Studying Computer Engineering Abroad | Top Universities and Conditions
Computer engineering is one of the most popular and rapidly growing fields worldwide. Graduates of this discipline can find employment in a wide range of industries. With the advancement of technology and computer sciences, nearly every business today requires at least one computer engineer. The global job market for this field is exceptional, making it a highly desirable major for students interested in studying abroad.
The conditions for studying computer engineering abroad are excellent, and students can pursue their education in some of the world’s top countries by receiving various scholarships. Countries like China, Turkey, and Russia are among the many offering high-quality computer engineering programs. If you’re planning to study this major abroad, it’s essential to get familiar with the best universities in the field so you can benefit from their outstanding facilities and opportunities.
Introduction to Computer Engineering
The main goal of the computer engineering field is to train professionals capable of designing and building various components of computer systems. Computer engineers are expected to analyze, maintain, upgrade, and develop computer hardware and software systems. Since this field is constantly evolving, its job market rarely becomes saturated.
You can pursue computer engineering abroad at all academic levels. If you meet the requirements, you can apply to some of the top universities offering this program. Computer engineering is essentially a combination of computer science and electrical engineering. Generally, this field is divided into two main branches: hardware and software.
- Hardware engineering focuses on the development and testing of computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and more.
- Software engineering, on the other hand, is concerned with developing applications and systems software.
One of the most exciting career paths for computer engineering students and graduates is designing and developing software applications or games for computers and mobile devices. Creative engineers in this area can achieve significant success and generate high income through programming and innovation.
Stay tuned with Elm Vira as we explore the conditions for studying computer engineering abroad and introduce the best universities in this dynamic and in-demand field.

1. Computer Engineering Specializations at the Master’s Level
If you’re planning to continue your education in computer engineering—either in Iran or abroad—it’s important to get familiar with the different specializations available in this field. As mentioned earlier, at the undergraduate level, computer engineering typically splits into two main branches: software and hardware. At the master’s level, however, the field expands into more focused and advanced areas. The main specializations include:
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Networks
- Computer System Architecture
- Secure Computing
- Algorithms and Computation
- Bioinformatics
- Data Science
- Game Engineering
- Network Science and Technology
All of these specializations offer strong career prospects worldwide, and many of the top international universities in computer engineering provide these programs. Among them, Artificial Intelligence is currently the most in-demand specialization. It is considered a cutting-edge field with rapid growth, exceptional job opportunities, and high earning potential. That said, AI is also one of the most challenging paths in computer engineering, so it’s important to be fully prepared before choosing this route.
2. Computer Engineering Specializations at the PhD Level
At the doctoral level, the specializations become even more research-oriented and advanced. If you’re considering pursuing a PhD in computer engineering abroad, here are some of the key areas you can specialize in:
- Software and Algorithms
- Computer System Architecture
- Information Technology Engineering
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Networking and Computing
Each of these fields is supported by strong academic and research opportunities abroad, and the conditions for studying computer engineering internationally at the PhD level are favorable across these specializations.

Studying Computer Engineering Abroad: Career Opportunities in the Field
As previously mentioned, graduates of computer engineering can find employment in nearly any industry or company. Individuals who are creative and talented in programming can also design their software or games and start their businesses. Since this field continues to evolve rapidly, the job market for computer engineering is far from saturated.
The career outlook for those who study computer engineering abroad is also excellent. Computer science and engineering have become critical fields in almost every country today. For example, China offers particularly favorable post-graduation employment conditions for computer engineering graduates.
One especially attractive career path for computer engineers is freelancing. Freelancers work on a project-by-project basis rather than in permanent roles. Popular freelance opportunities include:
- Website design
- SEO Specialist
- Software security
- Database security
- Network administrator
- Cisco network specialist
- IT support and more
How Much Do Computer Engineers Earn?
Overall, computer engineering is known for offering above-average salaries. However, income varies significantly depending on the country. In developed countries such as the United States, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, and China, computer engineers tend to earn substantially higher wages. For example, the average annual salary for a computer science professional in the U.S. is around $131,237.
If you’re planning to study computer engineering abroad, keep in mind that your future income depends not only on the city or university you attend but also on other key factors, including:
- Your area of specialization
- The strength of your résumé
- Your work experience
- Your level of skill in programming
These factors can significantly influence your earning potential after graduation.

Studying Computer Science Abroad
Pursuing a degree in computer science or computer engineering abroad comes with numerous advantages. By studying this field in a foreign country, you’ll gain exposure to cutting-edge digital technologies and embedded systems. You’ll also have the chance to develop and implement applications for robotics and other innovative, creative technologies.
Studying computer science in a developed country gives you access to world-class resources, advanced academic programs, and global networking opportunities, all while expanding your personal and professional horizons. Depending on the university and location, undergraduate computer science programs abroad typically last between 3 to 5 years.
Given the global importance of this field in driving innovation and development, many countries actively welcome international students to their computer science programs. To reduce the cost of studying and living abroad, students can also apply for scholarships offered by host governments and universities.
Cost of Studying Computer Science Abroad
Tuition fees vary greatly depending on the country and institution. For instance, studying in the UK or the U.S. often comes with higher costs. However, countries like Turkey, China, and others offer more affordable options while maintaining a good standard of education.
Top Universities for Computer Science Abroad
Studying computer science at one of the world’s leading universities can significantly boost your skills and career prospects. These universities not only offer exceptional academic programs but also provide outstanding job placement opportunities after graduation. Here are some of the best institutions offering computer science programs for international students:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
- Stanford University, USA
- ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Switzerland
- University of Cambridge, UK
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
- University of Oxford, UK
- École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
Admission to some of these universities requires standardized tests such as the SAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS, depending on the degree level. It’s best to visit each university’s official website to learn more about admission requirements.
For Iranian students seeking high-quality education with additional benefits, countries like Turkey, China, and Russia are particularly attractive due to their lower tuition costs, favorable visa policies, and growing academic reputations in technology-related fields.

Studying Computer Science in Turkey
With the growing global demand for computer engineering, Turkey offers a promising future for graduates in this field. The benefits of studying in Turkey are numerous. While some students may be discouraged by the cost of studying computer science abroad, Turkey is relatively affordable compared to many other countries. Its proximity to Iran and cultural similarities also make it a great option for Iranian students. As a developing country, Turkey is working hard to enhance the academic quality and global reputation of its universities.
1. Benefits of Studying Computer Science in Turkey
Some of the main advantages of studying computer science abroad—especially in Turkey—include:
- Programs offered in both English and Turkish
- A combination of theoretical education and hands-on practical training throughout the course
- Access to modern laboratories and advanced facilities at Turkish universities
- Lower tuition fees and living expenses compared to many other countries
- A wide range of job opportunities in the field of computer engineering in Turkey
- Collaboration between Turkish universities and many reputable institutions across Europe
- Availability of scholarships for international students in computer science programs
2. Top Universities in Turkey for Computer Science
Turkish universities are divided into public and private institutions, with tuition fees varying accordingly. Private universities generally have higher tuition fees, but scholarships are also available. On average:
- Public university tuition ranges from $450 to $1,150 per year
- Private university tuition ranges from $3,000 to $12,000 per year
Some of the top universities in Turkey for computer engineering include:
- Kocaeli University
- Ankara University
- Sakarya University
- Samsun University
- Antalya Bilim University
- Bahçeşehir University
- Nişantaşı University
- Istanbul Aydın University

Studying Computer Science in China
Many of Asia’s—and even the world’s—top universities are located in China. As you may know, China is rapidly advancing and continuously developing innovative products in the fields of technology and computer science. This highlights the country’s strong focus on the tech industry and the excellent job market it offers in this field. So, if you’re considering studying computer science abroad, China can be an excellent choice.
Programs in China are available in both English and Chinese, giving international students flexibility in their studies. Another major advantage is that the cost of studying and living in China is significantly lower compared to European countries.
Top Universities in China for Computer Science
Here are some of the best universities in China known for their strong computer science programs:
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Peking University
- Harbin Institute of Technology
- University of Science and Technology of China
- Zhejiang University
- The University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
- Beihang University
- Southeast University
- Fudan University
- Beijing Institute of Technology
Top Universities in Russia for Computer Engineering
For those interested in studying computer engineering abroad, some of the top universities in Russia offer excellent programs in this field.
- Lomonosov Moscow State University
- Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University
- Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University
- Tomsk State University
- Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod
Summary
Computer engineering is one of the most popular and fast-growing fields worldwide. Iranian students who are passionate about this major have the opportunity to study at some of the best universities abroad. Computer engineering is a combination of electrical engineering and computer science fundamentals, and its job market is strong in nearly every country. Graduates can work in a wide range of sectors or even launch their businesses.
If you’re considering studying computer engineering abroad, countries like Turkey, Russia, and China can be excellent options. If you’re passionate about this field and planning to study it internationally, Elm Vira’s consultants are here to help you choose the most suitable country and university. We’ll support you through every step of your study abroad journey—including visa applications and scholarship opportunities.
To learn more about study abroad options and receive personalized guidance, visit our Free Consultation section.
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