Computer Engineering

Computer engineering, also called computer systems engineering, is a discipline that integrates several fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to develop computer systems. Computer engineers usually have training in electronic engineering, software design, and hardware-software integration instead of only software engineering or electronic engineering. Computer engineers are involved in many hardware and software aspects of computing, from the design of individual microprocessors, personal computers, and supercomputers, to circuit design. This field of engineering not only focuses on how computer systems themselves work, but also how they integrate into the larger picture.

Usual tasks involving computer engineers include writing software and firmware for embedded microcontrollers, designing VLSI chips, designing analog sensors, designing mixed signal circuit boards, and designing operating systems. Computer engineers are also suited for robotics research, which relies heavily on using digital systems to control and monitor electrical systems like motors, communications, and sensors.

The first accredited computer engineering degree program in the United States was established at Case Western Reserve University in 1971. As of October 2004[update], there were 170 ABET-accredited computer engineering programs in the US. Due to increasing job requirements for engineers, who can concurrently design hardware, software, firmware, and manage all forms of computer systems used in industry, some tertiary institutions around the world offer a bachelor's degree generally called computer engineering. Both computer engineering and electronic engineering programs include analog and digital circuit design in their curricular. As with most engineering disciplines, having a sound knowledge of mathematics and sciences is necessary for computer engineers.

In many institutions, computer engineering students are allowed to choose areas of in-depth study in their junior and senior year, because the full breadth of knowledge used in the design and application of computers is beyond the scope of an undergraduate degree.

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Matching Computer Engineering Colleges

Name
University of Florida Four or more years; Public; 50,691 students; $24,746 average out-state tuition; $3,530 average in-state tuition
North Carolina State University at Raleigh Four or more years; Public; 33,879 students; $17,388 average out-state tuition; $4,853 average in-state tuition
Ohio State University-Main Campus Four or more years; Public; 55,014 students; $22,725 average out-state tuition; $8,541 average in-state tuition
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Four or more years; Public; 41,674 students; $35,812 average out-state tuition; $11,648 average in-state tuition
San Jose State University Four or more years; Public; 31,291 students; $11,160 average out-state tuition; $0 average in-state tuition
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Four or more years; Public; 30,870 students; $20,498 average out-state tuition; $7,309 average in-state tuition
Santa Clara University Four or more years; Private not for profit; 8,648 students; $37,368 average out-state tuition; $37,368 average in-state tuition