The 35 Best Masters of Computer Engineering

Designed for busy working professionals, the master’s of science in computer engineering at Texas A&M University-College Station is available both on-campus and online. The two master’s programs are identical to each other, so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing quality when you choose to study from a distance.  

Regardless of the location you choose, you’ll benefit from extensive opportunities for research and degree customization. You can pursue your own unique professional interests and goals as you work your way toward a Master’s of Science in computer engineering.

Some of the most popular areas of research include: 

• Electronic design automation
• Computer science topics
• Computer networks and internet
• Computer hardware
• Artificial intelligence

You’ll gain a strong foundational training in core concepts like physics and mathematics so that you don’t necessarily have to have a background in these fields to apply. You can choose between multiple tracks, too, including electrical engineering and computer science. You’ll take core classes like Network Coding and Mobile Wireless Networking regardless of the pathway you select. 

A top-ranked university by U.S. News & World Report, Texas A&M University is not only one of the best schools when it comes to academic quality, but also in terms of its affordability and flexibility, too. No GRE scores are required to be admitted to this master’s in computer engineering.

Purdue University is located in West Lafayette, IN, but you don’t have to live anywhere near the Midwest in order to apply to this school’s exemplary master’s in computer engineering. In fact, this 30-credit hour computer engineering program is offered both as an on campus program and online. 

This computer science and computer engineering department is home to more than 700 students from nearby as well as around the world. Many of these students will also enroll in eventual doctoral studies, making it a great master’s in computer engineering program if you’re considering a Ph.D.

Despite the graduate program’s large size, you’ll enjoy close connections with faculty and staff and a small student-to-faculty ratio as you complete the Master of Science in computer engineering.

It’s equipped with numerous specializations so that you can tailor your studies toward your career goals. Some of the courses you will take include: 

• Computer science
• Computer systems
• Communication systems and networks
• Machine learning
• Advanced computer architecture

Don’t just take our word for it, either—Purdue is top-ranked by major publications such as the U.S. News & World Report. It’s hailed by this ranking organization as one of the Best National Universities and its graduate engineering programs are highly regarded, too. 

Another great program for candidates considering doctoral studies is the master’s in computer engineering at the University of Illinois. This Master of Science in computer engineering program requires approximately 32 credit hours of study, but you won’t be pigeonholed by a restrictive list of course requirements. Instead, you can take roughly a dozen credits from any other department.

As a result, this computer engineering degree is one of the most flexible programs on this list. You can take courses in a number of specializations, including 

• Signal processing
• Power and energy systems
• Biomedical imaging
• Computer systems

Your opportunities to learn will extend far outside the classroom, too. You can work closely with faculty members as you complete research in a number of areas, such as integrated circuits or communications. In many cases, you’ll be able to publish that research, too.

One of the best (and most unique) features of this master’s in computer engineering is that it also enables you to pursue a vast array of funding opportunities. 

You can choose to apply for fellowships through the university (both institutional and endowed fellowships are available).  You can also apply outside fellowships or even industrial fellowships from a third-party source to your tuition and fees. These awards will not only help you gain experience, but to cover most (or all) of the expenses associated with graduate school, too.

Each year, the graduate programs in the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the University of Maryland prepare more than 300 students for successful careers in: 

• Computer engineering research
• computer hardware and software engineering development
• Hands-on computer engineering work

This is done not only through the computer engineering department’s many integrative, research-oriented programs, but also through the extensive opportunities for research and career training here. You’ll be able to work in an interdisciplinary fashion alongside colleagues in other college departments like mathematics and chemistry as you complete your master’s degree. 

Through this graduate degree, you’ll also be granted the opportunity to work with a number of technical facilities and international laboratories located on or in partnership with the University of Maryland campus. Regardless of how you choose to structure your studies, you’ll take develop your computer engineering skills through core classes in areas like: 

• Bioelectronics and Systems
• Computer Science
• Quantum Research
• Advanced Computer Architecture

The opportunities you’ll have for research here simply cannot be overlooked. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art research facilities where you can conduct work to support new developments in areas like: 

• Communication systems
• Embedded systems
• Software engineering
• Fiber optics

In fact, the University of Maryland’s research programs are supported by funding in excess of more than $36 million each year, making this school a fabulous choice for aspiring computer engineers.

Ohio State University is another university with a prestigious master’s degree in computer engineering. In fact, it’s so prestigious that only about 10% of all applicants each year are admitted to this program. This computer engineering program is academically rigorous and well-recognized within the industry. 

The computer engineering master’s degree provides prospective students with a vast array of options as they relate to the field of computer engineering and electrical engineering. Degree requirements include hands-on classes such as: 

• Communication Systems
• Computer Science
• Embedded Systems
• Electro-Optics and Photo-Optics

The computer engineering degree comes with two potential tracks—a research track and a project track. The research track requires a thesis, while the project track will enable you to complete a personally-designed project in interest area instead. 

Computer engineering courses are taught by industry-recognized experts. Not only will you have the opportunity to learn from these professionals as you complete your studies, but you’ll also be able to engage in groundbreaking research in computer engineering as you do so. Computer engineering graduates are able pursue a wide variety of careers.

If you can’t decide where exactly you’d like your work in computer engineering to take you, you may want to consider pursuing the master’s in computer engineering at UT Austin. This large university offers nine separate programs based out of the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, enabling you to pursue the program of your dreams while also exploring all the resources offered at the university. 

Each computer engineering concentration is incredibly research-focused. You will be able to work in state-of-the-art laboratories as you conduct individual and team-based research with the university’s accomplished faculty members. 

Although each set of computer engineering courses will vary for every student depending on the chosen concentration, some of the most common requirements include: 

• Design of Computer-Controlled Systems
• Computer Networks
• Embedded Systems
• Data Mining

When it comes to concentrations you can choose from, you’ll enjoy options such as: 

• Plasma/Quantum Electronics
• Software Engineering and Systems
• Computer Architecture

With all the options available, UT Austin’s computer engineering master’s programs are worth checking out!

Located in Atlanta, GA, Georgia Institute of Technology is one of the country’s leading public research institutions. With a commitment to improving the world via science and technology, Georgia Tech is one of the top ten public universities in the country, according to the U.S. News & World Report.

Enroll in one of the computer engineering master’s programs at Georgia Tech, and you’ll enjoy a technology-focused education as you study alongside a large student body of 25,000 other students. Despite the large enrollment, class sizes here are small, helping you get the most out of expertly designed courses that are rigorous, hands-on, and career-relevant. 

Some of the computer engineering courses you will take include: 

• Computational Data Analysis
• Computer Hardware
• Computer Systems
• High-Performance Computing
• Wireless Networks

In all of these courses, you’ll enjoy a tech-focused education that will prepare you to invent, create, develop, synthesize, and troubleshoot in all areas of computer engineering. 

To apply to Georgia Tech’s master’s in computer engineering program, be prepared to submit an official application along with: 

• Bachelor’s degree transcripts
• GRE or GMAT test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement
• A resume

Another one of the country’s top public research universities is the University of Florida, located in Gainesville, FL. This school, home to a whopping population of more than 54,000 students, is ranked among the top ten public universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

Here, you’ll find one of the world’s best master’s in electrical engineering and computer engineering. This computer engineering program is available both as a Master of Science as well as a Master of Engineering and is a great option for future computer engineers.

Some of the degree requirements include: 

• Computer Programming
• Computer Architecture
• Foundations of Digital Signal Processing
• Reconfigurable Computing

However, you’ll be able to pick and choose among many other computer engineering courses as you design your graduate studies.

Enroll at the University of Florida, and you’re making a smart choice for your career, your future, and your wallet. In fact, more than 95% of students admitted to this computer engineering program will complete it successfully, with students recruited to top organizations around the globe for internships and full-time employment opportunities.  

Aspiring computer engineers, you won’t want to miss this one. The University of Georgia’s College of Computer Science and Engineering is among the top computer engineering schools.

Here, you will find:

• Eight different bachelor’s degrees
• Seven different master’s degrees
• Multiple dual degrees 
• Several combined bachelors and masters

Earn a Master of Science with an electrical engineering and computer engineering concentration, and you shouldn’t have any problem finding a job. In fact, 97% of all computer engineering graduates find employment within just six months of graduation, with undergraduate candidates earning an average $62,000 salary upon completing their degrees. 

All computer engineering programs are accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The Master’s of Science in computer engineering comes with two separate options—a thesis option and a non-thesis option. The thesis option requires a minimum of six hours of research, while the non-thesis will enable you to take six credit hours in additional emphasis area courses. You’ll also be able to complete a research project and a master’s project report in an area of interest. 

At the University of California-Los Angeles, the school is known as “the grounds of optimism.” 

What does that mean? It means that, as a UCLA student, you’ll learn far beyond the classroom as you gain the skills necessary to engage with the modern world. You’ll study on the same campus where more than 140 new companies have been created based on UCLA-driven technology, and you’ll become the catalyst for new research and development of your own. 

The graduate-level computer engineering programs at UCLA are nothing short of remarkable, and that’s especially true when you consider the impressive Master of Science in computer engineering and electrical engineering. This computer engineering program is designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or computer science. The master’s degree provides a solid graduate-level education while also allowing students to cater their education to their unique interests. 

You can pursue a course-based, project-based, or thesis-based education here. You’ll complete seven to nine graduate courses as well as upper-division classes in an interest area. Specialization areas include: 

• Physical and wave electronics
• Circuits and embedded systems
• Signals and systems

Upon special petitioning with your faculty advisors, you may also be able to create your own academic track. 

Rutgers University, located in New Brunswick, NJ, has dozens of programs for graduate and undergraduate students to choose from. However, its engineering programs are some of the most popular and produce the best computer engineers. The Electrical and Computer Engineering department at Rutgers is one of the largest, with more than 350 graduate students and 38 faculty members. 

Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, the Master of Science in electrical engineering and computer engineering offers both a thesis and a non-thesis track. This computer engineering degree is perfect for professionals who wish to enter the industry directly or to continue studies at the doctoral level. 

You’ll learn from world-class faculty who are actively engaged in research of all kinds, from wireless systems to virtual reality technologies. You’ll take a handful of foundational and more advanced classes to help give you the computer engineering skills for cutting-edge research and top industry employment.

You’ll be able to choose from areas of specialization including: 

• Software engineering
• Solid-state electronics
• Computer architecture
• Communications engineering

While you’re enrolled in this 30-credit hour master’s in computer engineering, you’ll be able to explore multiple opportunities for research with expert faculty. You’ll conduct research in the university’s state-of-the-art labs and facilities, including: 

• The SiCLAB
• The Wireless Information Network Laboratory
• The Center for Autonomic Computing

Graduate students’ research is frequently published in high-profile journals and receives recognition and funding from industry partners. 

Arizona State University, located in Tempe, AZ, offers a Master of Science in computer engineering that can be completed both online as well as on-campus. This computer engineering degree offers a unique concentration in software engineering along with numerous specialized courses that will train you in the fundamental principles of software engineering.

Offered by the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering, this program is ranked as one of the best in the country. That’s unsurprising, given that Arizona State University-Tempe is frequently ranked as one of the Best National Universities in the country by the U.S. News & World Report. 

Available as a stand-alone program as well as a combined degree, this Master of Science in computer engineering makes it possible for you to earn both a master’s and a bachelor’s in as little as five years. As an accelerated program, it’s the perfect choice for motivated students who want to complete their graduate studies as quickly as possible.

Requiring 30 credit hours of study, this master’s in computer engineering includes core courses such as Random Signal Theory and Foundations of Algorithms. 

There are both thesis and non-thesis options available in this master’s in computer engineering program. Regardless of the option you choose, the application requirements are the same. Be prepared to submit the graduate application or admission along with: 

• Official transcripts from undergraduate work
• A personal statement
• GRE test scores (if your bachelor’s degree program was not ABET-accredited)
• Letters of recommendation

Founded in 1965, the University of California-Irvine was created with the goal of improving the lives of the local community (and the world) through: 

• Rigorous academics
• Stellar public service
• State-of-the-art research

With 82 majors and 75 minors to choose from, it might be tough for you to decide where to take your studies when you enroll at this prestigious school. However, the Master of Science in computer engineering should be a top contender as you narrow down your list of choices. This computer engineering program provides learners with a solid education in the development, design, and evaluation of computer systems. 

The computer engineering program is equipped with several pathways for specialization. You can choose to pursue concentrations in fields like: 

• Computer software engineering
• Computer architecture
• Embedded systems

You’ll complete around 12 core courses along with a thesis or a comprehensive examination. You’ll be able to create your own computer engineering graduate studies with the help of your faculty advisor. 

This computer engineering degree isn’t just one of the best in terms of its academic quality—it’s also one of the most affordable. You’ll be eligible to apply for a variety of funding opportunities from teaching assistantships to fellowships and even work as a graduate student researcher. 

The master’s in computer engineering at the University of California-San Diego is competitive in that you must apply not only to the university, but to the program directly when you apply for admission. Don’t let its competitive nature deter you from doing so, though—this university offers some of the best master’s degrees in the country. 

Here, you’ll benefit from a computer engineering curriculum that includes studies in both software engineering and hardware engineering. This enables you to engage in a number of competency-based assessments so that you can move quickly through the curriculum as you demonstrate what you know (rather than simply that you’ve earned the required credits).

You’ll gain the computer engineering skills necessary to be successful in modern-day computing and engineering as well as to anticipate future developments. 

You’ll take a number of courses and conduct unique research in areas like: 

• Embedded Systems
• Computer Programming
• Computer Architecture 
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Systems

Since the University of California-San Diego is one of the country’s top research institutions, you’ll also benefit from dozens of centers and laboratories here that are dedicated to specific research areas, too. For example, you may choose to conduct interdisciplinary research in specific areas like Nanoscale Devices in one of the country’s top-ranked research facilities. 

As one of the country’s first land, sea, and space grant institutions, North Carolina State University in Raleigh is clearly one of the best schools for computer engineering. NC State’s computer engineering programs provides future computer engineers with extensive research opportunities. Not only is this school a leader in STEM research and education, but it also provides learners with an excellent return on investment. 

One of the most affordable programs in the country, NC State is ranked as one of the top public universities by Princeton Review as well as by U.S. News & World Report. The Master of Science in computer engineering is available on-campus as well as entirely online. 

Consisting of 30 credit hours of study, this computer engineering program is perfect for students who possess bachelor’s degrees in engineering. You’ll take classes in important subjects such as: 

• Wireless communication
• VLSI systems
• Computer hardware
• Computer architecture
• Embedded Systems

Upon enrollment, you’ll be assigned to a faculty advisor who will help you develop a customized plan of study. 

To apply, you’ll need to have a GPA of at least 3.25 from your bachelor’s degree work. You will also need to submit three letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a formal application for admission to this computer engineering program. It can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.  

A public research university and land-grant university, the University of California-Davis is located in Davis, CA and is one of ten campuses within the University of California system.

UC Davis is recognized as an R1 university, conducting some of the highest levels of research activity as compared to other schools in the United States. UC Davis is a perfect pick for future computer engineers. The electrical and computer engineering master’s degree promotes cutting-edge research and instruction in a wide variety of areas, such as: 

• Embedded systems
• Communications systems
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer architecture
• Physical electronics

In this computer engineering program, you’ll be able to tailor your graduate studies to meet your professional career goals. You can conduct as much interdisciplinary research as you’d like (it’s actively encouraged as part of the program) and take courses in other departments across the university, too. 

Not only that, but this computer engineering master’s degree is also an excellent pathway toward the university’s Ph.D., which as an added bonus offers additional training in biotechnology.  

If you’re already working full-time and want to enroll in a master’s in computer engineering that works with your schedule instead of against it, you might want to consider the online Master of Science in computer engineering at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.

This large public university offers one of the best master’s in computer engineering for busy professionals. You’ll be able to take all of your courses remotely, moving through nine core credits in subjects like: 

• Computer Architecture
• Embedded Systems
• Computer Systems
• Reconfigurable Computing
• Computer Architecture

However, you won’t be forced into a cookie-cutter education when you enroll in this computer engineering program. There are numerous concentration areas available so that you can tailor your studies toward your unique career interests or goals. 

Some of the most popular concentrations include: 

• Intelligent systems
• Wireless communication
• Computer networks
• Computer architecture and design
• Multimedia engineering

All of these concentrations are top-ranked and have demonstrated success when it comes to graduates finding jobs. The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has received top marks from the U.S. News & World Report as a whole, but it’s also earned recognition for its graduate computer engineering programs, too. 

As the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a public research and land-grant institution located in Amherst, MA. With more than 30,000 students, this school is classified among the R1: Doctoral Universities-Very High Research Activity. 

With more than 200 different programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level to choose from, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers aspiring computer engineers with some of the best opportunities to earn their degrees. 

There are both master’s and doctoral degrees to choose from, with common areas of research including: 

• Computer science
• Computer and embedded systems
• Wireless communication
• Artificial intelligence
• Machine learning

When you enroll at the UMass-Amherst, you’ll be enrolling in a graduate school that’s taught by faculty members who are experts in their respective disciplines. Not only that, but these instructors are known for their ability to work collaboratively across disciplines, too, so you’ll be able to explore interdisciplinary research in a variety of areas. 

Graduates of this computer engineering master’s degree begin lucrative positions like: 

• Computer hardware engineer
• Computer systems engineer
• Wireless communication network engineer
• Academic researcher

Move over, plan sheets and rigid prerequisites—graduate education at the University of California-Santa Barbara takes a whole new approach. Through this master’s degree, you’ll be the pilot of your own education, choosing the courses that make the most sense for your career and academic goals.

Here, you’ll be able to take an active role in designing your computer engineering degree. You can choose classes from a number of departments to create a degree that is versatile and relevant. There are several programs you can choose from here to customize the Master of Science in computer engineering that works best for your career goals. 

You can pursue a simple degree that will allow you to engage in research in topical software systems and computer systems architecture. Or you can enroll in a combined, accelerated undergraduate and graduate program (a 4+1) so you can move more quickly through your degrees. 

Regardless of the pathway you choose, you’ll take core computer engineering classes in subjects like: 

• Embedded Systems
• Computer Systems
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence

Your opportunities to learn will extend far beyond the classroom walls, too. 

Here, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of studying at a public research institution. You will be able to work with prominent faculty members (the faculty resume here includes numerous Nobel Prize laureates and members of the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Sciences). You’ll also be able to work in one of twelve different national research centers on campus.  

Aspiring computer engineers, this one is for you! Originally established as a private research facility for Texas Instruments in 1961, the University of Texas at Dallas is a public research institution with a main campus in Richardson, TX. First known as the Graduate Research Center of the Southwest and later as the Southwest Center for Advanced Studies, this school became part of the University of Texas system in 1969. 

Although there are more than 140 academic programs here for you to choose from, you can’t go wrong with the Master of Science in computer engineering. This computer engineering program will train you in how to become a leader in research, design, and development, enabling you to pursue a high-paying job shortly after graduation.

You’ll gain specialized skills in both computer hardware and software development as you complete this degree, but you can also specialize in an area of your choosing. Two concentrations are available: embedded systems and computer systems.

Regardless of the specialization you choose, you’ll take classes and conduct research in topics like: 

• Operating computer systems
• Computer graphics
• Parallel processing
• Machine learning
• Information assurance

You’ll be able to study in the school’s multiple state-of-the-art labs. One of the school’s newest and most prominent features is the cutting-edge information infrastructure, which consists of wireless networks in all buildings along with extensive fiber-optic Ethernet. 

Ranked as one of the country’s top public schools as well as one of the best national universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Arizona, located in Tucson, AZ, offers one of the best (and most affordable) Master of Science in computer engineering in the country. 

Established in 1885, this public research university is ranked as a Top 50 Public University as well as a best value school. You’ll have great success in finding a job after graduation—in fact, 92% of employers report that graduates of the University of Arizona have the skills necessary to be successful on the job. These results apply not only to the master’s of computer engineering but also to each of the university’s other 150 areas of study. 

This computer engineering master’s degree produces successful computer engineers every semester. The program is offered as an on campus program as well as online—or you can pursue courses in a more hybrid fashion. Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll benefit from maximum flexibility and individualization when it comes to designing your courses. 

Choose to study online, and you won’t just be moving through pre-recorded material. You can watch live lectures and interact in real-time with your peers as you take classes like: 

•  High-Performance Computing
• Digital Signal Processing and Control
• Artificial Intelligence
• Wireless Communication

You’ll be able to choose from multiple computer engineering specializations when you take classes at the University of Arizona.

The University of Central Florida offers some of the best computer engineering master’s programs in the country.

The school was founded in 1963 by the Florida Legislature, first opening its doors as Florida Technological University with the goal of providing support to the nearby space programs at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and the Kennedy Space Center. 

As the school grew to offer more programs, it also grew in prestige. Today, the University of Central Florida is an award-winning institution, having been repeatedly ranked as the third-best up-and-coming national university by U.S. News & World Report. 

The Master of Science in computer engineering offers future computer engineers the opportunity to specialize in a variety of research areas. All offer both thesis and non-thesis options along with an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program. NOt only will you be able to specialize in a research area of your interest, but you’ll also gain the broad background skills necessary to be successful in multiple technical areas. 

Some of the most common specializations through this computer engineering program include: 

• Software systems and algorithms
• Computer systems and VLSI design
• Computer networks and computer security

No matter which direction you decide to take as you pursue your studies, rest assured that you won’t go broke doing so—tuition starts at just $369.65 per credit hour. 

With a main campus in Ames, IA, Iowa State University is a public research institution that’s considered one of the best and most student-focused universities not just in the state, but in the entire country. With the goal of improving the world through creation and knowledge, this school has more than 100 different majors to choose from spread out among ten schools. 

The online Master of Science in computer engineering is just one of the many hands-on and career-relevant computer engineering programs offered by this institution. It’s facilitated by the Department of Computer Science and Electrical/Computer Engineering and enables computer engineering students to create their own schedules. You will be able to take as few as one class per semester, or you can take classes full-time to graduate in just a couple of years, if desired. 

You will need to take 12 credit hours of study in a major area of focus. You can start your studies in any semester, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. You’ll need to submit an application at least a month before the start of the semester. It’s important to note that, for this computer engineering program, GRE scores are not required if your GPA is 3.0 or higher.

With an impressive graduation rate of 94%, it’s easy to see why the University of Virginia makes the list as one of the best schools at which to pursue a master’s degree in computer engineering. It’s ranked as one of the top three public universities in the country by the U.S. News & World Report and is home to more than 24,000 students. Located in Charlottesville, VA, this school was founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson himself. 

The master of engineering program is perfect for candidates who are already at work in the computer engineering field and want to take classes at their own pace. You can take just one class per semester if you choose, or you can progress more quickly through the curriculum.

Curious about the classes you’ll take? You’ll have a lot of flexibility when it comes to designing your courses, but some of the classes you might pursue include: 

• Computer Systems 
• Computer Architecture 
• Fundamentals of Nanoelectronics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Wireless Communications

To apply, you will need to submit a formal application, GRE scores, references, and official transcripts. You may also need to complete some supplementary assessments such as a: 

• Computer Engineering Oral Communication Assessment
• Computer Engineering Technical Writing Assessment
• Computer Engineering Analysis Assessment

The University of Utah is so prestigious and well-known that, to its many students, faculty, and alumni, it is known simply as “The U.” This school is a public research university located in Salt Lake City, UT, and it’s the flagship university of the Utah System of Higher Education. 

Home to more than 32,000 students, this school is the second-largest public university in the state. It’s also home to one of the best master’s degrees in electrical engineering and computer engineering. This program has three separate tracks, making it easy for you to develop a computer engineering path that will mesh with your unique career and professional goals.

The coursework option requires no thesis or research but instead provides computer engineering students with all the required training via coursework alone. 

The project option allows learners to complete some credits through a research project of your own design. The thesis option is the most traditional track. This final option enables computer engineering majors to: 

• Perform original research
• Write a thesis
• Defend that thesis with a dissertation

It’s the perfect option for students considering doctoral studies. 

A state research university located in Pittsburgh, PA, the University of Pittsburgh is often referred to simply as “Pitt.” This school was founded in 1787 as the Pittsburgh Academy and is home to 17 graduate and undergraduate schools. 

Among them is the Swanson School of Engineering, which offers a Master of Science in electrical engineering and computer engineering with both professional and research tracks. Pursue the research track and you’ll be able to work on a thesis under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Enroll in the professional track and you will take 30 credit hours of graduate coursework. 

Regardless of the pathway you choose, you’ll be able to complete this degree in about a year of full-time study. There are multiple specializations available, including those in: 

• Electric engineering
• Electronics
• Biomedical engineering
• Image processing-computer vision
• Signal processing-communications

Of course, you can pursue a basic computer systems engineering specialization as well. This will enable you to take courses like: 

• Projects in Algorithm Development
• Artificial intelligence
• Parallel Performance Modeling and Analysis
• Cluster Computing

As a computer engineering major, you will be able to pursue research in the Pitt Parallel Computer Laboratory, the Swanson Embedded computing, and Interfacing Laboratory. 

Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico is a public research institution located in Albuquerque, NM. Known for its high level of research activity as well as its top-ranked NCAA Division I athletics, this school is a also a top choice for aspiring computer engineers.

The Master of Science in computer engineering is just one of many high-profile programs offered by the Computer Science and Electrical and Computer Engineering department at the University of New Mexico. You can also pursue majors in: 

• Electrical engineering
• Optical science and engineering
• Project management
• Entrepreneurship and technology
• Space systems engineering

In most cases, computer engineering majors take 24 hours of coursework and complete a six credit-hour thesis. You’ll be able to select an emphasis area or minor to help you hone and customize your studies for a more career-focused degree, too. The department even offers a Ph.D. in computer engineering if you wish to continue your studies past the graduate level.

A nationally and internationally recognized institution, Cornell University is located in upstate New York’s small city of Ithaca. Cornell offers a unique program in computer engineering. This degree challenges students to think outside the box and solve real world problems through competitive coursework.

As a computer engineering student, you’ll be able to work alongside a group of highly accomplished peers as you move through a personalized course load of rigorous classes. 

You can choose from two separate majors here, depending on where exactly you would like to study. One Master of Engineering degree is offered at the Ithaca campus and is highly flexible, enabling students to design their own degrees as they have a vast amount of personal freedom. The second is offered in New York City and focuses on entrepreneurship. 

Regardless of the pathway you choose, you’ll likely take classes in subjects like:

• Space Science and Plasma Physics
• Information, Systems, and Networks
• Computer Engineering and Digital Systems
• Machine Learning

Computer engineering students learn from some of the top thinkers and industry experts, benefiting from small class sizes that foster collaboration and a small student-to-faculty ratio.

Founded more than 63 years ago in Oyster Bay, Stony Brook University first opened its doors as State University College on Long Island. This school is part of the Association of American Universities, a highly selective group of research institutions in North America. 

Because of this designation, you can expect to conduct a high level of research as you complete your degree here. The Master of Science in computer engineering is offered by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and offers graduate students ample opportunities to participate in independent study and to get involved in research programs.

Computer engineering majors are able able to choose from thesis and non-thesis options, as well as to pursue coursework that will enable them to receive an eventual Ph.D. You can choose from multiple areas of emphasis, including those in: 

• Machine learning
• Circuits and VLSI
• Semiconductor devices and quantum electronics
• Computer systems
• Communication systems and signal processing

Can’t decide which specialization is right for you? Don’t worry. The computer science and computer engineering department also offers multiple certificate programs so you can continue your education even after you’ve earned your degree. 

Columbia University in the City of New York offers another one of the country’s best master’s in computer engineering. If you aren’t sure whether doctoral study or entering the workforce is in your future, you’ll want to give this computer engineering program a shot. It offers students an excellent pathway to either option. 

You’ll take coursework in subjects like: 

• Systems-on-Chip Platforms
• Wireless Networks and Systems
• Digital VLSI Circuits
• Computer Systems
• Embedded Systems

You will be required to take 30 credit hours of coursework with an optional nine additional credits of research with faculty members. 

There are multiple research groups at Columbia, all of which enable computer engineering students to work on projects that interest them most. You can work in one of the school’s many laboratories, such as the Computer Architecture Laboratory. 

No matter where your research interests take you, you’re guaranteed to build relationships and networks with top-ranking computer engineers, alumni, and industry partners. There’s no better way to get a leg up on the career-seeking competition! 

With 12 colleges offering more than 200 areas of study, it might seem that the University of Iowa offers training in everything that’s a mile wide and an inch deep. Don’t let the vast array of program offerings here mislead you, though. Despite offering numerous degrees, the school offers one of the best (and most in-depth) computer engineering master’s degrees. 

The Master of Science in electrical engineering and computer engineering at the University of Iowa is offered by the Graduate College. Available both with and without a thesis, this master’s degree will provide you with the theoretical know-how and the technical skills necessary to revolutionize an industry, from healthcare to transportation.

This computer engineering program is one of the most hands-on, enabling students to participate in extensive opportunities for experiential education, such as: 

• Study abroad
• Research
• Internships
• Co-ops

You can join one of thirty different engineering-specific student organizations, too, if you choose. As a result of these exceptional opportunities, the computer engineering program has an impressive 94% career placement rate. 

To apply to this master’s degree, you’ll need to submit an online application to provide supplemental materials like a resume, an application for graduate awards, and a statement of purpose. Letters of recommendation are also requested. 

Founded in 1819 as Cincinnati College, the University of Cincinnati is the oldest university in the city as well as one of the largest. It has an enrollment of more than 44,000 students, and as part of the University System of Ohio, also offers graduate students with some of the best opportunities for customized, interdisciplinary learning. 

The master’s degree in computer engineering at the University of Cincinnati takes most students just two years to complete and consists of 30 to 33 credit hours of study. You’ll be able to work on exciting, challenging projects in areas like: 

• Hardware and software systems
• Embedded systems
• Microsensors
• Nanoelectronics
• Machine learning

There are two separate graduate degrees offered by the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computing Systems, with the other degree being the Master of Science in electrical engineering. 

Both of these master’s degrees provide learners with access to research opportunities that are funded by national and state research agencies like the NSF, NASA, the Army Research Office, and more. 

The school is home to some of the country’s best teaching and research facilities, with 32 faculty members teaching in state-of-the-art research laboratories. 

Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California is one of the state’s largest and most prestigious public research institutions. As such, the school’s main goal is to foster collaborative, original research among students. 

Because of this, the Master of Science in computer engineering is one of the most hands-on. You’ll be able to conduct all kinds of relevant research on a practically daily basis, focusing your studies on one of three specific areas:

• Design and Analysis of Computer Networks and their Protocols
• Computer Architecture and Parallel Processing
• VLSI Design and Computer-Aided Design

Regardless of the pathway you choose, you’ll take around 27 credit hours of study. Six of these consist of elective credits, meaning you’ll have the ability to customize your degree. Some required courses include: 

• Computer-Aided Design of Digital Systems
• Parallel and Distributed Computation Units
• Network Processor Design and Programming Units

You’re sure to be successful upon graduation, too. The school consistently ranks among the world’s best when it comes to alumni contributions and career placement rates. It’s also ranked as one of the top 25 schools in the country, particularly in regards to innovation and entrepreneurship, by the U.S. News & World Report and other ranking publications. 

Chicago, IL is a city with plenty to offer visitors and residents alike. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this school is known for being an international hub for:

• Culture
• Finance
• Commerce
• Education
• Industry
• Telecommunications
• Technology
• Transportation

It’s also home to the University of Illinois at Chicago which, due in part to its location alone, is one of the best places to earn a master’s degree in computer engineering.

The Master of Science in electrical engineering and computer engineering requires 36 to 40 semester hours of credit. You can earn those credits either through a thesis or a coursework-only option. Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll be able to choose an academic track in a specific area of research. 

You’ll take courses in a number of relevant, industry-focused areas such as:

• Pattern Recognition
• Network Analysis
• Digital Signal Processing
• Machine learning

Your computer engineering courses aren’t the only places where you’ll learn, either—the department sponsors regular departmental seminars that will give you the opportunity to learn about research advances and other developments in the field. 

This computer engineering master’s degree will lead you to lucrative careers like: 

• Computer hardware engineer
• Computer systems engineer
• Wireless communication network engineer

The University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, OK, was first founded in 1890—that’s right, before Oklahoma was even recognized as a state! Today, the school enrolls more than 31,700 students and has over 160 different master’s degrees to choose from. 

The School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Oklahoma is one of the best and most research-focused in the country. The school is sponsored by multiple organizations and regional industry partners, including the Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology.

The Master of Science in electrical and computer engineering can be pursued with a thesis or non-thesis pathway. Both are excellent pathways toward the university’s Ph.D. program, with one year of full-time study required in most cases for graduation.

You’ll take about 30 to 33 credit hours of study, nine of which can consist of technical electives. You will take classes in research areas like: 

• Computer systems
• Embedded Systems
• Bioengineering
• Communications
• Machine learning

You’ll also be able to participate in an internship.  Don’t miss these computer engineering master’s programs. They may be the final ranking on our list, but they are worth checking out!