University campus in Virginia
Updated July 13, 2026

Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top computer engineering colleges in Virginia. 28 accredited computer engineering schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Northern Virginia Community College to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

#1 ProgramVirginia Polytechnic Inst...
Avg Salary$126,100
Tuition From$5,550/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

14

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$126,100

Virginia median computer engineering salary

BLS OEWS 2024

93.9/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

5%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best computer engineering degree programs: Virginia Polytechnic Inst..., U of Virginia, William & Mary

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $4,788 to $63,315/year

Northern Virginia Communi... offers the most affordable option at $5,550/yr

IPEDS 2024

Computer Engineering degree programs available: 5 associate's, 5 master's, 3 doctoral in Virginia

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

12 online computer engineering degree programs in Virginia

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2024

Virginia community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

5 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen, Capital One

Tech hubs in Arlington and Reston

Hakia Research 2026

Computer Engineering degree programs near 73+ cities across Virginia

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated July 13, 2026

How we ranked Virginia Computer Engineering programs

We rank 36 accredited computer engineering programs in Virginia 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 methodology

Are Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia Worth It?

Answer
$126,100
Yes. The best computer engineering degree programs in Virginia deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $126,100 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $18,093/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Virginia

Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Virginia by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Programs in Virginia

9
Programs ranked
$12,806
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Virginia ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer engineering education, with 23 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 13 public and 9 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Virginia Polytechnic Inst..., U of Virginia, William & Mary, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Virginia computer engineering programs earn a median salary of $107,185, 9% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Arlington, Reston, Richmond metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $5,540 to $63,315 annually, with an average of $20,373/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 99%. 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 Virginia's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer engineering degrees in Virginia, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

#4
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VAPrivate nonprofit
$19,950
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad rate
71.4
Hakia Score
Show all 9 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VAPublic$13,20063%67.0
#7Liberty UniversityLynchburg, VAPrivate nonprofit$15,29765%66.8
#8Old Dominion UniversityNorfolk, VAPublic$7,80046%65.1
#9Virginia State UniversityPetersburg, VAPublic$5,70139%58.9

Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Virginia

3
Programs ranked
$14,339
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Virginia offers 5 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Virginia Polytechnic Inst..., U of Virginia, George Mason, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Virginia earn a median salary of $126,100, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Arlington, Reston, Richmond creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen 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 $10,616/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 Virginia's computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Programs in Virginia

2
Programs ranked
$16,312
Avg tuition/yr
91%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Virginia is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Virginia Polytechnic Inst..., U of Virginia, George Mason are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.

Career Outcomes

Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Virginia PhD holders earning a median of $157,625, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen.

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 Virginia programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer engineering degrees in Virginia, 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 Virginia

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$18,093/year
Average out-of-state tuition$45,233/year
Community college tuition$4,523/year
4-year savings for residents$108,560
2+2 transfer pathway savings$27,140

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Engineering Students in Virginia

State Aid Programs

Virginia offers substantial state financial aid programs.

The Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) provides $5,250/year for undergraduate residents attending private nonprofit institutions (SCHEV VTAG). The Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program (VGAP) covers tuition, fees, and books for low- and middle-income students. FAFSA completion is required with priority deadlines varying by institution.

Key Programs & Amounts

Federal aid supplements state programs.

The Pell Grant provides up to $7,395/year (2024-25) for students with demonstrated need. Federal loans offer $5,500-$7,500/year for undergraduates. Technology companies including Amazon, Microsoft, and Capital One fund scholarship programs for computer engineering students at partner universities.

Institutional Scholarships

Institutional scholarships enhance affordability.

Virginia Tech, UVA, and GMU offer merit scholarships of $2,000-$15,000/year for strong computer engineering applicants. Graduate assistantships cover tuition plus $20,000-$30,000 stipends. Many employers, including defense contractors, offer tuition reimbursement for part-time graduate study, effectively making master's degrees free for employed professionals.

Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Virginia

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree in Virginia. 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

+959%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,774,135

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

$100,000

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)$2,809,543

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 (Washington, DC)$145,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return5.1%

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 Virginia metro areas

Arlington$139K
Reston$132K
Richmond$126K
Norfolk$120K
View data table
CategoryValue
Arlington$139K
Reston$132K
Richmond$126K
Norfolk$120K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Computer Engineering Graduates in Virginia

Find computer engineering jobs in Virginia. These major employers across Virginia metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Computer Engineering Jobs in Northern Virginia

VA

Northern Virginia is home to Amazon HQ2, major data center infrastructure, and the largest concentration of defense contractors.

Nearby cities: Arlington, Tysons, Reston, Herndon, Ashburn, McLean

Amazon (AWS)
Cloud Computing
Microsoft
Enterprise Software/Cloud
Google
Search/Cloud/AI
Meta
Social/VR/AI
Capital One
Financial Technology
Northrop Grumman
Defense/Aerospace
Leidos
Defense IT
SAIC
Defense IT
Booz Allen Hamilton
Consulting/Defense
Appian
Enterprise Software

Computer Engineering Jobs in Richmond

VA

Richmond hosts Capital One's main campus and a growing fintech ecosystem.

Nearby cities: Glen Allen, Midlothian, Short Pump

Capital One
Financial Technology
Genworth Financial
Financial Services
CarMax
Automotive Tech

Virginia Tech Industry & Infrastructure

Virginia's tech economy is uniquely defined by Northern Virginia — the highest concentration of federal cybersecurity, defense, and cloud-infrastructure employers in the country. Loudoun and Prince William counties host the world's largest cluster of data centers (carrying an estimated 70%+ of global internet traffic), Amazon's HQ2 is in Arlington, and the federal contracting market employs tens of thousands of cleared engineers.

Northern Virginia

Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William

Amazon HQ2 (Arlington), Capital One HQ (McLean), AOL/Yahoo legacy footprint, and the world's largest cluster of federal-contractor engineering employers — Booz Allen Hamilton, MITRE, Leidos, SAIC, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin's NoVA operations, CACI, ManTech. Loudoun County's data-center alley hosts AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Oracle, and dozens of colocation providers.

Richmond

Richmond metro

State government IT, CarMax HQ, Markel Insurance, Genworth, Altria. Smaller but stable enterprise-tech market; lower cost of living than NoVA.

Hampton Roads / Norfolk

Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News

Navy and military-adjacent tech employment (Naval Information Warfare Center, Joint Forces Staff College), Newport News Shipbuilding tech, and a growing regional cybersecurity cluster.

Virginia has a graduated state income tax (top rate 5.75%). The Virginia Investment Performance Grant and Virginia Talent Accelerator Program are the principal tech-employer incentives — both used in attracting Amazon HQ2.

Virginia Regulation Affecting Computer Engineering Graduates

Virginia was the second US state (after California) to pass a comprehensive consumer privacy law. The Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA) is now one of the foundational state privacy frameworks copied by other states. For NoVA's massive federal-contractor base, however, the more daily-relevant compliance regime is FedRAMP, FISMA, NIST 800-171, and CMMC — federal cybersecurity standards that shape engineering practice across the contractor ecosystem.

Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA)

Effective January 2023. Grants VA residents rights to access, correct, delete, and opt out of sale of personal data. Applies to businesses processing data of 100,000+ VA consumers, or 25,000+ deriving 50%+ revenue from data sales.

Engineers building consumer-facing products for VA users must implement VCDPA-compliant data flows. The law's thresholds make it less broadly applicable than CCPA, but the model has influenced subsequent state laws.

Read more

Federal cybersecurity frameworks (FedRAMP, FISMA, NIST 800-171, CMMC)

Not Virginia laws, but the practical compliance regime for the NoVA federal-contractor base. Engineers at Booz Allen, MITRE, SAIC, and similar employers operate under these standards daily.

For most cybersecurity, cloud, and defense-tech roles in Northern Virginia, federal cybersecurity framework knowledge is more valuable than state privacy law expertise. CISSP, CCSP, and clearance-eligible profiles dominate hiring requirements.

Read more

Virginia Identity Theft Passport Program

State program providing identity-theft victims with a verification document; backed by data-handling rules for credit-reporting and consumer-data businesses.

Standard compliance for consumer-data businesses operating in Virginia.

Read more

Professional Engineer Licensure in Virginia

Virginia does not administer a separate Software Engineering PE license. ABET-EAC accreditation supports traditional engineering PE tracks. For the NoVA market, federal security clearances (Secret, Top Secret, TS/SCI with poly) are dramatically more relevant than PE licensure — most tech roles at major federal contractors require clearance-eligibility at minimum.

Virginia licensing board

Virginia Financial Aid Programs

Up to $5,000/yr (undergraduate)

VA residents attending eligible private nonprofit VA colleges/universities

Varies by institution; awarded by individual schools from state allocation

VA residents with financial need at public VA colleges/universities

Tuition, fees, and book allowance

VA residents from low-income households attending VA public 4-year institutions with academic merit

Covers tuition, books, and fees

Low- to middle-income VA residents enrolling in qualifying high-demand VA community college programs (incl. IT, cybersecurity, healthcare)

Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Virginia

State Transfer System

Virginia's Guaranteed Admission Agreements create clear transfer pathways.

Students completing associate degrees at Virginia's 23 community colleges with required GPAs receive guaranteed admission to more than 30 four-year institutions (VCCS Transfer). For computer engineering transfers, Virginia Tech requires 3.2-3.4 GPA, while VCU requires 2.5+ GPA. The Virginia Education Wizard (vawizard.org) helps plan course sequences.

How Transfers Work

Northern Virginia Community College leads computer engineering transfer preparation.

As the state's largest community college, NVCC offers associate degrees designed for transfer to GMU, Virginia Tech, and other institutions. The college's location in Fairfax County provides internship access during the associate phase. Students should declare transfer intent by 15 credits earned.

Transfer Planning Tips

Financial incentives encourage community college completion.

The Two-Year College Transfer Grant (CTG) provides up to $3,000 annually for students completing associate degrees with 3.0+ GPA (SCHEV). An additional $1,000 is available for STEM majors. Community college tuition averaging $5,000/year combined with transfer grants reduces bachelor's degree costs by $30,000-$40,000.

Computer Engineering Job Growth in Virginia

15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer engineering occupations in Virginia through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $126,100 with 28 accredited programs statewide.

Source: BLS Occupational Outlook

Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Virginia

Employment Outlook

Virginia's computer engineering job market shows strong demand across sectors.

The state employs 385,000 technology workers with consistent growth in computer engineering roles (BLS OEWS 2024). Northern Virginia anchors state tech employment, with significant opportunities in Richmond's fintech sector and Hampton Roads' defense installations. Federal defense spending increased by $150 billion in 2025, directly supporting Virginia contractor employment.

Salaries by Metro

Regional salary variations reflect employer concentration.

Northern Virginia computer engineering professionals earn $130,000-$180,000 in major technology roles, while Hampton Roads defense positions pay 15-20% less but offer lower cost of living. Richmond's emerging tech scene provides $85,000-$130,000 with housing costs 40% below Northern Virginia. Cleared positions command significant premiums across all regions.

High-Growth Sectors

High-growth sectors driving computer engineering demand include: cloud infrastructure (AWS expansion), federal contractor modernization (CMMC compliance), financial services technology (Capital One, Navy Federal), and defense systems development. Defense contractors including Booz Allen Hamilton, CACI, Leidos, and Northrop Grumman actively recruit computer engineering professionals. Virginia Tech's Engineering Expo connects over 250 companies with students (VT Expo). See computer science programs or cybersecurity degrees.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Virginia$81,965$182,845
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Computer Engineering Programs in Virginia

Online Programs

12 available in Virginia

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$16,284/yr$18,093/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

Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia: FAQ

What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Virginia?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Virginia based on our methodology are: 1) Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (95% graduation rate), 2) University of Virginia-Main Campus, and 3) William & Mary. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Virginia offers 28 total accredited programs across 17 public and 9 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 23 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer engineering degree programs cost in Virginia?
Computer Engineering degree program costs in Virginia vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $18,093/year, while private institutions average $39,805/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,523/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $72,372 at public schools to $159,218 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 Virginia?
Computer Engineering professionals in Virginia earn a median salary of $126,100, which is 9% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $81,965, while senior roles exceed $182,845. Salaries vary by metro area: Arlington ($138,710), Reston ($132,405) 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 Virginia?
Yes, Virginia offers 12 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 William & Mary and Northern Virginia Community College. 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 Virginia?
Major Computer Engineering employers in Virginia include Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen, Capital One, Northrop Grumman. The Arlington and Reston metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Virginia universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Virginia's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer engineering degree program worth it in Virginia?
A computer engineering degree program in Virginia offers strong ROI with a $126,100 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $18,093/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($142,493), 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 Virginia?
Standard completion times for computer engineering degree programs in Virginia 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. Virginia community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Virginia university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer engineering degree students in Virginia?
Virginia 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. Virginia 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 Virginia'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

Virginia 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.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Computer Engineering program profiles in Virginia

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville, VA

Why it stands out. The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.

Hakia insight. UVA's joint Computer Science and ECE administration sidesteps the traditional hardware-software silos by design—students don't just *take* courses from both departments, they're guaranteed curriculum cohesion that most schools patch together after the fact, and Dr. Stan's Processing-in-Memory research gives undergrads a cutting-edge specialization most peers won't see until grad school.

At the bachelor's level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Link Lab
  • Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
  • Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
  • High Performance Low Power (HPLP)

Industry partners

Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC)

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Mircea R. Stan (AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics)

Admissions

GPA 2.0.

#2Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg, VA

Why it stands out. The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.

Hakia insight. Virginia Tech's Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom paired with Professor Davalos's biomedical applications focus creates an unusual advantage: undergraduates can move from circuit theory directly into hands-on fabrication of devices that solve real medical problems, skipping the typical 'theory-only' bottleneck of most CPE programs.

At the bachelor's level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Information Technology Security Lab — cybersecurity research
  • Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom — micro and nanofabrication

Notable faculty

  • Professor Rafael Davalos (biomedical applications)

Admissions

GPA 3.3. Deadline January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).

Accreditation & certifications

ABET
#3George Mason UniversityFairfax, VA

Why it stands out. The program is built around computer-aided design tools that can simulate and assist in the design of new digital systems, emphasizing hands-on design experiences and simulation throughout the curriculum with a year-long senior design project culminating in building a functional hardware system in a team environment.

Hakia insight. George Mason's year-long senior design project that culminates in *building* a functional hardware system—not simulating one—combined with top-employer recruitment from Amazon, Meta, and Boeing means students graduate with a portfolio piece that mirrors what they'll do day-one on the job.

At the bachelor's level, the field of computer engineering can be described as an amalgam of hardware and software design. Computer engineers are involved in research, design, development, production, and operation of a wide variety of digital systems, from integrated circuits through microcontrollers, multi-core processors, FPGA-based accelerators, to big-data and cloud computing platforms.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Industry partners

AmazonMetaGoogleBAE SystemsBoeingGeneral Electric

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Meta, Google, BAE Systems, Boeing, General Electric

Accreditation & certifications

ABET
#4Regent UniversityVirginia Beach, VA

Why it stands out. Regent University provides flexible, accessible computer engineering education tailored to working professionals and non-traditional students.

Hakia insight. Regent's intentional design for working professionals and non-traditional students, combined with proximity to Virginia Beach's defense and maritime sector, captures a market most CPE programs ignore—students who can build portfolios through day jobs while earning the degree.

At the bachelor's level, regent University offers computer engineering coursework within a broader engineering and technology framework that reflects its distinctive mission-driven institutional identity. The program is accessible through flexible scheduling options, accommodating working professionals and non-traditional students seeking to build or advance technical careers. While Regent emphasizes accessibility and affordability, interested students should verify the current depth of specialization in computer engineering specifically, as the university's engineering offerings have evolved. The program focuses on practical applications of computing principles, digital systems, and embedded technologies relevant to modern industry. Regent's location in Virginia Beach connects students to the region's substantial defense, naval, and maritime technology sectors, as well as growing cybersecurity and information technology firms. Coursework incorporates real-world problem-solving and project-based learning. The university's flexibility in delivery formats makes it an option for those balancing education with professional and personal commitments.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited

Location advantage: Proximity to Virginia Beach defense and maritime technology sector Access to cybersecurity and IT firms

#5Christopher Newport UniversityNewport News, VA

Why it stands out. The program uniquely combines hands-on laboratory experiences with comprehensive coverage of both hardware and software systems, housed within CNU's newly launched interdisciplinary School of Engineering and Computing that integrates multiple technical disciplines.

Hakia insight. Christopher Newport's newly launched School of Engineering and Computing (opening 2026) plus existing partnerships with NASA Engineering and Safety Center mean students entering now will benefit from both established NASA relationships *and* a rebuilt facility specifically designed for interdisciplinary hardware-software integration.

At the bachelor's level, christopher Newport University's Computer Engineering program offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the design and analysis of hardware and software systems. The program covers digital systems, computer architecture, software engineering, microprocessor control systems, robotics, automation, and data acquisition/signal processing. Students gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs and develop skills to solve complex engineering problems. The program is housed within the newly formed School of Engineering and Computing (launched October 2024), which integrates physics, engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, and information science. Core coursework includes digital logic design, computer architecture, electronics, and programming, culminating in a capstone design project. The program emphasizes engineering design, ethics, and practical applications through supervised design projects using FPGAs, microcontrollers, and Electronic Design Automation software.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Science and Engineering Research Center — Engineering and computing research

Industry partners

NASA Engineering and Safety Center

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Anton Riedl (Electrical and Computer Engineering)
  • Dr. Robert Hodson (Avionics)

Location advantage: Access to NASA Engineering and Safety Center partnerships New Science and Engineering Research Center opening in 2026

#6Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA

Why it stands out. Hands-on learning environment from day one with award-winning faculty research, offering specialization in areas like cyber-physical systems, medical devices, sustainable power systems, and micro/nano-electronics with unique networking opportunities in Richmond.

Hakia insight. VCU's median starting salary of $83,727 combined with a C-minimum GPA requirement (versus the 3.3–3.0 peers demand) signals an program that prioritizes industry-ready skills over credentials—students who might be weeded out elsewhere graduate into competitive positions at Cisco and Johns Hopkins APL.

At the bachelor's level, computer engineers at VCU develop powerful computer systems for everyday applications, from high-performance workstations to embedded systems in vehicles, medical equipment, and consumer electronics. The program prepares students for the strong demand in developing these systems across multiple industries.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering · 4 years · online

Industry partners

CiscoIntelJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Career outcomes

$83,727 median salary

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Carl Elks (physics-based hardware solutions and cybersecurity)
  • Dr. Ümit Özgür (physics-based hardware solutions)

Admissions

GPA C minimum in all engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics and technical electives.

Location advantage: Access to state-of-the-art research facilities Strong industry partnerships in Richmond area

Best Master's Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville, VA

Why it stands out. The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.

Hakia insight. UVA's Center for Automata Processing and Dr. Stan's nanoelectronics focus give master's students access to research spaces and faculty whose work directly informs industry roadmaps at Intel and semiconductor leaders, meaning thesis work translates into immediate relevance rather than academic exercises.

At the master's level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.

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 & institutes

  • Link Lab
  • Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
  • Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
  • High Performance Low Power (HPLP)

Industry partners

Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC)

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Mircea R. Stan (AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics)

Admissions

GPA 2.0.

#2Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg, VA

Why it stands out. The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.

Hakia insight. Virginia Tech's graduate CPE program uses the same Information Technology Security Lab and Cleanroom as undergraduates, but adds research-focused mentorship under Davalos—master's students don't transition to new facilities; they deepen expertise in labs where they've already built credibility.

At the master's level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.

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 & institutes

  • Information Technology Security Lab — cybersecurity research
  • Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom — micro and nanofabrication

Notable faculty

  • Professor Rafael Davalos (biomedical applications)

Admissions

GPA 3.3. Deadline January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).

Accreditation & certifications

ABET
#3George Mason UniversityFairfax, VA

Why it stands out. The program is built around computer-aided design tools that can simulate and assist in the design of new digital systems, emphasizing hands-on design experiences and simulation throughout the curriculum with a year-long senior design project culminating in building a functional hardware system in a team environment.

Hakia insight. George Mason's master's program leverages the same BAE Systems and Boeing partnerships as the bachelor's track but adds advanced CAD/simulation work—graduates move into senior design roles at defense contractors with both hands-on experience and relationships already established.

At the master's level, the field of computer engineering can be described as an amalgam of hardware and software design. Computer engineers are involved in research, design, development, production, and operation of a wide variety of digital systems, from integrated circuits through microcontrollers, multi-core processors, FPGA-based accelerators, to big-data and cloud computing platforms.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Computer Engineering · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Computer Engineering · 1-2 years · online

Industry partners

AmazonMetaGoogleBAE SystemsBoeingGeneral Electric

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Meta, Google, BAE Systems, Boeing, General Electric

Accreditation & certifications

ABET

Best Doctoral Computer Engineering programs

#1University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville, VA

Why it stands out. The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.

Hakia insight. UVA's joint administration between Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering is rare at the doctoral level—it means students can pursue hardware-software integration research across labs like CAP and MIST without the artificial departmental silos that limit research scope at other universities.

At the doctoral level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Link Lab
  • Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
  • Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
  • High Performance Low Power (HPLP)

Industry partners

Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC)

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Mircea R. Stan (AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics)

Admissions

GPA 2.0.

#2Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg, VA

Why it stands out. The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.

Hakia insight. While many doctoral programs claim 'hands-on experience,' Virginia Tech's Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom gives CPE students access to equipment most universities relegate to faculty research, enabling dissertation work that wouldn't be possible at peer institutions.

At the doctoral level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.

Programs offered

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering · 4-6 years · on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering · 4-6 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Information Technology Security Lab — cybersecurity research
  • Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom — micro and nanofabrication

Notable faculty

  • Professor Rafael Davalos (biomedical applications)

Admissions

GPA 3.3. Deadline January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).

Accreditation & certifications

ABET