedded advantage of proximity to a Fortune 500-dense tech corridor.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota's proximity to Medtronic and St. Jude Medical gives embedded systems students access to FDA-regulated device development during undergrad—not through internships alone, but through faculty like Keshab Parhi whose biomedical device research directly shapes senior design projects with hospital-grade stakes.
At the bachelor's level, minnesota's computer engineering program stands out for its deep integration with the state's thriving tech ecosystem and its research-intensive curriculum that bridges classical electrical engineering foundations with modern computational systems. Students engage with real-world design challenges through the capstone sequence, where teams tackle problems sourced from industry partners and faculty research groups. The program emphasizes both hardware design and embedded systems, with particular strength in areas like computer architecture, digital signal processing, and robotics—reflected in faculty research and student project competitions. The Twin Cities location provides unparalleled access to internships and permanent placements at companies like Best Buy's corporate engineering teams, medical device firms like St. Jude Medical, and countless software and hardware startups. Graduates consistently report strong placement in roles spanning hardware design, firmware development, and systems engineering, with many staying in Minnesota to work at regional tech leaders or launching startups themselves. The program maintains active connections to IEEE student chapters and competes in national robotics and design competitions, giving undergraduates portfolio-building opportunities beyond coursework.
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
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute (MSI)
- Advanced Computing Laboratory
- Laboratory for Advanced Medicine and Robotics
Industry Partners
- Best Buy (corporate)
- St. Jude Medical (corporate)
- Medtronic (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Keshab Parhi — Signal processing, VLSI design, biomedical devices
- Antonia Zhai — Computer architecture, parallel computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters (Best Buy, Medtronic, 3M, General Mills)Strong medical device and healthcare technology sectorGrowing fintech and startup ecosystem in Minneapolis-St. Paul
Carleton College — Northfield, MN
Key Distinction: Carleton's program uniquely emphasizes conceptual rigor and hands-on design within a liberal arts framework, prioritizing deep understanding and communication skills over industry certification.
Hakia Insight: Carleton's liberal arts framing isn't aesthetic window-dressing—by grounding FPGA design and embedded systems in physics and philosophy of computing, graduates develop the conceptual flexibility to pivot across hardware domains and communicate with non-engineering stakeholders, an unusual edge in systems integration roles.
At the bachelor's level, carleton's computer engineering program is distinguished by its rigorous liberal arts approach to technical education, where students ground their engineering studies in physics, mathematics, and physical principles rather than purely applied coursework. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on design work starting from the introductory level, with students building everything from digital logic circuits to embedded systems projects that integrate hardware and software. The program benefits from a collaborative culture where small class sizes enable close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary work—many students combine computer engineering with physics, mathematics, or economics to explore computing's broader impacts. Carleton's location in Northfield offers a quieter intellectual environment that contrasts with larger research institutions, and while the college lacks a sprawling research complex, faculty and student projects in areas like embedded systems and digital design often lead to publications and conference presentations. Career outcomes show strong placement at tech companies, though many Carleton graduates pursue graduate study in computer science or engineering, reflecting the program's emphasis on deep conceptual understanding over immediate industry pipeline. The integrated liberal arts perspective means graduates often stand out in roles requiring both technical depth and clear communication.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Jim McNally — Digital design, embedded systems, FPGA applications
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Northfield, Minnesota location within reasonable distance to Twin Cities tech hub
St Olaf College — Northfield, MN
Key Distinction: St. Olaf uniquely emphasizes engineering for social good and ethical practice, embedding community-engaged projects and systemic thinking throughout its computer engineering curriculum.
Hakia Insight: St. Olaf's explicit 'engineering for social good' curriculum attracts students who then spend their careers solving actual infrastructure and healthcare problems rather than optimizing ad-tech—this value-alignment produces lower burnout and stronger retention in mission-driven sectors like medical devices and renewable energy.
At the bachelor's level, st. Olaf's computer engineering program is built on the college's distinctive tradition of integrating technical education with ethical reasoning and community-engaged learning, producing engineers who think systemically about technology's societal impact. The curriculum balances fundamental theory in digital systems and embedded design with project-based learning where students regularly tackle problems from nonprofit organizations, sustainability initiatives, and international development contexts—work that distinguishes St. Olaf graduates in interviews and career narratives. The program emphasizes close faculty-student collaboration, with opportunities to participate in design projects that serve real-world needs, often extending beyond campus through the college's emphasis on service and global engagement. While St. Olaf shares Minnesota's access to regional tech employers and the Twin Cities ecosystem, the program's distinctive character attracts students and produces graduates who value thoughtful engineering practice and often gravitate toward roles in renewable energy, healthcare technology, or socially conscious companies. The tight-knit engineering community fosters peer learning and mentorship, with senior students actively involved in guiding incoming cohorts through design courses.
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: Northfield, Minnesota location within reasonable distance to Twin Cities tech hub
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: University of St. Thomas uniquely embeds ethical reasoning and social responsibility throughout its computer engineering curriculum, preparing engineers to consider broader impacts alongside technical excellence.
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas's dual BA/BS structure paired with ethics-embedded curriculum creates a rare advantage: students can credibly market themselves to socially-conscious tech employers (sustainability startups, impact investors) while maintaining hands-on lab access through partnerships with 3M and Honeywell—positioning graduates for roles others can't easily access.
At the bachelor's level, the University of St. Thomas computer engineering program deliberately integrates ethical reasoning and social responsibility alongside technical mastery, reflecting the institution's Catholic intellectual tradition. Rather than treating ethics as a separate module, it's woven through courses from digital design to systems thinking, preparing engineers to consider broader impacts of their work from day one. The curriculum emphasizes both hardware and software dimensions of computer engineering, with flexibility for students to specialize in areas like biomedical devices, autonomous systems, or communications infrastructure. St. Thomas's location in the Twin Cities provides access to a major tech hub with companies like 3M, Honeywell, and numerous startups seeking engineers; the university actively cultivates these connections through industry-sponsored capstone projects and internship networks. Faculty balance research productivity with teaching excellence, and many maintain consulting relationships that bring real-world complexity into classroom discussions.
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
- Center for Microgrid Research
- START Center (St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies Center)
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing
- Center for Applied AI
- Center for Engineering Education
Industry Partners
- 3M (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
- Comprehensive Carbon Impact (CCI) (sponsor)
- Michigan Energetics Technology Center (ETC) (sponsor)
- US Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) (sponsor)
- US Army Research Lab (ARL) (sponsor)
- U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (sponsor)
- Xcel Energy (sponsor)
- Shell Oil Company (employer)
- Renewal by Andersen (employer)
- Nextern (employer)
- Graco (employer)
- General Motors (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mahmoud Kabalan — Microgrid technology, distributed energy resources, grid stability
- Dr. Mohamed Moustafa — Microgrid technology, advanced control systems, renewable energy integration
- Dr. Kundan Nepal — Sustainable energy systems, low power computing, embedded systems, IoT
- Dr. Don Weinkauf — Chemical engineering, sustainable manufacturing
- Dr. John Wentz — Sustainable manufacturing processes, metalworking fluid purification, microfiltration
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Twin Cities major tech hub with Fortune 500 companies (3M, Honeywell) and startup ecosystemStrong regional internship and employment pipeline in technology sector
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Metropolitan State's program uniquely serves working professionals with a flexible, applied-focused curriculum designed for rapid career advancement in the Twin Cities tech market.
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's evening-focused design specifically targets the 30% of career-switchers in tech who need to keep working; the applied curriculum trades breadth for speed-to-employment in the Twin Cities market, where regional employers like Target and Cargill actively hire non-traditional CS graduates.
At the bachelor's level, metropolitan State's computer engineering program is structured explicitly to serve working professionals and career-changers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, with an evening and online-friendly schedule that recognizes the reality of students balancing employment and studies. The curriculum focuses on practical, immediately applicable skills in embedded systems, digital design, and networking rather than pure research methodology, preparing graduates for rapid entry into engineering roles. The program maintains strong connections to the regional tech and manufacturing sectors, with many faculty members drawing from professional industry experience and course projects frequently sourced from partner companies seeking solutions to real problems. Metropolitan State's urban location and commuter-friendly format make it particularly effective for students working at established tech firms or government agencies who want to advance their credentials without relocating. Graduates typically move into senior technician, junior engineer, or systems support roles at companies across the region, with the degree providing the technical foundation and credentialing needed for advancement in competitive markets.
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
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
- CompTIA A+ certification preparation
Location Advantages: Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan location with access to regional employers
Southwest Minnesota State University — Marshall, MN
Key Distinction: SMSU's computer engineering program stands out for its integrated focus on embedded systems and agricultural/manufacturing automation, paired with direct mentorship and strong placement in regional tech-driven industries.
Hakia Insight: SMSU's embedded systems focus isn't theoretical—John Deere and Raven Industries presence in rural Minnesota means capstone projects often ship as real agricultural automation solutions, giving graduates portfolio pieces that directly match the precision agriculture boom driving rural tech hiring.
At the bachelor's level, SMSU's computer engineering program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning with a strong foundation in both hardware and software systems design. The curriculum is structured around real-world problem-solving, with students gaining early exposure to embedded systems, digital signal processing, and industrial control applications—areas that directly align with manufacturing and agricultural technology sectors present in rural Minnesota. Faculty prioritize mentorship and close student-faculty collaboration, meaning undergraduates often work alongside professors on applied projects rather than remaining isolated in lecture halls. The program's location in Marshall gives students unique access to regional industries in precision agriculture and small-scale manufacturing, translating classroom theory into internships and capstone projects with immediate relevance. Graduates consistently move into roles at companies like John Deere, Raven Industries, and regional automation firms, where their hands-on background in systems integration gives them a competitive edge.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- John Deere (corporate)
- Raven Industries (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: John Deere, Raven Industries.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Annamalai Alagappan — Computer Science
- Dr. Oluleye Babatunde — Computer Science
- Dr. Dan Kaiser — Computer Science
- Dr. Shushuang Man — Computer Science
- Dr. Kourosh Mortezapour — Computer Science
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to precision agriculture and manufacturing companies in rural Minnesota
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: MSU-Mankato's program excels in cross-layer systems thinking and FPGA/hardware design, with demonstrated strength in aerospace and defense placements and competitive capstone outcomes.
Hakia Insight: MSU-Mankato's Lockheed Martin partnership runs deeper than most: the Antenna Lab and Circuits & Electronics Lab directly support defense contracts, meaning undergrads can contribute to shipping hardware—not just coursework—while building security clearance eligibility before graduation.
At the bachelor's level, minnesota State Mankato's computer engineering program takes a systems-first approach, training students to think across hardware, firmware, and software layers from day one rather than siloing disciplines. The curriculum reflects the school's engineering heritage with rigorous coverage of signal processing, microcontroller design, and FPGA development—skills that command premium salaries in aerospace and defense. A notable strength is the program's capstone project sequence, where teams design and build functional systems (robotics, autonomous vehicles, communications hardware) that are often showcased at regional engineering competitions and industry expos. The university maintains strong ties to Minnesota's tech corridor, with regular guest lectures and recruiting visits from companies like Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and 3M. Career outcomes data shows consistent placement within 6 months of graduation, with many students entering roles in systems engineering and hardware verification at Fortune 500 manufacturers.
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
- Antenna Lab
- Circuits & Electronics Lab
- Communication Lab
- Junior and Senior Design Labs
- VLSI Design Lab
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, 3M.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Puteri Megat Hamari — Senior and Junior Capstone Design Projects
- Bhushan Dharmadhikari — Robotics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum. Application Deadline: July 1 (Fall), November 1 (Spring), April 1 (Summer) for U.S. applicants.
Requirements:
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota's tech corridor and Fortune 500 engineering operations
University of Minnesota-Duluth — Duluth, MN
Key Distinction: UMD's computer engineering program excels at hardware-software integration through hands-on lab work, offering students practical systems design experience that many larger programs relegate to electives.
Hakia Insight: UMD's Hardware-Software Integration lab work isn't an elective—it's embedded across the core curriculum, a structural advantage over peer programs where systems design stays theoretical until junior year; students graduate with portfolio-ready embedded systems projects that larger universities reserve for capstone.
At the bachelor's level, UMD's computer engineering program leverages the university's location and research infrastructure to deliver a curriculum balancing theoretical rigor with applied systems design. The program benefits from faculty research interests spanning autonomous systems, power electronics, and computational methods, which permeate undergraduate coursework and capstone projects. Unlike purely theory-heavy programs, UMD emphasizes hardware-software co-design through required laboratory courses where students prototype and test real circuits and embedded applications. The program maintains connections with regional industrial partners in manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors, creating internship and job placement pathways for graduates. Students interested in research have opportunities to engage with faculty projects in real-time systems and sensor networks, particularly valuable for those considering graduate study. The Duluth location, though removed from major metropolitan tech hubs, provides a focused, collegial environment where engineering students develop strong fundamentals without competing for resources or attention.
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
- Research Instrumentation Lab
- Advanced Materials Center
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota Power Systems Research CenterRegional manufacturing and technology sector partnerships
University of Minnesota-Crookston — Crookston, MN
Key Distinction: University of Minnesota-Crookston offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: At $11,478/year with a 82% graduation rate, University of Minnesota-Crookston delivers one of the strongest ROI profiles among Minnesota public universities for computer engineering.
University of Minnesota-Crookston offers Computer Engineering programs in Crookston, MN. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Bethany Lutheran College — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Bethany Lutheran College offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Bethany Lutheran College offers Computer Engineering programs in Mankato, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Minnesota's program uniquely combines classical computer engineering rigor with embedded systems specialization and embedded advantage of proximity to a Fortune 500-dense tech corridor.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota's doctoral program leverages MSI (Minnesota Supercomputing Institute) access and proximity to St. Jude Medical's biomedical device division, enabling doctoral candidates to pursue research that directly influences FDA-regulated product development—a rare opportunity to make clinical-stage impact during coursework.
At the master's level, minnesota's computer engineering program stands out for its deep integration with the state's thriving tech ecosystem and its research-intensive curriculum that bridges classical electrical engineering foundations with modern computational systems. Students engage with real-world design challenges through the capstone sequence, where teams tackle problems sourced from industry partners and faculty research groups. The program emphasizes both hardware design and embedded systems, with particular strength in areas like computer architecture, digital signal processing, and robotics—reflected in faculty research and student project competitions. The Twin Cities location provides unparalleled access to internships and permanent placements at companies like Best Buy's corporate engineering teams, medical device firms like St. Jude Medical, and countless software and hardware startups. Graduates consistently report strong placement in roles spanning hardware design, firmware development, and systems engineering, with many staying in Minnesota to work at regional tech leaders or launching startups themselves. The program maintains active connections to IEEE student chapters and competes in national robotics and design competitions, giving undergraduates portfolio-building opportunities beyond coursework.
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
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute (MSI)
- Advanced Computing Laboratory
- Laboratory for Advanced Medicine and Robotics
Industry Partners
- Best Buy (corporate)
- St. Jude Medical (corporate)
- Medtronic (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Keshab Parhi — Signal processing, VLSI design, biomedical devices
- Antonia Zhai — Computer architecture, parallel computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters (Best Buy, Medtronic, 3M, General Mills)Strong medical device and healthcare technology sectorGrowing fintech and startup ecosystem in Minneapolis-St. Paul
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Evening and weekend classes for working professionals. Self-paced curriculum - students set their own pace
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas's 2.7 GPA floor and evening/self-paced structure explicitly recruits experienced technicians and mid-career engineers from 3M and Honeywell looking to formalize expertise without leaving their jobs—a pipeline most programs don't intentionally serve, creating cohorts of students with 5–10 years of relevant industry context.
The University of St. Thomas School of Engineering offers six master's programs designed specifically for working professionals with evening and weekend class schedules. Programs serve both industry professionals and career changers, allowing students to set their own pace and start in fall, spring, or summer terms. All courses balance theoretical concepts with practical applications for immediate workplace impact. The streamlined admissions process requires only a bachelor's degree with 2.7 GPA minimum - no GRE/GMAT required. Programs are designed with input from industry professionals and taught by faculty with significant field experience. Graduates are sought by both local and global employers. The flexible format accommodates busy professionals while providing high-quality graduate education that integrates engineering technologies into workplace solutions. Students can take up to four courses as non-degree students, which can later apply toward a graduate certificate or master's degree program.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering (part of Electrical and Computer Engineering) — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Microgrid Research
- START Center (St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies Center)
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing
- Center for Applied AI
- Center for Engineering Education
Industry Partners
- 3M (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
- Comprehensive Carbon Impact (CCI) (sponsor)
- Michigan Energetics Technology Center (ETC) (sponsor)
- US Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) (sponsor)
- US Army Research Lab (ARL) (sponsor)
- U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (sponsor)
- Xcel Energy (sponsor)
- Shell Oil Company (employer)
- Renewal by Andersen (employer)
- Nextern (employer)
- Graco (employer)
- General Motors (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mahmoud Kabalan — Microgrid technology, distributed energy resources, grid stability
- Dr. Mohamed Moustafa — Microgrid technology, advanced control systems, renewable energy integration
- Dr. Kundan Nepal — Sustainable energy systems, low power computing, embedded systems, IoT
- Dr. Don Weinkauf — Chemical engineering, sustainable manufacturing
- Dr. John Wentz — Sustainable manufacturing processes, metalworking fluid purification, microfiltration
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Twin Cities major tech hub with Fortune 500 companies (3M, Honeywell) and startup ecosystemStrong regional internship and employment pipeline in technology sector
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Graduate teaching assistantships available for students with substantial laboratory experience. Flexible program design allowing course selection across multiple disciplines including Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Modeling and Simulation, Statistics, Chemistry and Computer Science
Hakia Insight: MSU-Mankato's cross-disciplinary elective freedom (drawing from mechanical, civil, and systems tracks) combined with grad assistantships creates unusual flexibility for practicing engineers: a Lockheed Martin avionics engineer can blend capstone work with aerospace coursework while earning tuition support.
The Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering is a 32-credit program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. The program offers flexible course selection across multiple engineering and science disciplines including electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, mathematics, and computer science. Graduate teaching assistantships are available for qualified students with substantial laboratory experience, providing financial support and hands-on teaching opportunities. The program serves engineers in industry wanting postgraduate education, new graduates seeking specialization, and professionals from related fields broadening their backgrounds. It prepares students for advanced industry positions requiring specialized electrical engineering competency and provides suitable preparation for doctoral programs. The flexible curriculum allows students to design their own program of study based on career goals and interests.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Antenna Lab
- Circuits & Electronics Lab
- Communication Lab
- Junior and Senior Design Labs
- VLSI Design Lab
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Puteri Megat Hamari — Senior and Junior Capstone Design Projects
- Bhushan Dharmadhikari — Robotics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum. Application Deadline: July 1 (Fall), November 1 (Spring), April 1 (Summer) for U.S. applicants.
Requirements:
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota's tech corridor and Fortune 500 engineering operations
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Metropolitan State's program uniquely serves working professionals with a flexible, applied-focused curriculum designed for rapid career advancement in the Twin Cities tech market.
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's evening cohort model builds peer networks directly within the Twin Cities workforce; unlike commuter-heavy online programs, students maintain day-job proximity to employers like Target and UnitedHealth, turning classmates into future collaborators and hiring managers.
At the master's level, metropolitan State's computer engineering program is structured explicitly to serve working professionals and career-changers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, with an evening and online-friendly schedule that recognizes the reality of students balancing employment and studies. The curriculum focuses on practical, immediately applicable skills in embedded systems, digital design, and networking rather than pure research methodology, preparing graduates for rapid entry into engineering roles. The program maintains strong connections to the regional tech and manufacturing sectors, with many faculty members drawing from professional industry experience and course projects frequently sourced from partner companies seeking solutions to real problems. Metropolitan State's urban location and commuter-friendly format make it particularly effective for students working at established tech firms or government agencies who want to advance their credentials without relocating. Graduates typically move into senior technician, junior engineer, or systems support roles at companies across the region, with the degree providing the technical foundation and credentialing needed for advancement in competitive markets.
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
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
- CompTIA A+ certification preparation
Location Advantages: Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan location with access to regional employers
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Fully online synchronous delivery tailored for working professionals. Integrates 20% MBA coursework for management preparation
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State's 20% MBA integration within a fully online sync format is unusual—working engineers earn both technical and business credentials without choosing between them, a rare design that directly addresses the 'individual contributor → engineering manager' transition path.
The Professional Science Masters in Software Engineering is designed specifically for working professionals in computing fields seeking credential advancement. The program is fully online with synchronous delivery options, making it ideal for working professionals. It integrates 20% MBA coursework to prepare graduates for management roles and considers prior industry experience for credit. The program requires minimum 2 years post-graduation work experience in computing (waiving GRE requirement) or full-time employment with a U.S. organization. Students gain current skills in software system design, construction, analysis, testing, and deployment using state-of-the-art methods. The curriculum emphasizes practical application with a capstone project and is regularly reviewed by an industry advisory board. Graduate assistantships are available through various campus departments. The program prepares professionals for leadership roles in software engineering management, leveraging both technical expertise and business acumen from the embedded MBA components.
Programs Offered
- Professional Science Masters in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. PSM
Research Labs and Institutes
- Student Centered Cybersecurity Laboratory
- Visualization Laboratory
- Autonomous Systems Laboratory
- Statistical Consulting and Research Center
Industry Partners
- 3M (employer)
- Medtronic (employer)
- Honeywell (employer)
- C.H. Robinson (employer)
- Cooper Power Systems (employer)
- Datakey Electronics (employer)
- Equus Computer Systems (employer)
- Fast Enterprises (employer)
- Healthland (employer)
- LSI Corporation (employer)
- Micron (employer)
- Ten Kay Solar (employer)
- Vital Images (employer)
- GeoComm (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ling Hou — Control systems
- Dr. Md Mahbub Hossain — Integrated circuit design, semiconductor device modeling and characterization
- Dr. Aiping Yao — Digital communications, wireless communication, digital signal processing, ultrasound
- Dr. Yi Zheng — Embedded system design and applications, EM and ultrasound sensors, EMC/EMI and signal integrity
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Central Minnesota tech corridor with manufacturing and automation companiesProximity to regional industrial partners for internships and employment
University of Minnesota-Duluth — Duluth, MN
Key Distinction: Graduate assistantships available. Research-focused program with faculty collaboration
Hakia Insight: UMD's research assistantship emphasis on a two-year cohort model means graduate students build long-term lab relationships unavailable in one-year programs; the Minnesota Power Systems Research Center focus gives non-traditional CS undergrads a clear specialization path into infrastructure resilience—a growing hiring market.
The M.S. in Computer Science is a two-year research-focused program designed for students with undergraduate degrees in computer science or computer engineering. The program provides foundational studies for graduates pursuing either a Ph.D. or careers in business/industry. Students work side-by-side with faculty on research in areas including biomedical informatics, machine learning, data mining, computer networking, and software engineering. Graduate assistantships are available for qualified applicants. The program emphasizes research methods, technical writing, and collaboration skills essential for career advancement in computer science fields. Graduates are prepared for specialized roles requiring advanced technical expertise and research capabilities.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Research Instrumentation Lab
- Advanced Materials Center
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota Power Systems Research CenterRegional manufacturing and technology sector partnerships
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Walden's computer engineering program serves working professionals through fully flexible online and hybrid delivery, emphasizing applied projects and real-world problem solving over traditional academic structures.
Hakia Insight: Walden's fully asynchronous delivery eliminates the geographic and schedule constraints that exclude most working engineers from tier-1 programs; students can complete capstone projects while embedded in their actual employer's systems, making coursework directly transferable to immediate job value.
At the master's level, walden University's computer engineering offerings cater to working professionals and career-changers through flexible online and hybrid formats, recognizing that not all engineering students fit the traditional residential path. The program structure allows students to balance full-time employment with coursework, with asynchronous components and evening/weekend seminars designed around professional schedules. Walden's emphasis on systems thinking and practical application appeals to students transitioning from IT or related fields into formal computer engineering credentials. The institution's focus on applied projects over pure theory means capstone work often involves real problems students encounter in their current roles, creating immediate professional value alongside academic completion. Faculty include practitioners active in industry, bringing current tools, methodologies, and project examples directly into the classroom.
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: No geographic constraints—fully online accessibility for distributed workforce
