Computer Hardware Engineering
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development, and evaluation of computer hardware and related peripheral equipment. Includes instruction in computer circuit and chip design, circuitry, computer systems design, computer equipment design, computer layout planning, testing procedures, and related computer theory and software topics.
- Schools offering
- 4
- Annual completions
- 63
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $109k
About this major
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development, and evaluation of computer hardware and related peripheral equipment. Includes instruction in computer circuit and chip design, circuitry, computer systems design, computer equipment design, computer layout planning, testing procedures, and related computer theory and software topics.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and engineering managers | $168k | +3.8% | Bachelor's degree |
| Computer hardware engineers | $155k | +7.3% | Bachelor's degree |
| Engineering teachers, postsecondary | $106k | +8.1% | Doctoral or professional degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$109k
Associate's vs Bachelor's — early-career earnings
Associate's
$70k
Bachelor's
$110k
Top colleges for Computer Hardware Engineering
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | 0 | 33 | 33 |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara, CA | 0 | 20 | 20 |
| Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | 0 | 10 | 10 |
| Rogue Community College | Grants Pass, OR | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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Considering this direction?
We've taken a hard look at the debt, earnings trajectory, and degree-level tradeoffs for the Computer Hardware Engineering field. Read our verdict before you commit.
Is Computer Hardware Engineering worth it? Read verdict