Computer Engineering
Computer engineering supports a growing industrial need for technical staff knowledgeable in the fundamental topics of both computer science and electrical engineering, including the design and implementation of computer hardware and software systems. Since the recent introduction of automated, high-level hardware design tools, the process of designing digital hardware has become very similar to writing software. At the same time, we are in the midst of a design revolution where - for reasons of cost, flexibility and reliability - complex electronic and electromechanical systems are becoming embedded computer systems. An embedded system consists of a mixture of specialized software and programmable microprocessors, interfaced to the outside world through various sensors and actuators, that is optimized to perform a specific application well, such as a cell phone, a global positioning system receiver, an automotive engine controller, or a communications switch. Because of their expertise in the integration of hardware and software systems, the demand for computer engineers is projected to continue to increase. Opportunities exist for system design and development in the electronics, communications, and entertainment industries, as well as defense-related firms and government agencies.
Representative Job Titles and Areas of Specialization
| Telecommunications Engineer | Circuit Designer | | Computer Architect | Research and development* | | Communication Engineer | Systems Programmer | | Network Systems Engineer | Electrical and Electronics Engineer | | Systems Architect | Professor/teacher* | | Computer engineer | |
* See Training sections
Nature of the Work
Computing professionals find themselves in a variety of environments in academia, research, industry, government, private and business organizations -- analyzing problems for solutions, formulating and testing, using advanced communications or multi-media equipment, or working in teams for product development.
Research and Vocational Areas in Computing
Computer Design and Engineering -- Design new computer circuits, microchips, and other electronic components.
Computer Architecture -- Design new computer instruction sets, and combine electronic or optical components to provide powerful but cost-effective computing.
Software Engineering -- Develop methods for the production of software systems on time, within budget, and with few or no defects.
Computer Theory -- Investigate the fundamental theories of how computers solve problems, and apply the results to other areas of computer science.
Operating Systems and Networks -- Develop the basic software computers use to supervise themselves or to communicate with other computers.
Software Applications -- Apply computing and technology to solving problems outside the computer field, in education or medicine, for example.
Places of Employment
| Electrical and electronics industries | Transportation industry | | Telecommunications | Universities and colleges | | Aerospace industry | Local/state/federal governmental agencies | | Engineering firms | Research institutions | | Research and development | Consulting businesses |
Training
While the computing field is one of the fastest growing segments of industry, it is also one of the fastest changing areas technologically. Computing professionals' education does not stop with the college degree, but continues with seminars, conferences, and advanced courses and training. In computer theory and applications, new ideas are developed every day. Success requires an ongoing commitment to learning to maintain knowledge, skills, and career opportunities.
In addition to strong technical expertise in computer engineering, employers also look for effective writing, speaking and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work as a team member and independently.
Many positions may be obtained with a bachelor's degree, depending on the type of course work completed and experience gained while in school. Depending on the complexity of the job, some may require an advanced degree beyond the bachelorÕs degree. There are some opportunities for those with a master's degree, but the Ph.D. is usually required to work in research laboratories. Those considering a career in teaching and research at the university level also will need to pursue a doctorate.
For further information and/or career counseling contact the Career Center, Veitch Student Center, Northwest Wing, University of California, Riverside, 951.827.3631.
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