Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Leading research in cybersecurity and embedded systems with 98% job placement rate
University of Virginia
Strong industry partnerships and highest graduate starting salaries at $91,500
Virginia Commonwealth University
Innovative curriculum in AI and machine learning with growing industry connections
- 1.Virginia Tech leads with the highest overall program quality score of 94.2 and exceptional research opportunities
- 2.UVA graduates earn the highest starting salaries at $91,500, significantly above the national average
- 3.Virginia's computer engineering programs show 94% average job placement within 6 months of graduation
- 4.The state's tech sector employed over 425,000 workers in 2024, creating strong demand for computer engineers
- 5.In-state tuition ranges from $15,008 to $21,381, offering excellent value compared to national averages
Virginia Computer Engineering Programs Ranked
| Rank | Location | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg | $15,008 | 8700% | $87,200 | 94.2 |
| 2 | University of Virginia | Charlottesville | $21,381 | 9400% | $91,500 | 91.8 |
| 3 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond | $16,284 | 7100% | $82,400 | 85.4 |
| 4 | Old Dominion University | Norfolk | $13,932 | 5500% | $78,600 | 82.1 |
| 5 | George Mason University | Fairfax | $16,564 | 7200% | $84,300 | 81.7 |
| 6 | Virginia Military Institute | Lexington | $19,988 | 7700% | $79,200 | 79.3 |
| 7 | Norfolk State University | Norfolk | $10,854 | 4100% | $74,500 | 75.8 |
| 8 | Liberty University | Lynchburg | $24,960 | 5100% | $76,800 | 74.2 |
Virginia Computer Engineering Program Analysis
Virginia's computer engineering programs benefit from the state's robust technology sector, which generated over $47 billion in revenue in 2024 according to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. The Commonwealth's strategic location in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area creates exceptional opportunities for internships and career placement with federal contractors, defense companies, and emerging tech firms.
The state's top programs demonstrate significant variation in focus areas and outcomes. Virginia Tech's computer engineering program stands out with its comprehensive research portfolio spanning cybersecurity, embedded systems, and computer architecture. The program's Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering manages over $25 million in annual research funding, providing extensive undergraduate research opportunities that directly enhance career prospects.
UVA's School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a more intimate learning environment with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio in computer engineering coursework. The program's emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation has produced graduates who've founded over 40 technology startups since 2018, contributing to Virginia's growing reputation as a tech hub outside of traditional Silicon Valley markets.
- Virginia Tech: Strong in embedded systems, cybersecurity research, and defense applications
- UVA: Emphasis on software-hardware integration and entrepreneurial ventures
- VCU: Growing focus on AI/ML applications and healthcare technology
- ODU: Specialization in modeling, simulation, and maritime technology applications
- GMU: Strong connections to Northern Virginia's cybersecurity industry
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, Virginia • University
Program Highlights
- • 98% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Average starting salary of $87,200 for recent graduates
- • Over 150 faculty members in electrical and computer engineering
- • State-of-the-art facilities in the Whittemore Hall complex
Program Strengths
- Research excellence with $25M+ annual funding in ECE department
- Strong industry partnerships with companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Microsoft
- Comprehensive lab facilities including clean room and advanced testing equipment
- Active student organizations including IEEE chapter and robotics teams
- Cooperative education program with 200+ participating employers
Why Ranked #1
Virginia Tech earns the top ranking through its combination of rigorous academics, extensive research opportunities, and exceptional industry connections. The program's 98% job placement rate and strong alumni network in major tech companies demonstrate its effectiveness in preparing graduates for successful careers.
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms for various industries including tech, finance, and healthcare.
Hardware Engineer
Design, develop, and test computer hardware components including processors, memory systems, and embedded devices.
Systems Architect
Design complex computing systems and infrastructure, focusing on scalability, performance, and integration.
Develop and implement security measures for computer systems, networks, and applications to protect against cyber threats.
Bridge development and operations teams to improve software deployment, monitoring, and infrastructure management.
Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, algorithms, and applications for various business applications.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Virginia's top computer engineering programs maintain competitive admission standards that reflect their academic quality and industry reputation. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and science, with most programs requiring completion of calculus, physics, and chemistry coursework during high school.
Virginia Tech's computer engineering program admits approximately 400 students annually from over 1,200 applications, resulting in a 33% acceptance rate. The middle 50% of admitted students have SAT scores between 1350-1490 and high school GPAs between 3.8-4.0. The program particularly values students who demonstrate hands-on experience through robotics competitions, programming projects, or engineering internships.
UVA's School of Engineering maintains even more selective standards, with computer engineering applicants facing a 22% acceptance rate. The program seeks students with strong quantitative skills and creative problem-solving abilities, often evidenced through participation in science fairs, coding competitions, or maker projects. UVA also values diversity and actively recruits students from underrepresented groups in engineering.
- High school GPA of 3.5+ with strong performance in calculus, physics, and chemistry
- SAT scores typically 1250+ (or equivalent ACT scores of 28+)
- Demonstrated interest in technology through projects, competitions, or work experience
- Strong letters of recommendation from math or science teachers
- Personal statement highlighting problem-solving experiences and career goals
Source: Virginia Tech Admissions Office 2025
Cost Analysis and Financial Aid Options
Virginia residents benefit from relatively affordable computer engineering education compared to national averages. In-state tuition at public universities ranges from $10,854 at Norfolk State to $21,381 at UVA, with most programs falling between $15,000-$17,000 annually. These costs represent excellent value when considering the strong career outcomes and earning potential of computer engineering graduates.
Financial aid options are abundant for Virginia students, with need-based aid available through the Virginia Student Financial Assistance Program and merit-based scholarships offered by individual institutions. Virginia Tech's College of Engineering awards over $2.5 million annually in scholarships specifically for engineering students, with awards ranging from $2,500 to full tuition coverage.
The return on investment for Virginia computer engineering programs is compelling. With median starting salaries of $85,200 and strong job placement rates, graduates typically recover their educational investment within 8-10 years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued strong demand for computer engineers, with employment expected to grow 5% through 2032.
- Average total cost of attendance ranges from $28,000-$35,000 for in-state students
- Merit scholarships available from $2,500 to full tuition at most programs
- Strong ROI with payback period typically 8-10 years after graduation
- Co-op and internship programs help offset costs while providing experience
- Graduate assistantships available for students pursuing advanced degrees
| Factor | Virginia Tech | UVA | VCU |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $15,008 | $21,381 | $16,284 |
| Class Size | Medium (20-35) | Small (15-25) | Medium (25-40) |
| Research Focus | Cybersecurity, Embedded Systems | Innovation, Entrepreneurship | AI/ML, Healthcare Tech |
| Industry Connections | Defense, Government | Consulting, Startups | Healthcare, Finance |
| Location Advantage | Rural, Research-Focused | College Town, Alumni Network | Urban, Internship Access |
Frequently Asked Questions
Computer Engineering Programs by Region
Northern Virginia
Central Virginia
Southwest Virginia
Hampton Roads
Richmond Metro
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS, College Scorecard, institutional data
Faculty credentials, research output, and accreditation status
Job placement rates, starting salaries, and employer feedback
Lab facilities, equipment, and research opportunities
Graduation rates, retention rates, and student satisfaction
Internship programs, employer partnerships, and alumni networks
Related Computer Engineering Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official federal database of college and university data
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Official labor market data including employment projections and salary information
State agency data on Virginia higher education institutions and programs
Federal research funding data and STEM education statistics
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.