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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
91.3
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri University of Sc...
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,442 to $61,750/year
U of Central Missouri offers the most affordable option at $8,325/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 9 master's, 3 doctoral in Missouri
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online computer engineering degree programs in Missouri
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard
Tech hubs in Kansas City and St. Louis
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 62+ cities across Missouri
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Missouri Computer Engineering programs
We rank 32 accredited computer engineering programs in Missouri using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri Worth It?
Answer
$104,000
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Missouri deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $104,000 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,460/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Missouri
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Missouri by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Missouri
4
Programs ranked
$36,644
Avg tuition/yr
78%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 20 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 8 public and 12 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri University of Sc..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Missouri computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $88,400, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Kansas City, St. Louis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,480 to $61,750 annually, with an average of $22,211/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 79%, with the highest reaching 98%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Missouri's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Missouri, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$54,760
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad rate
78.3
Hakia Score
#4
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MOPublic
$13,656
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
76.0
Hakia Score
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Missouri
3
Programs ranked
$30,605
Avg tuition/yr
78%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri offers 9 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Missouri-Kansas City, Washington University in ..., U of Central Missouri, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Kansas City, St. Louis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $20,911/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Missouri's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
90.1
Hakia Score
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Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MOPublic
$13,656
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
70.1
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Missouri
2
Programs ranked
$39,078
Avg tuition/yr
79%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Washington University in ..., Missouri University of Sc..., U of Missouri-Columbia are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Missouri PhD holders earning a median of $130,000, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Kansas City, St. Louis region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Missouri programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Missouri, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis, MOPrivate nonprofit
$64,500
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
88.3
Hakia Score
🥈
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MOPublic
$13,656
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
63.1
Hakia Score
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Missouri
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $21,460/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $53,650/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,365/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $128,760 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $32,190 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Missouri
State Aid Programs
Missouri students pursuing computer engineering degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways, starting with the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Through (Federal Student Aid), students can apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Missouri's state-specific program, the Access Missouri Grant, provides need-based grants up to $2,850 per year for eligible students attending public institutions (Missouri Department of Higher Education). This grant significantly reduces the financial burden for in-state students and complements federal aid packages.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, many Missouri institutions offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages. Public universities like the University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri University of Science and Technology provide competitive scholarships for computer engineering majors based on academic achievement and test scores. Private institutions such as Washington University in St Louis and Saint Louis University offer substantial financial aid packages, though tuition is higher. Students should review each institution's financial aid office website for specific scholarship opportunities. Additionally, Missouri's (Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42)) guarantees the transfer of 42 credit hours between institutions statewide, helping students manage overall education costs when transferring between community colleges and four-year universities.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Missouri
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Missouri. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Engineering Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Missouri metro areas
Kansas City$114K
St. Louis$109K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $114K |
| St. Louis | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Missouri
Find computer engineering jobs in Missouri. These major employers across Missouri metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Kansas City
MOCerner/Oracle Health
healthtech
Garmin
tech
H&R Block
fintech
Sprint/T-Mobile
telecom
Computer Engineering Jobs in St. Louis
MOBayer
pharma
Edward Jones
finance
World Wide Technology
tech
Mastercard
fintech
Boeing
aerospace
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Missouri
State Transfer System
Missouri's transfer system is designed to help seamless academic progression from community colleges to four-year universities, making computer engineering education accessible and affordable. The Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42) guarantees that 42 credit hours of general education coursework completed at any participating Missouri community college transfer directly to four-year public institutions without loss of credit. This statewide articulation agreement eliminates the uncertainty and delays common in transfer processes, allowing students to complete foundational coursework at lower cost before advancing to specialized computer engineering courses at bachelor's-granting institutions (Missouri Department of Higher Education).
How Transfers Work
Missouri's 1 associate's degree institution and 21 two-year institutions statewide provide excellent entry points for students pursuing computer engineering. Institutions like Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, Saint Louis Community College, and Columbia College offer affordable options, with tuition ranging from $4,440 to $12,268, while maintaining transfer agreements with the state's 22 bachelor's-granting institutions. Students completing associate's degrees in computer engineering or related fields can transfer with junior standing, reducing time-to-degree and total cost. The CORE 42 framework ensures that foundational mathematics, physics, and computer science courses transfer fully, allowing students to focus upper-level coursework on advanced topics at universities like University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri University of Science and Technology.
Transfer Planning Tips
Prospective community college students should consult transfer guides on their institution's website and engage with transfer advisors to confirm specific articulation agreements with their target four-year university. Many Missouri colleges have dedicated transfer offices coordinating with universities to ensure smooth transitions. Students are encouraged to complete CORE 42 requirements and program-specific prerequisites, such as calculus, physics, and introductory programming, while at community college, maximizing their readiness for competitive bachelor's programs. For additional pathways, explore related programs like Information Technology in Missouri and Network Administration in Missouri, which offer complementary career tracks and flexible transfer options.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Missouri?
Industry & Workforce
Missouri offers a strong computer engineering education landscape with 36 institutions providing programs across all degree levels, from associate's through doctoral degrees (IPEDS). The state boasts 22 bachelor's-granting institutions producing 891 completions annually, along with 10 master's programs generating 2,570 completions, indicating strong graduate-level emphasis. Top-ranked schools like Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri-Columbia, and Missouri University of Science and Technology provide nationally competitive education within the state, making Missouri an excellent choice for aspiring computer engineers.
Salary Outlook
Missouri's location within major technology hubs drives demand for computer engineers. The state's largest metros. St. Louis and Kansas City, host major employers including Cerner, Walmart, BJC HealthCare, and SSM Health, creating abundant internship and employment opportunities. Public in-state tuition averages $8,649 annually for four-year institutions, significantly below the national average and making Missouri programs affordable (College Scorecard). Additionally, Missouri's Access Missouri Grant provides need-based funding up to $2,850 per year at public institutions (Access Missouri Grant), helping students manage costs while pursuing this high-demand degree.
Regional Tech Hubs
The state's commitment to educational quality is evident through rigorous accreditation standards and transfer pathways that support student success. Computer engineering careers offer strong earning potential, with opportunities in healthcare technology, financial services, and manufacturing sectors prominent throughout Missouri (BLS State Data). Whether pursuing a bachelor's degree at a research institution or starting at a community college, Missouri provides comprehensive pathways to a rewarding computer engineering career. For comparison with other states' programs, explore Computer Engineering in California or Computer Engineering in Texas.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in Missouri
21 Programs
Missouri offers 21 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Kansas City, St. Louis.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Missouri
Employment Outlook
Missouri's computer engineering job market is strong and growing, with strong demand across the state's major metropolitan areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state supports a competitive landscape for computer engineering professionals in cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. These regions represent distinct tech hubs with complementary opportunities: St. Louis serves as a major healthcare IT center, Kansas City hosts significant financial technology and telecommunications sectors, and Springfield continues to develop its emerging tech ecosystem. The diversity of geographic opportunities means graduates can choose locations based on lifestyle preferences while maintaining strong career prospects.
Salaries by Metro
Missouri's educational pipeline produces a substantial number of computer engineering graduates annually. In 2023, Missouri institutions awarded 891 bachelor's degrees and 2,570 master's degrees in computer engineering (IPEDS Program Data), positioning the state as a significant producer of qualified talent. The state benefits from established transfer pathways through the Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42), which guarantees transfer of 42 credit hours across institutions, allowing students to begin their education at community colleges and transition seamlessly to four-year programs. Additionally, students may qualify for the Access Missouri Grant, providing need-based support up to $2,850 annually at public institutions, improving accessibility to engineering education across the state.
High-Growth Sectors
For those researching computer engineering opportunities, exploring national best bachelor's programs provides context for how Missouri schools rank nationally. Students should also consider related fields through our guides on Computer Science in Missouri and Software Engineering in Missouri to evaluate complementary career paths in technology sectors across the state.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Missouri$67,600$150,800
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Missouri
Online Programs
2 available in Missouri
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$19,314/yr$21,460/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $32,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 68
- Median Tuition
- $32,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $12,600
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $7,400
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Missouri?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Missouri based on our methodology are: 1) Washington University in St Louis (97% graduation rate), 2) University of Missouri-Kansas City, and 3) Missouri University of Science and Technology. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Missouri offers 21 total accredited programs across 9 public and 12 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 20 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Missouri?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Missouri vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $21,460/year, while private institutions average $47,212/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,365/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $85,840 at public schools to $188,848 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer engineering degree graduates earn in Missouri?
Computer Engineering professionals in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,600, while senior roles exceed $150,800. Salaries vary by metro area: Kansas City ($114,400), St. Louis ($109,200) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer engineering degree programs in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers 2 accredited online Computer Engineering programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Missouri Valley College and Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer engineering degree graduates in Missouri?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Missouri include Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard, Square. The Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Missouri universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Missouri's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Missouri?
A computer engineering degree program in Missouri offers strong ROI with a $104,000 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $21,460/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($117,520), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer engineering degree programs take in Missouri?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Missouri are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Missouri community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Missouri university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Missouri?
Missouri computer engineering degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Missouri state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Missouri's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Missouri salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.