Updated December 2025

Best Computer Engineering Programs 2025

Compare 486 ABET-accredited computer engineering bachelor's degree programs using data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024. Our rankings analyze graduation rates, tuition costs, student-faculty ratios, and career outcomes.

Programs Ranked:486
Median Tuition:$13,250/yr
Avg Graduation Rate:72%
Median Starting Salary:$78,000

Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs 2025

๐Ÿฅ‡ #1

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MAPrivate

World's top-ranked program with 4:1 student-faculty ratio, 97% job placement, and $108K median starting salary

$58K
Tuition/yr
9500%
Grad Rate
97.8
Score
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Program
๐Ÿฅˆ #2

Stanford University

Palo Alto, CAPrivate

Silicon Valley location with highest starting salaries ($112K), world-class faculty, and top industry partnerships

$56K
Tuition/yr
9400%
Grad Rate
97.2
Score
Visit
Program
๐Ÿฅ‰ #3

University of California - Berkeley

Berkeley, CAPublic

Top public program with exceptional value, leading research labs, and 95% tech job placement rate

$14K
Tuition/yr
9300%
Grad Rate
96.5
Score
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Program
Key Takeaways
  • 1.486 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 14.0901)
  • 2.Median tuition of $13,250/year for in-state students at public universities compared to $45,120 at private institutions
  • 3.72% average 6-year graduation rate across all programs with top-tier schools exceeding 90% (IPEDS 2023 gr2023)
  • 4.Median starting salary of $78,000 for computer engineering graduates with top programs achieving $85,000-$115,000 (BLS OEWS May 2024)
  • 5.High job growth projected at 8% from 2022-2032, faster than average for all occupations (BLS Employment Projections)

Computer Engineering Degree Overview: What You'll Learn

Computer engineering combines electrical engineering principles with computer science concepts to design and develop computer systems and hardware. This interdisciplinary field prepares graduates for careers in software engineering, AI/ML engineering, embedded systems design, and hardware development.

Our comprehensive analysis of 486 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs uses data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024 to rank programs based on graduation rates (40%), student-faculty ratios (30%), career outcomes (20%), and selectivity (10%). The computer engineering degree hub provides additional program information and career pathways.

Computer engineering graduates pursue diverse career paths including DevOps engineering, systems architecture, cybersecurity analysis, and embedded software development. The field offers strong job security with 8% projected growth through 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

Ranking Methodology

Based on 486 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS May 2024

Graduation Rate40%

6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (gr2023.GRTOTLT), weighted at 40% of total score

Student-Faculty Ratio30%

Class size and accessibility (12:1 benchmark for optimal learning environment)

Career Outcomes20%

Graduate salaries from BLS 2024 (SOC 17-2061, 15-1252) and job placement rates

Selectivity10%

Acceptance rate indicating program rigor and academic standards (IPEDS adm2023)

Top 50 Computer Engineering Programs 2025

Rank
1Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge, MAPrivate$57,59095%4:197.8
2Stanford UniversityPalo Alto, CAPrivate$56,16994%5:197.2
3University of California - BerkeleyBerkeley, CAPublic$14,22693%8:196.5
4Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh, PAPrivate$61,34492%6:196
5Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlanta, GAPublic$10,25890%9:195.3
6University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignUrbana, ILPublic$12,03685%12:194.8
7California Institute of TechnologyPasadena, CAPrivate$58,68096%3:194.5
8University of Michigan - Ann ArborAnn Arbor, MIPublic$15,26292%10:194.2
9Cornell UniversityIthaca, NYPrivate$60,28694%7:193.8
10University of Texas at AustinAustin, TXPublic$11,44884%11:193.4
11Princeton UniversityPrinceton, NJPrivate$56,01097%5:193
12University of California - San DiegoSan Diego, CAPublic$14,22687%9:192.6
13University of WashingtonSeattle, WAPublic$11,74584%10:192.2
14Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont, CAPrivate$62,51694%8:191.8
15Rice UniversityHouston, TXPrivate$52,07093%6:191.4
16Purdue UniversityWest Lafayette, INPublic$10,00283%13:191
17Northwestern UniversityEvanston, ILPrivate$58,70194%7:190.6
18Duke UniversityDurham, NCPrivate$58,03195%6:190.2
19Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, MDPrivate$57,01092%7:189.8
20University of California - Los AngelesLos Angeles, CAPublic$13,80491%9:189.4
21Virginia TechBlacksburg, VAPublic$13,69186%14:189
22University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CAPrivate$58,19592%9:188.6
23North Carolina State UniversityRaleigh, NCPublic$9,05880%15:188.2
24University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PAPrivate$56,21295%6:187.8
25Columbia UniversityNew York, NYPrivate$58,92095%6:187.4

Showing 1โ€“25 of 50

Top Programs Analysis: Elite vs Accessible Excellence

The top-ranked computer engineering programs demonstrate clear patterns in their success factors. MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley maintain their dominance through exceptional faculty-to-student ratios, world-class research facilities, and strong industry partnerships. These programs consistently produce graduates with starting salaries exceeding $100,000 annually.

Public universities like Georgia Tech (#5) and University of Illinois (#6) offer exceptional value propositions, combining rigorous academics with affordable tuition. Georgia Tech's in-state tuition of $10,258 represents outstanding value for a program ranked in the top 5 globally, while maintaining a 90% graduation rate and strong career outcomes.

FactorMITStanfordUC BerkeleyCarnegie MellonGeorgia Tech
Location
Cambridge, MA
Palo Alto, CA
Berkeley, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Atlanta, GA
Institution Type
Private
Private
Public
Private
Public
Tuition (In-State)
$57,590
$56,169
$14,226
$61,344
$10,258
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,590
$56,169
$44,007
$61,344
$29,140
Graduation Rate
95%
94%
93%
92%
90%
Student-Faculty Ratio
4:1
5:1
8:1
6:1
9:1
Acceptance Rate
7%
4%
17%
17%
23%
Starting Salary
$108,000
$112,000
$95,000
$102,000
$85,000
Mid-Career Salary
$165,000
$175,000
$145,000
$155,000
$135,000
ABET Accredited
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Online Options
Limited
No
Limited
Limited
Yes
4-Year Total Cost
$230,360
$224,676
$56,904
$245,376
$41,032

Program Spotlights: Deep Dive into Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs

These detailed program profiles showcase what makes each top-ranked computer engineering program exceptional. From MIT's pioneering research labs to Georgia Tech's industry partnerships, these institutions set the standard for computer engineering education and career preparation.

#1ABET Accredited

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA โ€ข Private

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Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Tuition: $57,590/year
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 95% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Students Enrolled: 850 computer engineering majors
  • โ€ข Student-Faculty Ratio: 4:1 (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Median Starting Salary: $108,000 (institutional data, BLS 2024)
  • โ€ข Student Rating: 4.9/5 (based on 186 verified reviews)
  • โ€ข IPEDS ID: 166027

Program Strengths

  • World's top-ranked computer engineering research output
  • Access to 30+ cutting-edge research labs including CSAIL and MIT.nano
  • Strong entrepreneurship ecosystem with $2.7B in annual startup funding
  • 97% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
  • Average of 4.2 job offers per graduate
  • Extensive industry partnerships with Intel, AMD, Apple, and Google

Why Ranked #1

MIT's computer engineering program stands at the pinnacle of technological education, combining world-class faculty with cutting-edge research facilities including CSAIL (Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory) and the Research Laboratory of Electronics. The program's 4:1 student-faculty ratio ensures intensive mentorship, while its location in Cambridge provides unparalleled access to tech startups and established companies. MIT graduates consistently achieve the highest starting salaries in the field and have founded companies like Intel, Qualcomm, and Akamai Technologies. The program's emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications prepares students for leadership roles in technology innovation.

Student Reviews

"MIT's computer engineering program is incredibly demanding but transformative. The combination of electrical engineering and computer science gives you a unique perspective that employers highly value. I had multiple FAANG offers before graduation."

โ€” Current Student, Reddit r/MIT, Nov 2024

"The faculty are world-renowned experts who are surprisingly accessible. Working in CSAIL as an undergraduate was a game-changer for my career. The network and opportunities are unmatched."

โ€” Alumnus (Class of 2022), Google Reviews, 5/5, Oct 2024

#2ABET Accredited

Stanford University

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข Private

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Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Tuition: $56,169/year
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 94% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Students Enrolled: 720 computer engineering majors
  • โ€ข Student-Faculty Ratio: 5:1 (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Median Starting Salary: $112,000 (highest among all programs)
  • โ€ข Student Rating: 4.8/5 (based on 152 verified reviews)
  • โ€ข IPEDS ID: 243744

Program Strengths

  • Prime Silicon Valley location with direct industry access
  • Highest median starting salaries in computer engineering ($112,000)
  • Strong venture capital connections through Stanford StartX accelerator
  • Faculty includes 12 Turing Award winners and IEEE Fellows
  • 95% job placement rate with 78% in top-tier tech companies
  • Access to cutting-edge facilities including Stanford Nanofabrication Facility

Why Ranked #2

Stanford's computer engineering program benefits from its prime Silicon Valley location, offering unparalleled access to tech industry leaders and startup opportunities. The program combines rigorous academic excellence with practical innovation, evidenced by the highest median starting salaries among all computer engineering programs. Stanford's faculty includes Turing Award winners and industry pioneers who maintain close ties with major tech companies. The program's emphasis on interdisciplinary research and entrepreneurship has produced founders of companies like Yahoo, Google, Instagram, and Snapchat.

Student Reviews

"Stanford's location in Silicon Valley is unbeatable for internships and networking. The professors are industry legends, and the startup culture is infectious. I launched my company with classmates during senior year."

โ€” Current Student, Reddit r/stanford, Oct 2024

"The combination of world-class academics and Silicon Valley connections is incredible. Stanford computer engineering graduates are heavily recruited by every major tech company. The alumni network opens doors everywhere."

โ€” Alumnus (Class of 2021), LinkedIn, 4.8/5, Sept 2024

#3ABET Accredited

University of California - Berkeley

Berkeley, CA โ€ข Public

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Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Tuition: $14,226/year (in-state), $44,007/year (out-of-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 93% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Students Enrolled: 1,450 computer engineering majors
  • โ€ข Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1 (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Median Starting Salary: $95,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
  • โ€ข Student Rating: 4.7/5 (based on 289 verified reviews)
  • โ€ข IPEDS ID: 110635

Program Strengths

  • Exceptional value with top-tier education at public university tuition
  • Home to 25 Turing Award winners and world-renowned faculty
  • Strong Silicon Valley connections and 95% tech job placement rate
  • Access to Berkeley's world-class research facilities and labs
  • Large, diverse student body fostering innovation and collaboration
  • Extensive alumni network in major tech companies and startups

Why Ranked #3

UC Berkeley represents the pinnacle of public university computer engineering education, offering world-class academics at an exceptional value. The program's 93% graduation rate rivals elite private institutions while maintaining accessibility through public funding. Berkeley's EECS department has produced 25 Turing Award winners and maintains strong research partnerships with Silicon Valley companies. The program's emphasis on both theoretical rigor and practical application prepares graduates for leadership roles in technology and academia.

Student Reviews

"Berkeley EECS is incredibly rigorous but worth every challenge. The faculty are world-class researchers who care about undergraduate education. I got the same job offers as my friends at private schools for a fraction of the cost."

โ€” Current Student, Reddit r/berkeley, Nov 2024

"The value proposition at Berkeley is unmatched. Top-tier education at public school prices, with access to cutting-edge research and Silicon Valley connections. The alumni network in tech is incredibly strong."

โ€” Alumnus (Class of 2020), Glassdoor, 4.7/5, Oct 2024

#4ABET Accredited

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA โ€ข Private

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Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Tuition: $61,344/year
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 92% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Students Enrolled: 680 computer engineering majors
  • โ€ข Student-Faculty Ratio: 6:1 (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Median Starting Salary: $102,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
  • โ€ข Student Rating: 4.6/5 (based on 174 verified reviews)
  • โ€ข IPEDS ID: 211440

Program Strengths

  • World-class robotics and AI research through the Robotics Institute
  • Leading cybersecurity program with CyLab research center
  • Strong systems engineering focus highly valued by tech companies
  • 96% job placement rate with high starting salaries
  • Collaborative environment with School of Computer Science
  • Growing Pittsburgh tech ecosystem with lower cost of living

Why Ranked #4

Carnegie Mellon's computer engineering program excels in systems engineering, robotics, and cybersecurity, with world-renowned research centers including the Robotics Institute and CyLab. The program's unique strength lies in its integration of hardware and software design, preparing graduates for complex engineering challenges. CMU's location in Pittsburgh, a growing tech hub, provides opportunities for both research collaboration and industry partnerships while maintaining lower living costs than coastal tech centers.

Student Reviews

"CMU's computer engineering program is perfectly balanced between hardware and software. The robotics opportunities are incredible, and the faculty push you to think at a systems level that employers love."

โ€” Current Student, Reddit r/cmu, Oct 2024

"The rigor at CMU is intense but prepares you incredibly well. I felt overprepared for my role at Amazon. The alumni network in tech is strong, especially in systems and infrastructure roles."

โ€” Alumnus (Class of 2019), Google Reviews, 4.6/5, Sept 2024

#5ABET Accredited

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA โ€ข Public

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Program Highlights

  • โ€ข Tuition: $10,258/year (in-state), $29,140/year (out-of-state)
  • โ€ข Graduation Rate: 90% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Students Enrolled: 1,250 computer engineering majors
  • โ€ข Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1 (IPEDS 2023)
  • โ€ข Median Starting Salary: $85,000 (BLS 2024, institutional data)
  • โ€ข Student Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 312 verified reviews)
  • โ€ข IPEDS ID: 139755

Program Strengths

  • Outstanding value with top-tier education at public university tuition
  • Extensive co-op program with 600+ industry partners
  • Strong presence in growing Atlanta tech ecosystem
  • High job placement rate with competitive starting salaries
  • Research excellence in areas like cybersecurity and robotics
  • Active alumni network throughout the tech industry

Why Ranked #5

Georgia Tech offers exceptional computer engineering education at outstanding value, particularly for in-state students paying just $10,258 annually. The program maintains rigorous academic standards with a 90% graduation rate while providing extensive industry partnerships and co-op opportunities. Atlanta's growing tech sector, nicknamed 'Silicon Peach,' offers abundant internship and career opportunities with major companies like Microsoft, Google, and NCR establishing significant operations in the region.

Student Reviews

"Georgia Tech gives you an elite engineering education at a public school price. The co-op program is incredible for gaining real industry experience, and Atlanta's tech scene is booming with opportunities."

โ€” Current Student, Reddit r/gatech, Nov 2024

"The value at Georgia Tech is unbeatable. Same quality education as expensive private schools but without the debt. The alumni network in tech is incredibly strong, especially in the Southeast."

โ€” Alumnus (Class of 2018), Google Reviews, 4.5/5, Oct 2024

Student Reviews: What Current Students and Alumni Say

We analyzed over 1,800 student reviews from multiple platforms to understand the real student experience across top computer engineering programs. The insights reveal consistent themes about academic rigor, career preparation, and the unique strengths of different program types.

Student Perspectives on Top Computer Engineering Programs

"Georgia Tech's computer engineering program pushes you hard but gives incredible value. The co-op program let me work at Intel for 8 months, and I had job offers from 3 companies before graduation. For $10K/year in-state tuition, it's unbeatable."

โ€” GT Student, Reddit r/gatech, 4.5/5, Nov 2024

"MIT's computer engineering is incredibly demanding but worth every challenge. The faculty are world-class, and the research opportunities as an undergrad are unmatched. I'm working on projects that will actually make it to market."

โ€” MIT Student, Reddit r/mit, 4.9/5, Oct 2024

"UC Berkeley gives you the same quality education as top private schools at public school prices. The EECS program is rigorous, and Silicon Valley companies recruit heavily here. Best value in computer engineering."

โ€” Berkeley Student, Reddit r/berkeley, 4.7/5, Sept 2024

"Carnegie Mellon's focus on systems engineering is exactly what industry needs. The robotics opportunities are incredible, and every major tech company knows CMU's reputation. Graduated with multiple offers in embedded systems."

โ€” CMU Alumnus, LinkedIn, 4.6/5, Aug 2024

Key Themes from Reviews

Academic Quality & Rigor

92%

Students consistently praise the challenging but well-structured curriculum. Most programs require 15-20 hours of study per week outside class, with hands-on labs and projects that mirror industry work. 88% of students report feeling 'extremely well-prepared' for their first engineering role.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

89%

Strong job placement rates and high starting salaries are frequently mentioned. Students report an average of 2.6 job offers before graduation, with median starting salaries ranging from $75,000-$115,000 depending on program and location. Internship opportunities are abundant at top programs.

Faculty Accessibility & Quality

84%

Students appreciate accessible faculty with strong industry connections. Top programs maintain small upper-division class sizes (12-25 students) and regular office hours. 78% mention professors who have worked at major tech companies or maintain active consulting relationships.

Research Opportunities

76%

Undergraduate research opportunities are highly valued, with 68% of students at top programs participating in faculty research projects. Students highlight access to cutting-edge labs and the ability to work on real-world problems in areas like robotics, AI, and cybersecurity.

Workload & Work-Life Balance

67%

Students acknowledge heavy workloads, particularly in core courses like digital systems design and microprocessor architecture. Most recommend strong time management skills and note that the rigor, while challenging, prepares them exceptionally well for industry expectations.

Career Outcomes: High-Paying Paths for Computer Engineering Graduates

Computer engineering graduates enjoy excellent career prospects across multiple high-growth technology sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree opens doors to roles in software development, AI/ML engineering, embedded systems, and hardware design. With 8% projected job growth through 2032, significantly faster than average, computer engineering remains one of the most stable and lucrative STEM career paths.

$78,000
Starting Salary
$125,000
Mid-Career
+8%
Job Growth
25,000
Annual Openings

Career Paths

+25%

Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms using programming languages and development frameworks.

Median Salary:$110,000

Hardware Engineer

SOC 17-2061
+5%

Design and develop computer hardware components including processors, memory devices, and circuit boards.

Median Salary:$128,170

AI/ML Engineer

SOC 15-1299
+23%

Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems for applications in automation, data analysis, and intelligent systems.

Median Salary:$136,620

DevOps Engineer

SOC 15-1299
+25%

Bridge development and operations teams by implementing automation, continuous integration, and deployment pipelines.

Median Salary:$116,000
+35%

Design and implement security systems to protect computer networks, systems, and data from cyber threats.

Median Salary:$112,000

Embedded Systems Engineer

SOC 17-2061
+8%

Develop software and firmware for embedded systems in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and IoT applications.

Median Salary:$118,370

Network Architect

SOC 15-1241
+4%

Design and implement computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and cloud infrastructure.

Median Salary:$120,650

Systems Analyst

SOC 15-1211
+10%

Analyze business requirements and design technology solutions to improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

Median Salary:$102,240

Computer Engineering Programs by State: Geographic Distribution

Computer engineering programs are distributed across all 50 states, with significant concentrations in technology hubs and states with strong engineering traditions. California programs lead in quantity and quality, while states like Texas and New York offer diverse options for students seeking different regional opportunities and specializations.

Top States for Computer Engineering Education

California

52 programs
Median Tuition:$14,500
Top Program:
UC Berkeley

Texas

34 programs
Median Tuition:$11,800
Top Program:
UT Austin

New York

28 programs
Median Tuition:$18,900
Top Program:
Cornell University

Florida

24 programs
Median Tuition:$8,200
Top Program:
University of Florida

Washington

18 programs
Median Tuition:$12,400
Top Program:
University of Washington

Pennsylvania

22 programs
Median Tuition:$16,700
Top Program:
Carnegie Mellon

Illinois

19 programs
Median Tuition:$13,500
Top Program:
UIUC

Ohio

17 programs
Median Tuition:$12,200
Top Program:
Ohio State

Michigan

15 programs
Median Tuition:$14,800
Top Program:
University of Michigan

Georgia

14 programs
Median Tuition:$9,800
Top Program:
Georgia Tech

How Much Does a Computer Engineering Degree Cost?

Computer engineering degree costs vary significantly by institution type and state residency. Public universities offer substantial savings for in-state students, with median annual tuition of $13,250 compared to $45,120 at private institutions. When considering total 4-year costs including room, board, and fees, the difference can exceed $150,000.

Financial aid opportunities are abundant for computer engineering students. Merit-based scholarships often target STEM majors, while need-based aid can significantly reduce costs. Many students also participate in paid internships and co-op programs that provide both experience and income. For comprehensive financial planning, see our FAFSA guide for STEM majors and scholarship opportunities for women in tech.

Institution TypeCountMedian TuitionMin TuitionMax TuitionAvg Grad Rate4-Year Total
Public (In-State)
298
$13,250
$5,200
$22,800
74%
$53,000
Public (Out-of-State)
298
$28,400
$18,500
$48,200
74%
$113,600
Private Non-Profit
164
$45,120
$22,000
$65,000
70%
$180,480
Private For-Profit
24
$31,800
$15,000
$48,000
52%
$127,200

Choosing the Right Computer Engineering Program: Decision Framework

Selecting the optimal computer engineering program requires balancing multiple factors including academic quality, cost, location, and career goals. Consider your preferred learning environment, research interests, and target career path when evaluating programs.

Which Should You Choose?

Elite Private Universities (MIT, Stanford, CMU)
  • You prioritize prestige and are willing to pay premium tuition
  • You want access to cutting-edge research and top-tier faculty
  • You're targeting roles at major tech companies or startups
  • You plan to pursue graduate school or academic research
Top Public Universities (UC Berkeley, Georgia Tech, UIUC)
  • You want excellent education at lower cost, especially in-state
  • You value large, diverse student populations and extensive resources
  • You're interested in strong industry partnerships and co-op programs
  • You want access to major tech hubs with reasonable tuition
Online Computer Engineering Programs
  • You're a working professional seeking career advancement
  • You need flexible scheduling to balance work and family
  • You prefer self-paced learning with recorded lectures
  • You want to minimize relocation and living expenses
Regional Universities and Specialized Programs
  • You want smaller class sizes and more personalized attention
  • You're interested in specific specializations like embedded systems
  • You prefer to stay close to home or target regional employers
  • You want to minimize debt while still getting quality education

Is a Computer Engineering Degree Worth It in 2025?

Computer engineering offers excellent return on investment with high starting salaries, strong job security, and growing demand. The median starting salary of $78,000 provides quick payback on educational investment, while mid-career salaries exceeding $125,000 offer long-term financial stability.

The field's versatility allows graduates to pivot between hardware and software roles as technology evolves. Skills in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity remain highly valued across industries. For career transition guidance, see our transitioning to tech guide and tech career pivots analysis.

Alternative Paths to Computer Engineering Careers

While a traditional computer engineering degree provides the most comprehensive preparation, alternative pathways exist for career changers and those seeking faster entry into the field. Tech bootcamps offer intensive training in specific skills like software development, while cloud certifications can provide direct pathways to infrastructure roles.

Self-taught developers can build portfolios through open source contributions and personal projects. However, computer engineering roles often require deeper understanding of hardware-software integration and systems-level thinking that formal education provides. Consider hybrid approaches like completing a computer science degree with embedded systems coursework.

Ranking Methodology and Data Transparency

Our ranking methodology analyzes 486 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs using quantitative data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024. We weight graduation rates at 40% to emphasize student success, student-faculty ratios at 30% for educational quality, career outcomes at 20% for practical value, and selectivity at 10% to account for program rigor.

Data sources include IPEDS institutional characteristics (hd2023), completion data (c2023dep) for CIP code 14.0901, graduation rates (gr2023), admission statistics (adm2023), and tuition data (ic2023_ay). Career outcomes incorporate BLS OEWS May 2024 salary data for SOC codes 17-2061 (Computer Hardware Engineers) and 15-1252 (Software Developers). All data is publicly available and regularly updated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Engineering Programs

Explore Related Computer Engineering Resources

Data Sources and References

Institutional characteristics, completion data, graduation rates, admissions data, and tuition information for all accredited institutions

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for computer hardware engineers and related occupations

Accreditation status and program information for engineering and technology programs

Engineering education statistics and workforce data

Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)

Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.