The Top 10 Online Master’s in Computer Engineering Programs
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Computer engineers are responsible for developing and building computer systems. They play a critical role in innovating digital technologies for applications in nearly every industry, including auto manufacturing, medicine, and cybersecurity. Computer engineers enjoy exceptionally lucrative career opportunities as part of the broader computer and IT industry.
A master's in computer engineering exceeds the minimum education requirement for this occupation. Professionals who complete this two-year graduate program may qualify for upward mobility in their current IT career and higher income. Many online masters' in computer engineering offer benefits including set or in-state tuition rates and accelerated completion times.
Computer hardware engineers earned a median annual salary of $128,170 in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with even higher salaries possible for graduates of a master-level engineering program.
Popular Online Computer Engineering Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Master's in Computer Engineering Programs
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Best Online Master's in Computer Engineering Programs
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University of FloridaLocation
Gainesville, FL
Tuition$11313
Graduation Rate90%
UF offers more than 200 programs through UF Online. Students can complete an online master's degree in computer engineering through the university's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The MS in electrical and computer engineering (ECE) features a customizable major and non-ECE elective courses.
Other program features include full-time or part-time enrollment, hybrid course options, and thesis and non-thesis tracks. More than 60% of ECE students secure internships with top employers after graduation. Learners can pursue coursework in several unique ECE interest areas, including cybersecurity, biomedical engineering, and artificial intelligence.
Applicants must submit GRE scores and transcripts. UF supports distance learners through advising, tutoring, library, and career services. UF admits most graduate ECE students in the fall semester, with some exceptions for current undergraduate ECE students.
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Johns Hopkins UniversityLocation
Baltimore, MD
Tuition$27868
Graduation Rate93%
Students at Johns Hopkins may choose from 19 online graduate programs in engineering. The university's MS in electrical and computer engineering comprises 10 courses. All learners complete a concentration in either communications and networking or photonics.
Distance learners complete coursework asynchronously through the Blackboard platform. The online master's in computer engineering is a part-time degree for working professionals. The program charges the same tuition rate to all learners regardless of residency.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in electrical and/or computer engineering from a school accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Prerequisite courses include mathematics, calculus-based physics, signals and systems, and linear and non-linear circuits. Students may enroll in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
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University of Southern CaliforniaLocation
Los Angeles, CA
Tuition$36161
Graduation Rate92%
The Viterbi School of Engineering was one of the first academic colleges established at USC. USC's students may choose from more than 40 online graduate programs, including Viterbi's online master's degree in computer engineering.
The MS in computer engineering requires 28 credits in three major areas: architecture, VLSI, and networks. USC offers both live and on-demand course content in the virtual classroom. Possible courses include interconnection networks, internet and cloud computing, and computer systems organization.
Applicants must submit GRE scores. Incoming students may begin the computer engineering degree online in the fall or spring semester. USC offers new student orientation events and a graduate mentorship program.
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Georgia Institute of TechnologyLocation
Atlanta, GA
Tuition$16950
Graduation Rate87%
A leader in distance learning, Georgia Tech offers 13 online graduate degrees in engineering, computer science, and STEM disciplines, including an online master of science in electrical and computer engineering.
Georgia Tech's master's in computer engineering program emphasizes career development for a variety of tech-industry professionals. Coursework explores solving technical problems, adhering to project deadlines, and fostering creativity and ingenuity. Students may begin the online program in the fall or spring semester.
Learners complete coursework asynchronously by viewing recorded lectures and on-campus sessions. Full-time students typically complete two courses per semester. Georgia Tech charges all learners the same tuition rate regardless of residency. The university serves more than 12,000 students through its professional education programs.
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North Carolina State UniversityLocation
Raleigh, NC
Tuition$14771
Graduation Rate81%
NC State offers more than 100 degrees and certificates through distance learning, including an online master's in computer engineering. The program includes coursework in VLSI systems, networking, and computer architecture and systems. The 30-credit program does not require a thesis. Full-time students take nine credits per semester, while part-time learners take 3-6 credits. Students may begin the program in the fall or spring semesters.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering with a GPA of at least 3.25. The program also requires GRE scores and letters of recommendation. Prospective students with a 3.0 GPA may receive provisional admission into the program.
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Texas A&M UniversityLocation
College Station, TX
Tuition$19118
Graduation Rate82%
The College of Engineering is the largest school at Texas A&M and among the largest engineering schools in the United States. Engineering students represent 68% of National Merit Scholars at Texas A&M.
The university's master of engineering in computer engineering requires 30 credits. The curriculum does not require a thesis or final examination; however, distance learners must complete an internship to satisfy graduation requirements. Students complete most coursework asynchronously.
Applicants must submit unofficial transcripts, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation for admission. Students may begin Texas A&M's online master's in computer engineering in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
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Villanova UniversityLocation
Villanova, PA
Tuition$36958
Graduation Rate91%
Villanova's College of Engineering offers 10 online graduate programs in unique engineering areas. Engineering students at Villanova enjoy personalized attention, as the school maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1. Roughly 88% of master's-level engineering students graduate within three years.
Villanova's master of science in computer engineering requires 30 credits, or 10 courses. Students may choose a thesis or non-thesis option. Villanova offers hybrid and fully online coursework and enables students to complete assignments both synchronously and asynchronously. The program includes core courses in computer communication networks, embedded systems architecture, and Unix and C programming.
Program applicants must submit official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores. Students may begin the online program in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. All learners in the program pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
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Stevens Institute of TechnologyLocation
Hoboken, NJ
Tuition$39862
Graduation Rate87%
Stevens offers more than 200 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs across four colleges, including the Schaefer School of Engineering and Science.
Stevens' computer engineering master's program offers a master of science or a master or engineering track, emphasizing interdisciplinary coursework in both cases. Students may choose a concentration in embedded systems, software and data engineering, networks and security, or artificial intelligence. Stevens also offers optional MBA/MS or MBA/master of engineering dual degrees.
Stevens accepts applications on a rolling basis and offers multiple start dates for both full- and part-time graduate students. Applicants must submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation. The program usually — but not always — requires GRE scores for admission.
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Florida International UniversityLocation
Miami, FL
Tuition$9180
Graduation Rate58%
FIU is one of the largest online education providers in the U.S., serving more than 42,000 students in online programs each year. FIU offers more than 100 programs and thousands of courses online.
FIU's master's in computer engineering features an emphasis in network security. Students can complete the accelerated, 30-credit program in 10 months. Graduates can pursue professional certifications like security+, network+, and certified ethical hacker.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering or a related STEM field with a minimum 3.0 GPA during their final 60 credits. Students may qualify for FIU's Online Academic Merit Scholarships.
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Worcester Polytechnic InstituteLocation
Worcester, MA
Tuition$43815
Graduation Rate87%
WPI offers dozens of online graduate programs in arts and sciences, business, and engineering. WPI's master of science in electrical and computer engineering offers specializations in areas like computer engineering, networks, and analog/RF design. The program's curriculum comprises 30 credits and does not require a thesis. WPI also offers an online master of engineering and a graduate certificate in electrical and computer engineering. Students complete most coursework asynchronously.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in electrical and computer engineering from a school accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Prospective students must also hold a minimum 3.0 major GPA. Learners may enroll full time or part time.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Computer Engineering Program?
An online master's in computer engineering prepares graduates for advanced careers in computer science and IT. Schools most commonly offer this program as a master of science (MS) or a master of engineering (M.Eng.). Some universities offer computer engineering as a specialization of general or electronics engineering programs.
Colleges may offer the MS or M.Eng. in computer engineering through their IT, computer science, or engineering departments. Some schools now feature dedicated STEM departments to house programs like an online master's in computer engineering. Common concentrations of computer engineering include communication and signal processing, computer systems, and optics and photonics.
A typical master's in computer engineering requires completion of 30 credits. However, some programs maintain generous credit-transfer policies that enable students to take fewer courses and graduate in less than two years. Online programs also commonly offer accelerated schedules.
While individual requirements vary, most graduate-level computer engineering programs feature either a field component or independent research project, culminating in a capstone. Some programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Master's degrees may also offer a choice of a thesis or non-thesis curriculum.
| Concentration | Description | Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Optics and Photonics | Optics and photonics involve the study of light and play an integral role in telecommunications, information processing, and photonic computing. Students in this concentration take courses covering subjects like Fourier techniques in optics, the fundamentals of lasers, fiber-optic communication systems, and optical propagation. | Photonics engineer, senior optics research scientist |
| Communications and Networking | In the communications and networking concentration, students prepare to take on roles designing, testing, and maintaining various systems related to the transfer of data. They typically take coursework in areas like probability and stochastic processes for engineers, antenna systems, satellite communication systems, speech processing, and wireless communication circuits. | Network engineer, wireless communications specialist |
| Electronics and the Solid State | To prepare to work with solid-state technology, students in this concentration take classes in analog electronic circuit design, power electronics, RF and microwave circuits, digital VLSI system design, and mixed-mode VLSI circuit design. | Computer hardware engineer, solid state development engineer |
| Signal Processing | The fundamentals of signal processing apply to many subfields, including audio signal processing, digital signal processing, and wireless communication. In this concentration, students explore subjects such as real-time computer vision, detection and estimation theory, and speech processing. | Embedded systems engineer, radar signal processing engineer |
| Systems and Control | Students concentrating in this area receive in-depth instruction on topics like applied Kalman filtering, intelligent algorithms, and time series analysis. | Senior control systems engineer, assistant chief engineer |
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Computer Engineering Program?
Web Programming
This course delves into the advanced programming of web applications including databases. Examples include relational databases, virtual file systems, and client-server architecture. Students build skills in tools like SQL, HTML, and XML.
Electronic Materials
Computer engineers need a comprehensive understanding of the electronic components used to build computers. Topics emphasize solid material types and their electrical, optical, thermal, and mechanical characteristics.
Computer Architecture
Computer engineering professionals must keep up with the latest technological innovations and master the core elements of contemporary computers. Components include cache memory, control circuits, and analog-to-digital conversion systems.
Circuit Design
Designing circuits is a critical part of computer engineering professions. Computer engineers need expert knowledge of digital integrated circuits to build central processing units and motherboards. This course covers topics including gain and bias considerations, frequency response, chip layout, and transistor design.
Final Project or Thesis
Most master's in computer engineering culminate in a capstone (for non-thesis programs), or a thesis requirement. Thesis and non-thesis programs typically include graduate-level research in a specialization of computer engineering, leading to a final project. To earn the degree, students must present their final project or defend their thesis during the final semester.
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What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Computer Engineering Program?
Many schools uphold similar admission criteria for an online master's in computer engineering. Nearly all master-level computer engineering programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. Schools more commonly require undergraduate majors in computer engineering or a related subject, though some programs accept any major in any field.
A program may include computer science or computer engineering prerequisites for students who earned a bachelor's degree in an unrelated major. Some schools conduct interviews and/or require students to attend orientation activities as part of the admissions process.
Application
Prospective students must complete a formal application to verify their GPA and academic and professional experience. Applications may also outline a candidate's eligibility for financial aid based on their state of residence. Most colleges still accept applications by mail, though online applications are generally preferred by both schools and students.
Test Scores
Master's degrees in computer engineering commonly request Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, though some online programs do not include this application requirement. Schools vary the minimum scores accepted for the verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections of the GRE, which helps admissions officers assess a student's readiness for graduate-level computer science programs.
Letters of Recommendation
Online computer engineering programs commonly ask for several letters of recommendation with an admission application. Students should seek out letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors, advisors, or mentors, or former employers. Applicants should remember that their sources may be fulfilling multiple requests for letters of recommendation. They should give them at least four weeks ahead of the application deadline.
Resume and Work Experience
Admissions officers expect graduate degree applicants to possess some work experience. Students should highlight relevant work experience in computer engineering or a related field. They should also include any professional training or certifications, and exceptional soft skills especially in communication, problem-solving, or project management.
Essays
Essays enable applicants to set their intentions for a master's in computer engineering and express their professional goals in their own words. Admissions officers seek insight into each student's reasons for applying to a particular program through an applicant's personal statement. Students can also emphasize their exceptional writing skills in an admission essay.
Official Transcripts
Official transcripts are required of any formal master's degree program. Transcripts help admissions officers verify that applicants meet the necessary requirements, including completing a bachelor's degree and computer science prerequisites. Most schools enable students to arrange for transcripts to be mailed or emailed directly from their former college or university.
What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Computer Engineering Degree?
Career Outlook
Naturally, many graduates of an online master's in computer engineering become computer engineers, who earned annual salaries of more than $128,000 in May 2021. Professionals with graduate-level computer engineering skills are in demand in a variety of fields and industries, especially scientific research and development, medicine and healthcare services, and electronics.
Earning a master's in computer engineering can lead to other lucrative computer and IT jobs, projecting faster-than-average job growth overall from 2020-2030, according to the BLS. In-demand careers include computer scientists and computer and information systems managers, with projected job growth of 22% and 11%, respectively, during this period.
Professionals with advanced expertise in computer engineering also command high salaries.
While computer and IT occupations generally pay higher-than-average wages, students trained in computer engineering can earn income ranging from $101,000-$160,000 in the occupations listed below.
Career Paths
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers develop and design the many components of computer systems. Parts include circuit boards, routers, processors, and memory storage units. While a bachelor's degree is acceptable for entry-level jobs, many large companies prefer candidates with a master's in computer engineering or a similar field, or an MBA concentrated in IT.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $128,170
Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists develop new computer languages and innovate new technologies like robotics, machine learning systems, and cloud computing. They collaborate with other leading-edge professionals in fields like science, business, and medicine. Most computer and information scientists hold at least a master's degree in computer engineering or a related field.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $131,490
Electrical or Electronics Engineer
Electrical and electronics engineers design, develop, and test electrical and electronic equipment, including electric motors, navigation systems, portable music players, and GPS. Computer hardware engineering is considered a specialization of electronics engineering. A master's degree exceeds the entry-level education requirement and may qualify professionals for senior roles in these occupations.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $101,780
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Also known as IT managers or IT project managers, computer and information systems managers guide the computer-related affairs of an entire business or organization. They recommend and implement software, hardware, and technology to improve efficiency. Candidates with a master's degree may qualify for high-level jobs such as chief information officer or chief technology officer.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $159,010
Computer Network Architect
Also called network engineers, computer network architects develop and build networks to facilitate computerized data. Examples include intranets, local area networks, and wide area networks. They often collaborate with network administrators and managers to ensure the efficacy of computer systems. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $120,520
Computer Engineering Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Earning a master's in computer engineering exceeds the minimum education requirement for many entry-level jobs, qualifying professionals for advanced computer science and IT positions. Graduates may go on to pursue a doctoral degree in computer engineering on the path toward becoming a postsecondary instructor in this subject.
Some students may earn an MBA to boost qualifications for executive-level IT jobs. Master's degree-holders can also pursue optional professional certification, such as a professional engineer (PE) license or credentials through the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), to enhance job prospects.
How Do I Choose an Online Master's in Computer Engineering Program?
Cost
Costs vary when it comes to an online master's in computer engineering. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average graduate tuition cost $12,410 for public institutions per year and $26,597 for private institutions in 2019-2020. Traditional programs often assign tuition rates based on a student's state of residence, while online programs may offer universal set or in-state tuition rates.
Program Format
Online programs are ideal for students seeking flexible learning options. Most schools deliver online courses through synchronous or asynchronous methods, requiring live participation or allowing self-paced study, respectively. Online programs also commonly offer full-time, part-time, and accelerated options, such as a dual degree resulting in both a BS and MS in computer engineering.
Location
Students should consider their career goals when choosing an online master's in computer engineering. Most students work in computer engineering or a related field while earning a master's degree in this specialization. Employers often prefer candidates with experience. Furthermore, even online students sometimes prefer hybrid courses or require the use of technology services on campus.
Accreditation
Only accredited colleges or universities should make a student's short list of potential schools. The Department of Education awards institutional accreditation to high-performance schools that can endure the rigorous accreditation process. In addition to institutional accreditation, some graduate programs are also ABET-accredited, through ABET's Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission.
Student Support
Student support services are critical to academic success, particularly for online learners. The best online masters' in computer engineering offer a diverse collection of support through services including tutoring, technology support, career development, and alumni connections. Some programs may also provide unique internships and mentorship opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Computer Engineering Programs
Is a master's in computer engineering worth it?
Yes, a master's in computer engineering can lead to highly lucrative job opportunities. Students can often complete their master's degree online while accumulating valuable work experience in IT or computer programming.
Graduates of a master's-level computer engineering program meet the minimum education requirement for many computer science and IT management jobs. Online master's programs offer flexible, convenient learning options, many with benefits including set tuition rates, dual-degrees awarded, and accelerated completion times.
What can I do with a master's in computer engineering?
Graduates of master's in computer engineering commonly enter the computer science, electronics engineering, and IT management fields. Many graduates become computer hardware engineers or computer network architects.
Master's degree-holders qualify for senior roles in computer and information technology that require advanced technical and programming expertise. They meet or exceed the minimum education requirement for typical computer engineering positions. Graduates with business experience can also work their way up to careers as top executives including CIO or CTO.
Are computer engineering graduates in demand?
Yes, as computer and IT occupations are generally high-paying, high-growth careers. The BLS projects a faster-than-average job growth of 13% for computer and IT jobs from 2020-2030, including a variety of prospects for experienced computer engineers.
Specifically, the BLS projects a slower growth of 2% for computer hardware engineers from 2020-2030, while the BLS projects a 22% growth for computer scientists during the same time. Other in-demand opportunities include computer and information systems managers. Jobs for these managers are projected to grow 11% from 2020-2030.
How much money can I make with a master's in computer engineering?
Under the umbrella of generally high-paid computer and IT occupations, computer engineers' salaries typically start at more than $100,000. However, individual income may vary depending on a candidate's education, experience, and location.
Computer engineers commonly earn salaries between $101,000 and $160,000 for jobs including electrical or electronics engineer, or computer and information systems manager. The BLS reports that California, home of Silicon Valley, houses the highest national concentration of computer hardware engineers and pays them the highest wage, at nearly $170,000 a year.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in computer engineering?
With a median annual salary of more than $159,000, computer and information systems managers can earn one of the highest wages among graduates of a master's in computer engineering.
Graduates of a master's program may also qualify for senior roles in other IT occupations, potentially leading to higher salaries and additional benefits, such as stock options. Large companies may offer especially high salaries of nearly $180,000 to chief executives such as CIO or CTO, provided these professionals possess both engineering and management experience.
Image Source: staticnak1983, Getty Images
Resources for Graduate Computer Engineering Students
MIT OpenCourseWare
MIT allows online access to nearly all of its course content. Learn about computer programming, artificial intelligence, and electronics engineering from some of the leading scholars in the field of technology.
Khan Academy
Similar to MIT's online offerings, Khan Academy hosts free tutorials on a variety of computer science topics. Use this site to learn new skills or brush up on topics you previously studied.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships
IEEE student members can apply for conference travel grants, summer research grants, and a number of other scholarships and fellowships. Many of the IEEE's financial aid programs specifically serve graduate students.
Professional Organizations in Computer Engineering
After earning your computer engineering master's degree, consider joining a professional organization. Membership in these groups comes with a host of benefits, including the opportunity to network with other technology professionals at national conferences and local events, free or reduced price access to continuing education resources, and forums to discuss the latest research and best practices from the field. Some organizations also specifically cater to the needs of underrepresented groups, such as women and African-Americans.
IEEE Computer Society
As part of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Computer Society boasts more than 60,000 professional members working in computer science and technology. The organization hosts networking conferences, offers professional development resources, and curates scholarly research.
Association for Computing Machinery
ACM represents 100,000 computing educators, researchers, and practitioners around the globe. In addition to national conferences and local chapters, the group organizes online special interest groups to connect professionals.
Association for Women in Computing
AWC works to advance the interests of women in computing. Beyond professional networking, the association offers professional development opportunities and makes awards to recognize outstanding scientific achievement and community service by women in the field.
Information Technology Senior Management Forum
ITSMF aims to increase the representation of African Americans in senior leadership positions across technology-related industries. ITSMF offers scholarships to young students of color pursuing degrees in STEM fields.
Association for Information Science and Technology
ASIS&T helps lead the search for new technologies and techniques to improve access to information. Its website features a job board as well as resources for individuals looking to enter the information technology profession.
