Top 50 Affordable Computer Engineering Schools

Choosing an Affordable Computer Engineering College

Many people fall under the misapprehension that a less expensive computer engineering college means it is less of an education. In fact, many affordable computer engineering degrees are just as good if not better than more expensive degrees. The price tag of some degrees is simply a marketing scheme to appear as a quality school or program. In other cases, the price tag truly is reflective of the quality of the school. It can be difficult to determine which affordable schools are best, so keep a few aspects in mind while finalizing a choice.

Remember that many schools still charge in-state and out-of-state tuition. In many cases, in-state tuition is often as much as half the cost of out-of-state tuition for public schools. At the same time, private schools are often somewhere between two and four times more expensive than in-state tuition rates. All of these types of schools offer exceptional education opportunities with very different pricing structures. Online programs are yet another way to save money. However, some schools are charging more for online degrees, so be careful.

Don’t forget to evaluate the school’s accreditation. This is one of the best ways to determine whether or not an affordable computer engineering college offers a high-quality and reputable education. It’s important to pursue regional accreditations over national accreditations. Regionally accredited schools are held in much higher regard by employers as they have a more demanding curriculum. It may even be better to find an affordable college that is regionally accredited with a computer engineering program that also has accreditation from various governing bodies and professional organizations. It’s also a good idea to look at the school’s graduation rates, job placement rates, retention rates, and more to make sure that the school will offer you all the best possible options as you move into your new career.

Online Options

Online degrees have become a wonderful way for more and more people to access higher education at a more affordable rate. Keep in mind, however, that some schools are starting to exploit online degrees because of their demand. Be sure to verify whether or not the college or university charges the same rates for online degrees as in-person degrees or if they charge more for online degrees. And, some schools have also started charging in-state and out-of-state tuition for online degrees, whereas other schools have created more of an open enrollment program for all students, in-state or otherwise, to take courses from any state school that participates in its shared degree programs.

Affordable online computer engineering programs are an exceptional way to complete a degree. Because this is a technology-based degree, it’s relatively easy to find online degrees in the field of computer engineering. This allows individuals to continue working as a way to minimize debt or to take care of loved ones at home while taking courses. It also allows students to find more affordable options from reputable online computer engineering degree programs. Some individuals might be able to pay the same rate as an in-state school from a top computer engineering program in another state by taking courses online. The options are nearly endless these days.

Computer Engineering Graduates Earn More After College

A computer engineering salary for graduates will vary. Many recent graduates can expect to make nearly $70,000 a year. Most will make between $45,000 and $80,000. Salaries will be less for individuals who work in smaller markets and for smaller companies. A lower salary can also be associated with a candidate lacking hands-on experience. Higher salaries are often provided to students with superior abilities, large markets, and top employers.

Be sure to take advantage of internship and mentorship programs during your undergraduate degree so that you can gain relevant work experience and to establish connections that can improve entry-level pay. Top colleges and universities will help students secure such experiences. Professional organizations and professional social media channels are another way to make essential connections for solid career opportunities. Many professional organizations offer student memberships at a discount or for free.

Another reason for varying salaries will be based on the actual position. A degree in computer engineering can lead to any number of roles and responsibilities such as software engineers, software developers, electrical and electronic engineers, computer hardware engineers, testing engineers, digital gaming engineers, and many others. The salaries for all computer engineering roles often range between $77,000 and $130,000 a year. And remember that continuing education can also boost pay and open doors for promotions. This can be in the form of graduate degrees and specialized skill-based certifications.