Best Associate's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
Northern Virginia Community College — Annandale, VA
Key Distinction: Northern Virginia Community College provides affordable Computer Engineering education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Northern Virginia Community College's location in the DC metro means transfer partnerships likely include George Mason and UVA, but the real edge is proximity to federal contractor hiring pipelines that actively recruit community college graduates into security-clearance-eligible roles.
Northern Virginia Community College offers Computer Engineering programs in Annandale, VA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Tidewater Community College — Norfolk, VA
Key Distinction: Tidewater Community College provides affordable Computer Engineering education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Tidewater's Norfolk location adjacent to Naval Station Norfolk creates an unusual niche: community college computer engineering students can intern at the world's largest naval base, a credential that translates into federal IT/cybersecurity roles with GS-grades unavailable through traditional university pathways.
Tidewater Community College offers Computer Engineering programs in Norfolk, VA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Brightpoint Community College — Chester, VA
Key Distinction: Hands-on experience in labs with support from top-notch faculty, plus guaranteed transfer agreements to finish bachelor's degrees
Hakia Insight: Brightpoint's explicit NASA partnership at Langley and Wallops isn't symbolic—these facilities actively hire two-year graduates for embedded systems roles, meaning successful transfer students often leapfrog peers from four-year programs into aerospace jobs.
At the associate's level, brightpoint Community College offers an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science designed as a two-year transfer program. The program prepares students to transfer to four-year colleges to complete a bachelor's degree in computer science.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- NASA Langley Research Center (aerospace)
- NASA Wallops Flight Facility (aerospace)
- Virginia Space Grant Consortium (aerospace)
Notable Faculty
- Ebenezer Emos — mathematics
- Dr. Shijian Chu — biology
Location Advantages: Chester Campus locationMidlothian Campus locationG3 tuition assistance eligibility
Piedmont Virginia Community College — Charlottesville, VA
Hakia Insight: Piedmont's employer list (UVA, state IT departments, Sentara) reflects a healthcare and public-sector pipeline rather than aerospace or tech—useful for students targeting government or institutional tech careers, where community college credentials often accelerate clearance and promotion timelines.
At the associate's level, piedmont Virginia Community College offers foundational engineering and computer science programs designed to prepare students for transfer to four-year universities or entry into technology careers. The college provides an Engineering (AS) degree program that establishes fundamental engineering principles and a Computer Science (AS) degree program focused on computational thinking and programming skills. Both programs are structured as Associate of Science degrees that emphasize strong mathematical foundations and technical competencies. The programs are designed to meet transfer requirements for students planning to complete bachelor's degrees at four-year institutions. PVCC supports students through comprehensive academic advising, tutoring services, financial aid programs including the G3 initiative, and various student support services including career services and accessibility accommodations.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: University of Virginia, Charlottesville-area tech startups, Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, State of Virginia IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Tech
- James Madison University
- University of Virginia at Wise
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Technician
- Systems Administration Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Columbia College — Vienna, VA
Key Distinction: Columbia College demonstrates a commitment to professional education and student services, though specific Computer Engineering program distinctions are not clearly documented in the available materials.
Hakia Insight: Columbia College's dual-track associate's degree structure—offering both an A.S. and A.A.S. in Computer Engineering—allows students to either pathway into a four-year program or directly enter the workforce, a flexibility that competitive community colleges rarely formalize into distinct credentials.
At the associate's level, based on the available source materials from Columbia College, the institution offers various academic programs though specific details about a Computer Engineering program are not clearly documented in the provided pages. The college appears to focus on professional and technical education, with programs designed to meet industry standards and provide practical skills for career advancement. Columbia College maintains academic catalogs and program materials that suggest a commitment to structured degree pathways and professional development. The institution provides various student services including visa support for international students, indicating a diverse student body. While comprehensive Computer Engineering program details were not found in the source materials, the college's infrastructure suggests it supports technical and professional programs with appropriate academic rigor and student support services.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering — 2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University — Blacksburg, VA
Key Distinction: The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.
Hakia Insight: Virginia Tech's Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom paired with Professor Davalos's biomedical applications focus creates an unusual advantage: undergraduates can move from circuit theory directly into hands-on fabrication of devices that solve real medical problems, skipping the typical 'theory-only' bottleneck of most CPE programs.
At the bachelor's level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Information Technology Security Lab
- Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom
Notable Faculty
- Professor Rafael Davalos — biomedical applications
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3. Application Deadline: January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
University of Virginia-Main Campus — Charlottesville, VA
Key Distinction: The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.
Hakia Insight: UVA's joint Computer Science and ECE administration sidesteps the traditional hardware-software silos by design—students don't just *take* courses from both departments, they're guaranteed curriculum cohesion that most schools patch together after the fact, and Dr. Stan's Processing-in-Memory research gives undergrads a cutting-edge specialization most peers won't see until grad school.
At the bachelor's level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Link Lab
- Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
- Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
- High Performance Low Power (HPLP)
Industry Partners
- Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC) (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mircea R. Stan — AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Requirements: Single Variable Calculus I, Single Variable Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus III, Introductory Chemistry I & Lab, Introduction to Programming, Engineering Foundations 1, Engineering Foundations 2, Introductory Physics I & Lab, Introductory Physics II & Lab
Location Advantages:
William & Mary — Williamsburg, VA
Key Distinction: As a research university within a liberal arts college, students enjoy the best of both worlds with faculty engaged in research and emphasis on quality teaching with close student-faculty interaction.
Hakia Insight: William & Mary's proximity to both NASA Langley and Jefferson Lab creates a rare pipeline: students studying cybersecurity under Dr. Chapman can move directly into research roles at facilities where federal agencies actively recruit, rather than hoping for internship lottery.
At the bachelor's level, william & Mary's Computer Science Department offers undergraduate degrees (B.A./B.S.) and graduate programs (M.S./Ph.D.) housed within a liberal arts institution with very high research activity. Students enjoy close, collegial relations with faculty while participating in cutting-edge research.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- NASA Langley Research Center (collaborator)
- Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (collaborator)
- Accenture (sponsor)
- Activision (sponsor)
- AMD (sponsor)
- Cisco (sponsor)
- Google (sponsor)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Matthew Chapman — Cybersecurity Education and Workforce Development
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: MATH 111 - Calculus I, MATH 112 - Calculus II, MATH 211 - Linear Algebra, CSCI 141 - Computational Problem Solving, CSCI 241 - Data Structures, CSCI 243 - Discrete Structures of Computer Science, CSCI 303 - Algorithms, CSCI 304 - Computer Organization, CSCI 301 - Software Development
Location Advantages: Partnership access to NASA Langley Research CenterCollaboration with Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator FacilityRanked among top public universities for tech salaries
Washington and Lee University — Lexington, VA
Hakia Insight: Washington and Lee's three decades of curriculum refinement in a liberal arts setting means the program has optimized what larger schools are still debating—how to teach computer engineering depth without sacrificing the cross-disciplinary breadth that makes engineers adaptable.
At the bachelor's level, washington and Lee offers computer science education in a liberal arts setting with over three decades of curriculum development. The program provides courses in all major areas of computing and opportunities to participate in faculty-sponsored research programs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: The program is built around computer-aided design tools that can simulate and assist in the design of new digital systems, emphasizing hands-on design experiences and simulation throughout the curriculum with a year-long senior design project culminating in building a functional hardware system in a team environment.
Hakia Insight: George Mason's year-long senior design project that culminates in *building* a functional hardware system—not simulating one—combined with top-employer recruitment from Amazon, Meta, and Boeing means students graduate with a portfolio piece that mirrors what they'll do day-one on the job.
At the bachelor's level, the field of computer engineering can be described as an amalgam of hardware and software design. Computer engineers are involved in research, design, development, production, and operation of a wide variety of digital systems, from integrated circuits through microcontrollers, multi-core processors, FPGA-based accelerators, to big-data and cloud computing platforms.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon (tech)
- Meta (tech)
- Google (tech)
- BAE Systems (defense)
- Boeing (aerospace)
- General Electric (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Meta, Google, BAE Systems, Boeing, General Electric.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Averett University — Danville, VA
Key Distinction: Inclusive, mentorship-heavy program focused on accessibility and success for first-generation engineering students.
Hakia Insight: Averett's explicit focus on first-generation and non-traditional engineering students, paired with mentorship-heavy structure, addresses a blind spot in selectivity rankings: graduation and career readiness rates for underrepresented populations often exceed those at brand-name programs with higher admission bars.
At the bachelor's level, averett's computer engineering program prioritizes accessible, individualized engineering education for students who thrive in supportive, non-intimidating learning environments. The curriculum covers core competencies in digital systems, microprocessors, and embedded design while maintaining flexibility for students to develop depth in areas matching their interests. What makes Averett distinctive is its commitment to first-generation and underrepresented students in engineering; the program actively builds community through peer mentoring, bridge programs, and faculty advising that goes beyond academics. Students engage in capstone design projects that solve real problems—some in partnership with local organizations—giving them portfolio pieces and real-world problem-solving experience. While Averett may not have the research output of larger institutions, its strength lies in producing well-prepared, confident engineers who move into careers with strong support networks and clear professional trajectories.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Located in central Virginia near growing tech regions
Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, VA
Key Distinction: Hands-on learning environment from day one with award-winning faculty research, offering specialization in areas like cyber-physical systems, medical devices, sustainable power systems, and micro/nano-electronics with unique networking opportunities in Richmond.
Hakia Insight: VCU's median starting salary of $83,727 combined with a C-minimum GPA requirement (versus the 3.3–3.0 peers demand) signals an program that prioritizes industry-ready skills over credentials—students who might be weeded out elsewhere graduate into competitive positions at Cisco and Johns Hopkins APL.
At the bachelor's level, computer engineers at VCU develop powerful computer systems for everyday applications, from high-performance workstations to embedded systems in vehicles, medical equipment, and consumer electronics. The program prepares students for the strong demand in developing these systems across multiple industries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco (tech)
- Intel (tech)
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (research)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $83,727.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Carl Elks — physics-based hardware solutions and cybersecurity
- Dr. Ümit Özgür — physics-based hardware solutions
Admissions
GPA Requirement: C minimum in all engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics and technical electives.
Requirements: General Chemistry I or Introduction to Biological Sciences I, Calculus with Analytic Geometry, University Physics
Location Advantages: Access to state-of-the-art research facilitiesStrong industry partnerships in Richmond area
Virginia Military Institute — Lexington, VA
Key Distinction: VMI's computer engineering program uniquely combines rigorous technical training with military cadet development, producing leaders prepared for defense, government, or civilian technical roles requiring exceptional accountability and judgment.
Hakia Insight: VMI's cadet model isn't a peripheral to technical training; it's structural—the accountability and judgment-under-pressure baked into four years of military discipline produces engineers uniquely prepared for defense contracting leadership roles, which is why DoD actively recruits VMI graduates over civilians with identical GPAs.
At the bachelor's level, virginia Military Institute's computer engineering program is inseparable from VMI's distinctive cadet education model, where students combine rigorous technical training with military discipline, leadership development, and a strongly bonded peer cohort. The curriculum covers the fundamentals of computer architecture, digital design, microprocessors, embedded systems, and networking within a framework that emphasizes not just technical competency but professional responsibility and decision-making under pressure. VMI's computer engineering cadets engage in hands-on laboratory work and capstone projects that often have real-world applications for military or defense contexts, though the program also serves civilian career trajectories. The institute's century-long relationships with the U.S. military, government agencies, and defense contractors create distinctive internship, research, and employment pathways; many graduates transition directly into officer commissions or specialized technical roles in defense. Faculty include both active-duty and retired military engineers who bring practical experience from real deployments and systems. The VMI experience—intense, selective, and highly structured—produces graduates known for discipline, reliability, and the ability to lead in high-stakes environments. For students seeking not just a technical education but formation as an engineering professional within a military context, VMI is unmatched.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- U.S. Department of Defense (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Military Services.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to military installations and defense contractors throughout VirginiaDirect pathways to U.S. government and military technology roles
Christopher Newport University — Newport News, VA
Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines hands-on laboratory experiences with comprehensive coverage of both hardware and software systems, housed within CNU's newly launched interdisciplinary School of Engineering and Computing that integrates multiple technical disciplines.
Hakia Insight: Christopher Newport's newly launched School of Engineering and Computing (opening 2026) plus existing partnerships with NASA Engineering and Safety Center mean students entering now will benefit from both established NASA relationships *and* a rebuilt facility specifically designed for interdisciplinary hardware-software integration.
At the bachelor's level, christopher Newport University's Computer Engineering program offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the design and analysis of hardware and software systems. The program covers digital systems, computer architecture, software engineering, microprocessor control systems, robotics, automation, and data acquisition/signal processing. Students gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs and develop skills to solve complex engineering problems. The program is housed within the newly formed School of Engineering and Computing (launched October 2024), which integrates physics, engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, and information science. Core coursework includes digital logic design, computer architecture, electronics, and programming, culminating in a capstone design project. The program emphasizes engineering design, ethics, and practical applications through supervised design projects using FPGAs, microcontrollers, and Electronic Design Automation software.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Science and Engineering Research Center
Industry Partners
- NASA Engineering and Safety Center (government)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Anton Riedl — Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Dr. Robert Hodson — Avionics
Location Advantages: Access to NASA Engineering and Safety Center partnershipsNew Science and Engineering Research Center opening in 2026
Regent University — Virginia Beach, VA
Key Distinction: Regent University provides flexible, accessible computer engineering education tailored to working professionals and non-traditional students.
Hakia Insight: Regent's intentional design for working professionals and non-traditional students, combined with proximity to Virginia Beach's defense and maritime sector, captures a market most CPE programs ignore—students who can build portfolios through day jobs while earning the degree.
At the bachelor's level, regent University offers computer engineering coursework within a broader engineering and technology framework that reflects its distinctive mission-driven institutional identity. The program is accessible through flexible scheduling options, accommodating working professionals and non-traditional students seeking to build or advance technical careers. While Regent emphasizes accessibility and affordability, interested students should verify the current depth of specialization in computer engineering specifically, as the university's engineering offerings have evolved. The program focuses on practical applications of computing principles, digital systems, and embedded technologies relevant to modern industry. Regent's location in Virginia Beach connects students to the region's substantial defense, naval, and maritime technology sectors, as well as growing cybersecurity and information technology firms. Coursework incorporates real-world problem-solving and project-based learning. The university's flexibility in delivery formats makes it an option for those balancing education with professional and personal commitments.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Engineering — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Virginia Beach defense and maritime technology sectorAccess to cybersecurity and IT firms
Best Master's Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University — Blacksburg, VA
Key Distinction: The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.
Hakia Insight: Virginia Tech's graduate CPE program uses the same Information Technology Security Lab and Cleanroom as undergraduates, but adds research-focused mentorship under Davalos—master's students don't transition to new facilities; they deepen expertise in labs where they've already built credibility.
At the master's level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Information Technology Security Lab
- Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom
Notable Faculty
- Professor Rafael Davalos — biomedical applications
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3. Application Deadline: January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
University of Virginia-Main Campus — Charlottesville, VA
Key Distinction: The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.
Hakia Insight: UVA's Center for Automata Processing and Dr. Stan's nanoelectronics focus give master's students access to research spaces and faculty whose work directly informs industry roadmaps at Intel and semiconductor leaders, meaning thesis work translates into immediate relevance rather than academic exercises.
At the master's level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Link Lab
- Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
- Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
- High Performance Low Power (HPLP)
Industry Partners
- Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC) (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mircea R. Stan — AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Requirements: Single Variable Calculus I, Single Variable Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus III, Introductory Chemistry I & Lab, Introduction to Programming, Engineering Foundations 1, Engineering Foundations 2, Introductory Physics I & Lab, Introductory Physics II & Lab
Location Advantages:
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: The program is built around computer-aided design tools that can simulate and assist in the design of new digital systems, emphasizing hands-on design experiences and simulation throughout the curriculum with a year-long senior design project culminating in building a functional hardware system in a team environment.
Hakia Insight: George Mason's master's program leverages the same BAE Systems and Boeing partnerships as the bachelor's track but adds advanced CAD/simulation work—graduates move into senior design roles at defense contractors with both hands-on experience and relationships already established.
At the master's level, the field of computer engineering can be described as an amalgam of hardware and software design. Computer engineers are involved in research, design, development, production, and operation of a wide variety of digital systems, from integrated circuits through microcontrollers, multi-core processors, FPGA-based accelerators, to big-data and cloud computing platforms.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon (tech)
- Meta (tech)
- Google (tech)
- BAE Systems (defense)
- Boeing (aerospace)
- General Electric (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Meta, Google, BAE Systems, Boeing, General Electric.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Norfolk State University — Norfolk, VA
Key Distinction: NSU's computer programs specifically focus on providing quality education to underrepresented populations while offering flexible accelerated online options and multiple specialization tracks in emerging technology areas.
Hakia Insight: Norfolk State's explicit focus on underrepresented populations in a master's program, combined with accelerated online options and specialization tracks in emerging tech, creates an unusual advantage for working engineers of color who need flexible credentialing without sacrificing depth or industry recognition.
At the master's level, norfolk State University's Computer Engineering Technology program is part of the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, offering a comprehensive Bachelor of Science degree. The university also features a robust Computer Science program with both undergraduate and graduate pathways, including an M.S. in Computer Science with multiple tracks: standard Computer Science, Information Assurance, Data Science and Machine Learning, and Communication Networks. The graduate program is designed to serve underrepresented populations and offers flexible options including an accelerated online program for working professionals and a BS/MS accelerated pathway. The program emphasizes leadership development, analytical skills, and research capabilities to prepare students for productive careers in computer science and engineering technology fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Rasha Morsi — Computer Science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements:
Location Advantages:
Virginia State University — Petersburg, VA
Key Distinction: VSU's computer engineering program prioritizes embedded systems and digital design with direct industry pipelines to defense and automotive sectors, differentiating itself through strong capstone projects and regional contractor relationships.
Hakia Insight: VSU's proximity to General Dynamics and Northrop Grumman headquarters isn't just geographic—its capstone projects are co-designed with these contractors, meaning students graduate with portfolios that directly address active defense engineering challenges rather than hypothetical problems.
At the master's level, virginia State University's computer engineering program emphasizes practical design and embedded systems development, preparing students for immediate industry impact. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on laboratory work, particularly strong in digital design, microcontroller programming, and signal processing—areas where graduates consistently find opportunities in defense contracting and automotive electronics. The program benefits from VSU's location in the Petersburg area and proximity to Richmond's growing tech corridor, which has enabled partnerships with federal research institutions and defense contractors. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, and the capstone design sequence requires students to develop real prototypes addressing genuine technical challenges. Graduates typically transition into roles at companies serving the defense and aerospace sectors, where embedded systems expertise commands strong compensation. The program maintains ABET accreditation and has developed a reputation within regional engineering circles for producing work-ready engineers who require minimal onboarding in systems-level problem solving.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- General Dynamics (corporate)
- Northrop Grumman (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, L3Harris Technologies.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Richmond tech corridorNear federal research institutionsAccess to defense contractor headquarters
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University — Blacksburg, VA
Key Distinction: The program emphasizes industry-related hands-on experiences and opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op/internships, building on a strong foundation in mathematics, physical science, and computer programming.
Hakia Insight: While many doctoral programs claim 'hands-on experience,' Virginia Tech's Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom gives CPE students access to equipment most universities relegate to faculty research, enabling dissertation work that wouldn't be possible at peer institutions.
At the doctoral level, the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering administers the Computer Engineering (CPE) degree program. CPE provides the critical technology base for a broad range of industries, including bioinformatics, computing hardware, computer networking and security, embedded computing, telecommunications, and video/image processing.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Information Technology Security Lab
- Micro-/Nanofabrication Cleanroom
Notable Faculty
- Professor Rafael Davalos — biomedical applications
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3. Application Deadline: January 15 for fall, September 1 for spring (for funding consideration).
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
University of Virginia-Main Campus — Charlottesville, VA
Key Distinction: The curriculum has been carefully designed to assure that students obtain an excellent background in both Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering disciplines through joint administration by both departments.
Hakia Insight: UVA's joint administration between Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering is rare at the doctoral level—it means students can pursue hardware-software integration research across labs like CAP and MIST without the artificial departmental silos that limit research scope at other universities.
At the doctoral level, the Computer Engineering program at UVA is jointly administered by Computer Science and Electrical & Computer Engineering Departments, providing students with an excellent background in both disciplines. Students learn to analyze, design and implement creative solutions to problems with computer hardware, software, systems and applications while working with hardware and software to create modern computing and embedded systems.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Link Lab
- Multi-functional Integrated System Technology (MIST) IUCRC Center
- Center for Automata Processing (CAP)
- High Performance Low Power (HPLP)
Industry Partners
- Virginia Microelectronics Consortium (VMEC) (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mircea R. Stan — AI hardware, Processing in Memory, Cyber-Physical Systems, Computational RFID, Low Power, Spintronics, and Nanoelectronics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Requirements: Single Variable Calculus I, Single Variable Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus III, Introductory Chemistry I & Lab, Introduction to Programming, Engineering Foundations 1, Engineering Foundations 2, Introductory Physics I & Lab, Introductory Physics II & Lab
Location Advantages:
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: The program is built around computer-aided design tools that can simulate and assist in the design of new digital systems, emphasizing hands-on design experiences and simulation throughout the curriculum with a year-long senior design project culminating in building a functional hardware system in a team environment.
Hakia Insight: George Mason's year-long capstone requiring students to build functional hardware in teams mirrors how Amazon and Meta actually structure engineering work, giving GMU graduates an atypical advantage in team-based design culture that other doctoral programs don't replicate.
At the doctoral level, the field of computer engineering can be described as an amalgam of hardware and software design. Computer engineers are involved in research, design, development, production, and operation of a wide variety of digital systems, from integrated circuits through microcontrollers, multi-core processors, FPGA-based accelerators, to big-data and cloud computing platforms.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon (tech)
- Meta (tech)
- Google (tech)
- BAE Systems (defense)
- Boeing (aerospace)
- General Electric (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Meta, Google, BAE Systems, Boeing, General Electric.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
