Computer engineering is a growing, lucrative field. It’s a great career to bolster your salary prospects or become an IT professional with a stable job. But many of the highest-paying computer engineering careers require a master’s degree. Let’s break down some of the best online computer engineering master’s. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for and where to apply.
Article Navigation: What is Computer Engineering? | Overview – Online Computer Engineering Master’s | How To Choose The Right Program | Top Online Computer Engineering Master’s Programs | Certifications & Licenses | Computer Engineering Jobs Overview | Professional Organizations | FAQs | Apply Today!
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering is, broadly, the study of how computers work. However, it entails upgrading and fixing computer systems, parts, and software. Computer engineering can include many different specialties or focuses.
For example, a computer hardware engineer focuses on how hardware and computer systems work together to create a working machine. Engineers must program languages, write and edit code, and create software applications.
Since all industries rely on computers for daily tasks, computer engineering is an invaluable and in-demand field.
Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science
There are plenty of similar aspects between computer engineering and computer science, but the two topics aren’t exactly the same. For example, computer engineering relates more to how computers work and can be improved over time.
On the other hand, computer science is more research-focused. It is theoretical and emphasizes the mathematical concepts behind computer functions.
If you have a computer science degree, you may qualify for a computer engineering master’s program. However, you may need to take certain prerequisite classes or have some experience in computer engineering to qualify for graduate programs.
Overview – Online Computer Engineering Master’s
Many of the best online computer engineering master’s programs are similar, regardless of which universities offer them. Here’s what you can expect from an online computer engineering master’s:
What To Expect
Most online computer engineering master’s programs take two to three years. There are generally 30 credits in total. Depending on the university, you may be able to specialize or tailor your degree toward one focus or another.
Regardless, online computer engineering master’s programs cover many of the same topics and prepare you for a wide range of professional positions.
Online Computer Engineering Master Courses
Your exact course list will depend on which degree you pursue. You could take courses covering topics such as:
- Computer engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Computer systems and networks
- Computer analytics and much more
Admissions
Since online computer engineering master’s programs are graduate-level, they have strict admission requirements. You generally need:
- A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related major from an accredited institution
- A GPA of 3.0 or above from your prior schooling
- At least one letter of recommendation from a former teacher or workplace supervisor
- A statement explaining why you are pursuing this degree
Acquired Skills
An online computer engineering master’s program will teach you how computers work and how you can build or improve them. Some online computer engineering master’s programs focus on software elements. On the other hand, some focus on managing and building mechanical components at the heart of computer systems.
Timeline
Any worthwhile master’s program will take two to three years to complete. Some accelerated programs may allow you to complete their course materials in as little as one year, however.
Paying for Your Online Computer Engineering Master’s
Many of the best online computer engineering master’s programs include scholarships or grant opportunities. Keep in mind that most master’s degrees cost anywhere between $20,000 and $40,000 in total.
How To Choose The Right Program
You should consider some major factors before choosing an online computer engineering master’s program:
Cost
First, consider the cost of a given program. Generally, out-of-state programs cost more than in-state programs, even if you plan to attend school online.
Admission Requirements
Next, review a program’s admission requirements. Some programs are easier to get into than others. However, more competitive programs may offer additional benefits, like internship or certification opportunities.
Program Format
Some computer engineering master’s programs are 100% online, while others are in a hybrid format. Hybrid format programs require you to attend your chosen university’s campus yearly.
Location
As stated earlier, out-of-state programs are usually more expensive than in-state programs. Furthermore, the location of your program can impact whether you can attend any in-person seminars or other required in-person sessions.
Accreditation
Make sure that any program you attend is accredited by at least one well-known institution, like the Higher Learning Commission. Some stellar programs have accreditation from the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.
Certification Opportunities
Some of the best programs offer certification or internship opportunities. These can add to your resume’s value and make getting a competitive position easier after graduation.
Top Online Computer Engineering Master’s Programs
If you want to earn a computer engineering master’s degree, check out the list below. Some of the best computer engineering master’s degrees are available online, full-time, or with a hybrid schedule.
1. Florida Atlantic University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program: Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Duration: 1-2 years
FAU’s MS in computer engineering is ideal for careers ranging from robotics and wireless communications engineers to hardware engineers.
This versatile degree builds a fundamental background in topics such as:
- Software development
- Computer architecture and design
- Cryptography
In fact, it’s one of the most comprehensive master’s in computer science available online overall.
However, it’s also one of the hardest programs to get into. It’s 30 credits and requires students to have a 3.0 GPA or better. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis option. The non-thesis option requires seven elective courses, while the thesis option only requires five elective courses.
2. Mississippi State University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program: Master of Science in Computational Engineering
Duration: 2 years
This MS in Compensation Engineering is an interdisciplinary program from start to finish. Experienced faculty lead the classes, and students may transfer credits straight into a Ph.D. program.
This program covers subjects to prepare students to become computer scientists or engineers. For instance, expect to study numerical mathematics, high-performance computing topics, and computational engineering subjects.
While this program has a GPA requirement of 3.5 out of 4, some applicants may still be admitted on a provisional basis. Provisionally admitted students must do well in the first handful of classes to maintain their provisional admission statuses.
3. Colorado State University
Accreditation: HLC
Program: Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering
Duration: 2 years
CSU online offers a Master of Engineering and computer engineering. The program is a great way to increase your salary or open up new professional opportunities. Furthermore, the degree exposes students to automated vehicles, smart city technology, and more. It’s a coursework-only degree that focuses on innovation and engineering fundamentals.
Explore up-to-date computer engineering trends and technologies. Then, discover how to apply theory and mathematics to create simulations and prototypes. All students benefit from an experienced faculty and a close-knit community.
This curriculum is customizable, as students can take programs from the computer science, mathematics, electrical, and computer engineering departments. Also, students can take up to nine credits without being admitted to the program to try it out.
4. Colorado State University
Accreditation: HLC
Program: Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Duration: 2 years
This degree from Colorado State University is similar to the above Master of Engineering. However, it focuses on the scientific and programming elements of computer engineering as opposed to the hardware computer engineering aspects.
Students will study telecommunications, computer networks, data signal processing, and computer architecture. Tuition is relatively affordable per credit, and there are 30 credits in total in this program.
Since this is a coursework-only degree program, you don’t have to worry about an oral exam or a thesis. Thus, it’s one of the best online master’s in computer engineering programs available.
5. Iowa State University
Accreditation: HLC
Program: Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Duration: 2 years
This program requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA for all applicants. It includes two different start dates and can set students on the track to a doctoral degree in the same industry.
Depending on the classes you choose, you can specialize your degree in one of several areas. These areas include large-scale integration, software systems, computer and networking systems, and more. You can also emphasize your degree in software systems or information systems security and networking.
Subsequently, all students graduate with a technical focus in computer and engineering. Graduates complete a dissertation or thesis, plus complete a research project to the satisfaction of faculty supervisors.
6. Missouri University of Science and Technology
Accreditation: HLC
Program: Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Duration: 2-3 years
This degree offers a thesis and non-thesis option 100% online. It’s 30 credit hours in total.
You can specialize your degree program in one of the following areas:
- Systems
- Intelligence
- Software engineering
- Embedded computer systems
- Electrical engineering
- Digital systems design
You’ll take courses including but not limited to computer networks, engineering, architecture, parallel processors, and more.
Since this program doesn’t require any campus visits, students benefit from further schedule flexibility. Depending on your needs, you can finish the program in between two and three years.
7. Drexel University
Accreditation: MSCHE
Program: Master of Science in Engineering Technology
Duration: 2 years
This master’s program is a multidisciplinary online degree, fully accredited. It focuses on applying aspects of computer engineering to practical product improvement. In other words, it’s a great choice for those who want to apply their skills to industrial practices in engineering technology firms.
Courses in this program may cover the following topics:
- Energy conversion technologies
- Material properties
- Green manufacturing
- Quality control
It’s a great program for career-oriented professionals. Experienced faculty lead each class. Furthermore, students will benefit from the E-Learning portal, which is intuitive and easy to use. Students can add one of several graduate minors to this master’s degree, further bolstering their resumes.
Certifications & Licenses
To maximize your career opportunities, pursue computer engineering certifications and licenses during or after acquiring your master’s degree. Some online computer engineering master’s programs offer the opportunity to earn some of these certificates and licenses during your education. Here are some of the most important computer engineering certificates to earn in the future:
- CompTIA A+. This certification covers computer engineering topics like networking, troubleshooting, hardware, and mobile devices. It requires passing two exams. CompTIA A+ is a good certificate to pursue because it’s often necessary among competitive employers.
- Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD). This certificate has three different levels, and it’s an important license if you want to acquire jobs in the automation industry.
- Microcontroller Certification Exam. Loopskill offers this internal classification. It emphasizes digital concepts and microcontrollers, and it may open up career opportunities for your future.
- Professional or Engineering Master Certification (PSEM). PSEM is a top choice for computer software engineers who want to increase their qualifications. It is a good certificate to pursue if you want a career in software development quickly.
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). This certificate covers various information security topics like security risk and incident management. It requires passing a 150-question exam and qualifies you for security or computer management positions.
Computer Engineering Jobs Overview
Once you have a master’s degree in computer engineering, you’ll have a wide range of career opportunities.
Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects all computer hardware engineers to become more valuable in the foreseeable future. In fact, The BLS projects a 5% growth rate for computer engineers until 2031. In other words, approximately 5,300 new job openings each year.
The career outlook for similar occupations is also positive. For example, computer and information research should grow as a profession by 21% until 2031. That means around 3,300 openings each year on average.
You’ll have no trouble getting employed with such an in-demand degree after graduation. You can work as a computer engineer or qualify for any number of related IT industry jobs, such as:
- Information technology manager
- Programming expert
- Software developer
Career Paths
With a master’s in computer engineering, you can become a computer hardware engineer and earn around $128,170 per year. However, you could instead become a research-oriented computer and information research scientist, earning $131,490 per year.
You’ll also have other career paths open to you depending on your preferences, the specialization of your degree, and other factors. Some potential career paths include:
- Computer programmer. These professionals earn $93,000 per year on average
- Computer network architect. These professionals earn $120,520 per year on average
- Software developer. These professionals earn $120,730 per year on average
- Computer and information systems manager. These professionals earn $159,010 per year on average.
Continuing Education
In addition, you can always pursue further education in this field. Once you have a master’s, you may qualify for doctoral computer engineering programs.
Such programs are excellent if you want to start your own company or lean more into the research side of computer engineering. Doctoral degrees may qualify you for higher-paying positions or more intense managerial responsibilities.
Note that you may also have to take exams or continuing education classes to maintain your certification or licensure in some areas.
Professional Organizations
Both before and after earning your master’s in computer engineering, join one of the below professional organizations. These organizations offer excellent networking, study resources, and other opportunities.
- Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
- Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI)
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- IEEE Computer Society
- National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET)
FAQs
Is a master’s in computer engineering worth it?
A master’s in computer engineering is worthwhile, provided you want to advance in this field and enjoy the topics required to earn the degree. You need to like mathematics and computers to find this profession enjoyable in the long term.
Are online engineering master’s degrees respected?
Yes, provided accredited institutions award those degrees.
Can you take computer engineering online?
Yes. Many of the best computer engineering degrees are available online.
Which master’s degree is best after computer engineering?
Another good degree to pursue could be computer science or computer research, which relate to similar topics and allow you to pursue high-paying jobs.
Apply Today!
All in all, there are many excellent online computer engineering master’s programs you can pursue. Remember to analyze each program based on its admission requirements, location, and overall cost. That way, you can choose the right program for your unique needs.
If you’re still narrowing down your program options, GetEducated.com can help. Our comprehensive resources can help you find the perfect online university in no time. Check them out today!