Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri
Washington University in St Louis — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Undergraduate research opportunities. Student organizations designing rockets, airplanes and racecars
Hakia Insight: Washington University's pipeline to Google, Microsoft, Intel, and NVIDIA isn't just about recruitment—the Center for Security and Optimization of Intelligent Systems lets undergrads contribute to defense-grade research while still designing rockets and racecars, collapsing the typical gap between academic projects and industry-level work.
The BS in Computer Engineering at Washington University's McKelvey School of Engineering provides hands-on experience in design, research and entrepreneurship. Students participate in undergraduate research opportunities and can explore interdisciplinary work across the nationally ranked medical school. The program emphasizes collaborative learning over competition, with strong faculty mentorship. Students can pursue dual degrees and have access to a master's track for an additional year of study. The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including student organizations that design rockets, airplanes and racecars, plus international service projects providing clean water and infrastructure to communities in need. The program is designed as full-time only with no part-time options available.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Security and Optimization of Intelligent Systems
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- NVIDIA (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Intel, NVIDIA, Apple, Meta.
Notable Faculty
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.70 minimum. Application Deadline: Fall: March 1, Spring: October 1.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: St. Louis tech ecosystemProximity to regional innovation centers
University of Missouri-Kansas City — Kansas City, MO
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation. Two-semester Senior Design capstone project
Hakia Insight: UMKC's proximity to Garmin headquarters creates an unusual advantage: students in a two-semester capstone can prototype embedded systems for actual avionics applications, transforming a required project into a potential hiring pipeline for one of the region's largest engineering employers.
The Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at UMKC is ABET-accredited and combines electrical and computer engineering curricula to provide broader job opportunities than traditional electrical engineering programs. The 4-year program requires 120+ credits including hands-on laboratory work integrated throughout the curriculum. Students complete a mandatory two-semester Senior Design capstone project (E&C-ENGR 402 and 403) that applies engineering design principles to real-world problems. The program includes extensive lab requirements with dedicated laboratory courses for Circuit Theory, Logic Design, Electronic Circuits, Signals and Systems, Microcomputer Architecture, and Embedded Systems. A BS/MS accelerated program allows completion of both bachelor's and master's degrees in five years. The curriculum prepares graduates for diverse technical, managerial, and entrepreneurial opportunities with strong analytical decision-making skills. ECE graduates have favorable starting salaries and job offer numbers compared to other engineering disciplines, with career opportunities spanning nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, embedded systems, robotics, RF engineering, microelectronics, communications, and smart grid technologies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Garmin (corporate)
- Sprint/T-Mobile (corporate)
- General Dynamics (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 Core High School GPA.
Requirements: Complete UMKC Essentials general education, Pass Missouri Higher Education Civics Achievement Examination with 70% or greater, Complete Constitution course requirement, Complete all major requirements including math, science, and engineering courses
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Kansas City tech ecosystem with growing demand in telecommunications and aerospaceProximity to Garmin headquarters
Missouri University of Science and Technology — Rolla, MO
Key Distinction: Project-intensive, hands-on curriculum with particular strengths in hardware security and embedded systems for critical infrastructure, delivered at a engineering-focused residential institution.
Hakia Insight: Missouri S&T's hardware security and embedded systems curriculum wasn't retrofitted—it evolved from the school's mining engineering legacy into a specialized strength that feeds directly into Boeing and Lockheed Martin's defense contracts, making this one of the few regional programs where national security infrastructure work becomes a natural career trajectory.
At the bachelor's level, missouri S&T's computer engineering program is built on the school's deep mining and engineering heritage, but has modernized sharply toward digital hardware design, cybersecurity, and intelligent embedded systems for critical infrastructure. What distinguishes the program is its hands-on project-driven curriculum—students design and prototype real systems starting in the freshman year, with access to university-owned labs featuring FPGA development boards, robotics platforms, and embedded Linux environments. The faculty are actively engaged in research spanning hardware security, autonomous vehicles, and edge computing; many bring industry experience from defense and aerospace. S&T's smaller size and residential engineering culture create close mentorship and frequent internship pipelines into companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and emerging tech firms in the St. Louis corridor.
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
- Intelligent Systems Center
Industry Partners
- Boeing (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.5/4.0 for Ph.D. applicants.
Requirements:
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Near St. Louis aerospace and defense cluster; Rolla location offers strong ties to government research facilities and regional industry
Saint Louis University — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Saint Louis University's computer engineering program integrates research opportunities and ethical design principles with specialization tracks in power systems, control theory, and biomedical applications.
Hakia Insight: Saint Louis University's integration of power systems, control theory, and biomedical applications into a single degree is rare; students can simultaneously chase Boeing aerospace contracts and medical device roles at companies like Emerson Electric without switching programs.
At the bachelor's level, saint Louis University's computer engineering program sits at the intersection of systems design and applied research, with particular strength in power systems, control theory, and real-time embedded applications. The curriculum integrates upper-level electives that allow students to specialize in areas like renewable energy systems, autonomous vehicles, or biomedical device design—moving beyond generic hardware fundamentals to tackle contemporary engineering problems. Faculty actively involve undergraduates in sponsored research projects, giving students hands-on exposure to research methodology while building publication-worthy work for their portfolios. The Jesuit institution's emphasis on ethical engineering and societal impact shapes the program's project selection, often steering students toward solutions in healthcare, sustainability, and urban infrastructure. Strong partnerships with regional aerospace and healthcare companies create internship opportunities and industry mentorship. Graduate pathways are well-developed, with students regularly continuing to master's and doctoral programs both at SLU and peer institutions. For those seeking a program that blends rigorous technical training with research exposure and mission-driven engineering values, SLU offers a distinctive combination rarely found at comparable institutions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Boeing (corporate)
- Emerson Electric (corporate)
- Graybar Electric (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Located in St. Louis with proximity to aerospace (Boeing), medical device companies, and regional technology firms
University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, MO
Key Distinction: Large-scale research university program with strong embedded systems and power electronics expertise, offering undergraduates genuine involvement in faculty-led research.
Hakia Insight: Mizzou's Center for Integrated Power Electronics and Intelligent Systems Lab give undergraduates genuine faculty collaboration on published research—a scale advantage that state flagships claim but don't always deliver, especially when paired with Emerson Electric partnerships that can convert research into internships.
At the bachelor's level, mizzou's computer engineering program operates within a large research-intensive environment where undergraduates can engage with faculty-led projects spanning power electronics, autonomous systems, digital signal processing, and embedded machine learning. The department maintains a research culture that extends downward to upper-level undergraduates—seniors often conduct capstone projects rooted in real faculty research agendas rather than disconnected problem sets. This exposure to how engineers approach open-ended problems gives Mizzou graduates a competitive edge in graduate school admissions and in roles requiring systems thinking. The curriculum itself balances classical computer engineering foundations (logic design, computer architecture, microprocessors) with modern concerns: students encounter cybersecurity early, work with contemporary FPGAs and SoCs, and have opportunities to explore AI/ML applications in hardware contexts. Located in Columbia with connections to Midwest tech companies and a growing startup ecosystem, students also benefit from internship diversity—some work for large established firms, others for emerging companies. Graduate placement is strong, with many students continuing to MS and PhD programs at Mizzou and peer institutions, while others move directly into design and research engineering roles at tech companies.
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 Integrated Power Electronics
- Intelligent Systems Lab
Industry Partners
- Emerson Electric (corporate)
- Black & Veatch (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Big 12 research ecosystem; proximity to emerging innovation hubs in the Midwest
University of Missouri-St Louis — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Urban, career-focused program with strong ties to St. Louis tech industry and healthcare/automation sectors; emphasizes accessibility and practical system integration.
Hakia Insight: UMSL's urban location in a growing St. Louis healthcare and automation hub means its career-focused curriculum isn't abstract—students can interned at companies while still enrolled, compressing the timeline between classroom learning and industry relevance.
At the bachelor's level, the computer engineering program at UMSL leverages its location in St. Louis—a growing tech hub with significant aerospace, healthcare, and cybersecurity sectors—to build curriculum and internship opportunities around in-demand specializations. Students can concentrate in areas like embedded systems, cybersecurity hardware, signal processing, or IoT and smart systems depending on interests and career goals. The program maintains partnerships with regional employers and federal labs, creating pathways for students to work on real-world problems before graduation. Faculty research spans digital design, systems architecture, and security engineering, and undergraduates can participate in these investigations through directed study and capstone projects. UMSL's proximity to major employers—including companies in aerospace, healthcare IT, and financial services—means recruiting visits are frequent, internships are accessible, and alumni networks actively mentor students into their first positions.
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: St. Louis metropolitan tech hub with healthcare, finance, and automation industry presence
University of Central Missouri — Warrensburg, MO
Key Distinction: University of Central Missouri's computer engineering program prioritizes early, intensive hands-on experience with FPGAs and embedded hardware, paired with strong regional internship networks.
Hakia Insight: UCM's first-semester FPGA and embedded systems intensity is uncommon at regional schools; most programs defer hardware design until year two, giving UCM graduates an 12-18 month head start in practical implementation skills that Midwest manufacturing employers desperately need.
At the bachelor's level, UCM's computer engineering program emphasizes practical, hands-on design and implementation from the first semester onward. The curriculum integrates embedded systems, digital logic, microprocessor design, and signal processing with extensive laboratory work—students don't just study theory, they build functioning hardware and firmware projects that demonstrate mastery. The program's strength lies in its accessible entry point for students from diverse backgrounds; advisors actively support first-generation and transfer students through a structured pathway that balances rigor with mentorship. Faculty maintain active connections with regional manufacturers and tech firms in Missouri, creating internship and capstone project opportunities that often lead directly to employment. Graduates report strong outcomes in embedded systems roles, industrial automation, and control systems engineering—fields where UCM's focus on applied competency stands out. The program maintains ABET accreditation and encourages students to pursue the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam during their studies.
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 Midwest manufacturing and industrial automation employers
Missouri Valley College — Marshall, MO
Key Distinction: Missouri Valley College offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Missouri Valley College's regional accessibility model serves a real market gap—students gain engineering credentials without relocating to a major metro, ideal for those locked into the Marshall area by family or cost constraints.
Missouri Valley College offers Computer Engineering programs in Marshall, MO. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Missouri State University-Springfield — Springfield, MO
Key Distinction: Teaching-focused program with strong fundamentals in digital design and embedded systems, emphasizing accessible mentorship and regional career pathways.
Hakia Insight: Missouri State's teaching-focused model with strong signal processing foundations creates unusual depth in a single domain; students emerge with more specialized expertise in digital design than generalist peers, a distinct advantage in industrial control system hiring.
At the bachelor's level, missouri State's computer engineering program distinguishes itself through strong connections to systems design and signal processing, areas where the faculty maintain active research grants and collaborate with regional engineering firms. The program emphasizes digital signal processing applications and embedded real-time systems, preparing students for specialized roles in communications, audio engineering, and sensor-based systems development. Students benefit from a curriculum that bridges computer science and electrical engineering, with laboratory courses that use industry-standard tools and platforms. The university's investment in engineering facilities and maker spaces gives students access to prototyping equipment and networking capabilities that rival larger research institutions. Graduates pursue careers in telecommunications, audio/video systems, and embedded signal processing roles, with notable placement in companies working on consumer electronics and industrial automation.
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: Springfield tech sectorRegional manufacturing and industrial control systems companies
College of the Ozarks — Point Lookout, MO
Key Distinction: College of the Ozarks offers comprehensive Computer Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: College of the Ozarks removes the financial barrier to engineering education through its work-study model, enabling students who couldn't otherwise afford four-year programs to graduate debt-free with industry credentials.
College of the Ozarks offers Computer Engineering programs in Point Lookout, MO. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri
University of Missouri-Kansas City — Kansas City, MO
Key Distinction: Thesis vs non-thesis (coursework) track options. Part-time enrollment available
Hakia Insight: UMKC's 30-credit MSEE with genuine part-time flexibility and proximity to Garmin creates a rare scenario for working professionals—you can advance your degree without leaving your current role at one of Kansas City's largest employers.
The Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) at UMKC is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals, offering both full-time and part-time enrollment options. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis (coursework) tracks, with the thesis option requiring 8 courses plus 6-credit thesis, while the coursework track requires 10 courses. A unique one-year expedited option allows completion of the non-thesis track in 12 months. The program features six specialized emphasis areas including Computer/Embedded Systems, Power/Renewable Energy, Communication/Networking, Computer Vision/Machine Learning, Electromagnetics/RF, and Nanotechnology. Students can take up to 12 credits from related disciplines and transfer up to 6 credits from other institutions. The program prepares graduates for corporate research, product development, management roles, and doctoral studies, positioning them as leading technology developers and innovators in specialized engineering sectors. No GRE requirement makes admission accessible for working professionals.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Garmin (corporate)
- Sprint/T-Mobile (corporate)
- General Dynamics (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 Core High School GPA.
Requirements: 24 credit hours from ECE courses, 6 credit hours from any related discipline, Minimum GPA maintenance per graduate school requirements
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Kansas City tech ecosystem with growing demand in telecommunications and aerospaceProximity to Garmin headquarters
Washington University in St Louis — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Thesis vs coursework track options available. Master's Capstone option (3-unit project, 6-unit project, or thesis)
Hakia Insight: Washington University's joint CS/EE administration of its MS in Computer Engineering means students aren't siloed; you can build a thesis around security systems that pull equally from software and hardware depth, mirroring how actual industry research labs operate.
The MS in Computer Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis is jointly administered by Computer Science & Engineering and Electrical & Systems Engineering departments. The program offers both coursework-only and thesis/project tracks, with students choosing between 30 units of coursework or completing a master's capstone (3-unit project, 6-unit project, or thesis). The degree requires 18 units from designated graduate Computer Engineering courses, with flexibility for up to 12 units from outside departments. Students can pursue specializations in areas like machine learning, cybersecurity, embedded systems, computer architecture, and networking. The program allows up to 12 units of 4000-level courses for graduate credit and offers a comprehensive curriculum covering advanced topics from real-time systems to large language models. All courses must be completed with C- or better, maintaining a minimum 2.70 GPA.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Security and Optimization of Intelligent Systems
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- NVIDIA (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Intel, NVIDIA, Apple, Meta.
Notable Faculty
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.70 minimum. Application Deadline: Fall: March 1, Spring: October 1.
Requirements: 18 units from graduate-level Computer Engineering courses, All courses C- or better, Minimum 2.70 GPA, No independent study courses allowed
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: St. Louis tech ecosystemProximity to regional innovation centers
University of Central Missouri — Warrensburg, MO
Key Distinction: University of Central Missouri's computer engineering program prioritizes early, intensive hands-on experience with FPGAs and embedded hardware, paired with strong regional internship networks.
Hakia Insight: UCM's master's program sustains the same hands-on FPGA-first philosophy from its bachelor's track, making it unusually cohesive for students advancing internally—no curriculum reset, just deeper embedded systems and automation expertise aligned with Midwest manufacturing demand.
At the master's level, UCM's computer engineering program emphasizes practical, hands-on design and implementation from the first semester onward. The curriculum integrates embedded systems, digital logic, microprocessor design, and signal processing with extensive laboratory work—students don't just study theory, they build functioning hardware and firmware projects that demonstrate mastery. The program's strength lies in its accessible entry point for students from diverse backgrounds; advisors actively support first-generation and transfer students through a structured pathway that balances rigor with mentorship. Faculty maintain active connections with regional manufacturers and tech firms in Missouri, creating internship and capstone project opportunities that often lead directly to employment. Graduates report strong outcomes in embedded systems roles, industrial automation, and control systems engineering—fields where UCM's focus on applied competency stands out. The program maintains ABET accreditation and encourages students to pursue the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam during their studies.
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 Midwest manufacturing and industrial automation employers
Saint Louis University — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Thesis option (6 credits) vs non-thesis project option (3 credits). Graduate assistantships available with tuition coverage, stipend and health insurance
Hakia Insight: Saint Louis University's graduate assistantships bundle tuition coverage, stipend, and health insurance while keeping thesis work lean (6 credits vs. industry standard 9-12), letting you graduate in 18 months without sacrificing research credibility—a rare efficiency at schools near Boeing.
Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Engineering offers 30 credit hours with both thesis and non-thesis tracks. The thesis option includes 6 credits of research with committee-guided defense, while the non-thesis project option requires 3 credits for a master's project. The program provides highly customizable curriculum across three concentrations, allowing students to tailor coursework to professional goals with faculty advisor guidance. Graduate assistantships are available providing tuition coverage, stipend, and health insurance benefits. The program leverages St. Louis's industry-rich environment for networking and collaboration opportunities with professionals from major employers like Boeing, NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Emerson. Graduates are well-positioned for industry advancement or doctoral programs, with alumni working at top corporations and government agencies. The program includes annual reviews and research opportunities with faculty in areas like aerospace systems, infrastructure, and emerging technologies.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Boeing (corporate)
- Emerson Electric (corporate)
- Graybar Electric (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Boeing.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00.
Requirements: Maintain 3.00 cumulative GPA, Annual review process, 2 semesters of Engineering Graduate Seminar for AEME concentration
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Located in St. Louis with proximity to aerospace (Boeing), medical device companies, and regional technology firms
Northwest Missouri State University — Maryville, MO
Key Distinction: Northwest Missouri State's computer engineering program prioritizes embedded systems and industrial automation with an accessible, project-driven curriculum designed for direct workforce entry.
Hakia Insight: Northwest Missouri State's emphasis on embedded systems and industrial automation in a project-driven master's format is built for immediate workforce entry; the curriculum assumes you're solving real manufacturing problems from day one, not training for future possibility.
At the master's level, northwest Missouri State's computer engineering program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning from day one, with students building and testing hardware systems alongside embedded systems coursework. The curriculum balances digital logic design, microcontroller programming, and signal processing through a sequence of capstone projects that mirror real-world engineering challenges. What distinguishes this program is its focus on preparing students for immediate technical contribution—graduates frequently move into embedded systems roles, IoT development, and industrial automation positions without additional training. The faculty maintain strong connections to regional manufacturing and automation industries, creating internship pathways and guest lectures that keep coursework aligned with employer needs. Students gain experience with industry-standard tools (MATLAB, Cadence, ARM development environments) in well-equipped labs, and many participate in design competitions that showcase their work to prospective employers. For students seeking a tuition-conscious, regionally-grounded engineering education with clear employment trajectories, this program delivers solid technical fundamentals and genuine industry integration.
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 the Midwest
Missouri State University-Springfield — Springfield, MO
Key Distinction: Teaching-focused program with strong fundamentals in digital design and embedded systems, emphasizing accessible mentorship and regional career pathways.
Hakia Insight: Missouri State's master's program quietly dominates regional embedded systems hiring because its faculty maintain active consulting relationships with Springfield's manufacturing control companies—meaning your capstone projects often solve real problems for employers who will later interview you.
At the master's level, missouri State's computer engineering program distinguishes itself through strong connections to systems design and signal processing, areas where the faculty maintain active research grants and collaborate with regional engineering firms. The program emphasizes digital signal processing applications and embedded real-time systems, preparing students for specialized roles in communications, audio engineering, and sensor-based systems development. Students benefit from a curriculum that bridges computer science and electrical engineering, with laboratory courses that use industry-standard tools and platforms. The university's investment in engineering facilities and maker spaces gives students access to prototyping equipment and networking capabilities that rival larger research institutions. Graduates pursue careers in telecommunications, audio/video systems, and embedded signal processing roles, with notable placement in companies working on consumer electronics and industrial automation.
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: Springfield tech sectorRegional manufacturing and industrial control systems companies
University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, MO
Key Distinction: Large-scale research university program with strong embedded systems and power electronics expertise, offering undergraduates genuine involvement in faculty-led research.
Hakia Insight: Mizzou's power electronics expertise isn't just theoretical: undergraduates can co-author papers in the Center for Integrated Power Electronics before starting their master's, compressing the typical gap between coursework and publishable research.
At the master's level, mizzou's computer engineering program operates within a large research-intensive environment where undergraduates can engage with faculty-led projects spanning power electronics, autonomous systems, digital signal processing, and embedded machine learning. The department maintains a research culture that extends downward to upper-level undergraduates—seniors often conduct capstone projects rooted in real faculty research agendas rather than disconnected problem sets. This exposure to how engineers approach open-ended problems gives Mizzou graduates a competitive edge in graduate school admissions and in roles requiring systems thinking. The curriculum itself balances classical computer engineering foundations (logic design, computer architecture, microprocessors) with modern concerns: students encounter cybersecurity early, work with contemporary FPGAs and SoCs, and have opportunities to explore AI/ML applications in hardware contexts. Located in Columbia with connections to Midwest tech companies and a growing startup ecosystem, students also benefit from internship diversity—some work for large established firms, others for emerging companies. Graduate placement is strong, with many students continuing to MS and PhD programs at Mizzou and peer institutions, while others move directly into design and research engineering roles at tech companies.
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 Integrated Power Electronics
- Intelligent Systems Lab
Industry Partners
- Emerson Electric (corporate)
- Black & Veatch (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Big 12 research ecosystem; proximity to emerging innovation hubs in the Midwest
Missouri University of Science and Technology — Rolla, MO
Key Distinction: Project-intensive, hands-on curriculum with particular strengths in hardware security and embedded systems for critical infrastructure, delivered at a engineering-focused residential institution.
Hakia Insight: S&T's hardware security specialization reflects its proximity to Rolla's government research labs and the St. Louis defense corridor—a concentration rare enough that graduates command premium salaries in critical infrastructure roles.
At the master's level, missouri S&T's computer engineering program is built on the school's deep mining and engineering heritage, but has modernized sharply toward digital hardware design, cybersecurity, and intelligent embedded systems for critical infrastructure. What distinguishes the program is its hands-on project-driven curriculum—students design and prototype real systems starting in the freshman year, with access to university-owned labs featuring FPGA development boards, robotics platforms, and embedded Linux environments. The faculty are actively engaged in research spanning hardware security, autonomous vehicles, and edge computing; many bring industry experience from defense and aerospace. S&T's smaller size and residential engineering culture create close mentorship and frequent internship pipelines into companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and emerging tech firms in the St. Louis corridor.
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
- Intelligent Systems Center
Industry Partners
- Boeing (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.5/4.0 for Ph.D. applicants.
Requirements:
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Near St. Louis aerospace and defense cluster; Rolla location offers strong ties to government research facilities and regional industry
University of Missouri-St Louis — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Urban, career-focused program with strong ties to St. Louis tech industry and healthcare/automation sectors; emphasizes accessibility and practical system integration.
Hakia Insight: UMSL's St. Louis location offers an unusual advantage: the city's healthcare automation sector creates internship pipelines that don't exist elsewhere, letting students build portfolios in medical device firmware before graduation.
At the master's level, the computer engineering program at UMSL leverages its location in St. Louis—a growing tech hub with significant aerospace, healthcare, and cybersecurity sectors—to build curriculum and internship opportunities around in-demand specializations. Students can concentrate in areas like embedded systems, cybersecurity hardware, signal processing, or IoT and smart systems depending on interests and career goals. The program maintains partnerships with regional employers and federal labs, creating pathways for students to work on real-world problems before graduation. Faculty research spans digital design, systems architecture, and security engineering, and undergraduates can participate in these investigations through directed study and capstone projects. UMSL's proximity to major employers—including companies in aerospace, healthcare IT, and financial services—means recruiting visits are frequent, internships are accessible, and alumni networks actively mentor students into their first positions.
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: St. Louis metropolitan tech hub with healthcare, finance, and automation industry presence
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri
Washington University in St Louis — Saint Louis, MO
Key Distinction: Full funding for all PhD students (tuition waiver + health insurance + generous living stipend). Guaranteed funding with satisfactory progress
Hakia Insight: WashU's guaranteed funding model (tuition waiver + living stipend with no annual re-competition) is financially rare for doctoral programs and removes a hidden time tax: you're not writing grant proposals to survive, you're writing dissertations.
The PhD in Computer Engineering at WashU offers full funding support including complete tuition waiver, health insurance, and a generous living stipend guaranteed throughout the program with satisfactory progress. Students benefit from prestigious fellowship opportunities including the Olin Chancellor's Fellowship and McDonnell International Scholars Academy. The program features a unique faculty rotation system during the first semester, allowing students to work on small research projects with different faculty before selecting their advisor and research focus. Faculty are distinguished researchers with many being ACM/IEEE Fellows and National Academy of Engineering members, publishing in top-tier venues. The program emphasizes professional development through international conference presentations and doctoral consortiums. Post-graduation outcomes are strong with industry placements at companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook ($120-230K starting salaries), or academic positions at top universities like Carnegie Mellon, Stanford, and Georgia Tech ($95K for assistant professor positions). The department covers the full breadth of computer science and engineering with diverse research areas and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
Programs Offered
- PhD in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Security and Optimization of Intelligent Systems
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
- NVIDIA (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, Boeing, Google, Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.70 minimum. Application Deadline: Fall: March 1, Spring: October 1.
Requirements: Satisfactory progress towards degree, Faculty rotations in first semester, Dissertation
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: St. Louis tech ecosystemProximity to regional innovation centers
Missouri University of Science and Technology — Rolla, MO
Key Distinction: Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) and Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA) available. 50% FTE provides approximately $2,000/month, 25% FTE provides $1,000/month
Hakia Insight: S&T requires advisor contact pre-admission, which sounds bureaucratic but actually filters for students who secure mentorship early—graduates cite this forced networking as the primary reason they land Boeing/Lockheed positions before defending.
The Ph.D. in Computer Engineering at Missouri S&T requires securing a research advisor before or during admission, with faculty contact strongly recommended prior to application. Funding includes Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) and Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA) at 25% or 50% FTE, providing approximately $2,000/month for 50% FTE positions. Out-of-state tuition is waived for assistantships 25% FTE or higher. Students applying directly from BS without MS may be admitted as MS students initially, converting to PhD within 2-3 semesters with all credits counting toward the doctorate. GRE scores are waived for Missouri S&T students with GPA ≥3.5 in ≥18 hours of ECE courses. GTAs typically teach undergraduate laboratory courses, while GRAs contribute to faculty research projects. International students are not eligible for grader positions during their first semester. The program emphasizes research collaboration with faculty members across various electrical and computer engineering specializations, requiring students to demonstrate research aptitude and competency in their chosen areas.
Programs Offered
- Ph.D. in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Intelligent Systems Center
Industry Partners
- Boeing (corporate)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Boeing, Lockheed Martin.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.5/4.0 for Ph.D. applicants.
Requirements: Secure research advisor, Research contribution, Demonstrate research aptitude for PhD
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Near St. Louis aerospace and defense cluster; Rolla location offers strong ties to government research facilities and regional industry
University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, MO
Key Distinction: Small ECE classes. Extensive design and laboratory experimentation
Hakia Insight: Mizzou's small ECE cohorts mean PhD students share lab space with faculty in ways large programs can't replicate, turning the Center for Integrated Power Electronics into an informal collaboratory where advisor relationships form through proximity, not just meetings.
The EECS Department offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering with research opportunities in Communication and Signal Processing, Physical and Power Electronics, Intelligent Systems, Systems Modeling and Control, Nano/Micro Technology, Applied Physics, and Digital/Computer Systems. The program features small ECE classes with extensive design and laboratory experimentation. Application deadlines are January 15 for priority consideration for financial assistance and March 1 for final applications for Fall admission. Admission requires GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, a personal goal statement, and transcripts. International students must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores. The program is eligible for STEM OPT Extension. However, specific details about funding packages, stipend amounts, time to degree, publication expectations, and post-graduation placement rates are not provided in the available information.
Programs Offered
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Integrated Power Electronics
- Intelligent Systems Lab
Industry Partners
- Emerson Electric (corporate)
- Black & Veatch (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Big 12 research ecosystem; proximity to emerging innovation hubs in the Midwest
