Computer Engineering Courses in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

With a strong demand for skilled professionals, the field of computer engineering in USA offers numerous opportunities for academic and career growth.

Job opportunities for computer hardware engineers are projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth reflects the continuous expansion of technology in artificial intelligence, IoT devices, and semiconductor design, indicating excellent job stability for graduates.

As technology advances, roles in hardware design, embedded systems, and systems architecture are becoming more important. This blog provides a complete guide to the best universities in the US for computer engineering. It covers program details, eligibility criteria, costs, and career outcomes to help you plan your studies in the US.

Computer Engineering Courses in USA: Overview

Computer engineering courses in the USA provide a comprehensive education in the design and development of both hardware and software systems. 

Programs typically cover a 4-year bachelor's degree followed by a 1.5 to 2-year master's program, focusing on areas like processor design, embedded systems, and computer networks.

A degree in this field prepares you for high-demand roles like hardware engineer, firmware developer, or systems architect, opening up a variety of careers in the technology sector.

Here’s an overview of computer engineering courses in the USA.

Before you look at specific universities, let's consider the advantages of studying computer engineering in the USA.

Why Pursue Computer Engineering Courses in USA?

The USA is a global leader in technology and education, home to 50 of the world's top-ranked engineering programs. Studying here provides access to leading research, industry connections, and excellent career opportunities.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 for Computer Science, the USA dominates the global top tier, with 8 universities in the top 15.

Here’s how you can benefit from studying computer engineering in the USA.

• Top-tier Universities: The USA is home to institutions like MIT and Stanford, which consistently ranks in the top 10 according to the QS World University Rankings.
• Collaborations with Industry Leaders: Universities have strong ties to the tech industry. For example, Stanford's location in Silicon Valley offers students direct access to internships and projects with companies like Apple, Google, and NVIDIA.
• High Employment Rates: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of computer hardware engineers will grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.  
• Diverse Specializations: US universities offer various specializations. The Georgia Institute of Technology, for instance, provides specialized tracks in areas such as Computer Architecture and AI Hardware.
• Advanced Research Facilities: You will have access to state-of-the-art labs. For example, students at the University of Michigan can use the Lurie Nanofabrication Facility for research in semiconductor and microchip design.
• Strong Alumni Network: Graduates from top programs join a powerful alumni network, providing valuable professional connections.

After understanding the benefits of studying computer engineering courses in the USA, let’s check out the top universities offering these programs.

Top Universities for Studying Computer Engineering Courses in USA

Universities in the USA provide some of the most advanced programs in computer engineering. You will learn from leading experts and acquire skills in areas such as hardware design and systems architecture. These programs prepare you for technical roles in the global technology sector.

Here are the top universities offering computer engineering courses in USA.

Apart from top universities, students can also consider other universities that provide viable options for computer engineering.

Popular Universities for Computer Engineering Courses in USA

Admission to these top-tier universities is highly competitive, often with acceptance rates below 10%. 

However, many other excellent universities, such as Purdue University and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, offer high-quality computer engineering programs that provide strong career outcomes.

Let’s explore some alternative options for computer engineering courses.

Now that you’ve seen the top universities for computer engineering courses in the USA, let’s explore the eligibility criteria for studying these programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Computer Engineering Courses in USA

The eligibility criteria for computer engineering master's programs are specific and focus on a strong technical background. You need a relevant bachelor's degree, a competitive GPA, and strong scores on standardized tests, such as the GRE.

International applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. If admitted, you will need to apply for an F-1 US student visa to study in the USA.

Here are the detailed eligibility criteria to study computer engineering courses in the USA.

Next, let’s discuss the application process for applying to a computer engineering course in USA.

Application Process for Computer Engineering Courses in USA

A systematic application process is essential for securing admission into competitive computer engineering programs. This involves preparing your documents carefully, submitting them through each university's online portal, and managing deadlines to ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes.

International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency and, once admitted, apply for a student visa.

Here are the steps involved in the application process.   

• Step 1: Submit Your Application: Complete the online application for each program on the university’s admissions portal. Fill out your personal information, academic history, and any required supplemental forms or essays.
• Step 2: Provide Required Documents: Submit the following supporting documents as required by each university:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores).
  • Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores (many engineering programs require this).
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs), typically 2-3 from professors or employers.
  • A Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your academic and career goals.
  • An updated resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Step 3: Attend an Interview: Some universities may request an online interview, particularly for graduate programs. Be prepared to discuss your technical projects, academic background, and specific interests within computer engineering.
• Step 4: Track Your Application: After submitting, monitor your application status through the university's portal. Respond promptly if any additional information or documentation is requested.
• Step 5: Apply for Your Student Visa: Upon receiving an acceptance letter, apply for an F-1 student visa. This involves:
  • The official acceptance letter from the university.
  • A completed visa application form (DS-160).
  • Verification of funds for educational and living costs.
  • The visa application costs $535 (approx. INR 44,700), including the $185 (INR 15.8K) application fee and the $350 (INR 29.9K) SEVIS fee. 
  • Valid passport and passport-sized photographs.
  • Confirmation of your SEVIS fee payment.

After discussing the steps in the application process, let’s take a look at the curriculum for computer engineering courses in USA.

Curriculum Details for Computer Engineering Courses in USA

Computer engineering courses in USA are structured to provide a strong foundation in both hardware and software systems. The curriculum covers core subjects like digital logic design and computer architecture while offering specializations in areas like VLSI design and robotics. These programs are designed to prepare you for technical careers at top technology firms.

Internships and co-op programs provide practical experience, linking classroom instruction to complex industry challenges like designing advanced microprocessors or developing secure IoT devices.

Here’s a typical curriculum for computer engineering courses in USA.

Now, let’s take a look at the cost of studying computer engineering courses in USA.

Cost of Pursuing Computer Engineering Courses in USA

The cost of studying for a master's degree in computer engineering in the USA can range from $35,000 (INR 29.96 L) to over $65,000 (INR 55.64 L) per year. Besides tuition, budget $15,000 (INR 12.84 L) to $20,000 (INR 17.12 L) annually for living expenses like accommodation, food, and personal costs.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in the USA for computer engineering courses in USA.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Students can apply for financial aid, such as scholarships, to help manage these expenses. Let’s explore the details. 

Computer Engineering Courses in USA: Scholarships for Students

Financing your education in the USA is a significant consideration, but numerous scholarships are available. Over 1.7 million scholarships are awarded annually in the US, with many designated for international students in STEM fields. 

These awards can substantially reduce your financial obligations, sometimes covering the full cost of tuition and living expenses.

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships to help you fund your computer engineering studies in the USA.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are offered directly by universities to their admitted students and are funded by the institution or its donors. For example, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides dedicated fellowships to its students in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Here are some internal scholarships for students:

Students can also apply for external scholarships, which governments or foundations typically award. Let’s take a closer look at these opportunities.

External Scholarships

Beyond university-specific aid, you can apply for prestigious external scholarships. For Indian students, opportunities like the Fulbright-Nehru Master's Fellowships are available and can cover the full cost of studying computer engineering in USA.

Here are some prominent external scholarship options:

Now, let’s explore the career opportunities available after completing computer engineering courses in USA.

Job Opportunities After Computer Engineering Courses in USA

A MS in computer engineering from RIT offers a strong ROI, with an average US salary of $121,261 (INR 1.04 Cr) for hardware engineers, well above the national average. 

Here are some potential job roles after completing a computer engineering course in the USA.

Source: Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Now, let’s explore some top companies hiring graduates after computer engineering courses in USA.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates After Computer Engineering Courses in USA

A degree from a respected US program prepares you for positions at the forefront of the technology industry. Leading companies, such as Intel, Apple, and NVIDIA, actively recruit graduates for roles in hardware design, software development, and systems integration.

The average annual salary for these positions ranges from $174,329 (INR 1.45 Cr) approximately to $135,214 (INR 1.12 Cr), with an average salary of around $154,250 per year.

Here are some of the top recruiters that hire computer engineering graduates.

Source: Glassdoor, Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Finally, let’s explore how upGrad can assist you in studying abroad for computer engineering courses in USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Computer Engineering Courses in USA?

Applying to US universities can be complex, but upGrad offers comprehensive support to simplify the journey. 

They assist with university and program selection, especially in computer engineering, and offer cost-saving options like starting your degree online. 

upGrad also provides expert help with applications, visas, and test preparation, along with personalized career guidance to boost your chances of success abroad.

Do not postpone your plans to study abroad. Schedule a 1:1 session with upGrad's experts to apply with confidence and build a solid foundation for your career.