Master’s degree in computer engineering

Are you passionate about electronic devices, computer hardware, and various types of networks? If so, a career in computer engineering may be ideal, offering professional and financial satisfaction and an outstanding job outlook.

While many computer engineering roles are open to bachelor’s-level graduates, a master’s can expand your options. This includes accessing managerial and other high-paid positions at larger companies. A computer engineering master’s can also be a milestone toward doctoral studies or academic and research careers.

Explore our rankings of the best computer engineering graduate programs.

Computer engineering versus electrical engineering

Computer engineering can be thought of as a subset of electrical engineering. At the college level, computer and electrical engineers study similar subjects. At higher educational and professional levels, the fields diverge. Computer engineers apply electrical engineering knowledge to computer hardware and software. Electrical engineering is broader, focused on all uses of electricity except computers.

What can you do with a master’s in computer engineering?

The advanced knowledge and skills earned in this program allow you to work in a variety of fields.

Career options include:

• systems administrator
• hardware or software engineer
• network support specialist
• solutions architect
• artificial intelligence (AI) specialist

Should you get a master’s in mechanical engineering?

In addition to expanded career opportunities, this degree can lead to significantly higher earnings after graduation.

The table below shows the economic performance of a master’s in computer engineering 3 years after graduation. It compares earnings to the median debt accrued and contrasts these with earnings 3 years after receiving a bachelor’s in the field.

» Read: What are the benefits of a master’s degree?

How to pick a master’s in computer engineering

If you have already decided to pursue this degree, there are important details to consider before selecting a program.

Most programs let you choose a concentration or specialization. Take, for instance, cloud computing. With more than half of all global enterprises expected to close traditional datacenters soon, cloud infrastructure is expected to grow rapidly, as is the need for experienced specialists in distributed systems.

The financial technology (FinTech) field is also steadily growing as automation of financial processes accelerates. Focusing on FinTech could lead to an excellent position in a company that has incorporated this emerging technology into its operational DNA.

Other future-proof specializations you may want to explore include:

• machine learning systems
• cybersecurity
• hardware and computer architecture
• software development
• computer communications and networks
• wireless/embedded systems
• computer analytics
• health informatics
• database management
• nanofabrication

Accreditation

Accreditation is a means of certifying that a particular program or educational institution meets rigorous evaluation criteria and quality standards.

The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredits programs in computer engineering. Most programs that receive ABET accreditation are bachelor’s degrees. You may not be able to enter a computer engineering master’s program without an ABET-accredited bachelor’s.

Can you earn a master’s in computer engineering online?

Depending on your workload or competing priorities, you may want to enroll in a more flexible program. Around 75% of the programs offered across the U.S. are in-person only, with 15.6% taking place exclusively online. This means around 10% of programs use a hybrid model, with some online options.

» Read: How to choose between online and on campus education

How much does a master’s in computer engineering cost?

The table below shows differences in debt and repayment rates based on institution type.

Graduates from private programs earn slightly more, but public programs offer a better debt-to-earnings ratio due to significantly lower debt at graduation.

How to pay for a master’s in computer engineering

Master’s students are not usually eligible for direct subsidized loans or Pell grants, but many other types of loans, grants, and work-study programs are available. To obtain your degree with maximum cost savings:

1. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
2. Visit your school’s financial aid office for information on other funding options
3. Look into continuing education programs through your employer

» Read: Budgeting tips for students

What to expect from a master’s in computer engineering

This program can help you gain the expertise required to advance your IT and computer engineering career. This includes theoretical knowledge in wireless networks, machine learning, electromagnetism, or information systems management. Learning is supplemented with hands-on experience in circuitry or safe data warehousing.

Admission requirements

The exact requirements vary by school, but are likely to include:

• bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering
• research experience at the bachelor’s level
• excellent grades in the final 2 years of your bachelor’s

How long does a master’s in computer engineering take?

Getting your master’s in computer engineering takes 1 to 2 years.

Thesis versus non-thesis route

Many master’s programs include the option of a thesis or non-thesis route. The objective of a thesis is to document your research and share it with the broader scientific community.

Non-thesis programs focus on real-world applications and software or hardware projects. Students who choose this path sometimes need to earn additional credit hours.

Internships

Internships, while not required, are an excellent opportunity to grow your skills and experience while developing a professional network. Some examples are intern roles in front-end or back-end engineering, data science teams, or mobile technology engineering.

PE license versus master’s degree

A master’s in computer engineering does not replace engineering licensure. However, licensure is somewhat less common among computer engineers that most other types of engineers.

Earning your professional engineer (PE) license may be required if you wish to:

• work as a consultant
• advertise engineering services to the public
• start your own company
• move to a high-level role within a large organization

Types of courses in a master’s of computer engineering

Most master’s programs in computer engineering include coursework focusing on mathematics and software design, plus niche topics or relevant optional courses.

Some of the most common subjects include:

What careers can I have with a master’s in computer engineering?

Director, lead, principal, senior, engineering manager – if these titles and roles are vital for you, and you dream of climbing the hierarchy ladder, the most straightforward way to get there is to earn a master’s degree. Visit our careers in computer engineering page for more.