Why This Matters

  • PREPARE FOR JOBS IN 10+ DIFFERENT FIELDS

    Nearly every industry now employs computer engineers. Top industries for computer engineers include cybersecurity telecommunications, automotive, Internet of Things, and more.

  • DEMAND FOR COMPUTER ENGINEERS TO RISE 6%

    Employment of computer hardware engineers is expected to continue growing at an average pace through 2028. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the field will add 4,000 new jobs.

  • INCREASE YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL BY $27,930

    Earning a master’s degree can help you attain jobs like information systems managers, who earn an average annual salary of $142,530. Bachelor’s-level jobs earn $114,600 per year on average.

Our Research

For this list, we set out to find the best master’s degrees in computer engineering. The most common degrees in this area are Master of Science (MS) and Master of Engineering (MEng) degrees. A key difference between the two types is that MS degrees typically require a thesis, and MEng degrees do not.

To ensure accessibility for the largest number of students, we looked for programs that are delivered completely or primarily online. Some programs are also offered on-campus, and students may have the option to take both online and on-campus courses.

This list only includes programs at both regionally accredited schools. Many programs also have specialized accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Once we narrowed our list, we evaluated each program based on faculty, reputation, flexibility, cost, and outcomes. We calculated an Intelligent Score for each program on a scale of 0 to 100. Our top picks for the best online master’s in computer engineering are respected, affordable, and customizable. (For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.)

  • 54 hours to write this article
  • 166 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 328 education programs we compared

The Top 30 Online Master’s in Computer Engineering

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What You Should Know About This Degree

Computer engineers must have a broad range of aptitudes, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. An understanding of basic computer programming, mathematics, and research principles are also key to success in the computer engineering field. Prior to enrollment, students should assess their abilities to determine that they have the skills required by the field.

Most computer engineers are eligible for jobs with a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree in computer engineering can prepare individuals for advancement to mid-level or management positions by teaching them advanced, specialized skills. However, individuals who are specifically seeking management positions may be better suited for a master’s in engineering management, or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs with an emphasis on information technology, as this type of program focuses on business and leadership skills through an IT lens.

Although the overall job outlook for computer engineering occupations is bright, there are a few related areas, such as electrical and electronics engineering, in which job growth is expected to be slower than average over the next decade. Individuals with advanced education and hands-on experience will have the best opportunities for jobs in this field.

While there are no required professional credentials for computer engineers, individuals can choose to pursue certifications in specific areas or software programs as added confirmation of their expertise.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching Online Master’s in Computer Engineering programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? Advanced degree programs typically seek students who have an undergraduate degree or coursework in computer engineering, or a related field. They may also require that applicants have some professional experience. During the research process, find out what qualifications programs seek, to ensure that you have the background necessary for admission.
  • Does this program offer the specialization that I want? At the graduate level, many computer engineering students choose to specialize in an area such as telecommunications, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and more. If you have an area in which you wish to specialize, be sure to select a program that offers coursework in that area through electives or concentrations.

Other steps that you can take at this point include gathering application materials, researching application deadlines, and determining how you will finance your graduate education. If you have questions about the admissions process, you can contact the school’s admissions office. Funding resources include student loans, scholarships, assistantships, and employer tuition assistance benefits.