The USF MS in Computer Engineering
Computer engineering blends hardware and software to design powerful, efficient systems.
A bachelor’s degree provides foundational knowledge, while a master’s degree emphasizes
real-world application. Students gain deeper and broader expertise in areas such as
computer architecture, hardware-software integration, and emerging technologies. At
USF, students learn in a dynamic and research-driven environment in the heart of Florida’s
thriving tech corridor. Ranked among the top 50 public universities by U.S. News &
World Report and a proud member of the prestigious Association of American Universities
(AAU), USF is a recognized leader in graduate education and innovation.
In 2025, USF launched the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity
and Computing, the first named college in the nation focused exclusively on these
converging disciplines.
About the Program
Students in the MS in Computer Engineering program gain in-depth knowledge of computing systems and explore areas such as digital image processing, data mining, brain-computer interfaces, cryptographics hardware, software security, mobile biometrics, and more. While the curriculum provides a strong foundation across key technical domains, students are also encouraged to focus their studies on a specific area of research that aligns with their interests.
This is a 30-credit-hour program with thesis and non-thesis options. The thesis option emphasizes deep research and prepares students for doctoral studies or R&D roles.
The non-thesis option offers greater course flexibility and broad exposure to the field.
Students have access to cutting-edge labs and faculty with active research in areas like robotics, cybersecurity, and hardware design.
There are tailored pathways for careers in industry or further academic study.
View full program details in the USF catalog.
Labs and Research
USF's AI, cybersecurity, and computing research is spread across USF, and it is marked by over 200 faculty experts who have externally funded projects, published papers, or have patents on these topics. Together, they had a substantial $47 million in related research expenditures over the past four years. Labs are clustered in the following groups:
Career Outlook
The job market for professionals with a master's degree in computer engineering is both strong and growing, with demand nationwide and across Florida. In Florida, there were:
- 14,233 job postings in the past year requiring a master’s degree in computer engineering
- A median salary of $115,697
- Top roles include data analyst, software engineer, systems engineer, software developer, and enterprise architect
In the United States overall, the demand is even more significant:
- More than 319,000 job postings over the past year for roles requiring this degree
- A median salary of $136,752
- Leading job titles include software engineer, data analyst, principal software engineer, engineering manager, and solutions architect
Source: Gray Decision Intelligence / Lightcast, May 2025
These roles span a range of industries, including technology, defense, healthcare, education, manufacturing, business, and energy. Skills in embedded systems, hardware-software integration, and performance computing are especially sought after.
USF’s location in the heart of the Tampa Bay tech corridor offers access to employers like Jabil, Honeywell, and Rapid7, along with opportunities for internships, co-ops, and full-time roles.
Student Spotlight
Student Spotlight: Lucas Miller
USF graduate student Lucas Miller is trying to solve a problem that even the most advanced AI models have yet to crack: How to help machines understand and interpret video. A software engineer at AssistRx, Miller is in his final semester of the Master of Science in Computer Engineering program. Like many adult learners, he balances full-time work with a rigorous academic schedule. What sets him apart is his focus on thesis research that pushes the boundaries of what today’s artificial intelligence can do.
Scholarships and Fellowships
Graduate school is expensive. Fortunately, there are many ways to earn scholarships and fellowships, which don’t need to be repaid. Learn more about the kinds of awards available, if you qualify and how to apply.
There are also a limited number of teaching assistant and research assistant positions in the college. These are quite competitive.