Computer engineering (CE) is the application of engineering knowledge and skills to computer science problems. Compared to software engineers, the greater emphasis may be on computer machinery and hardware, but computer engineers are also heavily involved in the software side of the equation. These in-demand professionals straddle the worlds of computers and engineering. They are able to seek employment in numerous industries while benefiting from a relatively rosy career outlook.
Computer engineers study the theory and design of myriad hardware and software applications and methods of information processing. They are educated in digital and information architecture, massive data, and computational analysis. A computer engineer may be involved in designing tiny computer chips, managing global systems of distribution, prototyping new algorithms for search engines, or designing toaster ovens.
The wide-ranging skill set of a computer engineer necessitates a broad-based approach to education. It is recommended that computer engineers have at least a bachelor's degree, either in computer engineering or a related discipline like computer science or electrical engineering. At all postsecondary levels, the top computer engineering schools are accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
An undergraduate education is considered the entry-level qualification for most computer engineers. Over two-thirds of computer engineers have a bachelor's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The opportunity-rich field of computer engineering holds many career choices in software and hardware development for bachelor degree-holders. The best computer engineering schools provide students research participation opportunities that give a taste of things to come in grad school.
At the undergraduate level, students establish a twin foundation in computer science and engineering. They learn the basics of each dimension of computer engineering, including systems, networking, software, hardware, and usability. CE studies also overlap a great deal with electrical engineering.
Students that intend to go on to graduate school need to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) in the final semester of their senior undergraduate year.
Bachelor-level classes in Computer Engineering typically include:
What can you do with a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering?
A master's degree in computer engineering extends one's expertise into a major CE specialization. This can serve a terminal function for fresh undergraduates, help working professionals up-skill, or act as a preparatory springboard towards later doctoral study. For the latter group, master's study provides the research experience on which many competitive doctoral programs place a premium.
Though most computer engineers have only a bachelor's, more than one-quarter have a terminal master's in the field, says the U.S. BLS. One advantage of having a master's in computer engineering is the qualification can net one higher pay or substitute for industry experience requirements on job applications. Additionally, the master's degree can contribute to promotional and leadership opportunities for experienced engineers.
Graduate school applicants will need a strong background in applied mathematics and engineering before they can take advanced engineering courses. Many bachelors pursue a core engineering degree like mechanical or electrical engineering to prepare for a dedicated 2-year master's degree in computer engineering.
Requirements for graduation from a computer engineering master's program may include a thesis, design project, or other final master's report. These elements are most directly useful for students enrolling in doctoral studies after attaining a master's credential.
Master-level CE coursework might include:
What jobs are available to master degree-holders?
Very few computer engineers hold a doctorate, according to federal government data. The degree is largely reserved for those who plan to work in higher education or enterprise research and development.
Major employers of CE Ph.D.s are found in government, industry, and academia. Faculty positions in academic settings, for instance, invariably want job prospects to demonstrate their competency for original research by earning a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering.
Prerequisites for doctoral work in computer engineering may include preliminary or qualifying examinations. Some programs want applicants to have either a master's degree or to be eligible for one to qualify for Ph.D. candidacy. Ph.D.s take approximately 3 to 5 years to complete, including coursework and a written research dissertation. Financial support is available for many doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in the form of scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships. Aid varies by institution.
Doctoral students work in research laboratories studying the ways computer technology can help solve key human problems. Major research areas in Computer Engineering include:
A Ph.D. in Computer Engineering can lead to a career in:
We found 165 schools offering "Computer Engineering" degree programs in the U.S.
>> See all 165 Computer Engineering Colleges in the U.S.
