Computer Hardware Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Computer Hardware Technology equips students with the foundational engineering principles and hands-on technical expertise needed to contribute effectively to the development and optimization of computer systems and peripheral devices. This program emphasizes practical application, preparing graduates to support advanced hardware innovation across diverse technological environments.
- Computer Systems Design: Focuses on the integration of hardware components into cohesive, functional systems, emphasizing performance, scalability, and reliability.
- Computer Architecture: Explores the structural design of computing systems, including data flow, instruction sets, and the relationship between hardware and software.
- Computer Electronics: Covers the principles of electronic circuits and components used in computing devices, including signal integrity and power management.
- Processor Technologies: Examines the design, function, and performance characteristics of central processing units and other core computational components.
- Peripheral Integration: Addresses the selection, configuration, and troubleshooting of external hardware devices such as storage, input/output systems, and display technologies.
- Testing and Diagnostic Methods: Teaches the use of specialized equipment and protocols to evaluate hardware functionality, detect faults, and ensure system compliance.
- Manufacturing Processes: Provides insight into the production workflows, quality control standards, and assembly techniques involved in bringing computer hardware to market.
Computer Hardware Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Computer Hardware Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Computer Hardware Technology degrees, including Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 64,410 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
Computer Hardware Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $58,350 in Vermont to $109,120 in District of Columbia—a 87% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, New Mexico, and Maryland. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 64,410 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Computer Hardware Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 5 institutions offering Computer Hardware Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Computer Hardware Technology is found at Rend Lake College (RLC) (7 graduates), Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) (6 graduates), Monroe County Community College (MCCC) (2 graduates), Athens Technical College (Athens Tech) (2 graduates), and Cape Cod Community College (4Cs) (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 18 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rend Lake College (RLC) |
Residency
|
7 | Ina, Illinois | Public | rlc.edu |
| Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) |
Other Award
|
6 | Warwick, Rhode Island | Public | ccri.edu |
| Monroe County Community College (MCCC) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
2 | Monroe, Michigan | Public | monroeccc.edu |
| Athens Technical College (Athens Tech) |
Other Award
|
2 | Athens, Georgia | Public | athenstech.edu |
| Cape Cod Community College (4Cs) |
Other Award
|
1 | West Barnstable, Massachusetts | Public | capecod.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Computer Hardware Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Computer Hardware Technology degree?
Salaries for Computer Hardware Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $109,120 compared to $58,350 in Vermont. Approximately 64,410 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Computer Hardware Technology programs?
Currently 5 accredited institutions offer Computer Hardware Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Rend Lake College (RLC) (7 graduates), Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) (6 graduates), and Monroe County Community College (MCCC) (2 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Computer Hardware Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 83 in 2010 to a peak of 29 in 2020, before declining slightly to 18 in 2023-24. This represents a 78% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Computer Hardware Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 64,410 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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