Best Online Computer Engineering Degrees
Our list of the best online computer engineering degree programs highlights accredited colleges with the highest number of online graduates in this field, reflecting the computer engineering degree that results in the most success.
Key Takeaways:
- Florida International University ranks #1 overall, graduating 119 students from its online BS in Computer Engineering last year.
- Arizona State University Online leads in enrollment with 52,896 online students, placing it in the top 1% nationally for digital reach.
Explore our methodology, to see how we compile and verify our data. We also interviewed Dr. Lev Goldentouch, an algorithms expert and system architect, to help you understand what makes an online computer engineering degree career-ready. See his interview below.
Best Online Computer Engineering Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida International University | 119 | $16,997 | $103,462 | 93% | |
| Full Sail University | 104 | $26,417 | N/A | 61% | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 37 | $24,780 | $113,500 | 93% | |
| Old Dominion University | 27 | $13,170 | $109,053 | 89% | |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | 7 | $9,150 | N/A | 60% |
Unpacking our List of the Best Online Computer Engineering Degrees
For students eyeing a future in computer engineering — whether focused on hardware systems, artificial intelligence, or human-computer interaction — the online landscape is steadily growing, but still highly specialized. Unlike business or psychology, fully remote computer engineering programs are relatively rare. Still, choosing the right online computer engineering program can be more complicated than it seems. It's not just about what’s fastest or cheapest — it’s about where the greatest number of students actually succeed.
That's why our latest ranking of the top five online computer engineering programs is based on the total number of graduates per program. On this list, the number of recent program-specific graduates ranges from over 100 at the top to under 30 at the fifth spot. That may sound small, but in the world of fully online engineering programs, especially those with ABET accreditation or advanced lab work, these are valuable figures that show others are succeeding in that discipline in the virtual environment they offer.
Below, we pair this success with other key outcomes, like student recommendation rates. Our recommendation rates come from over 75,000 verified student surveys, providing unmatched insights into what learners actually experience.
Below, we break down how these five programs stack up and what their differences mean for your career.
Successful Graduates with Computer Engineering Degrees Reflects Trust and Maturity
Every school on our list enrolls thousands of students online, but only a handful graduate significant numbers from their computer engineering or adjacent technology-specific programs. That’s key: many schools may offer online degrees in tech, but they don’t always carry the discipline-specific rigor or demand that engineering requires.
Programs with the most graduates tend to have:
Highly structured and modular curricula, designed to guide students through difficult material at scale.
Established online delivery systems, often paired with high levels of instructor feedback or adaptive virtual learning tools.
Operational maturity, meaning the school has been offering the program long enough to refine pain points, a big plus in engineering where online labs and simulations are hard to get right on the first try.
For prospective students, this consideration when choosing the best program serves as a form of social proof: Other students have trusted the school, and many have finished with degrees in computer engineering online.
Recommendation Rates Reveal a Deeper Layer of Satisfaction
Based on student surveys we collect, we provide you with recommendation percentages. This gives you direct insight into whether students, after all the effort, would actually recommend their school to others.
Take Florida International University (FIU). With a recommendation rate of 91%, a graduation rate of 74%, and a retention rate of 92%, it checks every box. This alignment signals a well-supported experience from start to finish. It's clearly a place students are enrolling, staying, graduating, and actively encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.
Arizona State University (ASU) tells a similar story. Its 90% recommendation rate, paired with a solid graduation rate of 68%, shows that even with its interdisciplinary focus and massive online learning scale, students feel confident endorsing the school.
When you see that kind of trifecta — satisfaction, completion, and consistency, it’s a green light.
Then there’s Full Sail University. It ranks near the top in terms of online enrollment (over 20,000 distance learners) and maintains a uniquely hands-on curriculum with AI-focused coursework. But despite this reach and innovation, its recommendation rate sits at just 53% — the lowest on our list.
However, that doesn’t automatically make it a bad choice. In fact, its structure may work well for highly motivated, independent learners who thrive in accelerated environments. Kam, who graduated from Full Sail recently in 2022 said:
"The question is, do you have the ability to make it? This is fast paced and difficult. I have learned way more than I thought I would and have increased my capabilities in these areas. I enjoy this thoroughly. I am highly challenged with each class and it progressively gets more and more challenging with each course. You get your degree in under 3 years."
Old Dominion University (ODU) is another solid option, with 87% of alums here recommended the school to others. At ODU, the 87% rate aligns well with the engineering program's ABET-accredited curriculum, transfer-friendly policy, and hands-on capstone options, suggesting students feel set up for success here.
Curriculum Focuses Range from Traditional Hardware to Human Systems and AI
One of the most important distinctions between programs is what they actually teach under the “computer engineering” banner. The online bachelor's programs on this list break down into three approaches:
1. Traditional Computer Engineering (Hardware + Systems Design):
Programs in this camp focus on digital electronics, microprocessors, embedded systems, and software integration — often with ABET accreditation, which is essential if you’re pursuing licensure or want strong recognition in engineering circles.
- FIU: Offers an ABET-accredited curriculum with strengths in hardware, network security, and sensor systems; recognized by NSA/DHS for cybersecurity.
- ODU: Also ABET-accredited, this program includes a built-in computer science minor and optional modeling/simulation track for broader technical training.
2. Applied Computer Science with an Engineering Focus:
These programs often emphasize AI, computer vision, deep learning, or human-computer interaction. They appeal to students who want to be builders in the tech product, gaming, or interface design worlds more than core electrical engineers.
- Full Sail: Features a hands-on AI concentration with deep learning and human-computer interaction, plus tools like LaunchBox™ for project-based learning.
- UAG: Offers a computer engineering technology program with labs that's probably best suited for support, QA, or applied systems roles.
3. Human Systems Engineering and UX-Centric Programs:
Interdisciplinary degrees in this field merge psychology, cognitive science, and engineering disciplines. This is perfect for those who want to move into UX design, product research, or behavioral technology development.
- ASU: The program here does just that, incorporating aspects of these various disciplines into a unique BS program (with an accelerated master’s option in UX).
So, “computer engineering” can mean very different things depending on the program. Some schools, like FIU and ODU, take a classic approach focused on hardware and embedded systems while others, like Full Sail and UAG, lean into applied tech, offering project-driven pathways in AI or system support that align with fast-moving tech industries. Then there’s ASU, which redefines the field entirely by fusing UX, psychology, and design.
Knowing your destination helps decode which of these very different programs will actually take you there.
Expert Perspective: Dr. Lev Goldentouch, Algorithms Lead and System Architect in Advanced Computing
With over 15 years of experience designing algorithms across computer vision, embedded systems, and drone tech, Dr. Lev Goldentouch brings a pragmatic lens to computer engineering education. He stresses that the key to choosing the best online degree is about the specialization, the portfolio you build, and how well the program connects to employers.
If you're looking for more of his insights, he recently published the book Anyone Can Train To Become A Polymath, which leverages broad knowledge to solve complex problems while delving into ways students can develop memory and reading skills.
Algorithms Technical Lead
What should you look for when comparing online computer engineering degrees?
"There are many "flavors" of engineering degrees. It is important to understand the specialization of a given degree: AI/algorithmics, cyber/security, applications, embedded programming, or quantum computing. Sometimes the specialization is visible in the positions of the graduates, or in the graduation projects, or in the CVs of the lecturers. If there is assistance with big employers like Intel, Microsoft, or NVidia, it is an important consideration."
Are there industries where online computer engineering grads are well-positioned to succeed?
"Full-stack developers often can work remotely, and the examination for most positions often includes a home exam. So this expertise is well suited for remote learning. Additionally, if a person currently already works, for example, in QA, and needs to complete a degree for career growth, it may be less important which organization issued the degree."
What skills should comp sci students prioritize if they want to be competitive?
"While the cutting-edge technology always changes, the basics usually remain the same. For computer engineers, this often means:
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Programming in Python
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The latest favors of C++
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Understanding of design patterns and UML
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Any kind of hands-on programming experience, even as tinkering in personal projects."
For those still debating between computer engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering, what should help guide their decision?
"Electrical engineering offers a big advantage in terms of integration in multidisciplinary projects, which often integrate hardware.
Computer science is a shorter degree, often offering all the skills needed 25% faster, especially when considering higher degrees.
Computer engineering is better for rigorous people who need a deeper background in their main activity, especially when working for big companies."
EXPERT TIP
"The most important thing for anyone with a computer engineering degree is a list of people who can recommend you and a portfolio of successfully completed projects. It makes sense to experiment and build projects for fun, simply to show them to potential employers as proof of confidence."
FAQs About Online Computer Engineering Degrees
What Is an Online Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering?
A degree in computer engineering teaches students the electrical engineering necessary to build physical computers and the computer science experience necessary for software design.
While computer engineering is similar to software engineering and computer science, computer engineering is more focused on physical components than software development.
Online computer engineering bachelor's degrees usually require 120-128 credit hours and four years of full-time study. Some fully online programs have eight-week courses that allow students to take more credits per year and finish more quickly. Some programs offer specializations such as cybersecurity or software development. Taking classes in one of these specializations can open up new career opportunities in the software and networking side of computer technology. Most degree programs finish with a capstone course where students design an original computer model. Online students might also need to complete a supervised internship with a company in their area.
Explore similar bachelor's degrees that are 100% remote, including online cybersecurity degrees, software engineering degrees, and computer science programs.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Computer Engineering Degree?
To apply for an online bachelor’s in computer engineering, you’ll typically need a high school diploma or GED. Since the major blends electrical engineering and computer science, schools may require prior coursework or placement tests in subjects like calculus or physics. If needed, these prerequisites are often built into general education during the first two years. Most programs expect a minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0, and while SAT/ACT scores may be considered, many institutions no longer require them.
What Online Classes Will I Take in a Computer Engineering Program?
Computer engineers need a knowledge base that's heavy on applied mathematics, electronics and materials science, and computer programming languages. A bachelor's curriculum reflects this expertise and includes classes on engineering ethics and business communication that encourage graduates to work collaboratively and responsibly.
We've listed several common courses below to give prospective students a sense of what they'll find in an online bachelor's program in computer engineering.
- Calculus for Computer Science: Calculus helps computer engineering students understand the mathematics behind circuits, transistors, and signal processing. Most computer engineering programs require Pre-Calculus, Calculus I, and Calculus II. Topics include applying differential and integral calculus, continuity, logarithms, and the fundamental theorem.
- Circuit Analysis: Students learn the behavior of circuits, voltage, and resistance in this class. Then, they apply what they've learned to build circuits in a lab while practicing electricity safety. As with calculus, many programs offer a sequence of circuitry classes, allowing students to build on their previous training and get hands-on experience.
- Digital Logic Design: This course is a foundational part of computer engineering and covers how to apply math concepts to computer hardware. Students use binary code, Boolean algebra, and verification algorithms to build electronic circuits that transmit information. Professors discuss different types of circuits, including combinational logic circuits and synchronous sequential circuits.
- Microprocessor Design: Students will learn about microprocessors and their importance in computer architecture. The syllabus generally covers embedded systems, computer system design, timing sequences and interrupts, and microcontroller programming.
- Engineering Ethics: This class covers professional ethics for computer engineers and explores the ethical implications of engineering technology for society. Professors will use case studies and other resources to help students confront different ethical dilemmas in engineering.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering graduates are trained to design and test electrical hardware, but their expertise extends beyond that niche. With foundational knowledge in math, programming, and systems thinking, many apply their skills in areas like software development, IT infrastructure, and network architecture. The problem-solving, reasoning, and analytical abilities developed in this major translate well across multiple tech careers.
Here are several common career paths for graduates of an online computer engineering program:
- Computer Hardware Engineers: Hardware engineers design and test the physical components of computers and related systems. They often work in research and development for tech firms or government contractors. Some pursue licensure by passing the PE Electrical and Computer: Computer Engineering exam, though requirements vary by state and employer.
- Computer and Information Systems Managers: With experience, computer engineers may move into IT management roles. These professionals oversee the planning and coordination of computer systems within organizations. A graduate degree in information technology or business can support advancement into these high-level positions.
- Electronics Engineers: Electronics engineers focus on devices beyond traditional computer, such as communication systems, navigation equipment, and consumer electronics. Their work involves designing, testing, and improving complex electronic systems. Licensure is sometimes preferred for roles involving public or government contracts.
- Computer Network Architects: Network architects design and maintain the systems that keep organizations connected. This career draws heavily on knowledge of hardware, cybersecurity, data architecture, and cloud infrastructure. Engineers in this role often bridge the gap between hardware systems and IT strategy.
- Software Developers: Many computer engineering graduates pursue careers in software development. Developers write the code that powers applications, operating systems, and embedded systems, often building software to run on the very hardware their degree has trained them to understand. Opportunities exist across nearly every industry, from tech and healthcare to finance and education.
How To Choose an Online Computer Engineering Program?
Choosing an online program means weighing the pros and cons and deciding what matters most to you. Everyone's personal circumstances are different — including family responsibilities, work, and finances — so choosing a college is an extremely personal decision.
Here are some things to consider when choosing an online bachelor's in computer engineering:
Is the School Accredited? — If a school has accreditation, it means the college is continually evaluated to make sure it offers a quality education. Attending an accredited college means you'll be able to use federal financial aid if you qualify. It also means you'll be able to transfer credits to another school, which is important if you want to switch schools during your bachelor's program or go to graduate school.
Is the Program Accredited? — Individual engineering programs can also get accreditation from the (ABET). However, ABET doesn't currently accredit many fully online degree programs in computer engineering. See the next section on this page for more information.
How Much Does It Cost? — Figuring out how much your degree will cost is an important factor in choosing where to go to school. To calculate how much your bachelor's degree will cost, find your school's annual tuition and fees and multiply that number by four. It can also be helpful to use the school's net price calculator to get a better idea of what you'll actually pay, which can factor in the financial aid you might qualify for. Make sure to research financial aid opportunities at your chosen school and apply for as much aid as possible.
Can I Work While Studying? — Many students need to work while in college. While working and going to school at the same time is difficult, there are some strategies that can help set you up for success. Some students choose programs without set class times so they can work during the day and finish classwork when it's convenient for them. Part-time degrees can also give you more time to work during the week, but it will take longer to finish your degree.
How Much Support Will I Receive? — Student support services play an important role in keeping you on track and making sure you finish your degree. Most online schools offer virtual services to help online students stay connected to peers and professors, but some offer better support than others. Check each school's website or ask an admissions officer about academic advising, tutoring, counseling, and library services for online students. You can also read reviews from online students to get a better picture of a school's support network.
Not sure if a computer engineering degree is right for you? Consider exploring other online engineering programs — including electrical engineering degrees and systems engineering degrees.
What Else Should You Consider?
One of the most important things to look for when choosing a college is accreditation. Both schools and programs can be accredited. If a school is accredited, it means that the college meets high standards for educational quality. Accrediting agencies review a school's faculty, programs, and student services.
ABET evaluates programs to check if they meet engineering industry standards. Students interested in pursuing careers that require licensure should choose an ABET-accredited program because this is one of the licensure eligibility requirements. Some employers also prefer to hire graduates from ABET-accredited programs.
Students can check to see if the online programs they are interested in are on the list.
Although alumni need only a bachelor's degree to enter many jobs in the field, students can also pursue graduate degrees in computer engineering. Master's degrees in software engineering are designed to increase students' engineering knowledge and sharpen their research skills. Some students might pursue a master's in computer science or another related field to gain more experience and be more marketable in the workforce.
Doctoral programs aim to create professional researchers who either teach at universities or lead research and development for businesses or government agencies.
Can You Be a Computer Engineer Without a Degree?
Computer engineers usually need a bachelor's degree because even entry-level jobs require an advanced understanding of math and science. Students might be able to get a related job, such as a quality assurance tester, with a certificate, coding bootcamp training, or an associate degree.
Can You Be a Software Engineer With a Computer Engineering Degree?
While computer engineering focuses more on hardware and less on coding, you can still become a software engineer with a computer engineering degree because the two jobs have so much overlap. A degree in computer science or a related field would also be a good option.
How Hard Is a Computer Engineering Degree?
How hard a computer engineering degree will be depends on the person and their personal interests and strengths. Many people would consider computer engineering to be a difficult degree because of the amount of math and science required.
Those who are stronger in liberal arts and other areas of study may need to put in extra effort to keep up with their studies, which can make it harder to balance things like work and family.
However, students who are interested in figuring out how things work and enjoy STEM may find this degree less difficult than others. Even students who don't think they are good at math and science can excel in this degree if they are determined to do so.
If you want to keep exploring your options, check out our lists of the most affordable software engineering and affordable computer science degrees.
Student Reviews of Online Computer Engineering Programs
UMass Dartmouth isn't a terrible university in the campus aspect (environment is nice). The faculty members guiding students needs work. I graduated as a dual major from computer / electrical engineering but there were alot of times where I needed to fight to graduate with both degrees and not because I had bad grades it was because the advising and mentoring was all screwed up. Outside of classes, student affairs and other facilities are poor. This school offers scholarships that was heavily in... Read More
Review Date: 5/9/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I'm a recent grad and proud alumnus of Brandman University. The staff was always incredibly friendly and helpful. In my experience, Brandman employs experienced and well-qualified professors in their respective fields to instruct the courses, which lends to a rich learning environment. I had a great experience from initial enrollment inquiry up until graduation. Thanks to the G.I. Bill and this school's participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, I was able to load up on as many courses that I could... Read More
Review Date: 11/25/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I didn't have the money to go to a prestigious university so I went with this one. It costed me less, relative to out-of-state tuition, finished in 3 years and it actually prepared me for Graduate school. I really took my courses seriously and tried to consume as much as possible. The professors that I had were either experts in their field or graduated from a really good school. Post-graduation I was really worried about not being paid well or getting into a good grad school. I took the GRE and... Read More
Review Date: 4/21/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Arizona is a school filled with wonder and excitement. If you're thinking of applying I highly recommend it to anyone who loves education and a great study body! My first day on campus was a one to remember. From the amazing food to the awesome teachers and courses, you'll never go bored or hungry ever again. Ha! Go Cats!
Review Date: 3/18/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Excellent, hands-on college with a difficult but doable, accredited curriculum at a great price!
Review Date: 10/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great college for studying and field of engineering. Professors are helpful and departments are continually trying to bring in more great faculty members. Campus is beautiful. Enrollment is increasing at a rapid rate and ISU is no longer a small college town.
Review Date: 5/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Moderately sized urban campus. Main campus focus is Engineering
Review Date: 9/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Environment was nice, professors were great sometimes, but ultimately I don't honestly feel like it prepared me well for the job market in my field.
Review Date: 9/1/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
The class sizes were very large. I learned the best in my small classes but they were few and far between. Professors have office hours so you can ask individual questions, however.
Review Date: 9/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The UW is a great school, but I only experienced a small slice of it: the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, where the teachers and courses were excellent, the other students smart and engaging, and the facilities top-notch.
Review Date: 10/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
OSU is a great college to attend for any engineering discipline. The curriculum fully prepares you for a career in the field of engineering. OSU has a great campus and student life is full of fun.
Review Date: 9/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My college gave a university expirence with a small campus feel. Small class sizes but university education
Review Date: 9/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I really enjoyed my time at UNT. For the most part, the professors I had were knowledgeable and very helpful, and many would go out of their way to help you learn the material.
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
All programs at Vermont Tech are very hands-on and extremely valuable when looking for a career.
Review Date: 5/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The campus was nice they offered a lot of help for students. The engineering program was also great, it offered a lot of hands on learning
Review Date: 10/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great campus with all amenities. Engineering program is geared to providing the knowledge and experience required to get that job after college.
Review Date: 5/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Very academically challenging school with a thriving student culture as well. Despite stereotypes, the student body is fairly diverse and you can find your niche if you look for it. Engineering school is very time consuming and mentally straining.
Review Date: 7/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended ASU and got a degree in Computer Systems Administration. ASU has campuses around the Phoenix area in addition to the Tempe main campus. I attended at the Polytech campus at Williams Field. I liked this campus. It was smaller then Tempe, easier to get around, and parking is relatively easy (and the parking pass is cheaper than for Tempe. My computing professors were all helpful and knowledgeable about the subject matter. The classes I didn't do well in, were because of my own efforts. For... Read More
Review Date: 10/23/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The best aspect about Lipscomb University specially in my Computer Engineering major is the quality of education provided. The department of engineering included various faculty members who have earned their experience during both professional and academic settings. This helped in providing the perfect mix of instruction potential and advice. They almost always had the appropriate guidance with respect to a variety of educational and career queries.
Review Date: 3/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Between the Corp and engineering department I couldn't have asked for a better preparation for life. The traditions make memories and the camaraderie makes friends, that last a lifetime. Yet the most valuable benefit is being part of the Aggie network.
Review Date: 6/16/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes