What is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering is a mix of electrical engineering and computer science. It’s all about designing and building the parts that make computers work – both the physical hardware and the software that runs on it. If you become a computer engineer, you’ll work on things like computer chips, circuit boards, operating systems, and even artificial intelligence. To do this well, you’ll need to be really good at programming, understand how data is organized (that’s where data structures come in), and know how smart machines like AI systems function.
Now, you might be thinking: How is this different from computer science? Even though people sometimes use these terms like they mean the same thing, they’re actually two separate fields. Computer engineering is more about building and improving computer systems, while computer science focuses more on the theory behind computing – like how algorithms work or how data is processed.
That said, both fields share some basics. Whether you go into computer engineering or computer science, you’ll need to understand how computers and information systems function. You’ll also learn skills like coding, testing software, and troubleshooting tech problems. The big difference is that computer engineers often work on creating better computers and hardware, while computer scientists might dive deeper into software development, data analysis, or cybersecurity.
What Do You Learn in Computer Engineering Classes?
Computer engineering courses teach you how to solve real-world problems using technology. The goal is to train you to design new systems, fix tech issues, and come up with smart solutions for big challenges – like making computers faster, more secure, or energy-efficient.
To build a strong career in this field, you’ll need to learn a mix of subjects, including:
- Hardware and software basics – how computers are built and how programs interact with them
- Operating systems and computer architecture – the way computers are structured to run programs smoothly
- Electrical engineering concepts – since computers rely on circuits and electronics
- Cybersecurity fundamentals – keeping systems safe from hackers and viruses
Many programs also teach programming languages like Java and C, which are essential for building software and working with hardware. And if you’re interested in really tiny tech (like nanotechnology), some courses even cover microfabrication and nanofabrication – basically, how to build super-small computer parts!
If you take an online computer engineering program, you’ll still get all this knowledge, just in a flexible format that might fit better with your schedule.
What Jobs Can You Get in Computer Engineering?
Good news – computer engineering is a fast-growing field with great pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be over 350,000 new IT and computer engineering jobs opening up every year from 2023 to 2033. That’s a lot of opportunities!
Some of the top careers in this field include:
- Computer hardware engineer – designing and testing computer components
- Computer and information research scientist – inventing new technologies
- Computer network architect – building systems that keep networks running
Salaries in this field are usually higher than average, so if you enjoy tech and problem-solving, it’s a great career path.
How Do You Become a Computer Engineer?
There’s no single “right” way to become a computer engineer – your path depends on your interests and goals. But here’s a general roadmap to help you get started:
- Get the right education
- Some jobs only need a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or related field
- Higher-paying roles might require a master’s degree
- Gain real-world experience
- Many jobs require hands-on experience
- Internships or entry-level jobs can help build experience
- Earn certifications (if needed)
- Some specialties require certifications
- Cybersecurity jobs often need specific credentials
- Learn to code
- Programming knowledge is valuable even for hardware roles
- Languages like Python or Java are useful to know