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Compare online computer engineering master’s programs

Cultivate the theoretical and practical knowledge of optimizing and maintaining computer systems.

Explore computer engineering programs

Why earn a master’s in computer engineering online?

Learn in-demand skills for a technology-focused career

Solidly grasp computer systems, hardware, and software to support organizations and their operations.

Deepen your tech knowledge with real-world applications

Design and program computer systems for embedding in devices like smartphones, medical devices, and automotive systems.

Network with like-minded professionals

Cultivate relationships with professional computer engineering colleagues around the world.

Browse master of computer engineering online programs

What is a master’s in computer engineering?

Master of computer engineering online programs teach students to develop and build a wide range of computer systems. Various industries like auto manufacturing, cybersecurity, medicine, and others use these computer systems to run consumer-facing applications or internal infrastructure.

Often, online computer engineering master’s programs will offer specializations such as:

  • Very large scale integration design

  • Embedded systems

  • Computer networks

  • Software engineering

  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence

Master’s in computer engineering requirements

Most online computer engineering master’s programs require a bachelor’s degree, such as an , or another STEM-related field with an average GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants will most likely submit:

  • Official transcripts

  • Résumé or CV

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Personal statement

  • Application fee

Some programs require submission of GRE scores, while others do not have this requirement. The best way to learn about the specific requirements for is to request information from the universities in which you are interested, or visit their admissions pages to learn more.

How to apply

Visit the different computer engineering online master’s programs to explore specific application instructions, including deadlines.

Online master’s in computer engineering curriculum

Designed to provide learners with advanced knowledge and skills in computer engineering, a program’s computer engineering curriculum covers the latest developments and research in computer engineering. Many courses utilize simulation and design software tools to let students practice and implement theoretical concepts paired with practical labs for experience in designing, building, and testing the hardware component of computer engineering systems.

often comes as a pre- or corequisite to , particularly at the graduate level. For example, a computer engineering curriculum might include or even as the software portion of the computer engineering curriculum, but these topics alone usually lack the hardware component associated with an .

As such, other course topics in the computer engineering curriculum include:

  • Computer architecture

  • Digital systems design

  • Embedded systems

  • Electrical engineering

  • Robotics

  • Internet protocols

  • Advanced digital signal processing

  • Network security

  • Real-time systems design

  • Advanced topics in computer networking

  • High-performance computing

  • Very large scale integration design

  • Electronics

  • Data science

What can you do with an online computer engineering master’s?

Master’s in computer engineering jobs cover roles like computer engineer, software developer, data scientist, and computer programmer, but they also encompass other areas such as:

Control and traditional energy systems

In this sector, online computer engineering master’s program graduates will design and optimize control systems for traditional power generation and distribution to enhance efficiency and reliability.

Systems design

Here, graduates of master of computer engineering online programs create integrated hardware and software systems, ensuring compatibility, scalability, and performance while meeting user requirements.

Professional communications

Those holding a computer engineering online master’s will develop communication protocols and networks for business applications, focusing on data security and privacy.

Industrial and power electronics

MS in computer engineering online program graduates may choose to design electronic systems for industrial automation, power control, and energy efficiency.

Broadcast technology

Online master’s in computer engineering programs enable graduates to work on broadcasting equipment and compression algorithms to improve audio and video transmission.

Power engineering

If online computer engineering master’s learners choose to focus on power engineering, they will go on to optimize power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, including renewable energy solutions.

Computer architecture

Master of computer engineering online programs can lead to careers in which graduates design and enhance the architecture of computer systems, optimizing performance and energy efficiency.

Multimedia processing

Once they have completed a master of computer engineering online degree, learners might decide to create algorithms and software for processing multimedia data, including compression and playback.

Nanotechnology

Another option for graduates of online master’s degree in computer engineering programs includes the research and development of nanoscale electronic components and devices with applications in various fields.

Circuits

Graduates of computer engineering master’s online programs may go on to design and analyze electronic circuits, including integrated circuits and printed circuit boards, ensuring functionality and efficiency.

Computer networks

Master of computer engineering online programs prepare graduates to design, implement, and maintain computer networks, focusing on performance, security, and scalability.

Microelectronics

Upon graduation, those holding a master of computer engineering online degree may opt to partake in the design and fabrication of microelectronic components and integrated circuits, putting an emphasis on miniaturization and power efficiency.

Any company which uses these types of technologies can benefit from an employee who holds an online computer engineering master’s. Because of its versatility, an MS in computer engineering online has applications across many industries. Some notable industries with master’s in computer engineering jobs include:

  • Information technology (IT) services

  • Hardware and semiconductor manufacturing

  • Electronics

  • Telecommunications

  • Automotive

  • Aerospace and defense

  • Energy and utilities

  • Healthcare

  • Finance and banking

  • Gaming and entertainment

  • Research and academia

  • Robotics

  • Environmental monitoring

  • Transportation and logistics

  • Manufacturing

  • Security

  • E-commerce

  • Telemedicine

  • Entertainment and media

  • Environmental and renewable energy

Master’s in computer engineering salary and computer engineering job outlook

A master’s in computer engineering salary varies by industry and level of seniority, but even mid-level positions tend to fall in the six-figure range. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer hardware engineers earned a median annual salary of $132,360 in May 2022, with the highest 10% earning more than $208,200.type: embedded-entry-inline id: 4UEeCD1llhf9aFnR1kCnQ0

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has positive data regarding the computer engineering job outlook. The BLS projects computer hardware engineer positions to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.type: embedded-entry-inline id: 5EqusvPtQ0w8MhgqfucO1J

Frequently asked questions

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  1. Computer Hardware Engineers: Pay. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 15, 2023.

  2. Computer Hardware Engineers: Job Outlook. (2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 15, 2023.