Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in California 2025
Stanford University
World-renowned computer engineering program with 5:1 student-faculty ratio. Alumni at Apple, Google, NVIDIA designing next-generation processors and AI chips
University of California, Berkeley
Top-ranked public computer engineering program with exceptional value. Strong industry partnerships with Silicon Valley semiconductor companies
California Institute of Technology
Elite 3:1 student-faculty ratio with cutting-edge research in quantum computing and advanced computer architectures
- 1.California has 20+ ABET-accredited computer engineering bachelor's programs, more than any other state
- 2.Stanford University ranks #1 with 94% graduation rate and direct pipeline to Silicon Valley hardware companies
- 3.UC Berkeley offers world-class computer engineering education at $14,312 in-state tuition—75% less than private alternatives
- 4.California computer hardware engineers earn median $142,650 annually—18% above the national median according to BLS California data
- 5.Silicon Valley hosts major employers including Apple, NVIDIA, Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm with 45,000+ computer engineering jobs
Computer Engineering Education Landscape in California
California leads the nation in computer engineering education, offering more ABET-accredited programs than any other state. From Stanford's world-renowned program in the heart of Silicon Valley to the exceptional value of the UC system, California provides unmatched opportunities for aspiring computer engineers.
The state's unique position as home to major semiconductor and tech companies creates direct pathways from classroom to career. Students benefit from industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and recruiting relationships that are difficult to find elsewhere. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our best computer engineering programs ranking.
California's computer engineering programs emphasize both hardware and software integration, preparing graduates for careers in chip design, embedded systems, robotics, and emerging technologies like AI hardware acceleration. The proximity to companies like Apple, NVIDIA, Intel, and countless startups provides unparalleled real-world learning opportunities.
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS California May 2024, ABET 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 data
Class size and individual attention
California-specific salary data from BLS OEWS
Professional accreditation status and program quality
California Computer Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanford University | Stanford | Private | $61,731 | 94% | 5:1 | 98.5 |
| 2 | UC Berkeley | Berkeley | Public | $14,312 | 93% | 19:1 | 96.2 |
| 3 | Caltech | Pasadena | Private | $60,864 | 92% | 3:1 | 95.8 |
| 4 | UCLA | Los Angeles | Public | $13,804 | 91% | 18:1 | 93.4 |
| 5 | UC San Diego | San Diego | Public | $14,451 | 87% | 19:1 | 91.7 |
| 6 | USC | Los Angeles | Private | $64,726 | 92% | 9:1 | 90.8 |
| 7 | UC Irvine | Irvine | Public | $13,927 | 86% | 19:1 | 89.5 |
| 8 | UC Davis | Davis | Public | $14,597 | 86% | 20:1 | 88.2 |
| 9 | Santa Clara University | Santa Clara | Private | $58,110 | 90% | 11:1 | 87.6 |
| 10 | Cal Poly San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo | Public | $9,942 | 83% | 19:1 | 86.9 |
| 11 | UC Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara | Public | $14,442 | 82% | 22:1 | 85.8 |
| 12 | San Jose State University | San Jose | Public | $7,852 | 67% | 27:1 | 84.2 |
| 13 | UC Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz | Public | $14,100 | 78% | 24:1 | 83.5 |
| 14 | Cal Poly Pomona | Pomona | Public | $7,852 | 68% | 25:1 | 82.8 |
| 15 | UC Riverside | Riverside | Public | $13,887 | 75% | 22:1 | 81.9 |
| 16 | San Diego State University | San Diego | Public | $7,510 | 72% | 26:1 | 80.6 |
| 17 | CSU Long Beach | Long Beach | Public | $6,834 | 70% | 25:1 | 79.4 |
| 18 | CSU Fullerton | Fullerton | Public | $6,834 | 68% | 27:1 | 78.2 |
| 19 | CSU Sacramento | Sacramento | Public | $7,254 | 65% | 28:1 | 77.1 |
| 20 | CSU Los Angeles | Los Angeles | Public | $6,834 | 63% | 29:1 | 76.3 |
Stanford University
Stanford, CA • University
Program Highlights
- • Home to pioneers in computer architecture and chip design
- • Students work on real projects for major tech companies
- • 30% of graduates found startups within 10 years
- • Alumni include founders of Sun Microsystems, Yahoo, and Google
Program Strengths
- 5:1 student-faculty ratio - smallest class sizes among top programs
- 94% graduation rate - highest completion rate in California
- Direct recruiting pipeline to Apple, Google, NVIDIA, and Tesla
- Average starting salary of $115,000 for new graduates
- Access to $8 billion in research funding and state-of-the-art facilities
Why Ranked #1
Stanford's computer engineering program consistently ranks among the top 3 nationally, combining world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and unmatched industry connections. The program's 5:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention, while its location in Silicon Valley provides unparalleled internship and career opportunities.
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA • University
Program Highlights
- • Ranked #1 public computer engineering program nationally
- • Students conduct research alongside faculty in world-renowned labs
- • Strong emphasis on both hardware and software integration
- • Berkeley RISC architecture continues to influence modern processors
Program Strengths
- $14,312 in-state tuition - 75% less than comparable private programs
- 93% graduation rate among top public universities nationally
- Strong research focus in AI hardware, robotics, and quantum computing
- Extensive industry partnerships with Silicon Valley companies
- Alumni network includes leaders at Apple, Intel, and AMD
Why Ranked #2
UC Berkeley's Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) program offers world-class computer engineering education at an exceptional value. With in-state tuition of just $14,312, Berkeley provides access to top-tier faculty, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships at a fraction of private school costs.
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, CA • University
Program Highlights
- • Leading research in quantum computing and neuromorphic engineering
- • Students regularly publish in top-tier academic conferences
- • Strong emphasis on mathematical foundations of computing
- • Alumni often pursue advanced degrees at top graduate programs
Program Strengths
- 3:1 student-faculty ratio - most personalized attention available
- 92% graduation rate with rigorous academic standards
- Focus on theoretical foundations and cutting-edge research
- Small cohorts (typically 20-30 students per year)
- Direct mentorship from world-renowned faculty
Why Ranked #3
Caltech's computer engineering program offers an intimate, research-focused experience with the lowest student-faculty ratio (3:1) in the state. Students work directly with faculty on groundbreaking research in quantum computing, advanced computer architectures, and AI hardware acceleration.
California University Systems for Computer Engineering
California's computer engineering programs are offered through three main university systems, each serving different student needs and career goals.
The University of California (UC) system provides research-focused programs with world-class faculty and extensive graduate school preparation. UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, and UC Irvine all rank among the nation's top computer engineering programs, offering exceptional value for in-state students at around $14,000 annual tuition.
The California State University (CSU) system emphasizes practical, hands-on education with strong industry connections. Programs like Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and San Jose State focus on preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce, with extensive lab facilities and internship partnerships.
Private institutions like Stanford, Caltech, USC, and Santa Clara University offer smaller class sizes, extensive research opportunities, and premium facilities, though at significantly higher tuition costs. These programs often provide the most direct pathways to top tech companies and graduate school admissions.
Career Paths
Computer Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and develop computer systems, processors, circuit boards, and hardware components. Work on cutting-edge technologies like AI chips, quantum processors, and embedded systems.
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop software applications, systems software, and embedded firmware. Strong computer engineering background provides advantage in system-level programming and hardware-software integration.
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 17-2072Design and implement software for embedded systems, IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Combine hardware knowledge with programming skills.
Chip Design Engineer
SOC 17-2071Design integrated circuits, microprocessors, and specialized chips for applications like graphics processing, AI acceleration, and mobile devices.
Robotics Engineer
SOC 17-2199Design, build, and program robotic systems for manufacturing, healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and consumer applications. Integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components.
Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
| Factor | In-State Public | Out-of-State Public | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition | $10,500 | $35,000 | $59,000 |
| Typical Class Size | 100-200 | 100-200 | 30-80 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 20:1 | 20:1 | 8:1 |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Extensive | Guaranteed |
| Industry Connections | Strong | Strong | Premium |
| Financial Aid | Good | Limited | Excellent |
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest concentration of tech companies
- Proximity to Silicon Valley for internships and networking
- Exceptional public university options with strong programs
- Opportunities to work on cutting-edge hardware and software projects
- Climate and lifestyle benefits alongside academic excellence
- Direct pathways to careers at Apple, Google, NVIDIA, Intel, and other major employers
- Lower cost of living and housing costs
- In-state tuition rates in your home state
- Smaller, more intimate program environments
- Different industry focuses (aerospace, automotive, defense)
- More predictable weather and seasonal variation
- Family and social connections in other regions
Frequently Asked Questions About California Computer Engineering Programs
Related Computer Engineering Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
California-specific salary data for computer hardware engineers and related occupations
Engineering program accreditation status and requirements
Graduate school placement and research output data
Taylor Rupe
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