Studying at one of the best computer engineering schools in Florida is a great option for students interested in pursuing a lucrative career in computer science or a technology-related field. Many computer science schools in Florida have a variety of great programs with affordable tuition for prospective students.
In this article, we will discuss Florida computer science school rankings, top programs for degree levels, and career opportunities after graduation. We will also answer relevant questions to help guide you on the best path for your future.
How to Choose a Good Computer Engineering School in Florida
To choose the best computer engineering school in Florida for you, you should consider factors such as accreditation, cost, degree levels offered, student-faculty ratio, and graduation rate. These factors are important in assessing the quality of education and your long-term goals as a student. Below, we’ll be discussing each factor individually to share more details.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that an institution meets a high-quality standard of education and successful learning experience for students. Accredited schools also offer a variety of financial aid options and transferable credits for degree programs. Furthermore, students who graduate from an accredited school have an easier time finding employment afterward.
Cost
When choosing a school, cost should be an integral factor to look at before applying. Many schools offer varying tuition rates for the same degree program. It’s advisable to choose a school and program that fits your budget to avoid financial burden later on. Schools also offer a variety of financial aid and scholarships to help cover costs.
Degree Levels
Universities typically offer three-degree levels, and these degree levels are important when deciding whether or not to attend a school. Depending on your level of education and career path pick a school that is in line with your educational goals and academic level.
Florida Computer Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Engineering Programs in Florida?
| Computer Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Engineering | 31 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering | 81 |
| University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | PhD in Computer Engineering | 81 |
| University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering | 96 |
| University of South Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | 114 |
| Florida International University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Engineering | 147 |
| Florida Atlantic University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Engineering | 162 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | PhD in Computer Engineering | 162 |
Florida Computer Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Engineering Schools in Florida
To rank the best computer engineering schools in Florida, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best engineering program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Computer Engineering Schools in Florida Explained
In the table above, we have listed the schools that have the best computer engineering programs in Florida. In the section below, we’ll be explaining further and sharing necessary information about these schools and what they offer.
Best Undergraduate Computer Engineering Schools in Florida
We evaluated and chose the best undergraduate computer engineering colleges in Florida that provide both Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Engineering. A breakdown of the schools and programs is provided below.
Best Computer Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Florida
- Valencia College | Associate of Science in Computer Engineering. This is a two-year program that prepares you to go directly into a specialized career in electronics. Valencia’s innovative programs transform students into highly skilled technicians capable of critical thinking and practical application.
- South Florida State College | Associate of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. This two-year program provides students with the knowledge and skill required to solve technical issues. The program encourages hands-on practice.
- Daytona State College | Associate of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. The computer engineering technology program teaches installation, maintenance, and repair of computer systems, networks, robotics, and simulation technology. The curriculum teaches basic electronics and prepares students to pass the A+ certification exam.
- Gulf Coast State College | Associate of Science in Engineering Technology. This track prepares students for jobs using digital design and modeling, rapid prototyping, direct digital production, and computer numerical control (CNC) machining.
- Hillsborough Community College | Associate of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. This 68-credit program prepares students for entry-level IT jobs. The course covers diagnosing and repairing micro, mini, and mainframe hardware and software. Students can become field or shop technicians with minimal training.
Best Computer Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Florida
- University of Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Students can specialize in areas like computer architecture, computer system engineering, digital signal processing, embedded systems, and many other related topics through electives. Students can stay up to date on their progress through the program with student tracking records.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This program combines in-demand computer engineering abilities with an emphasis on developing skills for aerospace, aviation, military, and commercial industries. Students can also gain knowledge and expertise in a wide range of aviation and aerospace fields.
- University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. The program offers two tracks to prospective students, a comprehensive track that focuses on basic concepts, and a digital track that explores software and hardware. Students will be prepared to seek employment from top industry employers as computer engineers, software developers, and system administrators.
- Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. The engineering department offers an innovative academic undergraduate curriculum. It aims to produce graduates whose academic achievements are comparable to or exceed those of recognized state-supported engineering colleges.
- University of Miami | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This degree program is separated into three sections and students will need to complete one section of each specialization. The program aims to teach students the fundamentals of current computer engineering as well as how to apply standard practices, techniques, and modern tech to solve problems.
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Engineering in Florida
The best graduate schools for computer engineering in Florida are the University of Florida, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and University of Miami. Below is a detailed list of programs these schools offer for future graduate degree candidates.
Best Schools for Master’s in Computer Engineering in Florida
- University of Florida | Master of Science in Computer Engineering. This curriculum teaches students how to apply advanced computing design and integrated circuit design approaches to modern computing systems using industry-standard design tools.
- University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Computer Engineering. This program includes various topics relating to computer systems, VLSI designs, and software engineering. Students obtain a high level of skill in understanding, using, and articulating computer system alternatives through hands-on learning experiences.
- University of South Florida | Master of Science in Computer Engineering. The department offers a thesis and non-thesis option for this degree and students are advised to first consult a graduate academic advisor. The program is built around developing knowledge in concentrated topics within computer engineering.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program prepares students to work not only in the aviation and aerospace industry but also in a variety of other fields. The faculty members are accomplished professionals who contribute first-hand expertise and perform continuous research alongside graduate students.
- University of Miami | Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. There are three tracks available in the program which include audio engineering, data analytics, sensors and devices, and general ECE. The program also covers specialized topics including statistical signal processing, machine learning, and big data analytics.
Best PhD in Computer Engineering Universities in Florida
- University of Florida | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Students in this program are prepared to be innovative leaders in academic, industrial, and entrepreneurial environments. The program is created with a research emphasis in mind, with a modest number of mandatory courses. This enables students to concentrate on their research.
- University of Central Florida | PhD in Computer Engineering. During this four- to five-year PhD program, graduate students will have to complete a thesis or dissertation on a specialized area of study. After completion, they will be able to work in advanced areas within the computer engineering field.
- University of South Florida | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering. This program demonstrates the capability of an individual to carry out independent research in computer science and engineering and report it. A dissertation will need to be completed in one of the major research areas which include embedded systems, computer architecture, or pattern recognition.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. This research-oriented degree program prepares graduates to offer their knowledge, skills, and research expertise to academia, industry, and government through practical application.
- Florida International University | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program is designed for students who want to pursue advanced study and research in biomedical technologies, communications systems, and computer and software systems. Other research areas include energy systems, or micro and nano technologies.
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Admission Requirements for Computer Engineering Schools in Florida
The basic admission requirements for computer engineering schools in Florida are different for undergraduate and graduate students and include factors such as grade point average, letters of recommendation, and required credit hours. In the section below, we’ll be discussing these requirements briefly.
Computer Engineering Schools in Florida: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- A completed application essay or letter
- A non-refundable application fee
- A minimum GPA of 2.5
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official high school transcripts or equivalent
Computer Engineering Schools in Florida: Graduate Admission Requirements
- A completed Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2
- GRE scores (if required)
- A complete application letter and form
- A statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Engineering in Florida?
No, it is not hard to get into a school for computer engineering in Florida. We’ll use two schools from our top schools to explain. Embry-Riddle’s acceptance rate is 61 percent, while Florida International University’s acceptance rate is 58 percent. This means that they accept more than half of the students that apply and have the typical admission requirements.
There are open admission colleges in Florida, such as Valencia College, that accept students with a high school diploma, implying that the acceptance rate is high. However, certificates from these institutes may not be as highly regarded in the labor market.
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Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Florida for Computer Engineering
- Valencia College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Valencia College is a non-profit college that offers a quality education at about half the cost of a state university’s tuition and fees. The university offers an Associate of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology.
- Atlantis University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Atlantis University is a private profit university and accepts admission applications from candidates with a high school diploma. The school offers both Bachelor and Master of Science Degrees in Computer Engineering.
- South Florida State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This college accepts applications from students with either a high diploma or a GED into any of their programs. The institution offers an Associate of Science Degree in Computer Engineering.
- Daytona State College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Daytona State College has an open admission policy which implies that admission is open for eligible students. It has an Associate Degree in Computer Engineering for interested students.
- Florida State College at Jacksonville | Acceptance Rate: 100%. As an open admission college, Florida State College at Jacksonville offers programs such as Associate of Applied in Computer Engineering Technology and various other degree programs for students to choose from.
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Best Online Schools for Computer Engineering in Florida
The best online schools for computer engineering in Florida include The University of Florida, Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, and the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico. The table below provides graduation rate statistics from NCES, along with the school and the top online program offered.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | 91% | Minor in Computer and Information Science and Engineering |
| Atlantis University | 77% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering |
| Florida International University | 67% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering |
| Florida Atlantic University | 55% | PhD in Computer Engineering |
| Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico | 50% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Engineering in Florida
The most affordable colleges for computer engineering in Florida are University of West Florida, Florida International University, University of South Florida, University of Florida, and University of Central Florida. Find more information about these schools below.
How to Attend the Top Computer Engineering Schools in Florida With Financial Aid
To attend the top computer engineering schools in Florida with financial aid, you need to know the different financial aid available for colleges in Florida. Some options include grants, scholarships, and bursaries. In the section below, we’ll be looking at a few of these financial aid programs.
Best Computer Engineering Scholarships for Florida Students
- McKnight Doctoral Fellowship Program | Amount: $17,000. This scholarship is for African American and Hispanic candidates qualified for a PhD degree. Every year, up to 50 scholarship awards are given. The application deadline is January 15 each year.
- NEVE STEM Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. This scholarship is for undergraduate students in the US who are pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Engineering in a STEM discipline. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. In one year, $10,000 is awarded twice. Application deadline is August 1.
- Ansys/SWE Scholarship | Amount: $6,000. This scholarship is open to all undergraduate and graduate students in the engineering and technology field. Candidates must have a GPA of 2.75 or higher. Up to five awards are given each year and the application deadline is June 30.
- AISES Intel Growing The Legacy Scholarship Program | Amount: $10,000. This program is for graduate students studying in the engineering field. Students must be US citizens and be enrolled full-time in an accredited college. The GPA accepted is 3.0 or higher. Application ends May 31 with applicants being AISES members.
- Motorola Solutions Foundation Scholarship | Amount: $7,500. This program is for undergraduate students in the engineering field. Up to 21 awards are given each year and candidates must be US citizens, permanent residents, or Non-US citizens. The GPA requirement is 3.0 or higher with an application deadline of June 1.
Florida Employment Outlook for Computer Engineering
The state of Florida’s employment outlook in computer engineering is expected to grow by two percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The unemployment rate is 3.5 percent higher than the national average and a total of 10,222 individuals are currently employed. Students with computer engineering degrees will be able to benefit from a variety of positions in the job market.
Highest-Paying Computer Engineering Careers in Florida
| Computer Engineering Job | Computer Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $162,930 |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $136,230 |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $120,990 |
| Electrical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $107,890 |
| Database Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $96,550 |
Best Computer Engineering Jobs in Florida Explained
The best computer engineering jobs in Florida are computer and information systems managers, computer hardware engineers, software developers, electrical engineers, and database administrators. Below is a breakdown of the job position, median income, and growth rate.
Does It Matter What Computer Engineering School in Florida I Go To?
No, it does not matter what school in Florida you go to for computer engineering. All the schools listed in this article are accredited by either a regional accreditation body or a national accreditation body. For example, the University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Schools.
Accreditation bodies are the authority in charge of accrediting degree-granting higher education institutions. They act as the common denominator of shared principles and ideals, primarily among various institutions in the United States. They ensure that universities maintain high-level education standards.
Additional Reading About Computer Engineering
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Best Computer Schools in Florida FAQ
Yes, computer engineering is a difficult degree to get. This program is a blend of computer science and engineering and requires engineering students to understand fundamental concepts and take core courses that can be in everyday life. With hard work and perseverance, the degree can be completed with ease.
You should study computer engineering because there is a rate of growth in the job market. Industries are becoming fully automated and companies need more computer engineers. Studying computer engineering creates opportunities for a high-paying job, multiple job opportunities, and job satisfaction.
Yes, you can get a job with an Associate Degree in Computer Engineering. An Associate Degree in Computer Science can be an alternative to a four-year degree program and can land you a job in computer engineering. For obvious reasons, some job positions may have additional requirements for higher positions.
No, computer engineering is not the same as computer science. Computer science emphasizes cyber security, algorithms, and computer networks, whereas computer engineering emphasizes computer architecture and development.
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