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$65,008
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
90.4
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $7,008 to $61,618/year
Middle Tennessee State offers the most affordable option at $7,536/yr
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 2 associate's, 8 master's, 4 doctoral in Tennessee
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
5 online computer engineering degree programs in Tennessee
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Tennessee community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft
Tech hubs in Nashville and Knoxville
Hakia Research 2026
Computer Engineering degree programs near 63+ cities across Tennessee
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Tennessee Computer Engineering programs
We rank 38 accredited computer engineering programs in Tennessee 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 Tennessee Worth It?
Answer
$108,470
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Tennessee deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $108,470 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $23,479/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Tennessee
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Tennessee by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Tennessee
6
Programs ranked
$23,715
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 24 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 8 public and 15 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $92,200, 6% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,008 to $61,618 annually, with an average of $23,479/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 Tennessee's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
Bookstore, Clubs, Community & More: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Campus Tour$11,560
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
85.1
Hakia Score
🥉
$9,990
Tuition/yr
58%
Grad rate
70.3
Hakia Score
#5
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TNPublic
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Online Tour$8,458
Tuition/yr
50%
Grad rate
64.2
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Christian Brothers University | Memphis, TN | Private nonprofit | $38,420 | 55% | 62.2 |
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Tennessee
2
Programs ranked
$9,464
Avg tuition/yr
54%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 8 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein 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 $17,209/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 Tennessee's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
Bookstore, Clubs, Community & More: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Campus Tour$11,560
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
81.8
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Tennessee
2
Programs ranked
$9,464
Avg tuition/yr
54%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee is home to 4 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Tennessee PhD holders earning a median of $135,588, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
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 Tennessee programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Tennessee, 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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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
$11,560
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad rate
76.0
Hakia Score
Computer Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Tennessee
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $23,479/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $58,698/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,870/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $140,876 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $35,218 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for computer engineering students, beginning with the Tennessee Promise program, which covers community college tuition for eligible students. For those pursuing four-year degrees, the Tennessee HOPE scholarship provides up to $4,500 per year in financial support (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). These state-level programs significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a computer engineering degree in Tennessee. Additionally, all students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Tennessee's unique advantage is its absence of state income tax, which provides graduates with greater take-home earnings compared to professionals in other states.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state programs, individual institutions offer competitive merit scholarships and need-based aid packages. Top programs like Vanderbilt University and The University of Tennessee-Knoxville provide substantial institutional funding to qualified applicants. Students should also explore the Tennessee Transfer Pathways program (Tennessee Transfer Pathways), which guarantees transfer routes from community colleges to four-year institutions, allowing students to reduce costs by completing general education requirements at lower-cost institutions first. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (Tennessee Higher Education Commission) provides comprehensive information about all available state aid programs. For detailed information about specific aid packages, prospective students can use the College Scorecard (College Scorecard) to compare financial aid offers across Tennessee's 41 institutions offering computer engineering programs.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee metro areas
Nashville$119K
Knoxville$114K
Memphis$108K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $119K |
| Knoxville | $114K |
| Memphis | $108K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Tennessee
Find computer engineering jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Nashville
TNAmazon
tech
Oracle Health (Cerner)
healthtech
Asurion
tech
AllianceBernstein
finance
HCA Healthcare
healthcare
Computer Engineering Jobs in Knoxville
TNOak Ridge National Laboratory
government
Pilot Flying J
retail
Computer Engineering Jobs in Memphis
TNFedEx
logistics
International Paper
manufacturing
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee's transfer system makes it seamless for students to begin their computer engineering education at community colleges and transfer to four-year universities without losing credits or time. The state operates Tennessee Transfer Pathways, a statewide articulation system guaranteeing that completed coursework transfers to public universities (Tennessee Transfer Pathways). With 49 two-year institutions and 57 four-year institutions in Tennessee, students have abundant options for starting their education affordably at community colleges like Jackson State Community College or South College before advancing to bachelor's degree programs. Tennessee's 3 associate's degree programs in computer engineering produced 7 completions in 2023, and these graduates can leverage guaranteed transfer pathways to complete bachelor's degrees (IPEDS).
How Transfers Work
The Tennessee Promise program covers community college tuition entirely, making the first two years of education debt-free for eligible students (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Students can complete foundational courses in mathematics, physics, digital logic, and programming at community colleges, then transfer to universities like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological University, or Middle Tennessee State University to pursue upper-level computer engineering coursework. Transfer articulation agreements clearly outline which courses satisfy degree requirements at receiving institutions, ensuring smooth progression. Explore computer science in Tennessee, information technology in Tennessee, and most affordable programs to identify cost-effective pathways aligned with your academic and career goals.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers a strong computer engineering education landscape with 41 institutions offering programs across all degree levels, from associate's through doctoral studies (IPEDS). The state produced 1,000 bachelor's degree completions in 2023, demonstrating strong program capacity and graduate employment potential. Tennessee's higher education ecosystem includes research institutions like Vanderbilt University, which leads the state with 282 program completions, alongside The University of Tennessee-Knoxville with 257 completions and Tennessee Technological University with 201 completions (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Beyond academics, Tennessee presents significant financial advantages for students. The state offers no income tax, a critical benefit for graduates earning technology salaries, combined with competitive tuition costs. Public four-year institution in-state tuition averages just $8,520, compared to national averages (Tennessee Higher Education Commission). Students can also access Tennessee Promise and HOPE financial aid programs (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Tennessee's major tech hubs in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga host employers like Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and HCA Healthcare, creating direct pathways to internships and careers. Explore related fields like computer science in Tennessee or software engineering in Tennessee to expand your options.
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
$0 State Income Tax
Tennessee has no state income tax. At the median computer engineering salary of $108,470, that keeps roughly $5,424 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's computer engineering job market is strong and diverse, with strong employment opportunities across multiple metropolitan regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tennessee has established itself as a competitive hub for technology professionals. The state's major employment centers include Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, each offering distinct career pathways for computer engineering graduates. With 41 institutions offering computer engineering programs across the state, Tennessee produces a steady pipeline of qualified professionals to fill these positions. The diversity of employers and industries ensures that graduates have multiple career trajectory options regardless of their specialization within the field.
Salaries by Metro
Tennessee's favorable business environment, combined with no state income tax, makes the state particularly attractive for both employers and job seekers. Major employers actively recruiting computer engineering talent include Vanderbilt University, HCA Healthcare, Amazon, FedEx, and Nissan, companies that represent healthcare technology, e-commerce, logistics, and manufacturing sectors respectively. These organizations drive innovation and create competitive compensation packages. Graduates from top-ranked programs like Vanderbilt University and The University of Tennessee-Knoxville benefit from strong alumni networks and direct recruiting relationships. For comprehensive salary and employment data specific to your career interests, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics and explore related technical fields through Computer Science in Tennessee and Software Engineering in Tennessee.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Tennessee$70,506$157,282
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Tennessee
Online Programs
5 available in Tennessee
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$21,131/yr$23,479/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 Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $12,600
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $5,500
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Alabama
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $9,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $7,400
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $13,000
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Tennessee: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Tennessee?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Tennessee based on our methodology are: 1) Vanderbilt University (99% graduation rate), 2) The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and 3) Tennessee Technological University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Tennessee offers 24 total accredited programs across 8 public and 15 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 24 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Tennessee?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Tennessee vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $23,479/year, while private institutions average $51,654/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,870/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $93,916 at public schools to $206,615 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 Tennessee?
Computer Engineering professionals in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $70,506, while senior roles exceed $157,282. Salaries vary by metro area: Nashville ($119,317), Knoxville ($113,894) 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 Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee offers 5 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 Christian Brothers University and Lee 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 Tennessee?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Tennessee include HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft, Amazon. The Nashville and Knoxville metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Tennessee universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Tennessee's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Tennessee?
A computer engineering degree program in Tennessee offers strong ROI with a $108,470 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $23,479/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($122,571), 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 Tennessee?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Tennessee 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. Tennessee community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Tennessee university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Tennessee?
Tennessee 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. Tennessee 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 Tennessee'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
Tennessee 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.