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Looking to design, develop, and test the newest computer systems? Check out the 15 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Degrees.
With each year, science and technologies continue to evolve and thrive as consumers continue to demand faster, better, more efficient machinery and operating systems to power their lives. Thus, more and more creative minds are needed to further expand the industry and to help discover new technologies that can be implemented in all facets of our lives.
Computer engineers are not only good at math and science; they’re quick-thinking, innovative, and analytical. Companies all around the world utilize computer engineers to improve their operating systems and develop better workflow procedures.
What kind of Computer Engineering degree should you get?
Computer Engineering is a popular area of study and there are many programs to choose from. So, what kind of degree you should get? Should you attend online or on-campus? Should you choose a concentration? Now that you’ve made the decision to earn a Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, plenty of other decisions will follow. Luckily, we’re here to help!
For those looking for a bit more flexibility in earning an advanced degree, an online computer engineering program is a great choice. And, it’s not surprising that a computer engineering major would feel most at home in front of a computer! Take a look at our ranking for the Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science for more options.
How much money do people make with a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer Hardware Engineers can make upwards of $115,000 per year. And your salary will only increase with the more education and experience you have.
The responsibilities of computer engineering professionals are continually expanding as our society relies more and more on digital technologies. In fact, the BLS predicts a projected growth of 5 percent in computer engineering jobs from now till 2026. Software developers will have a better chance in the industry; their projected growth for the same time frame is 24 percent.
What can you do with a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering will open up many doors for graduates. In fact, many computer engineering programs provide students with the foundation to succeed in a number of industries. From building computer-based systems found in cars and planes, to those found in appliances, electronics, phones, and communication networks, the opportunities are seemingly endless.
Computer engineers typically design not only the hardware but also much of the software in computer-based systems. Computer engineers have traditionally found work in computer companies such as Intel, HP, and Texas Instruments, but that is changing as technology grows. Now, you’ll find work in industries that build or use computer-based systems. Many computer engineers also find work as programmers.
What are the best Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering degrees?
With so many schools offering degrees in computer engineering, how do you choose the best program? If you’re looking to begin your career in this field, these 15 bachelor’s degrees will serve you well so that you can go on to serve others.
From Bellevue University to Florida State University, the opportunities at these schools are endless. You’ll learn everything from web scripting and programming languages to database security and system analysis. Start your journey today!
1. Bellevue University
Overview
Located in Bellevue, Nebraska, this university first opened in 1966 and now offers a virtual college that remains one of the strongest in the country. Students can learn with an online curriculum taught by highly-trained faculty who have real-world experience in the Computer Engineering field. Looking to earn a flexible Bachelor of Science in Software Development? Bellevue may just be the university for you!
Program Features
Students in this online program will develop the skills necessary to design, build, and maintain software critical to an enterprise. Courses may include:
- Web Scripting
- Structured System Analysis and Design
- Information Technology Project Management
- Management and Design of Database Systems
All students must complete a total of 127 credits to earn their degree. This program is intended for current computer programmers who wish to advance their careers but need a bachelor’s degree, or for those looking to work as software developers or software engineers but lack the credentials or experience.
Notables
Bellevue provides tons of helpful features with their online programs. For example, students have the option to take live or asynchronous courses. This allows them to choose when and how they study. Other features include small class sizes, access to support services and the library around the clock, and an online curriculum taught by highly-trained faculty with real-world experience.
2. Brigham Young University—Idaho
Overview
Brigham Young University was founded in 1888 and is now one of the best accredited online colleges in Idaho. Its virtual college is an example of a strong academic structure that can be utilized online. Students looking for an affordable degree will find one of the lowest tuition rates at BYU-Idaho. In fact, every student, regardless of residency status, pays just $160 per credit hour with additional technology fees. Now, the school offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering.
Program Features
Students in this program will learn and practice the industry standard approach to design, development, and implementation of complex computer systems. Courses may include:
- Object-Oriented Software Development
- Fundamentals of Digital Systems
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Database Design and Development
- Mobile Application Development
Courses taught online and on-campus are based on the same learning objectives, so virtual students aren’t missing out on anything. All students must complete a total of 120 credits to earn their degree.
Notables
BYU-Idaho offers 12 bachelor degrees online. All degrees are asynchronous with no on-campus residency requirements. Students can even take courses year-round, leading them to finish their education early. Student support services, access to the school’s library and bookstore, and more can be found via the BYU-Idaho’s internet portal.
3. Western Governors University
Overview
One of the top accredited online colleges in the nation, Western Governors University is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Rather than a tuition rate, WGU charges students per term. This fee includes up to 18 credit hours and, if students have a need to further reduce the college cost, financial aid is also an option. WGU now offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science Software Development degree program.
Program Features
Those looking for a solid foundation in computer programming, web development, and applications, will be pleased with WGU’s online BS in Software Development. Courses may include:
- Web Development Applications
- Technical Communication
- Operating Systems for Programmers
- Business of IT – Project Management
The program is made up of 34 courses, all of which can be completed online. All students must complete a capstone in which they’ll develop a software application to solve a problem of their choice, constrained only by the technology requirements provided in the assessment DRF.
Notables
Western Governors University offers 23 bachelor’s degrees online and prides itself on its competency-based education methods. With the idea that no two students are the same, online courses are tailored to each specific individual’s needs. Much like the university itself, these degrees are centered in the IT, teaching, health, and business fields.
4. Western Kentucky University
Overview
Founded in 1906, Western Kentucky University is a public university based in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It serves over 20,000 students total, and about 18,000 of those are undergraduates. Financial aid and scholarships are available, including Merit Scholarships, Tuition Incentive Programs, Departmental Scholarships, and Alumni Grants. Now, through the university’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology (CIT).
Program Features
Whether you’re looking to be a Computer Programmer, Computer Systems Analyst, or something else related to this field, this BS in CIT is all-encompassing. Courses may include:
- Web Development
- Database Administration
- Systems Architecture
- Systems Security
All students must take 120 credit hours, including the completion of a capstone course to earn their degree. The CIT program at Western Kentucky also has an arrangement with Microsoft Imagine, VMware, and Testout, providing students with professional developer, designer, and training tools at little to no additional cost.
Notables
Western Kentucky University’s online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology has been ranked number 13 (out of 500!) by BestColleges.com and ranked second by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in 2015.
5. University of Illinois at Springfield
Overview
With over 30 bachelor’s degrees, 20 master’s degrees, and one doctoral program, the University of Illinois at Springfield is abuzz with academic pursuit. In fact, U.S. News & World Report’s 2018 edition of Best Colleges ranked this university as one of the best Regional Universities in the Midwest. Now, students can obtain a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science entirely online.
Program Features
Through this program, students will choose to emphasize their courses in software engineering or systems security and information assurance. Your curriculum may include the following courses, depending on your area of focus:
- Computer Organization
- Programming Languages
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Foundations of Network Security and Information Assurance
All students must also complete a capstone course and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to earn their degree.
Notables
Online learning through the University of Illinois at Springfield is not only affordable, it’s flexible as well. Standard classroom books and printed materials are typically used in combination with online lectures, assignments, and supplementary course materials. Some courses have formal lectures, while others break the content up into smaller units or abandon the lecture entirely, instead relying on group discussion and other types of learning activities.
6. University of Maryland–University College
Overview
Founded in 1947, the University of Maryland—University College is one of the most affordable colleges on this list. Depending on your residency, and if you have status as an active member of the military or are a veteran, the tuition can be as low as $7,500. UMUC now offers a completely online Bachelor of Science degree in Software Development and Security.
Program Features
Students in this program will learn to design, develop, and test secure software applications, conduct software penetration testing, and provide recommendations for reducing computer security risks. Courses may include:
- Current Trends and Projects in Computer Science
- Relational Database Concepts and Applications
- Detecting Software Vulnerabilities
- Database Security
All students must complete 120 credits, including 46 credits of minor and/or elective coursework. Students can also participate in related campus clubs: Upsilon Pi Epsilon is the international honor society for the computing and information disciplines. There’s also the Computing Club which provides opportunities for professional socialization and networking.
Notables
The University of Maryland offers more than 100 scholarships, financial aid, and interest-free monthly payment plans for those who qualify. The Completion Scholarship is one of the university’s featured scholarships that serves to help Maryland community college graduates reduce the in-state rate by $100 per credit.
7. Baker College
Overview
Founded in 1911 and based in Flint, Michigan, Baker College is the home of Baker Online, the school’s internet portal. Baker College has an excellent reputation for support and tech services for online students. In fact, BC is continuously ranked as one of the top places to earn affordable online degrees. Now students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Computer Programming–completely online!
Program Features
Students must complete a total of 120 hours to graduate. Courses may include:
- Database Management and Design
- Java Programming
- Programming for Mobile Devices
- Trends in Computer Science
- Computer Architecture
Online students have extensive access to everything they would need in order to finish one of the 44 bachelor degrees the school offers. From 24/7 access to online library resources to a tech support team trained in online learning management systems, Baker students will never be at a loss when it comes to their education.
Notables
U.S. News & World Report’s 2018 edition of Best Colleges ranked Baker College as one of the best Regional Universities in the Midwest. It was also ranked a Best Value School. In addition to studying challenging and relevant skills, students at Baker develop workplace skills that include communication, teamwork, initiative, self-confidence, and, above all, a strong work ethic.
8. Grantham University
Overview
Founded in the 1950s in Lenexa, Kansas, Grantham University is a private for-profit school that provides quality degrees at affordable prices. Grantham now offers a range of 100 percent online undergraduate and graduate degree programs and certificates. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology online in just over three years.
Program Features
Students in this program must complete a total of 126 credit hours. Courses may include:
- Digital Electronics (lab included)
- Advanced Programming in C++
- Signals and Systems Theory and Lab
- Fundamental Properties of AC Circuits and Lab
Every student will also complete a capstone project. Working in groups, they will develop, build, test, and present the project approved in the project management course. Through their work, students will be prepared to work for employers including, multinational corporations, government entities, financial institutions, and more.
Notables
Grantham University was named “Best for Vets” by Military Times in 2014 and is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DETC). The undergraduate rate is $265 per credit hour. This rate may be lower however if you’re a military member, a veteran, or part of a military family. Grantham also offers scholarships and financial aid for those who qualify.
9. Arizona State University
Overview
Home to mascot Sparky the Sun Devil, Arizona State University-Tempe was founded in 1885 and now has a total enrollment of over 71,000 students! With its multi-campus system, ASU is said to have the largest student body amongst U.S. institutions of higher learning. ASU’s motto of “one university in many places,” stands true. In fact, students can now pursue a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering– entirely online!
Program Features
The program’s unique, project-driven curriculum, establishes a new model of communication, teamwork, and critical thinking for students. Courses may include:
- Web Application Programming
- Principles of Database Management
- Web-Based Applications and Mobile Systems
Students at ASU have flexibility in designing their course of study; the majority of courses are offered in a seven-and-a-half week format. The program prepares graduates for advanced study in computing, an allied field, or to enter the computing profession (most commonly as an application software engineer).
Notables
U.S. News & World Report’s 2018 edition of Best Colleges ranked this university as one of the Best National Universities as well as a Best Value School and Best Colleges for Veterans. ASU offers over 600 degree programs at all levels across 15 schools and colleges. Undergrad students can choose from nearly 400 programs (major, minor, certificates).
10. University of Florida
Overview
Located in Gainesville, Florida, the University of Florida (UF) is a flagship university with a huge array of degree programs and over 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students. UF also has strong research credentials, with more than 150 research facilities, institutes, and centers, to which both traditional and online students have access to. Now, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UF.
Program Features
Offered through University of Florida’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the BS in Computer Science prepares students for a range of career opportunities. Courses within the curriculum may include:
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Computational Linear Algebra
- Applications of Discrete Structures
- Digital Logic and Computer Systems
All students must also complete a senior project as well. With the freedom to tailor their curriculum to their interests, skills and academic strengths, online students have the flexibility to succeed at UF.
Notables
The University of Florida is ranked among the best fifty universities in the country by ARWU, U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and Washington Monthly. Likewise, many of UF’s individual academic departments are ranked among some of the best nationwide, including its programs in aerospace, health sciences, chemistry, agricultural science, pharmacology and toxicology, environmental/ecology, and biology.
11. Old Dominion University
Overview
Located in Norfolk, Virginia, this public research university has a total enrollment of over 24,000 students. Now, ODU Online is an affordable way to earn a quality degree from the flexible of your own home, on your own time. Students can now pursue a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology through Old Dominion’s Frank Batten College of Engineering & Technology.
Program Features
The BS in Engineering Technology at ODU is focused on the future. From wireless communication and the exploration of outer space to the revolution in medical diagnosis and treatment, students will explore endless opportunities. Courses may include:
- Wireless Communications
- Energy and the Environment
- Microprocessor & Microcontrollers
- Ethics & Philosophy in Engineering Apps
This Bachelor’s degree requires students to complete a minimum of 120 total credit hours. Online students will participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and can access course materials online from any location.
Notables
Old Dominion University has been ranked as having one of the Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Engineering. ODU has also been named a “Military Friendly School” by G.I. Jobs Magazine for the last eight years. With students from 116 countries and throughout the US, this university brings the brightest minds together to create innovative solutions to our world.
12. Dakota State University
Overview
Dakota State University is a public university known for its technological focus. Nearly 5,000 students are enrolled in one of the many undergraduate, masters, or doctoral programs that Dakota offers. Now, the university based in South Dakota offers many of its prestigious degree programs online. Enjoy the flexibility of earning a B.S. in Computer Information Systems through DSU’s online school.
Program Features
The CIS degree at Dakota State University is based on a core 48 credits, including an internship and/or undergraduate research. Courses within your curriculum may include:
- Info Security Fundamentals
- Database Management Systems
- Business Application Programming
Students will also be able to choose a specialization in one of the following areas: data science, project management, and software and web development. CIS technologies deal with five main components, including hardware, software, data, procedures, and people. This ensures students have a well-rounded background as they prepare to enter the workforce. All DSU students receive the same high-quality education, regardless of the format.
Notables
DSU grads have been hired by the National Security Agency (NSA), The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab (APL), Navy SPAWAR (Space and Naval Warfare System Command), Sandia National Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, banks, hospitals and security firms all over the nation.
13. Morgan State University
Overview
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Morgan State University was founded in 1867 and is now home to nearly 8,000 students. As our society shifts, MSU has too–the university now offers a plethora of degrees online for students who need both flexibility and affordability. Now, Morgan State University offers students an Electrical & Computer Engineering 2+2 Program that can be completed entirely online.
Program Features
Students in this program will have the opportunity to explore a variety of research areas. Some of these include:
- Communications Networks
- Software Defined Radio
- Data/Sensor Fusion
- Visual Analytics
- Signal Processing
- Image Processing
- Power Electronics
The program emphasizes the theory and application of advanced electrical engineering principles utilizing theoretical, computational and analytical methods and tools. Students can apply financial aid, scholarships, and other awards to supplement the costs of this program. Military Tuition Assistance is an additional educational benefit paid to eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
Notables
Morgan State University Online offers a full array of student support services equal to those available to on-campus students, including library and technology services, tutoring and academic resources, advising and career counseling, and technical and help desk support.
14. Colorado State University
Overview
This public research university was founded in 1870 and is now home to over 33,000 students and mascot CAM the ram. Set in a community that blends education and industry, hard work and recreation, and tradition and progress, students easily come to call this place home. However, if you’re looking for affordability and flexibility, CSU offers online programs as well. In fact, students can now earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree completely online.
Program Features
Students must complete a total of 190.5 credits to earn their degree in this program. Courses may include:
- Software Engineering Methods
- Embedded Microcontrollers
- Impact of Global Issues on Design
- Introduction to Website Development
- Advanced Circuit Analysis
CTU Fast Track is a unique program that lets students earn college credit for what they already know. As a result, students can complete their degree up to 30 percent faster. In fact, by passing multiple Fast Track exams, students can save up to 30 percent on tuition.
Notables
U.S News & World Report has ranked CSU among the Best National Universities and Best Value Schools in the nation.
15. Florida State University
Overview
Founded in 1851, FSU is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. Located in Tallahassee, over 41,000 students now call Florida State University home. With over 350 degree programs (including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, specialist, and professional degrees) and 6 Nobel Laureates on the faculty, there is no shortage of opportunities for growth at FSU. Now, students can earn degrees online through FSU, including a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science.
Program Features
This major helps students to develop core competencies in programming, database structure, computer organization, and operating systems. Courses may include:
- Ethics and Computer Science
- Object Oriented Programming
- Programming Languages
- Data Structures, Algorithms, and Generic Programming
All students must complete a total of 120 credit hours to earn their degree.
Notables
On Kiplinger’s annual list of Best College Values, FSU ranked among the Top 5 schools in the nation. Not only that, but FSU has officially been designated as a preeminent research university in the state by the Florida Legislature. With approximately $200 million in research expenditures each year, students and faculty members at FSU work to save lives, improve society and help drive human advancement through their studies.
Rankings
Most Affordable Online Master’s in Computer Engineering Degrees
Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Degrees
Best Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Degrees
Best Master’s in Computer Engineering Degrees
25 Best Online Master’s in Computer Engineering Degrees
