How to choose a bachelors in computer engineering

Are you interested in a career in computer engineering? If so, you'll likely need a bachelor's degree to open the door to exciting job opportunities and jumpstart your career.

Learn what factors to consider when choosing a bachelor's in computer engineering program so you can find the one that best aligns with your academic and career goals.

Key factors when choosing a bachelor's in computer engineering

There are lots of computer engineering bachelor's programs out there, and it's important to find the right one for you. Here are five important considerations for narrowing down your options.

Verify accreditation

One of the most important steps in choosing a computer engineering program involves verifying that the school is accredited. Accreditation is a voluntary process that evaluates whether an institution meets certain quality standards.

Accredited schools typically accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions, which is a big deal if you have attended college before or think you might start a program at one place and then switch to a different school. Additionally, federal loans and grants are generally restricted to accredited colleges and universities.

Schools may be accredited at the regional or national level. Regional accreditation is typically associated with academically oriented institutions, whereas trade or technical schools tend to pursue national accreditation. When evaluating computer engineering degree programs, make sure the school is regionally accredited.

Evaluate faculty expertise

The expertise of faculty members can have a huge impact on the quality of your educational experience. Review the school's website and explore the background of key members of the computer engineering program, including the program director and tenured professors.

You can also look these individuals up on LinkedIn to learn more about their professional background and areas of expertise to see if they align with your interests.

For example, if you are interested in software development, seeking instructors with similar backgrounds can aid in your career development.

Assess available specializations

Computer engineering is a broad field with many different areas of focus. Computer engineering professionals may work in fields such as robotics, machine learning, or network security. Identify programs that offer concentrations aligning with your specific interests.

While you should keep your options open during your college journey, it's also important to tailor your education to your career objectives. Specializing in a particular area can provide an edge in the job market and help you stand out from other applicants.

Consider program resources

What does the program offer in terms of facilities and equipment? Is it in-person, hybrid, or fully remote learning? Does the program offer job support after graduation?

Programs that have state-of-the-art laboratories can provide opportunities for the practical application of theoretical concepts. However, they may also be more costly and might lack the flexibility you need to balance school and personal obligations.

The key is finding a program that gives you the tools you need to thrive while providing a flexible, accommodating learning environment.

Analyze cost and financial aid

As programs can cost anywhere from $9,000 to $27,000 per year or more, it's important to consider tuition costs and how they match up against your planned budget. You'll also need to account for additional expenses like textbooks, lab fees, and living costs.

Explore financial aid options like scholarships, grants, payment plans, and student loans. You should be realistic about your costs and whether you are comfortable taking on those expenses. Choosing a more affordable program can help you avoid burdensome student loans while still opening the door for career growth.

Explore bachelor's degrees in computer engineering

If you are passionate about computing and have a desire to expand your skill set via certification programs, a bachelor's in computer engineering degree could be the perfect route for you. Check out edX's computer engineering courses and programs and get started today.