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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit
Welcome to Columbia University$66,722
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
94.4
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Cornell, Columbia University in th..., Stony Brook
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,800 to $66,622/year
CUNY Borough of Manhattan... offers the most affordable option at $4,800/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 32 associate's, 30 master's, 14 doctoral in New York
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
27 online computer engineering degree programs in New York
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
New York community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
32 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Google, Amazon, IBM, JPMorgan
Tech hubs in New York City and Albany
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 153+ cities across New York
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 6, 2026
How we ranked New York Computer Engineering programs
We rank 129 accredited computer engineering programs in New York 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 New York Worth It?
Answer
$130,710
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in New York deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $130,710 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $20,326/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in New York
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in New York by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in New York
13
Programs ranked
$39,876
Avg tuition/yr
76%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New York ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 53 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 23 public and 30 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Cornell, Columbia University in th..., Stony Brook, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from New York computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $111,104, 13% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the New York City, Albany, Rochester metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Amazon, IBM.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,930 to $66,622 annually, with an average of $29,534/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 89%, with the highest reaching 100%. 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 New York's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in New York, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#4
$7,070
Tuition/yr
76%
Grad rate
88.5
Hakia Score
Show all 13 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University at Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | Public | $7,070 | 75% | 82.5 |
| #7 | Union College | Schenectady, NY | Private nonprofit | $68,688 | 80% | 81.5 |
| #8 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private nonprofit | $58,260 | 70% | 81.1 |
| #9 | State University of New York at New Paltz | New Paltz, NY | Public | $7,070 | 72% | 78.2 |
| #10 | CUNY City College | New York, NY | Public | $6,930 | 57% | 76.9 |
| #11 | Hofstra University | Hempstead, NY | Private nonprofit | $56,545 | 69% | 76.2 |
| #12 | Clarkson University | Potsdam, NY | Private nonprofit | $58,058 | 75% | 74.9 |
| #13 | Manhattan University | Riverdale, NY | Private nonprofit | $48,400 | 64% | 70.0 |
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in New York
7
Programs ranked
$44,841
Avg tuition/yr
76%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New York offers 30 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Columbia University in th..., Cornell, New York, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in New York earn a median salary of $130,710, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in New York City, Albany, Rochester creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Google, Amazon, IBM 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 $31,060/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 New York's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit
Welcome to Columbia University$66,722
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
94.3
Hakia Score
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New York University
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit
The Stuff They Didn't Tell You On the NYU Campus Tour$62,796
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad rate
93.8
Hakia Score
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$7,070
Tuition/yr
76%
Grad rate
84.8
Hakia Score
#5
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NYPrivate nonprofit
$58,260
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad rate
76.0
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | CUNY City College | New York, NY | Public | $6,930 | 57% | 70.0 |
| #7 | Manhattan University | Riverdale, NY | Private nonprofit | $48,400 | 64% | 65.9 |
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in New York
1
Programs ranked
$7,070
Avg tuition/yr
76%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New York is home to 14 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Cornell, Columbia University in th..., Stony Brook are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with New York PhD holders earning a median of $163,388, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The New York City, Albany, Rochester region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Google, Amazon, IBM.
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 New York programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in New York, 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.
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in New York
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $20,326/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $50,815/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,082/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $121,956 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $30,488 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in New York
State Aid Programs
New York State provides substantial financial aid through programs like the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and Excelsior Scholarship. The Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) offers academic enrichment and support specifically for students entering STEM fields, helping economically disadvantaged students prepare for and succeed in college (NY State Education STEP). These programs significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing computer engineering degrees.
Key Programs & Amounts
Merit-based scholarships are available through individual universities and professional organizations. The IEEE and ACM offer scholarships specifically for computer engineering and computer science students. Many technology companies provide scholarships and paid internships to students from underrepresented backgrounds. Private foundations also support STEM education through targeted scholarship programs.
Institutional Scholarships
Work-study opportunities allow students to gain relevant experience while offsetting educational costs. Research assistantships provide valuable experience and financial support for graduate students. Students should explore comprehensive resources in our financial aid guide to understand all available funding options and application requirements.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, New York
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in New York. 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
+1116%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$2,064,777
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
$94,118
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)$3,100,185
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 (New York City, NY)$160,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.6%
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 New York metro areas
New York City$144K
Albany$137K
Rochester$131K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| New York City | $144K |
| Albany | $137K |
| Rochester | $131K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in New York
New York City's technology sector includes major employers across multiple industries. Financial services companies like JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley hire computer engineers for trading systems, risk management platforms, and cybersecurity roles. Media companies including Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery need engineers for streaming platforms and digital content delivery systems (NYC Comptroller).
Technology startups and established tech companies provide diverse opportunities throughout the state. Companies experimenting with AI and machine learning technologies are particularly active in recruiting computer engineers with relevant skills. The state's position as home to thousands of technology startups creates opportunities for rapid career advancement and equity participation (K&L Gates NY AI).
Defense contractors and government agencies also recruit computer engineers for cybersecurity and systems development roles. Healthcare technology companies leverage New York's strong medical research institutions for product development. The diversity of industries creates opportunities for engineers to work on everything from autonomous vehicles to medical devices to financial trading algorithms.
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in New York
State Transfer System
New York's transfer system facilitates movement between community colleges and four-year universities through established articulation agreements. The State University of New York (SUNY) system provides clear transfer pathways for engineering students who complete foundational coursework at community colleges. These agreements specify which courses transfer and how they apply toward degree requirements, reducing time to graduation and overall costs.
How Transfers Work
Community college students complete mathematics, physics, and general education requirements before transferring. Engineering technology programs at two-year colleges provide alternative pathways into computer engineering for students seeking hands-on experience. Transfer students should work closely with advisors to ensure course selections align with their target university's requirements. The comprehensive computer engineering overview can help students understand program structures across institutions.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in New York
86 Programs
New York offers 86 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include New York City, Albany, Rochester.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in New York
Employment Outlook
New York's technology job market demonstrates strong growth across multiple sectors, with significant demand for software developers and quality assurance analysts. The recent boom in generative AI and agentic systems is expanding opportunities beyond traditional tech roles (Brookings AI Economy). Computer engineering graduates find opportunities in fintech, healthcare technology, media streaming, and e-commerce platforms throughout the state.
Salaries by Metro
Salary ranges vary significantly by metro area and specialization within computer engineering. Entry-level positions start above national averages due to the concentration of high-value technology companies. Mid-career professionals can expect substantial compensation increases, particularly in specialized areas like AI development, cybersecurity, and embedded systems design (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
High-Growth Sectors
High-growth sectors include artificial intelligence development, cloud computing, and financial technology. Remote work options have expanded significantly, allowing New York-based engineers to work for companies nationwide. Students interested in career paths can explore [software developer opportunities and data scientist roles that often overlap with computer engineering skills.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in New York$84,962$189,530
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in New York
Online Programs
27 available in New York
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$18,293/yr$20,326/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 Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $36,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New Jersey
- Total Programs
- 29
- Median Tuition
- $35,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $44,400
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 74
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Vermont
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $45,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
New York Tech Industry & Infrastructure
New York's tech economy is anchored by financial services, media, ad-tech, and a growing AI/fintech startup ecosystem. The state ranks behind only California in tech-sector GDP contribution and is unique in the country for the depth of its financial-services tech employer base (Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Bloomberg, Two Sigma, Citadel) alongside major consumer-tech offices for Google, Meta, and Amazon.
New York City
Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens
Dominant US fintech hub. Engineering hiring concentrated at Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Bloomberg, Citadel, Two Sigma, Jane Street, plus major NYC offices for Google, Meta, Amazon, Spotify. NYU and Columbia are the principal feeders.
Albany / Capital Region
Albany metro
Anchored by GlobalFoundries' chip fabrication and SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Growing semiconductor and AI-research footprint; state-government IT employs heavily.
Excelsior Jobs Program offers tax credits to qualifying tech employers. State income tax is high relative to other tech-heavy states.
New York Regulation Affecting Computer Engineering Graduates
New York has one of the strictest US regulatory environments for tech, particularly in financial services. The state's cybersecurity rules for financial institutions are widely considered the US baseline, and NY has been an early mover on biometric, AI, and algorithmic-hiring legislation.
NY SHIELD Act (Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security)
Requires reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for private information of NY residents. Expanded breach-notification requirements.
Every consumer-facing tech company serving NY users must maintain a documented security program; this drives security-engineer hiring at NY-resident employers.
Read moreNY DFS Cybersecurity Regulation (23 NYCRR 500)
Cybersecurity requirements for banks, insurance companies, and other DFS-regulated financial institutions operating in NY.
The US baseline for financial-services security engineering. Engineers at NY-based banks/insurers operate under this framework daily; the regulation is a major driver of security-team hiring.
Read moreNYC Local Law 144 (Automated Employment Decision Tools)
NYC employers using automated hiring tools must complete a bias audit and disclose use to candidates. Applies to any employer hiring for NYC-based positions.
ML/AI engineers building hiring/HR-tech products serving NYC employers must implement bias-audit logging and candidate-notification flows.
Read moreNY Privacy Act (proposed) and biometric notice requirements
NY has not yet passed a comprehensive consumer privacy law, but biometric-notice and facial-recognition disclosure rules apply in specific contexts (schools, commercial establishments).
Engineers building biometric features for NY users must implement consent and notice flows; broader NY privacy legislation is an active area to watch.
Read moreProfessional Engineer Licensure in New York
New York does not currently offer a separate Professional Engineer license in software engineering. ABET accreditation is still recognized for federal and consulting work that requires engineering credentials, but PE licensure is not a practical consideration for most NY software engineers.
New York licensing boardNew York Financial Aid Programs
NY Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
State grantUp to $5,665/yr
NY residents attending NY colleges/universities with financial need
Excelsior Scholarship
State scholarshipCovers tuition after other aid (up to ~$6,470/yr at SUNY)
NY residents attending SUNY/CUNY with family income up to $125,000
Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA)
State awardUp to $3,000/yr
NY residents attending private (non-SUNY/CUNY) NY colleges with family income up to $125,000
STEM Incentive Program
State scholarship (STEM-specific)Full SUNY/CUNY tuition coverage
Top 10% of NY high-school graduating class entering STEM at SUNY/CUNY; service obligation: work in STEM in NY for 5 years post-grad
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in New York?
The best computer engineering degree programs in New York based on our methodology are: 1) Cornell University (95% graduation rate), 2) Columbia University in the City of New York, and 3) Stony Brook University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). New York offers 86 total accredited programs across 55 public and 30 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 53 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in New York?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in New York vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $20,326/year, while private institutions average $44,717/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,082/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $81,304 at public schools to $178,869 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 New York?
Computer Engineering professionals in New York earn a median salary of $130,710, which is 13% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $84,962, while senior roles exceed $189,530. Salaries vary by metro area: New York City ($143,781), Albany ($137,246) 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 New York?
Yes, New York offers 27 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 Cornell University and New York University. 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 New York?
Major Computer Engineering employers in New York include Google, Amazon, IBM, JPMorgan, Bloomberg. The New York City and Albany metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from New York universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. New York's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in New York?
A computer engineering degree program in New York offers strong ROI with a $130,710 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $20,326/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($147,702), 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 New York?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in New York 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. New York community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a New York university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in New York?
New York 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. New York 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 New York'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
New York 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.