Computer Engineering Degrees
Computer engineers design the embedded systems that make personal computers, smartphones, industrial robotics, MP3 players and other devices run. Computer engineering degree programs build a foundation in applied math and science, fostering skills in software and hardware design. Computer engineering training offers an entry point into careers ranging from tech support to advanced R&D.
Computer engineering degree programs
As the first step toward a career in computer systems design, students learn math and science fundamentals. They then practice applying these principles to solve practical computer design problems.
Students can choose from several computer engineering degree levels that range from associate to master's degrees:
A.A.S. in computer engineering technology. Vocational computer engineering training programs emphasize hands-on practice in job skills valued by employers. Students learn to troubleshoot static and dynamic routing protocols and PCs. They train to install and monitor network environments using routers, bridges and switches. The associate-level computer engineering degree offers training relevant to some IT certifications, such as A+, Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator.
B.S. in computer engineering. Design and development careers in computer engineering require a bachelor's degree. The four-year program spans both general education courses and specialized electrical and computer engineering training. The curriculum focuses on math and science concepts as well as engineering design.
M.S. in computer engineering. Graduate work in computer engineering allows students to focus on a particular area of interest. The program culminates in an original research project.
On campus and online computer engineering training
Computer engineering degree programs are available both on campus and online. Traditional campus programs have the benefit of access to university computing resources such as research labs. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing working professionals to pursue a computer engineering degree without putting their careers on hold. Computer engineering as a discipline lends itself to online learning; technical students are already well versed in the medium, and can engage with course material via digital multimedia. Online degree programs incorporate hands-on training by supporting internships or on-the-job R&D projects.
Computer engineering course curriculum
The computer engineering technology program covers topics relevant to computer and electrical engineering, from math and science fundamentals to technical specialties. Basic math and science courses cover linear algebra and calculus, optics and electromagnetism, thermodynamics and more. Electrical and computer engineering courses focus on circuitry, networking and electronic devices. Examples of computer engineering courses include:
- Microprocessors and microcomputers
- C++ programming for embedded systems
- Computer control systems
- Operating systems and systems deployment
- Wireless networking
- Secure computer systems
- Computer architecture
- Digital signal processing
- Semiconductors
- Software development
Computer engineering course curricula are shaped by different program emphases. Vocational programs may focus on training in specific technologies, while college undergraduate degrees emphasize the electrical engineering concepts crucial in computer systems design.
Who does well in computer engineering programs?
Computer engineering attracts analytical minds adept at solving technical problems. Computer design engineers work well with numbers and logic, and generally enjoy math, science and strategy games. They are creative, outside-the-box thinkers. Engineering technicians are detail-oriented and work well with their hands. A curiosity about how things work serves both engineering specialists well. Since computer engineers and technicians work both independently and on teams, it helps to be self-directed yet capable of collaborating on a project.
What careers begin with a computer engineering degree?
A computer engineering degree leads to a career designing or supporting digital hardware and software for computing devices.
Design and development job titles, accessible with a bachelor's degree or higher, include:
- Lead software engineer
- Computer hardware engineer
- Testing engineer
- Engineering R&D manager
- Software architect
Support roles, which require a technical certificate or associate degree in computer engineering, include:
- Network or systems administrator
- Wireless network technician
- Network support technician
- Computer support specialist
- Data communications analyst
According to the IEEE Computer Society, hot sectors in computer engineering include cloud computing, health information systems, and computer graphics software development. The Association of Computing Machinery profiles opportunities for computer engineers in computer security research, computer engineering management, quality assurance engineering, embedded systems engineering and health information technology.
Computer engineering is among the fastest growing career fields in the nation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports much faster than average job growth in the 2008-to-2018 period, with computer software engineering jobs growing by 32 percent. A computer engineering degree offers a versatile credential for careers in computer systems design and maintenance.
Computer Engineering Degrees Schools
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University of Phoenix
- Oakland, CA
- 3 miles
- Other Locations:
- Sacramento, CA
- Beale AFB, CA
- Online, CA
- More...
DeVry University
- Online
- Other Locations:
- Daly City, CA
- Colton, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- More...
NetCom Learning
- Los Angeles, CA
- 65 miles
- Programs:
- Android Application Development
- More...
Heald College
- San Francisco, CA
- 7 miles
- Other Locations:
- Concord, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Hayward, CA
- More...
California College San Diego
- National City, CA
- 3 miles
- Other Locations:
- San Diego, CA
- San Marcos, CA
ABCO Technology
- Los Angeles, CA
- 16 miles
- Programs:
- Programming
- Computer Science
- Computer Repair
- More...
Ashworth College
- Online
- Other Locations:
- Norcross, GA
Mt. Sierra College
- Monrovia, CA
- 12 miles
Golden Gate University
- Santa Clara, CA
- 88 miles
- Other Locations:
- San Francisco, CA
- San Francisco, CA
Additional Computer Engineering Degrees Training Schools & Courses
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZwww.arizona.edu
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CAwww.ucla.edu/
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, ILwww.illinois.edu/
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MIwww.msu.edu
University of Toledo
Toledo, OHwww.utoledo.edu/
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PAwww.psu.edu/
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh, PAwww.pitt.edu
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WAwww.washington.edu
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZwww.asu.edu/
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FLwww.fsu.edu
