Computer engineering is a unique field that combines aspects of both computer science and electrical engineering. With a computer engineering degree, students go on to create computer hardware and software, robots, and machines. Computer engineers also improve upon existing technology by doing research to further advance the technology we already have in terms of power and efficiency.
With the world’s heavy reliance on technology, the demand for computer engineers is growing at an incredible rate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics noted computer hardware engineering jobs grew by six percent from 2008 to 2018.
If you choose to work in software development or programming, the demand for these positions is significantly higher. No matter what your interests may be, there are several career opportunities available after you earn your online computer engineering degree.
Most computer engineering positions require applicants who have earned their bachelor’s degrees. By completing a computer engineering program online, you gain knowledge in software, hardware, operating systems, electrical engineering, computer architecture, and various other subdisciplines of your choosing.
The Best Online Computer Engineering Degree Schools
The right school is one that fully prepares you for a successful career in computer engineering. Whether you want to work in computer hardware or software, a good program is the first step in the right direction. With several colleges and universities out there, it can be difficult to narrow down your choice to the best colleges.
Below is our guide to the best online computer engineering degree schools.
Morgan State University
Since 1975, this university has continuously expanded on its major offerings and distance learning programs. The university offers an online computer engineering degree program. The program is called the 2+2 program, which means that students complete two years of engineering courses at Morgan State University and then finish the other two years at a different location.
In its entirety, the program is 120-credit hours long and includes upper-level computer engineering and electrical coursework, along with general education.
The entirety of Morgan State University’s online coursework is asynchronous. Students don’t have to visit campus at all. The school also offers services for online students to help them find success in their degree programs, such as library services, tech support, tutoring, and career counseling.
Grantham University
Since 1951, Grantham University has been serving thousands of students. The university offers an online computer engineering technology program. Grantham University is particularly known for its support of students who are in the military. Over 90 percent of the student body at this university is made up of people in the military.
The university has a military tuition assistance program to aid with covering college finances. The program is available to military personal and their family members, federal government workers, and emergency responders.
There is no requirement for SAT, ACT, GRE, or other standardized test scores for admission into the university. Students go through an entirely different application process, which is guided by admission staff members.
Unlike other universities, students have the option of taking part in a degree program or enrolling in individual classes. Classes start on a weekly basis.
John Hopkins University
John Hopkins University offers an online bachelor’s degree program in computer engineering. Topics in the program focus on electrical and hardware engineering. The goal of the program is to give students fundamental knowledge in a variety of subjects, such as mathematics, engineering, and science. The fundamentals students acquire can be used for organizational, critical, and creative purposes.
The program is 126-credit hours long. Students have access to various online resources to help them find success throughout the entirety of the program. To aid with the learning process, students utilize a creative learning platform and take part in coursework that is tailored to the web.
Online students are required to take at least 18 credit hours in social sciences and humanities courses to graduate from the program.
Florida International University
Florida International University offers an online program in computer engineering where students can earn their bachelor of science. The program is 128-credit hours long and focuses on training students in areas such as hardware-software integration, signal and image processing, filter design, computer networking, hardware-software integration, and software engineering.
In addition to major topics, students also learn about logic, reasoning, and how to apply practical knowledge in the field to effectively identify solutions for problems that exist within the industry. Students use skills and knowledge to provide technical support and maintenance to technology commonly used today.
The online environment of Florida International University gives students all the resources needed to complete the program. Students have access to interactive lectures, receive real-time responses from instructors, and coordinate with classmates to complete course projects. The program is accredited. Students out-of-state must pay more compared to in-state students.
Regent University
Regent University is a Christian school that offers a Christ-centered program for students on-campus and online. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that combines fundamental computer science principles with Christian values.
The program is 120-credit hours long and includes a combination of major requirements and general education. Some of the courses include mobile and smart computing, data structures and algorithms, and ethics for computer science.
In addition to major courses, students are required to take biblical worldview courses. These courses include an introduction to the bible and the making of the Christian mind.
Within the computer engineering program, students gain skills in using logic and mathematics to find solutions to programs designing and evaluating computing systems and network infrastructures, and understanding database management and computer programming languages.
This online program is taken through a series of eight-week courses. Students have access to expert faculty that have practical experience in the field. All students pay the same tuition rate, no matter where they are located.
University of Florida
The University of Florida has a bachelor of science program in computer engineering that is unlike any other. This degree program has a strong foundation in computer science. Students also complete courses concerning humanities and foreign languages.
Students participate in various courses, such as technical writing, data structures and algorithms, digital logic and computer systems, programming fundamentals, computational linear algebra, and analytic geometry and calculus.
One of the more notable aspects of this program is that it allows students to accelerate past some of their major coursework if they score well on the Computer Science AP exam. Students must also participate in several classes that are writing intensive. These classes help prepare students for business communications and find more success when it comes to job searching.
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Computer Engineering Degree Careers
Below is a list of some of the careers available to those who have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering. While it’s common to associate this degree with computer hardware occupations, it’s possible to work in software as well. The jobs below are some of the best careers and salaries you can secure with a degree in computer engineering.
Computer Programmer: A computer programmer writes and tests code for software and computer applications. There are a variety of computer programming languages, such as C++, Java, C#, Python, and more. While these languages can be used for all sorts of processes, many of them are associated with certain applications. For example, C# is commonly used for game design purposes.
Software Developer: Software developers are similar to computer programmers in that they create and design web applications. However, software developers do more than computer programming. When creating software, they’re tasked with ensuring it performs well. They also work to ensure the software does what it is designed to do, taking care of any bugs and ensuring that all of the components work together properly.
Network and Computer Systems Administrator: A network and computer systems administrator is responsible for computer networks. Some of the work involved in this profession includes installing, repairing, and upgrading network hardware and software.
Conclusion
Working in computer engineering can be the first step to a career that lasts a lifetime. Computer engineers have career options that put them in a position to work with some of the largest tech companies in the world.
Whether you have a love for computer hardware or software, an online computer engineering degree gives you the fundamentals needed to be successful. And whether you’re just out of high school or you want to start a new career, there are several opportunities in the world of computer engineering.
You can get started today and take advantage of the convenience that comes with online computer engineering degree programs.If you’re interested in a career in computer engineering, we can help. Download the Career Karma app today for more information.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
