Learn everything you need to know about earning an online computer engineering master’s degree from a top-rated, accredited school, including cost, coursework, and career paths.
Author: Kyra Sutherland
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Best Programs
Inside 3 Popular Online Master's Programs in Computer Engineering
Read more - Advantages
Why Earn an Online Master's in Computer Engineering?
Read more - What You'll Learn
What You'll Learn in a Computer Engineering Master's Program
Read more - Accreditation
Accreditation for Online Master's in Computer Engineering
Read more - Careers
What You Can Do with a Master's in Computer Engineering
Read more - Top Schools
Best Online Master's Degree Programs in Computer Engineering
Read more
While earning an online computer engineering master’s degree can be demanding, your search for a quality program doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re looking for a promotion, career jump, or simply additional knowledge, this guide will help you find the best online computer engineering master’s degree programs. It also answers key questions about what you’ll learn, how much your degree might cost, and your career options after graduation.
Inside 3 Popular Online Master’s Programs in Computer Engineering
A master’s degree requires a significant investment of time and money. Finding a program that’s accredited, flexible, and affordable takes research, so we’ve done some of the legwork for you.
North Carolina State University
NC State’s online MS in Computer Engineering is a streamlined 30-credit program covering computer architecture, cybersecurity, error control, and more.
The degree must be completed within six years, with no absence longer than one year. Admission requires a GRE score, an accredited bachelor’s degree in computer or electrical engineering, and other standard application materials.
Boston University
Boston University’s online MS in Computer Engineering consists of 32 credits, with a significant portion made up of chosen electives. Students can specialize in computer communications and networks, hardware and computer architecture, software, or cybersecurity.
The program is highly flexible, allowing students to pursue their specific interests. To complete the degree, students must finish a practicum that gives them hands-on, real-world experience.
Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech’s online MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering is another 30-credit option, requiring a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, and a 3.0 GPA to apply.
The curriculum emphasizes applying algorithms for engineering, system programming, and microcomputer design — skills that make graduates highly marketable. While the program is designed as a terminal degree, it also provides a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue a PhD.
Why Earn an Online Master’s in Computer Engineering?
Pursuing a master’s degree over stopping at a bachelor’s offers meaningful advantages, from salary leverage to broader career opportunities.
1. Flexibility
An online computer engineering program means you don’t have to relocate or disrupt your current life. You can earn your degree from anywhere — at home, on your schedule — while continuing to work and build experience.
2. Career Advancement
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or a career change, a master’s degree gives you an edge. It opens doors that a bachelor’s degree alone often can’t, and signals to employers that you’ve committed to deepening your expertise.
What You’ll Learn in a Computer Engineering Master’s Program
Computer engineering is technical and demanding. Graduate coursework typically covers the theoretical foundations of programming languages, algorithms, abstract interpretation, performance modeling, and software systems.
Popular Courses
Protection of Power Systems
Covers how to protect computing hardware and components — including coils, resistors, and condensers — and teaches students to differentiate between protective relay types such as directional, differential, and distance relays.
Digital Signal Processing
Explores the theory of digital signals and core processing concepts: discrete Fourier series, linear and circular convolution, discrete Fourier transforms, fast Fourier transforms, and digital filter design.
Wireless Communications
Addresses technical problems and solutions in physical and link-layer wireless system design, including digital modulation techniques, channel characteristics, and related engineering challenges.
Transients in Power Systems
Covers advanced topics including interruption arcs, restriking voltage, harmonic oscillations, saturated systems, switching of rotational systems, and magnetic saturation in stationary networks.
Control System Components
Examines the practical and theoretical requirements for analog and digital control systems, covering amplifiers, sensors, encoders, actuators, and related components.
Specialization Options
A concentration lets you narrow your focus to an area that aligns with your professional goals, giving you expertise that sets you apart from general computer engineering graduates.
Hardware and Computer Architecture
For those interested in the physical side of computing. This concentration focuses on designing and building the hardware components that make computers function.
Computer Communications and Networks
Covers the design, programming, optimization, and repair of both hardware and software within networks — a skill set in demand across nearly every industry.
Software
Similar to software engineering, this specialization guides students through designing high-performance programs, embedded systems, and software platforms at an advanced level.
Cybersecurity
Focuses on protecting digital data, networks, and physical hardware from attacks and unauthorized access — one of the fastest-growing and highest-demand areas in the field.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Computer Engineering
Accreditation is one of the most important factors to check before enrolling. It signals that a program meets established academic standards and ensures your degree will be recognized by employers and licensing bodies.
Before committing to a program, confirm it holds accreditation from a recognized regional or national accrediting body.
What You Can Do with a Master’s in Computer Engineering
A computer engineering master’s degree opens the door to a wide range of careers, most of which center on designing, developing, and maintaining computer hardware and/or software systems.
Software Engineer
Software engineers develop the underlying systems that manage devices, control networks, or power applications. It’s one of the most in-demand and creatively flexible roles in the field.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $64,240 | $107,510 | $164,590 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Computer Hardware Engineer
Hardware engineers design, develop, and test computer components — circuit boards, chips, storage systems, graphics cards, and more. They’re often at the forefront of the rapid advances that define modern computing.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $68,460 | $117,220 | $185,240 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning engineers design models and algorithms that allow machines to make decisions based on data. Search engines, recommendation systems, and AI tools all rely on this work.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $76,000 | $113,000 | $154,000 |
Source: PayScale
Data Analyst
Data analysts gather input from multiple sources and interpret it to identify trends, draw conclusions, and help businesses make better decisions.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $44,000 | $61,000 | $86,000 |
Source: PayScale
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts protect an organization’s sensitive data and networks from hackers and attackers through risk assessment, monitoring, and defense planning.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $57,810 | $99,730 | $158,860 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Costs and Financial Aid
A master’s degree is a big financial commitment. Before you enroll, have a clear plan for how you’ll pay for it.
The good news: most accredited programs offer access to financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement. Contact each school’s financial aid office directly for current information on available options.
| Program | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina State University | 30 | $446 | $13,380 |
| Boston University | 32 | $1,777 | $56,864 |
| Georgia Tech | 30 | $1,100 | $33,000 |