Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Computer engineers create innovative computer programs, machines and robots.
They also work with hardware and software to ensure that our machines and computers runs with power and efficiency. Our increasingly computer-reliant world is creating job opportunities for graduates with computer engineering degrees.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that computer sciences degrees accounted for 1.4% of bachelor’s degrees in 2022. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also reports that computer hardware engineers earn a median salary of $138,080.
Because several types of degrees fall under the umbrella of “Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering” the following sections display top–ranked computer engineering programs as well as top–ranked programs from several related ranking articles on our website. To learn more about these different degrees, follow the link at the end of each section to their corresponding ranking article.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering
Florida International University
Miami, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,721
- Out-of-state$16,529
- In-State$8,912
- Out-of-state$21,393
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled58,711
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,029
- Out-of-state$26,664
- In-State$10,207
- Out-of-state$29,851
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled23,675
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- In-State$15,480
- Out-of-state$15,480
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled16,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Bachelors
Computer Engineering
2023
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyFeatured Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Programs
Choosing an Online Computer Engineering Program
A computer engineering online bachelor’s degree focuses on the intersection of technology and innovation. Students in these programs learn the essentials of hardware and software design. With an online computer engineering degree, graduates can pursue a career working with microprocessors, circuitry, programming, or applications. Computer engineering programs typically begin with a foundation in math, physics and chemistry. Core classes focus on topics like control systems, systems analysis, electromagnetics, databases and operating systems.
Computer engineering programs usually focus on hardware or software. A hardware–centered engineering program will likely emphaszie electrical or communications engineering. A software–centered engineering program will likely emphasize computer and mathematical theory. These concentrations allow students to tailor their online computer engineering degree to fit both their interests and career goals.
Most computer engineering programs require a capstone project. Many programs have students complete group projects or lab sessions. These projects require students to solve hardware or software problems by virtually collaborating with their peers. Students can complete many online computer engineering degrees entirely online. However, some programs are hybrid programs whcih may require learners to attend on–campus labs.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Program?
While The details of an online computer engineering degree vary depending on the school or program, all curricula share some common characteristics. In the first two years, a computer engineering program should cover core topics, such as computer systems, electronic design and communications. As students progress through a program, they can tailor the curriculum to their interests with major courses and electives that build upon their career objectives.
Curriculum for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering
- Computer Programming: A basic programming course for all computing majors that teaches students to code in Visual Basic, C++, Java, Javascript and HTML. Topics include how to program for purpose and how to think through logic puzzles using coding language.
- Circuit Theory: This introductory course explores the fundamentals of circuit theory. Students study the techniques and principles behind electrical circuit analysis and learn how to apply such laws as Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s. Other topics include steady power, three phase and Fourier problems.
- Software Design: In this online computer engineering degree course, students take an in–depth look at the software design process by using UML and object–oriented languages. Students in this course learn to critique the design process, a skill that enables them to detect problems at an earlier stage.
- Microprocessors: ECE students must take a course in microprocessors. Students learn about electronic design and the role of microprocessors and microcontrollers. Standard topics include I/O, memory devices and microcomputer architecture.
- Advanced Logic Design: This advanced course covers digital design logic. Students explore topics such as combinational logic, machine design, timing, EDA and logic synthesis. This course may also introduce hardware languages such as VHDL.
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Careers
Almost every industry today relies on technology. To grow digitally, companies are hiring individuals with the ability to develop, build, fix and advance many different technologies. With an online computer engineering degree, graduates have the skills and knowledge needed to help enterprises conceptualize, innovate and lead.
Computer hardware engineers oversee the entire computer hardware and peripheral production process; this includes the creation of processors, circuit boards and networks. Daily, tasks may involve working on simultaneous projects. These project involve the whole production process, from designing to prototype testing. To enter this field, individuals should have a four-year degree in a relevant major.
Electrical and electronics engineers, like hardware engineers, also design, test and develop equipment. Electrical and electronics engineers deal with electrical systems, like those found in cars. Electrical and electronics engineers use the same skills and knowledge used by hardware engineers. With the integration of robotics, machine learning and smart technology, these two types of engineering significantly overlap.
Software developers are in high demand. These developers create applications that drive hardware and machines. From coffee makers to a cars, more of our everday items require novel software. Software engineers work as developers who apply the principles of engineering to software design and creation. Software developers, however, do not usually possess the engineering skills to work as a software engineer.
