A computer engineering Ph.D. is the highest degree level you can earn in this field. These programs explore topics like computer architecture, machine learning, algorithms, and computer networking. Along with advanced computer engineering coursework, computer engineering Ph.D. students typically complete a research-intensive dissertation project.
This degree can prepare you for careers in research and academia, along with various other industries. Potential in-demand jobs for graduates include computer hardware engineer, computer and information research scientist, and data scientist. Students may want to earn this degree to qualify for promotions or pursue new opportunities.
Explore the top computer engineering doctorate programs and learn what to expect when you complete this degree. Discover admission requirements, specializations, career options, common courses, and typical program costs in this helpful guide.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Computer Engineering Ph.D. Programs
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Why Get a Computer Engineering Doctorate?
Earning a computer engineering Ph.D. can help you get the skills and knowledge you need to qualify for jobs in research, academia, or the larger tech field. Computer engineering graduates may qualify for jobs like computer hardware engineer, software engineer, database administrator, or data scientist.
Your qualifications depend on your education, work history, and specialization. Popular employers in computer engineering include the research and development, semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing, and computer systems design sectors. The computer manufacturing industry and the federal government also employ computer engineering professionals.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 78,000 people were computer hardware engineers as of 2022. The agency projects a 5% growth rate for this occupation (faster than average) from 2022-2032.
Graduates of computer engineering Ph.D. programs also qualify for many other computer and information technology (IT) jobs. The BLS projects computer and IT occupations to grow much faster than average from 2022-2032, adding about 377,500 job openings each year.
Learn New Skills: Computer engineering Ph.D. students can develop in-demand technical skills in designing computer hardware.
Make More Money: Earning a graduate degree in computer engineering can boost your earning potential. You might be able to ask for a raise, qualify for a better-paying job, or negotiate a higher starting salary with a Ph.D. in computer engineering.
More Job Opportunities: A graduate degree in computer engineering can help you stand out from other job applicants who may only hold bachelor's or master's degrees.
What to Expect From a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering Program
Computer engineering Ph.D. programs explore advanced issues in computer engineering and include a heavy research focus. Topics may include database systems, network computing, computer architecture, and high-performance data processing. Students also may explore artificial intelligence, big data, software engineering and algorithms, and computer security.
Computer science and electrical engineering departments typically offer these degrees, which typically take 4-5 years to complete and comprise 60-84 credits. If you already hold a master's degree in computer engineering, you may be able to graduate in less time.
Popular courses include foundations of algorithms, probability and random processes, and machine learning. Some programs offer specializations that let students focus on specific areas of the field. In addition to coursework, enrollees in Ph.D. in computer engineering programs must complete dissertations and pass a comprehensive exam to graduate.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for computer engineering Ph.D. programs include a bachelor's or master's degree in computer engineering or a related field from an accredited school, often with a specific minimum GPA. Other common materials include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE or GMAT scores.
Each candidate usually must submit college transcripts, a resume or CV, a completed application, and a fee. A master's degree may help increase their chances of admission.
Degree and Specialization Options
Computer engineering Ph.D. programs sometimes offer concentrations that let students focus on niche areas of the field. However, this is more common at lower levels of computer engineering programs. Specific concentrations available vary by school, but potential options include:
Computer systems
Electronics and photonics
When looking for a place to earn your computer engineering Ph.D., you can also consider whether you prefer online, in-person, or hybrid learning. If you want a flexible schedule, consider an online or hybrid program.
Popular Graduate-Level Courses
The type, number, and variety of courses available to computer engineering Ph.D. students vary by school. Programs typically require core, elective and/or concentration, and dissertation credits. The following list covers some popular computer engineering graduate courses.
Foundations of Algorithms: Students learn about advanced algorithms, including their history and modern use. Topics include Fourier transform ordering, pattern matching, recursion, and searching algorithms.
Probability and Random Processes: This class considers probability and its relevance to computer engineers. Students learn about correlation and random variables.
Machine Learning: This course explores machine learning fundamentals, including using statistical models to build effective systems.
Computer Systems Architecture: Enrollees learn about topics like pipelined processors, memory technology and systems, multiprocessors, and vector processors.
Graduate Research: Ph.D. candidates explore different research methods and complete research projects of their choice.
| Degree | Focus | Length | Types of Classes | Course Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. in Computer Engineering | Computer architecture, big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning | 4-5 years | Game theory and networked systems, advanced digital communications, deep learning | 64-72 credits |
| Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence | Computer science, philosophy, engineering, linguistics | 4-7 years | Mathematical foundations of machine learning, probabilistic and statistical methods, theory and methods optimization | 60-108 credits |
| Ph.D. in Computer Science | Computer science, machine learning, software engineering, human-computer interaction | 4-5 years | Revolutionary molecules, fundamentals of chemistry, environmental chemistry | 72-90 credits |
| Ph.D. in Information Technology | Computer and network security, research, cybersecurity, data science | 4 years | Ph.D. dissertation research seminar, information technology strategic planning in global environments, literature review | 90-120 credits |
| Ph.D. in Data Science | Data analysis, statistics, programming, artificial intelligence | 5 years | Computational methods in analysis, informatics research design, applied cloud computing | 36-60 credits |
How Much Will a Doctoral Degree in Computer Engineering Cost?
The cost of earning a computer engineering Ph.D. varies by program. Students can often save money by choosing public universities that offer flat-rate tuition for online learners. Private universities often charge much higher tuition rates, and out-of-state students pay a premium at public schools.
Along with tuition and required fees, students incur other costs in graduate school. Textbooks, a computer, software, and living and travel expenses can all add to the price of a degree.
Financing options like loans, scholarships, fellowships, and grants can help students pay for their education. Graduate research assistantships and graduate teaching assistantships can also help offset the Ph.D. costs.
Careers for Ph.D. in Computer Engineering Graduates
Graduates with Ph.D. degrees in computer engineering can anticipate many career opportunities. They can also advance further within their roles or qualify for higher salaries by pursuing professional certifications.
The following section covers potential careers for graduates who have completed Ph.D. in computer engineering programs, with each job reporting a median annual income of more than $100,000. Computer and information research scientists are very highly paid, earning a median salary of $145,080. On the low end are data scientists, who still earn over $108,000 annually.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers create computer systems and their components. Their work includes testing, designing, and updating computer systems, circuit boards, processors, and networks. They often work in research and development, semiconductor manufacturing, and computer systems design.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Median Annual Salary: $138,080
Job Outlook (2022-32): +5%
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists study computing and solve problems with emerging technologies. They create hardware and software and may specialize in robotics, programming, and other fields. With administrative experience, these professionals can advance to become computer and information systems managers.
Required Education: Master's degree
Median Annual Salary: $145,080
Job Outlook (2022-32): +23%
Database Administrators and Architects
Database administrators and architects develop systems to store and/or secure data. Many work for insurance companies, educational institutions, or other organizations that use large databases. Duties include building new databases, updating permissions, and backing up data.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Median Annual Salary: $117,450
Job Outlook (2022-32): +8%
Data Scientists
Data scientists collect, analyze, and organize data to answer questions or develop insights. They commonly work in computer systems design, insurance, and management industries. Some employers prefer data scientists with graduate degrees.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Median Annual Salary: $108,020
Job Outlook (2022-32): +35%
Choosing the Right Computer Engineering Ph.D. Program
Deciding where to earn your computer engineering Ph.D. is an important decision. Explore some factors to consider when selecting a program below.
Accreditation: Choosing a school with institutional accreditation allows you to apply for federal financial aid and transfer credits. This status communicates that your prospective school has met minimum quality standards related to academic programs, faculty and staff, and student services. Look up program and school accreditation information on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website.
Prestige/Reputation: Attending a prestigious school with a highly regarded computer engineering Ph.D. program is important to some people. These programs may have more prominent faculty, research opportunities, and funding.
Cost/Financial Aid: Find out the total estimated cost for your prospective programs and ask about institutional financial aid. Many doctoral programs offer funding to graduate students through assistantships. These programs often cover tuition and offer a living stipend.
Discover more education paths:
Questions About Doctoral Degrees in Computer Engineering
Is a computer engineering Ph.D. worth it?
It depends on your personal and professional goals after graduation. However, a computer engineering Ph.D. can offer a return on your investment by preparing you for in-demand, high-paying jobs in research, the tech industry, and academia.
How long does a Ph.D. in computer engineering take to finish?
Program length for a computer engineering Ph.D. varies by school, but you can usually graduate in 4-5 years. A master's degree in computer engineering can shorten the time it takes to complete your degree.
Will a computer engineering graduate degree increase my salary?
No degree can guarantee a salary increase. However, completing a computer engineering graduate degree may help you qualify for a promotion or find higher-level career opportunities.
What can I do with a doctorate in computer engineering?
Graduates with Ph.D. degrees in computer engineering may qualify for jobs like data scientist, computer hardware engineer, or computer and information research scientist. They can also pursue careers as computer engineering professors.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by ComputerScience.org. Page last reviewed May 14, 2024.
