Computer Engineering
Design the hardware and systems that power modern technology
What You'll Study
Computer Engineering sits at the intersection of CS and Electrical Engineering. You learn to build both the physical hardware (chips, circuits) and the low-level software (firmware) that makes it run.
- Digital Logic Design
- Microprocessors & Microcontrollers
- Embedded Systems
- Computer Architecture
- Circuit Analysis
- Operating Systems
- Signal Processing
- Robotics Fundamentals
Example Classes
How to Know If You'll Like It
You'll probably enjoy this if...
- ✓You are curious about how a CPU actually works
- ✓You enjoy both soldering circuits and writing code
- ✓You want to work on IoT, robotics, or wearables
- ✓You have strong math and physics skills
- ✓You like seeing your code make physical things move/light up
- ✓You want a versatile engineering degree
You might not enjoy this if...
- ✕You hate physics (electricity/magnetism)
- ✕You only want to write high-level apps (like websites)
- ✕You dislike dealing with hardware bugs (wiring issues)
- ✕You avoid complex math
Self-Check Quiz
Answer these questions honestly to see if this major might be a good fit for you.
Does the idea of building a robot from scratch excite you?
Career Outcomes
Featured In-Demand Careers
Software Engineer
Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. Work with cutting-edge technologies to solve complex problems.
Electrical Engineer
Design and develop electrical systems, from power generation to electronic devices and control systems.
Semiconductor / IC Design Engineer
Design, simulate, and verify integrated circuits (ICs) and microchips used in computers, smartphones, and AI hardware.
Cloud Architect
Design and oversee cloud computing strategies for organizations, ensuring scalability, security, and efficiency.
Other Common Career Paths
- •Hardware Engineer
- •Embedded Systems Engineer
- •Firmware Developer
- •Network Engineer
Industries
Try It First
Test if you like this field before committing to a major:
Buy an Arduino or Raspberry Pi kit and make an LED blink.
Build a simple temperature sensor / weather station using a microcontroller.
Design and build a small line-following robot.
Related Majors
Frequently Asked Questions
CS = Software/Data. CE = Hardware + Software Integration.
EE covers power, RF, motors. CE focuses on digital systems and computers.
Yes, it is considered one of the hardest engineering majors due to the mix of CS and EE.
Yes! Many CEs work as software engineers.
Optional for tech, but "PE" license available for critical systems.
Ready to Explore This Major?
Get personalized guidance on whether Computer Engineering is right for you and how to build a competitive profile.