Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Computer engineering combines engineering, mathematics, and computer science. A computer engineering bachelor’s degree offers the foundation needed to work in this flexible field, and branch out into different areas of specialization according to your career goals. This article will introduce you to the best available bachelor’s degrees for aspiring computer engineers.

What Is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering is a highly specialized branch of engineering that emphasizes hardware systems, software systems, and software development. Operating systems, robotics, networking, programming language, communications systems, programming skills, and digital systems are all within a computer engineer’s scope of work as well.

All of these specialties have practical applications in the fields of science, technology, engineering, industry, information technology, computing, and exploration. People who pursue a career in computer engineering become highly competent in hardware design, technical knowledge, and software design.

What Is a Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?

A computer engineering bachelor’s degree is a four-year program designed to train people pursuing career opportunities in engineering design, electrical and computer engineering, and circuit analysis. There is a heavy science component for this degree, but it is also possible to branch out and learn about behavioral and social sciences as you progress.

Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

To enroll in a computer engineering bachelor’s degree program, you need to have completed high school. You can also apply with an associate degree. You will be expected to be competent in mathematics, engineering, and science.

Each program will have specific requirements according to the school and area of specialization its degrees offer. Make sure to get in touch with an admissions advisor to find out about the application process and ensure you fulfill all the requirements.

How Much Does a Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a

typical four-year bachelor’s degree can cost from $21,035 to $48,965 per year

, depending on the type of school and program. Costs for room and board as well as school supplies will also vary between schools. Make sure you consult with an advisor to find out all the costs involved in your chosen program.

Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Computer Engineering Degree

There are several options available to help you finance your degree, including student loans and government financing options. There are also scholarships offered both by schools and outside institutions that are offered to certain students. Make sure you know all your options so you can choose one that works best for you in your current circumstance.

Best Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Computer Engineering: Top Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The best colleges for computer engineering equip you with the skills that you need to thrive in this ever-evolving field. Make sure the program you choose fits your career goals and provides you with opportunities to network and take advantage of the college experience.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

This program is part of the electrical engineering department at Embry-Riddle. The program is designed to help you become a systems analyst or systems administrator and focuses on the aerospace, aviation, military, and commercial industries. To complete the program you will need 127 college credits.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Florida Institute of Technology

This program is designed for aspiring hardware engineers and architectural and engineering managers, or even experts in behavioral and social sciences. It offers opportunities to gain practical experience, along with access to internship opportunities due to partnerships with institutions like NASA, Harris Corp, Northrop Grumman, and Google.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | High Point University

Enrollment in this program will open you up to opportunities at major firms like Amazon, Apple, AT&T, Boeing, Facebook, Google, HBO, IBM, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Oracle, and Tesla. This program requires that you complete 128 credits, most of which will be dedicated to subjects like programming, operating systems, engineering design, and mathematics.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology | Kent State University

Once you have completed this program, you can expect to be competent with core computer engineering concepts, principles, and applications. You’ll also have expertise in the design steps for building or making complex computer systems and the tools and techniques required for the production of innovative solutions in this field.

Bachelor in Computer Engineering | Marconi International University

During your four years of study, you will be expected to complete 120 credits to earn your degree here. The program is open to both on-campus and online students. The program will introduce you to the basics of algorithm analysis as a foundation for the more advanced topics covered in the later stages of the program.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | San Diego State University

Knowledge of mathematics is a staple in this program. You’ll also learn full stack development, the basics of algorithm analysis, integration circuits, multimedia systems, computer networking, and digital signal processing.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Trine University

The general education requirements for this program account for 41 credits. The additional 79 credits include topics such as algorithms and data structures, programming methodology and languages, computer elements and architecture, and real-time embedded systems.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering | University of Hartford

The list of subjects you’ll learn about when you enroll in this program include the fundamentals of computing, architecture and assembly language, and calculus. This program also includes courses about differential equations, engineering, design, digital system logic, college chemistry, and calculus-based physics.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | West Virginia University Institute of Technology

The list of potential career outcomes for students who enroll and graduate from this computing program includes digital systems design, database management, and electronics engineering. Students will be taught control systems engineering, IT management, and network systems specialization as well.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Wright State University

This computer engineering program includes subjects like software development, software engineering, cyber security, networking, and mobile application development. To enhance your tech skills, you’ll also learn data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, database development, vision and graphics, and web development.

Best Online Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Computer Engineering: Top Online Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The online degree programs listed below are accredited by reputable institutions, which means you can expect the same outcomes as students who study computer engineering on campus. Each school requires a different amount of hours per week you need to dedicate to the program, so make sure you check with your academic advisor so you can plan your time accordingly.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Florida International University

To earn your degree you will need to complete 128 credits. Core courses train students in hardware architecture, software engineering, hardware-software integration, signal and image processing, instrumentation and filter design, and computer networking.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology | Grantham University

Once you are done with this online degree program, you should be competent with the broad applications of engineering technology, mathematics, science, testing, analysis, computer programming, electric circuits, software applications, and digital electronics

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Old Dominion University

Once you are done with this degree program you should be competent with the design, construction, installation, and implementation of computer systems. You should also be able to navigate your way through computer electronics, digital systems, and microprocessors. To earn your degree you will need to complete a total of 128 credits.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Regent University

You will need to complete 126 credits to earn this degree. You will learn about the design of IT solutions, computer hardware, and computer software systems. This degree prepares you to

become a software developer

, computer hardware engineer, IT systems administrator, robotic engineer, engineer researcher, or product designer.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering | The University of Arizona Online

This university has partnerships with companies like Microsoft, Pixar, and Microsoft, so looking for a job after graduating from this online program will be a breeze. The school boasts that most students get job offers before they even graduate. The cost for the program is $600 per unit.

What’s the Average Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average annual wage for somebody who holds a

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering is $81,000 per year

. If you are working at the higher end of that industry, you can expect to earn as much as $171,000 per year. Your salary will ultimately depend on your position, your experience level, the state you are working in, and the company that has employed you.

Top Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Explained

Director of Program Management, Computer Software

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $160,250
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

The director of program management for computer software is a leadership position. You will be in charge of a team and need working knowledge of computing concepts and software development. However, given the nature of the role, you will also need to work on your soft skills, including leadership, strategic project management, and program management.

Principal Software Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $140,661
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

To work as a principal software engineer, you will need to be an expert in software development, Java, Linux, C++ programming language, and software architecture. Knowledge of Apache Kafka, Apache Cassandra, Java Database Connectivity, Apache Spark, Golang programming, and ElasticSearch will also help you stand out from the competition.

Software Development Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $126,446
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

As a software development manager, you will need to know about software development, people management, project management, Agile software development, and software development management. The more advanced skills that confirm that you are well suited for this role include Objective-C, Apache Hadoop, mobile applications development, and Spring.

Senior Product Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $120,343
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

When you apply for this position, you will need to know about  UX design, UI design, product development, and user research. To enhance your career prospects, knowledge of information architecture, data visualization, interaction design, web design, strategy, and UX design will also be useful.

Technical Architect

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $116,847
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

The skills that are most associated with this work are software architecture, Java, J2EE, .NET, cloud computing, and service-oriented architecture. The more advanced skills set that will help determine your level of success in this field are Scala, Cisco Networking, Virtualization, network architecture, Oracle 12i, and Agile software development.

Senior Systems Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $101,955
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  5%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  350,300
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Maryland, California, New Jersey, Washington DC, Connecticut

To excel in this field, you need to be competent with IT security and infrastructure, virtualization, network management, administration, and Microsoft Active Directory. Knowledge of subjects like system architecture, wireless data communications, big data analytics, cyber security, and auditing will also be useful.

iOS Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $92,072
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

As the title of the job would suggest, you will need expert knowledge of iOS, Objective-C, Swift programming language, Apple Xcode IDE, and mobile applications development to succeed in this role. Other skills that will help you advance your career and increase your potential include RESTful web services, Cocoa, Android Software Development Kit, and iOS SDK.

Data Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $92,650
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  8%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  168,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New Jersey, Washington DC, Massachusetts

To become a successful data engineer you should know SQL, ETL, data analysis, Apache Spark, and Python. If you want to earn more as a data engineer, work on subjects like Ruby, Oracle, MapReduce, JavaScript, Amazon Redshift, Apache Cassandra, Apache Kafka, Google Cloud Platform, and Apache Sqoop.

Software Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $87,797
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

To even be considered for a job like this, you are expected to have expert knowledge of JavaScript, SQL, Java, Python, and C# programming languages. You will also be expected to perform tasks using Apache Zookeeper, Mercurial (Hg), cryptography, compiler development, enterprise resources planning, Cocoa, Haskell programming language, and Cisco Networking.

Associate Product Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $70,000
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Washington, New York, Washington DC, Massachusetts

Your primary tasks in this line of work will center on concepts like product management, project management, business analysis, product development, and market research. Product managers, especially those working in the field of tech, will also be expected to navigate their way around Python, SQL, end user requirements research, and business analysis.

*Job outlook for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Computer Engineering Bootcamp vs Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

A computer engineering bootcamp will give you the foundation and basic technical tools that you need to be successful in the tech field. However, a computer engineering bachelor’s degree program will offer more advanced skills while allowing you to network and study fields outside of tech. See a more detailed list of the benefits of each path below.

Benefits of a Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

• 
  Status.
  
  When advertising for jobs, employers are more likely to focus on candidates that have enrolled in and graduated from a reputable institution. Having a degree will put you ahead of the competition.
• 
  The full package.
  
  A tremendous benefit of pursuing and completing a degree program is that it provides a foundation for you to branch off into multiple career fields, and not just one.
• 
  Collaboration.
  
  The college environment promotes the sharing and advancing of ideas. It offers excellent networking opportunities and the chance to build relationships that can help you advance your career down the line.
• 
  Access to resources and facilities.
  
  Universities foster innovation and creativity. As a bachelor’s degree student, you will have access to labs, libraries, and other resources that other forms of study cannot offer.
• 
  Personal instruction.
  
  When learning anything new, it can be quite difficult to grasp core concepts on your own. Colleges and universities have the most experienced people at hand to assist you when you feel like you might be falling behind or struggling. You’ll also be able to have one-on-one help to develop your problem-solving skills.

Benefits of a Computer Engineering Bootcamp

• 
  Specificity.
  
  Bootcamps offer education on specialized topics so you can start a career right after completing the program. You will not have to waste your time with electives that are unrelated to your career goals.
• 
  Wide range of technical skills.
  
  There are numerous programming languages one can learn, and a
  
  coding bootcamp
  
  can help you become an expert in the language of your choice.
• 
  Cost-effective.
  
  Coding bootcamps are more affordable than college or university degrees, plus bootcamps offer a variety of payment options to help you get started.
• 
  Intensive learning.
  
  Coding bootcamps can be completed in a matter of weeks and sometimes months. They cover large sections of work in a very short space of time, without really compromising on quality.
• 
  Flexibility.
  
  Most coding bootcamps can be completed at your own pace. This means you can create a studying schedule that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering?

Yes. A computer engineering bachelor’s degree will give you the foundation you need to build a successful career in tech. It will provide you with the tools and skillset to stay on top of the latest trends in tech. It also offers career opportunities based on your needs and long-term goals.

Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ